As with many college towns in America, football season is huge in Blacksburg. We are home to the Virginia Tech Hokies and this town goes crazy over college football! At the Rackspace office, we wanted to be no less fanatical than the town – so, we had an office tailgate party and chili cook-off!
I’ve learned that if you want a bunch of guys to get involved in the organization and execution of a party, just involve chili and football!
When we let the word out that we would be having a chili cook-off, people immediately got their trash talking game on. A familiar statement – “We’re having a chili cook-off? I have the BEST chili recipe!” Our response – “Prove it!”
We had about 8 entries to the chili cook off – complete with a vegetarian option. Employees got a chance to taste and vote on their favorite. The verdict – Brian Waldon – your chili rocks!
For those that couldn’t boast on their chili recipe, we also had a “Best Tailgate Food” contest. We had a few dessert entries, various chips and dip varieties, etc. This winner was chosen by a drawing – anyone that brought a dish was entered in a contest for a $50 gift certificate. And the winners were – Matt Stith, Will Dunn, Mike Taczak – with a joint effort.
So what else is there to do after you’ve eaten all the food? Play tailgate games, of course!
Competitive games of Cornhole were being played along with Ping-Pong. I know, I know – Ping-Pong isn’t a traditional tailgate game, but it always has an appropriate place in our office. We were also treated with some words from Rackspace’s own, Pat Matthews. The office’s new site leader, Doug Juanarena was introduced! Then, back to the party.
Oh… and I suppose I’ve left off the most important information – the cause of our festivities. Who did the Hokies play and who won? In an awesome Thursday night ACC matchup, VT played Georgia Tech. I think we all know the answer to the second question! Hokies 28, Yellowjackets 21. What a great day!
Ashleigh started her career at Rackspace in 2009. She is part of the HR team in Blacksburg, working specifically on office management, culture and events. Ashleigh likes to help and support people, playing up her number one strength – Developer. She has found her role of making sure Rackers have the environment they need to be the most productive to be both fun and rewarding.
In her spare time, Ashleigh enjoys spending time with her awesome family – husband, Matt and children Lucas (3) and Savannah (3 months). She also loves to visit new places and coaches a high school tennis team.
