13th Ave Chili Cook-off for Smile Train

By Rocky & Kristine Fields

Lynnwood’s 13th Avenue Pub is always up for a good cause.

Last month was their 1st annual Chili Cook-off in support of Smile-Train, the organization that helps children who are born with cleft lips and pallets. Smile Train provides the opportunity to have the necessary surgery to be able to smile and laugh. Their goal is a million surgeries, and they’re well on their way with over 750,000 already performed to date.

The 13th Avenue Pub invited everyone out to participate. For a small entry fee, anyone could enter their chili, or be a judge. We had the honor of judging, and man, some of those chili’s were amazingly delicious! Ribbons and prizes were awarded in several categories, as well as honorable mentions and participation ribbons.

Special awards went to Mark Evans for the hottest chili, Kerri Zweekhorst for most traditional, Chris Stocker for being “The Chili Virgin”, and to Jen Clarke for the most unique chili. Out of 15 recipes, it was a tough call for the best, but the judges decided Pete Croot’s chili was the best overall. Chris Stocker’s chili came in 2nd Place, and 13th Ave’s own Kerri Zweekhorst was crowned 3rd Place winner.

Pub owners, Wayne and Dawn Larson both recieved participation ribbons and were good sports about where their chili placed in the competition.

13th Ave would like to send a shoutout of thanks to everyone that donated, cooked, judged, and volunteered for their 1st annual Chili Cook-off. Thanks to the staff, and to Brandon for being the emcee for this event.

In total, $1,100 was raised for Smile Train! Everyone had a great time and they can’t wait to participate again next year!

13th Ave Pub’s got so much going on – please check out their ad here. Come by and show them some love, they all deserve it!