Ascension’s 2026 Chili Cookoff, an annual winter fundraiser for Miles Perret, was an overwhelming success. This year, despite extreme weather complications, the event raised over $13,500 dollars for the non-profit, exceeding their $10,000 goal. The Chili Cookoff is one of Ascension’s favorite events to host and celebrate, always full of fun and charity, even if it looked a little different than it has in the past. Because of the inclement weather, including harsh rain and possible hail and tornadoes, the festivities were moved into Ascension’s gym. While the chili was cooked under the pavilion where it would stay dry, students set up their teams’ tents in the gym. Many attendees of the event agreed that having the event and tents set up in the gym was preferred over previous years, where cold weather had been a problem. The leadership team handled these challenges beautifully, and many people have reported to the leadership team that this was the best Chili Cook-off to date. Perhaps in the future, the leadership team might continue to implement these successful backup plans in the event. 

With the record turnout of 34 teams, there was a wide variety of chilies to try, and a few stand-out teams. The team voted Fan Favorite was “Moon Beam Chili,” a mystical magical booth run by the Ahrabi Family. The Trahans’ tent, “The Sugar Rushers,” was awarded Best Decorated for their elaborate Candy Land themed decorations. This team was also notable for putting honey in their chili, a topping described by a member of their team as “a firework in the mouth of sweet and savory.” Finally, the team that took home the prize of Best Chili was “Back Porch Chili.” This team put a unique twist on their chili by using deer meat to set it apart and add a distinct flavor that the judges loved. Overall, this event is an amazing way Ascension celebrates by serving the community.