Elementary School PTA Chili Cook-Off Brings Community Together
By Katie Meehan
November 2026
Members of the Otis and Sandisfield communities gathered for a night of good food, friendly competition, and community spirit at the Farmington River Elementary School PTA Chili Cook-Off, hosted in partnership with the Knox Trail Inn.
The event featured 28 contestants who proudly served their chili recipes, giving attendees plenty of options to sample and vote for their favorites. Among the contestants were three Farmington River Elementary School (FRES) students and two staff members. Eric Danforth of Paige’s Place joined the competition, as did Nathan Normandin, FRES’s new food service director, who debuted a chili recipe that will be featured on the school lunch menu.
More than 100 tickets were purchased for the event, and additional neighbors who were unable to attend generously contributed donations to support the fundraiser. Attendees enjoyed chili, cornbread, salad, and dessert at this family-friendly event. Beyond the food and competition, the gathering provided a chance for local families to relax and connect.
The cook-off winners took home cash prizes. Congratulations to Saul Warren (1st place), Tim and Vicky Murphy (2nd place), and Charlie Pease (3rd place) for wowing with their homemade recipes!
"It was great to see so many Farmington River families and community members out to support the PTA. And how cool that a student won!" shared Cecily Goulange, parent of a third grade FRES student.
The PTA also extends its gratitude to the Smile Like Jack Memorial Fund, which generously donated $1,500 in support of the FRRSD PTA.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will support enrichment opportunities for students across all grade levels. This year, funds will help bring a life-sized inflatable humpback whale to the school gym, creating an immersive learning experience for students while introducing whale biology and behavior, how scientists study these remarkable animals, and marine conservation efforts happening off the coast of Massachusetts.
Additional proceeds will support the PTA’s teacher grant program, which allows teachers to request funding for special learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom curriculum.
This year’s cook-off marked the return of the event for the first time in several decades. With strong community participation and generous support, the PTA hopes to make it an annual tradition.