By Becky Maxedon
The 2nd annual Southwest Chowderfest went off without a hitch Saturday at Lake Havasu State Park Windsor 4.
The event, hosted by Soroptimist International of Lake Havasu City, featured live music, friendly competition among local chefs who prepared their special chowder recipes and so much more.
Soroptimist Tina Stocking said 22 restaurants and 13 breweries participated in Southwest Chowderfest. “Parker Soroptimist Diva bar came down to sell drinks,” Stocking said.
“The Windsor State Park (folks) were amazing partners. We will definitely continue having Southwest Chowderfest at this location,” she said.
“Celebrity” judges Mayor Cal Sheehy, Today’s New-Herald Managing Editor Brandon Bowers, Lake Havasu City Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Lisa Krueger, Former GWR Governor Laurie Moses and Go Lake Havasu’s Jason Castellucci selected the following chowders as their favorites of the day.
Individual Winners
In first place: Big Wild Alaska – Salmon Chowder and Southwest Salmon Cakes – Lori Knicely
In second place: More Chowder Please – Classic Alaskan Clam Chowder – Tony Rivello
In third place: Tai Vegetarian Chowder – Henry Chik
Restaurant Winners
In first place: ChaBones
In second place: Nikos
In third place: Burgers By The Bridge
Funds raised by the event are used by the Soroptimist organization to help women and families throughout the Lake Havasu area.
For more information on Soroptimist, visit the Facebook page at Soroptimist Int’l of Lake Havasu City. Check out Soroptimist upcoming Swing for Soroptimist golf tournament April 1.
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Henry Chik wins third place in the Soroptimist’s Chowderfest Saturday for his chowder. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Tony Rivello wins second place in the Soroptimist’s Chowderfest Saturday for his chowder. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Lori Kniceley wins first place in the Soroptimist’s Chowderfest Saturday for her chowder. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
Jillian Danielson/RiverScene
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your article about Chowderfest and how it brought a lively cooking competition and fun to Havasu Windsor. It’s fantastic to see community events that celebrate culinary creativity and bring people together in a spirit of friendly competition.
Chowderfest sounds like an exciting and enjoyable event that showcases the talents of local chefs and provides a platform for them to create delicious chowders that impress both judges and attendees. Your article effectively captures the vibrant atmosphere and the enthusiasm of participants and spectators alike.
I appreciate how you highlighted the variety of chowders and flavors that were presented during the competition. It’s fascinating to imagine the diverse culinary creations and the unique twists that each chef brings to their chowder recipes. Such events not only allow chefs to showcase their skills and creativity but also introduce attendees to a delightful range of flavors and culinary experiences.
Moreover, the sense of community and camaraderie that permeates Chowderfest is truly heartwarming. It’s wonderful to see how this event brings people together, fostering connections and shared experiences through a love for food and friendly competition. Community events like this not only entertain but also strengthen the fabric of the local community.
Thank you for sharing the story of Chowderfest and the excitement it brought to Havasu Windsor. Your article not only captured the essence of the event but also conveyed the joy and enthusiasm of all involved. I hope that Chowderfest continues to thrive and remains a highlight on the local culinary calendar for years to come.
Wishing all the chefs and organizers of Chowderfest continued success, and thank you, RiverScene Magazine, for your commitment to showcasing and celebrating the vibrant culinary scene in Havasu Windsor.