Pareidolia Brewing Company had more than just beer on tap last Saturday at the second annual Brews and Beans Chili Cook-off & Brew Expo to benefit the Arc of Indian River County. And no beans about it – the fundraiser was a big success. It was the perfect day to gather for good food and family fun.
“The Chili and Brew is twice if not three times the size it was last year. We can’t thank Pete and Lynn enough for making the Arc the beneficiary of this event,” said Noreen Davis, Arc marketing director, referencing Pareidolia owners Pete and Lynn Anderson.
More than 20 chili aficionados laid their ladles on the line to compete for the title of best chili. Entries included a broad range of secret ingredients, including bison, brats, venison, chicken and everything in between, and with hints of chocolate, smoke and peppers it was a smorgasbord for the senses.
The chefs had a lot of fun naming their creations, with Buffalo Bill, Kitchen Sink, Burn-A-Butt and Kill Shot on the menu, but also took the competition seriously. And, while the contest was no joking matter, it was April Fools’ Day, so one jokester entered a Ghost Chili version – an empty crock pot.
In the tasters’ choice judging, Pat Kirchner won Hottest, Matt Philips was dubbed Most Creative, and Libby and Jesse Diehl were declared Best Overall chili makers.
As guests sampled chili, the Mixers provided toe-tapping music and the Boilover Boys and Red Buoy Brewers Home Brew Clubs gave brewing demos. Additionally, winners of Pareidolia’s third annual Face it, Beer is Good Home Brew Face-off were announced.
“I have worked for several nonprofits in the past doing exactly what they do at the Arc,” said Pete Anderson. “When I had the chance to do something good and give back, right away my heart went to the Arc. I know what is involved in doing that kind of work. It’s a vital service and very under-appreciated. I wanted them to know we know what they’re doing and we care.”
The Arc supports and empowers individuals with special needs to achieve their life goals by providing vocational skills training, supported living, transportation and behavioral services.
“There are only so many things that we’re able to put our efforts toward,” said Lynn Anderson. “We like to help the people that really, really need our help.”
“The more we get the word out about who we are and what we do the better,” said Mary Beth Vallar, board chair. “We rely heavily on donations from the community so we can completely serve our people. This work is so important because we’re about the only ones that take care of them.”
Arc executive director Chuck Bradley added, “This event is great, and it helps the Arc to continue to provide services for about 200 folks in this county.
“What’s really cool is you have a local business and local people supporting this event.”
Join the Arc for the Starlight & Sneakers Gala Greenhouse Garden Party on April 20 at Rock City Gardens and the annual Ocean Grill Night on May 9.
To learn more, visit ArcIR.org.