Chili Cookoff Heats Up

Sweeney’s turned up the heat on Sunday, December 14, 2025, by hosting its first annual chili cook-off from 12 to 2 p.m., drawing a crowd eager to sample and vote on six unique chili entries. The event brought friends and chili lovers together for an afternoon of good food and friendly competition.

   Taking first place honors was Al Koenigs, whose chili impressed judges and tasters alike. “I was worried it would be too hot,” Koenigs said after being announced as the winner. Second place went to Deb Ferrie, followed closely by Rock Tuchek in third.

   Judging the competition were Sybil Henry, Dale Blaser, Charlie Neubauer, Mike Tupy, and Les Seelye. Rachel Sweeney served as the MC for the event, which was organized by Cooper Sweeney.

   The cookoff was met with enthusiastic support from both participants and patrons alike, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for the event. With the success of the inaugural competition, plans for the future are already being considered. When asked if the chili cookoff might return next year, Rachel Sweeney was optimistic. “Probably, it was such a fun time and we like any reason to get everyone together,” she said.