Sharpsburg library's chili cook-off returns Feb. 22

One of the most delicious times to ever be at a municipal building will soon take place in Sharpsburg.

The annual Sharpsburg Community Library’s Robert “Snakeguy” Habegger Chili Cook-off is set for Feb. 22.

Chefs and taste testers are needed for the food-themed fundraising event at 1611 Main St.

Registration deadline is 5 p.m. Feb. 21.

At least 60 people participated in last year’s cook-off, which was the first since its pandemic hiatus. They included 10 competitors and 25 registered taste testers.

Organizers plan to expand the field this year and have up to a dozen cooks and 40 taste testers.

“I hope that the community continues to be excited about this event and that they bring their best recipes,” said Sara Mariacher, library branch manager and event emcee. “I’m looking forward to see what variety of chilies come to the table this year.”

Taste testers will be split into two groups of 20. First group will sample from 5-5:45 p.m. and the second from 6-6:45 p.m.

Chili will be judged on consistency, texture, taste and spiciness, among other factors.

Awards include a bronze, silver and gold spoons as well as a Tasters’ Choice spoon.

Last year’s gold award winner, Sheila Skrinjar of Pittsburgh’s Morningside neighborhood, was invited to participate as a guest judge.

Tickets may be available at the door. Proceeds benefit the library. Organizers hope to raise at least $2,000.

The inaugural cook-off was in 2018.

The competition moved from the library to the borough building to allow for more space for cooks and guests.

It was renamed last year in memory of Habegger, an impassioned volunteer known for his homemade pepper spices and trained 5-foot leucistic rat snake named Popeye.

“He did so much in the neighborhood, especially working down on the riverfront,” said Nadine Ostrowski, library development manager. “Everybody knew him. He went out of his way to work with people whether it was educating them on snakes or talking about nature. I don’t think I’ve run into anybody who doesn’t know who ‘Snakeguy’ was.

Habegger, a Shaler resident who grew up in Sharpsburg, spent a great part of his life outdoors and trying to help the borough.

Winner of the 2019 chili contest, he was a founding member of the Sharpsburg Environmental Advisory Council.

Habegger died Nov. 23, 2020, of suspected covid-19. He was 60.

Ostrowski said continuing the cook-off is a great way to pay homage to Habegger.

“I think it’s hugely important to keep that going and keep his memory alive and be our own kind of ‘Snakeguy,’” Ostrowski said.

New event sponsors are the Sharpsburg Business Group and Second Harvest.