On Saturday January 30, a beautiful, sun-soaked, winter day, partners Bill Askin and Todd Hooker played in the 13th Annual United Way Chili Open Golf Classic at the Sussex County Fairgrounds.  Rounding out the foursome were Pop Askin and Sussex County Freeholder, Jonathon Rose. The annual event raises money for the United Way of Northern New Jersey’s ALICE program.  ALICE stands for the Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed members of the community who play a crucial role in the Sussex County workforce, but do not earn enough to meet basic needs for their families. According to the United Way, up to 12,000 families in the county meet this criteria.

The theme for event was “Up to Snow Good”, which seemed entirely appropriate given last week’s record-breaking blizzard, but it really exemplified the positive attitudes of the golfers who played: “This is our second year participating, and we are thrilled to be able to be here on this near-perfect day to raise money for and to celebrate all of the individuals who work so incredibly hard each and every day for their families, but still need something extra to get through the week, ” said Bill Askin.

The United Way of Northern New Jersey estimates that approximately $30,000 was raised during the 13th Annual Chili Open Golf Classic.  Todd Hooker stated: “Serving the community is part of our core values, and we think Sussex County is a pretty special place. We wouldn’t dream of missing the Chili Open, and when Mother Nature cooperates, it makes the day that much more special.”