Colonie Central High School iCare program hosted their 7th annual Chili Cook-off event on Saturday, Feb. 27 raising $900 for Northern Rivers, iCare’s partner in creating awareness and support for individuals impacted by mental health issues. An additional donation of $800 will also be sent to the Colonie Sheriff’s Office to support Sgt. Joseph Iachetta’s family. The 30-year-old sergeant was in serious condition after a crash that occurred last week on Central Avenue.
More than a dozen community groups participated in this year’s drive-thru style event including the town’s Fire Departments and Colonie Police Department. The event featured 9 delicious samples of chili including an entry for the second year in a row from the South Colonie Board of Education.
The panel of judges including representatives such as Assemblyman Phil Steck, Senator Neil D.Breslin, Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple, Spectrum News Anchor Julie Chapman and others, selected Midway Fire Department as both the judges and People’s Choice winner.
“We’re thrilled to provide this positive opportunity for our students and community again this year,” said 9th-grade Dean of Students at Colonie Central High School Brian Scalzo. “We weren’t sure how this event would work this year with COVID-19 restrictions but our students rose to the occasion to ensure they could host the chili cook-off and continue to support our community. We are thankful to everyone who came out to support the event and look forward to seeing you all next year.”
All contributions generated from this event will support both Northern Rivers programs and the Iachetta’s family. Since its inception, iCare has raised $82,000 in support of local charities.
