COLD WINTER-HOT ASS CHILI COOK-OFF AND FOOD DRIVE
THE CAUSE:
Every year BAKER comes together as a group to do some sort of charity around the Christmas Holiday. This year we decided to contribute to the local food shelf. Afterall, we work largely in food and with the need so high this year, it seemed the most appropriate and the broad-reaching way to give back to a community that has embraced us so lovingly.
MAKING NEW FRIENDS:
After moving to a new office there has been a lot of discussion about making new connections in the area and building relationships for BAKER–Befriending some of our local businesses–Partnering with some of the managers–Giving to some of the local charities. That is where STEP, St. Louis Park Emergency Program comes in–collecting and distributing all sorts of resources from food to toiletries, health and beauty and even pet supplies for the SLP area.
THE EVENT:
What BAKER ended up planning was a combination CHILI COOK-OFF and food drive. 11 of BAKER’s own came together as cooks, with some seed money from the Execs to provide a lunch and contest for the entire company. Everyone who participated in the festivities was asked to bring a couple of donations for STEP.
THE RESULTS:
When all was said and done the afternoon was creative success. With the faux fire going on the big screen and “Burning Love” by Elvis playing amongst other themed music, the cafe was a veritable crockpot base camp filled with smiles and laughter. More than 50 BAKERites and guests (including representatives from STEP) ate and socialized. Most importantly though, over 300 lbs. of goods were collected for donation to STEP and will be made available just in time for the holidays. The winning cook was Marilyn Phillips with her Tel Aviv Tango Chili. If you’re interested in trying your hand at making this award-winning recipe, we’ve made a pdf version available for your downloading pleasure.
