24
Sep 
A few weeks ago we hosted our very first Still Kickin’ Chili Cook-Off. We had a special visit from the Singing Chili Pepper. This is a photo of the Chili Pepper and the winning team from the Fireside Grille. Can you caption this photo?
Be sure to check out our Chili Cook-Off album on Facebook. You might even find a few pictures of my co-workers and me singing along with the chili pepper.
15
Jun 
Food can do so much more than just nourish the body. It can lift our spirits and add pizzazz to our lives.
Last week, my husband and I had a birthday party for our son who just turned 5. The theme was “Star Wars”. To make the event extra festive, my husband decided to make a cake for my son’s birthday. “Make a cake” seems a bit understated for what he ended up creating. It was a 24-hour labor of love that resulted in gasps, unbelief and a lot of excitement.
At the end of the night, my husband and I both agreed that it was the best party we’ve had. Why? Not much was different from other family birthday parties. That cake not only tasted great, but looked amazing. It set the tone for the party and brought a new energy to the celebration.
![29984_1392178378996_1668247147_957500_3232995_n[1]](http://messiahvillageblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/29984_1392178378996_1668247147_957500_3232995_n1.jpg "R2-D2")
Over the last several months, I have also sensed a new sense of energy at the Fireside Grille as new changes are implemented. It is amazing to even see the ambience change as the hearthstone oven was added and as our chefs serve us in their bright white chef attire.
The daily menu specials of salmon, sliders, taco salads, specialty pizzas, paninis and more have also added to the energy. I understand the changes to the Fireside Grille have just begun! I hear we will soon be enjoying made-to-order salads, artisan breads, and new international flavors.
Next Wednesday, June 23 from 11 am to 2 pm there will be a Grand Opening of the NEW Fireside Grille. Many of the local merchants who supply food to the Fireside Grille will be on hand to provide free samples.
If you are around that day, stop by for some free samples of salads, pizzas, cookies, parfaits and more! Everyone is welcome.
What is your favorite new dish at the Fireside Grille? I’m a big fan of the salmon with the orange glaze and the sweet potato fries!
7
Apr 
We are looking for chili cookers with a competitive spirit! Messiah Village is hosting a Chili Cookoff Friday, September 10. Teams of people, organizations, ad businesses are allowed to compete in this first-ever Chili Cookoff! Do you have an award-winning recipe?
First, Second, and Third Prizes will be given in the following categories:
- Best Hometown Cook’s Chili
- Best Business / Organization Chili
- Best Restaurant Chili
- Best Theme
- The ultimate prize of the “People’s Choice” Award. The winner of the People’s choice award will have the option of allowing their signature chili recipe served by name in the Fireside Grille restaurant at Messiah Village.
For a complete list of rules, prizes and registration instructions please visit: www.MessiahVillage.org/chili
Hurry! There are only 10 restaurant, 9 Hometown Cook, and 8 Business/Organization spaces left!
All proceeds benefit Messiah Village’s Benevolent Care Fund.
20
Jan Most people my age would not look forward to attending an art reception at a continuing care retirement community, however I am not like most people my age. Maybe I was excited about this past Monday’s reception in the Fireside Grille because I enjoy and appreciate art or perhaps it’s just because I love my job.
The community of Messiah Village is one that is overflowing with love. Amongst my coworkers, residents, their family and friends, I always feel at home. The artwork of Caroline Erney and June Shutt is very impressive. I was not expecting to be blown away by the amount of intricate detail or wonderful use of color in their pieces.
Good food plus great people makes for a wonderful evening of mingling amongst incredible pieces of art. If you haven’t seen the exhibit yet, it will be on display until March 31. I highly recommend you go! Below is one of my favorite pieces from the show (Just to give you a sneak peek!).
Caroline Erney, Variations of Theme from Penn Street
