The Ambrose School’s western themed “Chili Fest” is so much more than a rip-roaring good time. Chili Fest is how we bless and thank our teachers for the many sacrifices they make for our children. This year, Sheriff Owens (a.k.a. Dean of the Upper School and Director of Vision & Advancement) spent much of the evening issuing warrants for the “arrest” of these teachers we love so much. Students were gathering bounty money to get their favorite teacher thrown in jail, and the teachers then raised money to make “bail.” The jail was reported to be somewhat cozy, and was catered with tea and cookies.
Students in the upper school houses participated in a line dance competition to “Boot Scootin’ Boogie.” Each house showed great creativity and talent, but a challenge by the lower school teachers took everyone by surprise when the teachers showed their heretofore hidden boot-scootin’ abilities. The teachers were declared the winner, with Tennent house receiving special mention for their rendition.
The younger set kept the “carnies” (parent and upper school students) busy playing an assortment of carnival games ranging from a cupcake walk to fishing to beanbag toss.
And of course, what would Chili Fest be without chili? Eight teams competed this year. There are some teams that everyone looks forward to seeing each year, like Coach Vanderbeek’s “Boom-Boom” chili team. Many a mouth has taken on the challenge of the spiciest chili on the planet, but few have lived to tell the tale. Nevertheless, every chili team ran out of chili! Good thing there were still hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches to keep everyone eating. When the dust settled, it was the Newcomers chili team, lead by veteran parent Jennifer Barbour who won the coveted “Best Chili” award.
Thank you to everyone who planned, volunteered, cooked, served, danced, ate, and played this year. We’re already looking forward to next year!
