Chili cook-off and art auction benefits children in Haiti

COMMERCE CITY – Mayor Natale and Lt. Saunier were special guest judges at the annual Bright Horizons Belle Creek Early Learning Center Chili Cook-Off held recently. Students (from toddler age to Pre-Kindergarten) were involved with every step of event planning and helped their parents and teachers craft décor, prepare cornbread and dessert, and cook chili for the contest.

The chili judging panel included Commerce City Mayor Natale, Commerce City Lieutenant Saunier, Belle Creek Charter School Vice President Mrs. Fields, and Belle Creek resident Kelsie Rose. Students enjoyed chili and live music while they learned about each of the judge’s unique professions and how they benefit the Commerce City community.


Special to this year’s event was a student art auction that directly benefited child earthquake victims in Haiti. More than $150 was raised and donated directly to Mercy Corps for Haiti earthquake relief efforts.

“Lt. Saunier and I were honored to be guest judges at the chili cook-off,” said Mayor Natale. “It was an inspiration to see all of the families and children of Bright Horizons come together to raise money for children in need in Haiti. And the chili was so good it was hard to choose just one grand prize winner!”

Shannon Lent of Commerce City won first place and was awarded with a free “Parent’s Night Out” that includes free child care for her two children.