YMCA Chili Cookoff

Out of This World Fun

Dallas County Habitat for Humanity proudly took home the Best Decorations Award—for the fourth time—at the YMCA Annual Chili Cookoff, February 27, here in Buffalo.

This year, our team went all in with a playful theme: “UFO Chili – It’s Out of This World.” Our booth featured balloons shaped like green aliens, space men and spaceships, thanks to Suzanne Laudenbach, decorations coordinator. An added feature was an alien spaceship photo booth. The decorations also attracted an interesting-looking visitor from outer space (a.k.a. volunteer Steve Rulo) to pose for selfies with our guests.

To stay on theme, we served Chili Verde, a green chili that was new and adventurous for many attendees. Julia Horinek and Diana Arendt cooked up two delicious versions of Chili Verde—one with pork and one with chicken. While our green chili definitely sparked curiosity and conversation, the judges ultimately picked Circle Y Ranch’s spicy red beef chili as the Winner. The People’s Choice Award was claimed by Seamless Designs, rounding out a fun and friendly competition.

Winners! (in the green and gold) Suzanne Laudenbach, Douglas Arendt, Julia Horinek and Darlene Dufeck. Our favorite alien (Steve Rulo) also joins the group.

Beyond the chili, the event itself was a big success. The YMCA fundraiser was well attended, and the live and silent auctions—packed with fantastic, donated items—kept the energy high well into the evening. Most importantly, it gave us a wonderful chance to connect with neighbors, share some laughs, and enjoy a great night together for a good cause.

Thanks to all our volunteers and everyone who came out to support the YMCA. We’re already looking forward to next year!