Community members compete in chili cook-off at Black Birch Books

WASILLA — Community members competed in a chili cook-off hosted by Black Birch Books Thursday, Jan. 11.

"I decided to host the Chili Cook-Off event because this is the time of the year it's needed. The holidays are over, it's dark, we've had some record snow, and people need something to look forward to and reasons to gather. Sharing a spicy meal with the community is just the ticket," Black Birch Books owner Taylor Jordan said.

12-year-old chili cook-off contestant Erin Bower said that she had fun cooking her chili and competing. She said that she won a cooking contest hosted by her church and wants to keep participating in cooking events.

"I just like cooking. I picked it up from my grandma. She did it when she was young too," Bower said.

Bower noted that cooking is just one of her many hobbies. She also likes sewing, crocheting, knitting, and other artistic activities.

Bower's mother Michelle said they found this event online and it was their first time visiting Black Birch.

"I think it's incredible. I appreciate the fact that the owner's a veteran," Michelle said. "It's very eclectic and inclusive and I appreciate that."

Jessica and Paul Rydzinski won the chili cook-off.

"It was a lot of fun," Jessica said.

Jessica said they used a recipe from a family friend and made their own adjustments. She said it was a fun all day project. Paul said it was an enjoyable way to spend the day together.

"It was a nice couple thing to do," Paul said.

Bower was the runner up of the cook-off. Jessica said that she liked how Bower incorporated moose meat into her chili.

"It was really good. It was my first time having moose," Jessica said.

Jessica said that chili is a versatile comfort food that's run to personalize.

"There's such a variety and you can make it your own," Jessica said.

The 1st place winners and runner up received prizes for their hard work. Local businesses such as What Tattoo and Hair Studio, Perpetual Motion Automotive, and Tracy's Treasures provided the items and services for the prizes. WooHoo! Ice Cream also provided ice cream for the event.

"This was awesome. I love seeing people from the community coming in. It’s always a great experience," Jordan said.

Jordan said this was their first time hosting a chili cook-off. It's just one of many types of events they host for all ages and demographics.

"I like a lot of diversity with events to make sure everyone gets what they need," Jordan said.

Nicholle Ramsey attended the cook-off with her infant daughter Odette who enjoyed sampling the contestants' creations. Ramsey said this event was a fun and tasty refuge from Alaska's winter weather conditions.

"It's a nice cold day for warm chili," Ramsey said.

Ramsey is a Black Birch Books regular. She said that she likes the variety of community events that take place in the cozy getaway throughout the year.

"This bookstore is amazing for the community which is one of the reasons I love coming here," Ramsey said.

Another regular customer, Shekinah Perkins said that she appreciates Black Birch Books, especially since it's serving an important role as the only bookstore in Wasilla.

"I love it here," Perkins said. "It's a great gathering place where people can meet each other and it's a safe environment."

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com