Bon Jovi helps judge the Toms River Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off for state first responders – Asbury Park Press

Chris Jordan, Asbury Park Press Published 4:37 p.m. ET Oct. 14, 2019 | Updated 12:52 p.m. ET Oct. 15, 2019

Jon Bon Jovi’s JBJ Soul Foundation has partnered with two local charities to announce plans for a community center on Hooper Avenue in Toms River. Thomas P. Costello

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They gave chili a good name.

More than 350 people, including Jon Bon Jovi and wife Dorothea Bongiovi, attended the fifth annual JBJ Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off on Oct. 5 at the JBJ Soul Kitchen in Toms River.

Local police, EMS and fire departments battled it out for the best chili in the area.

Crews from Lanoka Harbor in Lacey did well. Lanoka Harbor First Aid took second place overall for their “Blaze of Glory” chili, and Lanoka Harbor EMS won a “Bon Jovi’s Choice” nod.

Lanoka Harbor EMS uses Ethiopian spices, and sirloin instead of ground beef, for their chili.

“(Bon Jovi’s) very knowledgeable on what he’s tasting. He’s able to to pick up certain spices,” said Chief Justin Meehan, head of both Lanoka Harbor First Aid and EMS. “He’s got some knowledge on this.”

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Overall, the New Jersey State Police came in first for their “Bad Medicine” chili. The Toms River Fire Company No. 1 notched the bronze with their “The Boys on the Hill.”

“First and foremost, we want to recognize and thank our local first responders who put their lives on the line day in and day out to protect and keep our community safe,” said Lou Morreale, general manager of the JBJ Soul Kitchens in Toms River and Red Bank. “Their continued support of JBJ Soul Kitchen and participation in our annual cook-off allows us to help those who struggle with food insecurities.

“We also want to thank community members for their entry donation and coming out to vote, Home Run Entertainment for providing free children’s activities, and Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation Inc. for performing throughout the cook-off.”

The New Jersey State Police received a portion of the entry donations for their win. The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police SOA, Stafford Township EMS, South Toms River First Aid Squad No. 37, Toms River PBA and Toms River Fire Company No. 1 also participated.

The Soul Kitchen opened in 2011 in Red Bank. Diners either volunteer hours or a pay a donation for their meals. The Toms River Soul Kitchen, located inside the B.E.A.T. Center on Hooper Avenue in Toms River, opened in 2016.

Visit www.jbjsoulkitchen.org for more information.

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Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. His multiple awards include recognition for stories on both Bruce Springsteen and Snooki. Contact him at @chrisfhjordan; cjordan@app.com. Stay with app.com or consider a subscription today.

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Carnival of Soul

Bon Jovi helps judge the Toms River Soul Kitchen Chili Cook-Off for state first responders – Asbury Park Press

Carnival of Soul