Campus chili cook-off an array of flavour

The second annual United Way chili cook off proved to be a success as the fundraiser raised $1,742.43 towards a great cause for the city of London.

The Fanshawe College London campus officially kicked off the 2009 United Way chili cook-off campaign on Tuesday October 27, raising money just in time for the holiday season for people who are the most in need in the London area.

Taking first place for best chili 2009 went to Chartwells Food Services at Fanshawe College.

“The (chili cook-off) campaign is critical to the United Way,” explained Andrew Lockie, CEO of United Way London and Middlesex.

The fundraiser, he added, will change the lives of many Londoners in the simplest of ways.

Students, staff and friends had the opportunity to buy their chili in A-building, James A. Colvin Atrium (B-building), H Cafeteria and the Fanshawe Student Union outside Oasis and in Forwell Hall.

The second annual chili cook-off competition was judged by Janice Zolf, Entertainment Editor from A News, 2009 National Canadian Chili Champion Chef and Londoner, Mike Callaghan, Andrew Lockie — CEO, United Way of London and Middlesex and Jabari Cooper, Fanshawe Student Union president. Each offered their opinions as to who makes the best chili.

Callaghan, a bankruptcy analyst for the government of Canada and renowned chef mentioned the panel had a “good array of judges” present that afternoon.

Adding, “it is always good to have someone who knows a thing or two about chili.”

The many people who came to support the chili cook-off appeared impressed with the wide selection of chili freshly prepared by top-notch chefs at the college.

Ian Norman, sponsored employee for Kellogg Canada volunteered his time to help support a great cause.

“Campaigning with (Fanshawe College) has been absolutely incredible,” said Norman. “It (the fundraiser) means a lot to the London community.”

Lady o Lakes entertained guests who gathered in B-Atrium, marking their second visit to the campus.

The Fanshawe varsity men and women's basketball games that took place on October 21 raised an additional $266 when they played against Mohawk College.

All proceeds raised went directly to the Fanshawe College United Way Campaign.

Last year's chili cook-off raised $1,800.