Retirees’ welcome over 80 individuals to Soup Contest

by Sylene Argent

On Tuesday, February 25, members of the Essex Retirees’ Social Club opened its clubhouse doors to the public as it hosted its annual Soup Contest.

  Judy Lane, who is head of the Fundraising Committee and Vice President of the Essex Retirees’ Social Club, was pleased over 80 individuals headed down to the clubhouse, located on the corner of Russell Street and Centre Street, to taste-test the 16 dishes of homemade soups that were submitted into the competition. While enjoying lunch, attendees also had the opportunity to socialize.

Club members, area residents, and area businesses had the opportunity to submit their best dishes into the event for a chance to earn the bragging rights of having the best tasting SOUP.

  A panel of judges chose Community Living Essex County as having the best soup, which was a cheddar and ham chowder. Debbie Duschaine earned second place with her Tuscan Ravioli dish, and Anne Scoffield earned third place with her potato bacon soup.

  Kathy Martin earned the People’s Choice Award, by a large margin, for her ginger parsnip soup.

  Lane said the event turnout certainly surpassed the goal of the event’s organizers, which allowed current members an opportunity to speak about the benefits of joining the club with potential new members. Benefits include that there is a wide-variety of activities offered at the centre, including cards, shuffleboard, and carpet bowling.

  The Soup Contest is in line with the Retirees’ mission of trying to host some kind of fundraising event every month. Proceeds help keep the clubhouse maintained and open for its membership.

  Such events are not possible without the Club’s volunteers.

  Coming up, Lane said the Essex County Gardeners will host a seed exchange on March 14 at the Essex Retirees’ Social Club. The Retirees’ will host a bake sale during the event. On March 26, the Retirees’ will host a ham and scalloped potato lunch, which will begin at noon.