FRONT PORCH

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (March 3, 2025) – The annual Parrish Heritage Day Parade and Chili Cook-Off is back for 2025, and Neal Communities is ready to turn up the heat once again on March 8.  As a $10,000 sponsor of this community event, Neal Communities continues its tradition of supporting local initiatives while bringing some serious competition to the chili cook-off.

Last year, the Neal Communities chili team made an impressive showing, taking home the title of 2nd runner-up. This year, with a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, they’re looking to spice things up and aim even higher!

Stirring Up the Competition

Zander Devlin, Vice President of Purchasing at Neal Communities, is leading the charge for this year’s competition along with 5-6 teammates. Devlin isn’t just a chili enthusiast; he’s an experienced competitor on the Kansas City BBQ Society (KCBS) circuit, where he and his team participate in professional BBQ competitions across Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Virginia.

“I love to cook and compete,” Devlin says. “This year, we’re bringing top-quality ingredients, the perfect balance of spice, and a whole lot of passion. Can’t let all the secrets out, but trust me … our chili will be something special.”

While Devlin is still relatively new to the Parrish Heritage Day Cook-Off, Neal Communities has been a fixture at the event for years. The 2024 team gained recognition for their masterful use of a variety of meats, creating bold flavors with just the right kick of heat. Former team member and Neal Communities Controller, Jodi McConnell, who served as the team’s head cheerleader and cornbread maestro, recalled the thrill of the competition: “The energy is amazing. The competition is fierce, but it’s all about having fun and bringing the community together.”

Mike Thomas, Purchasing Manager at Neal Signature Homes, has also played a key role in past events, most notably as the self-proclaimed “CEO of stirring.” With a personal record of six hours of continuous stirring, Thomas knows firsthand the importance of patience in creating a perfect pot of chili. “He who stirs with patience finds flavor deepened; the hand that rushes, burns the pot,” he jokes.

More Than Just Chili

While the chili competition is at the heart of the event, the Parrish Heritage Day Parade and Cook-Off offer a full day of family fun. With live entertainment and local vendors, the event is a highlight of the year for the Parrish community.

Neal Communities is committed to enriching residents’ lives and fostering a sense of belonging. They believe strong neighborhoods are built through local engagement and recognize the importance of community gatherings. Their support of this event reflects their dedication to encouraging others to contribute and connect.

This donation is part of Neal Communities’ broader philanthropic efforts to promote compassion and involvement. Employees are encouraged to engage with causes that resonate with them, reinforcing their role in strengthening neighborhood bonds.

“We look forward to this event every year,” Devlin says. “It’s about more than just great chili. It’s about celebrating our community, meeting new people, and creating lasting memories.”

With the competition heating up, will Neal Communities take home the top prize this year? One thing’s for sure: their chili is bound to be a crowd favorite. Be sure to stop by their booth, grab a sample, and see if their secret recipe has what it takes to claim victory.