Think Wild hosts first ‘Get Wild Chili Cook-Off’ fundraiser for the community; winners announced

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Nothing like a bowl of chili (or maybe more than one) to warm you up on a cold, windy Saturday, which was only fitting as Think Wild hosted its first Get Wild Chili Cook-Off at Aspen Hall in Shevlin Park.

"This is a really fun fundraiser that we're hosting to raise money for our coming 2025 year," Think Wild Executive Director Sally Compton said. "We have, I think, over 35 contestants that have submitted their different chili recipes."

NewsChannel 21 Chief Meteorologist John Carroll served as master of ceremonies for the chili cook-off, where people got to sample chilis in five different categories and vote for their favorite ones. 

Chef Ingrid Rohrer tied with Alex Roth for "Best Overall Chili, while Roth also took the prize for "Soup-er Soup."Stace & Marlene Ross was voted the "Best Spicy Chili," and Barbara Troyer & Richard Hull took the "Best Vegan Chili" award.

Throughout the event, which raised more than $10,000, there were presentations about Think Wild's work, and spreading awareness about their mission to protect and care for native wildlife. 

Think Wild's mission is to inspire the High Desert community to care for and protect native wildlife through protection and conservation. If you find any wildlife conflicts or injuries, call the wildlife hotline.