Saturday, March 22, at Empire Town Hall, the public participated in a vote to determine the “Best Chili” in town. The event successfully raised $615 in donations, which will be distributed to the Empire Food and Paper Pantries. All seven chili entries were unique and flavorful. The top winner, Bill Lustig, received the 2025 Champion Apron; the Rev. Melody Olin, second place winner, was awarded a set of three knives; and Jeanette Stepanek, third-place winner, received an oven mitt from Empire United Methodist Church — event sponsor. Cherry Republic donated gift boxes. Other participants included Sonny Savage, Dan Cook, Christine Adams, and Tim Barr. Pictured, from left are Lustig, the Rev. Olin and Stepanek.
