The second annual First Responder's Chili Cook Off took place in the Trojan Center,
raising money for The Troy University Student Food Pantry and inviting everyone to vote on their favorite chili made by Troy first responders.
“This is an opportunity for you to get to know your officer,” said Jayden McQueen, a
junior political science major from Crestview, Florida and the 2024 Miss Trojan Pride.
“There’s a lot to learn from just having a conversation with someone.
"There is a person behind the badge”
The cook-off tradition began as a friendly competition between Chief of The Troy
University Police Department (TUPD) George Beaudry and Captain Jackie Farmer, Jr. of The
Troy Fire Department. The two were unable to agree on who made the best pot of chili, so it was decided there could only be one way to settle the debate.
Through this, Sergeant Rachel Farmer of the TUPD organized the first annual First
Responder's Chili Cook Off and invited several departments across Troy and Pike County to join in on the fun.
“It's good for [students] to see us and get to know us outside of the first responding,”
Farmer said. “It’s good for them to know us as we are here, at an event.”
Troy Wildlife, Troy Police, Troy University Police, Troy Fire Department and others
were all present at the event and were able to interact with students in a way that they don’t often get the opportunity to.
“This gives an opportunity for us to engage with the public that we serve,” Beaudry said.
Students were able to attend and try several chilis ranging from chicken and beef to pork
and deer. They were then able to cast their vote towards their favorite chili.
Beaudry took home the first-place prize for his pot of chili, Lieutenant Smith of The Pike
County Sheriff's Office placed second and Lieutenant Wood of Fish and Game in third.
The event brought together not only the first responders, but their families, students and
Troy University staff. For those interested in more events, be sure to check your student email and follow the Troy University Police Department on Facebook and Instagram.
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