By: Zoe Mellinger
Arts Editor
In early February, more than 200 community members gathered at Culture Brewing Co. for a chili-cook off event that raised nearly $4000 for the Mira Costa Ceramics program. The event, which organizers hoped will become an annual tradition, brought together local restaurants including Bread Head, MB Post, Simmzy’s, Grunions, Love & Salt, and Hennessey’s Tavern to compete for the title of best chili.
Tickets were $20 and included chili tasting from each vendor, a pint of beer for guests 21 and over, and a vote for their favorite contestant. In the end, Bread Head took home the championship belt with its Colorado-style chili, without beans, made by Bread Head chef Sam Kuhr. Kuhr credited the secret ingredient in his chili as “love.”
The fundraiser was inspired by Culture Brewing’s decision to support local artists and programs. General manager Kelly Oelschlager connected with the Mira Costa ceramics department and donated 100% of ticket sales directly to the program.
The event was a total success and celebrated both the competitive spirit of a cook-off and the community’s strong support for local arts. Organizers hope they can make this an annual tradition.
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