MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – The fifth annual Chili and Salsa Cook-Off took place at Middletown Square Park on Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Despite the rain, many came out to support this annual fundraising event. Food and craft booths were moved indoors into the Middletown Senior Center and beer and wine booths under the covered entrance.

“The rain didn’t seem to stop people from coming out to enjoy some of Lake County’s best chili and salsa. We are so grateful for all the support and proud to have raised money for the Meals on Wheels program.” said Fletcher Thornton, founder of the Chili and Salsa Cook-Off.

The grand prize winner of $1,000 for the best chili was Kassie Koontz, followed by Stacy Sullivan in second place, Priya Friday-Pabros in third and Kassie Koontz took people’s choice.

For best salsa, first place went to Jim Reynolds, Jayden Ortiz took second, third was Kassie Koontz and people’s choice went to Jayden Ortiz.

“It was a tough competition. They seem to step it up every year! I want to give a special thanks to Kassie Koontz for generously donating her $1,000 grand prize to the senior center. I was blown away when she handed me the check,” said Lori Tourville, executive director of the Middletown Senior Center.

The Meals on Wheels program delivers nutritious hot meals to home-bound elderly and disabled individuals who are unable to attend congregate meals due to illness, incapacitation or other factors.

For more information on programs and services provided by the Middletown Senior Center, visit www.middletownseniorcenter.org .