ROCKLAND — The Rockland Coast Guard City Committee Nov. 30 hosted its second annual Chili Challenge at the Maine Lighthouse Museum. Entries were received from U.S. Coast Guard Station Rockland, and cutters Thunder Bay, Abbie Burgess and Tackle.

Judges for the event were Tim Carroll, president of the Maine Lobster Festival; William Clayton, executive meetings and wedding coordinator at the Samoset Resort; Mike Woods, owner of Trackside Restaurant in Rockland; and Capt. Christopher Roberge, USCG Sector Northern New England in Portland.

Approximately 75 Coast Guardsmen enjoyed chili made by their shipmates, in addition to cornbread, salad and cookies provided by Station Rockland and the Abbie Burgess.

Nine entries were tasted and the winners were as follows:

• First place - Bryce Lester of the Tackle
• Second place - Rachel Seitz of Station Rockland
• Third place - Troy Shaw of the Abbie Burgess
• The People's Choice trophy was awarded to Jennifer Donaldson of the Abbie Burgess

The purpose of the City of Rockland Coast Guard City Committee is to support and foster a positive and enduring relationship with the U.S. Coast Guard personnel, and their families, stationed in the community.

"The residents of Rockland and the surrounding area recognize the importance of what U.S. Coast Guard men and women contribute to the community," said Paul Conlon of the Maine Lighthouse Museum.

The Chili Challenge is one of several annual events sponsored by the Committee; others include the Appreciation Dinner, held in April, and the Golf Tournament, held in September.