Town Councilors Herzfeld, McDonald to Square Off on Town Green

As patrons' stomachs fill with an assortment of chili types, the collective attention of 2012 Chili Challenge attendees on the Windsor town green will turn to the town hall portico where the winners of the judges' choice, people's choice and best booth awards will be named.

But the attention of some will be focused on another battle on Broad Street — a battle of significant political proportions; a battle between red and blue, elephants and donkeys, Windsor Republicans and Windsor Democrats.

Each year local politicians throw on their party colors and serve up the best chili they can muster, but the quality of chili served on Saturday could lead to a head or two hanging in shame.

Town councilors Bill Herzfeld (D) and Mike McDonald (R) have committed to a wager that could have some in their respective parties screaming "Benedict Arnold," as the loser of the bet must make a donation to the political party of the winner's choice.

"I don't have deep pockets like Mr. Romney so... $10,000 is out (of the question), but I'd be willing to say 'if you win, I donate $10 to the political party of your choice, and if I win, you donate $10 to the political party of my choice,'" said Herzfeld in a challenge to his colleague during a recent town council meeting.

Being the respectable Republican and talented chili cook he is, McDonald accepted Herzfeld's challenge.

The two men will serve up chili — alongside chili makers from throughout Windsor — under their respective party's tents on the town green Sat., Oct. 6 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Outside of the councilors' friendly bet, prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place finishers in the best tasting chili and best booth categories. Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to vote for the peoples' choice chili winner.

Chili sample tickets cost $1 each.

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