Manchester Co-op Preschool to host Chili Cookoff

You'll have "gallons of fun" at the co-op preschool's Chili Cookoff on Saturday, Dec. 4. (Mirror file photo from a previous year's cookoff)

The Manchester Annual Chili Cookoff is being held this year on December 4, during Christmas in the Village, at the St Mary’s Parish Center on Madison Street. Doors open at 5 pm, and the live auction begins at 7.

The Preschool board and staff are rounding up chili cookers now for this special and fun BYOB event. Enter your best chili for a fee of just $25. Tasting is FREE and open from 5-6 pm. There will be "judges' pick" and "people's choice" winners, with prizes for each! Contact Ashley Rickert at 734-678-2230 to enter your chili.

The famous "lotto" raffle tickets are available for purchase from Co-op parents or at Dr. Andrews' chiropractic office (101 W. Main Street). Tickets are $10 each and the grand prize is $500. You need not be present to win. There also will be a 50/50 raffle held at the event.

The preschool has also teamed up with River Raisin Distillery to add some extra fun. Stop by for a to-go drink before the event, show them your receipt, and receive a free 50/50 ticket in return.

Manchester Co-op Preschool is a non profit organization that has been a part of the community since 1963. All proceeds from this event will directly benefit their teachers, children, pay their building rent, and help with supplies needed for the children's classroom.

Both silent and live auctions are a hallmark of the Chili cookoff entertainment. Silent auction items are generously donated by local businesses and Co-op families. The two live auction items include a handmade quilt featuring all of the preschool kids' hand-prints; and a Montessori kitchen step stool made by Men's Club member and Co-op parent, Jason Lindemann.

"Last year, Jason made us a sandbox picnic table," Rickert said. "The Men’s Club has been very generous with their time and donations to us, and each year they have helped us tremendously! We are so grateful for them."

Don't forget to watch for the preschool kids' float at the Christmas in the Village lighted parade on Friday, Dec. 3. They will be dressed as reindeer (and you may see a few Santas as well!). Join in the fun with Manchester Co-op Preschool this year!

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.