By Marsha Sandman | CNA Media Team
Concordia resident Geno Hill has a palette for the tasty and the spicy.
His unique “not too hot” chili powder found its origin in his own back yard. Friends and family begged for the leftovers. After he took extra to share with his coworkers at United Parcel Service, they encouraged him to package and sell his chili powder.
Then, five months ago, Geno’s NW Underground Chili Powder was born and introduced on the sidewalks of Concordia and surrounding neighborhoods.
He believes in ”gorilla retail.” You won’t find his product in stores or online. He sets up his display anywhere and just offers tastes to passersby.
You’ll often see him on the Alberta Street sidewalks with a big smile and a case of his chili powders.
“Strange things happen on sidewalks,” Geno reported. His Facebook page bears witness to that statement, with many pictures of satisfied customers. You’ll often find him on Last Thursdays in front of the Alberta Street Gallery.
Geno’s NW Underground Chili Powder also offers free delivery in Portland and Vancouver, as well as free shipping within the US.
Geno says he’s a “tasty” rather than a “foodie.” He believes it’s all about taste, which should enhance flavor rather than cover it up. “My chili makes endorphins jump, is an aphrodisiac, clears the nasal passages and wakes you up,” he said.
He uses African chilies and offers 11 flavors, including raspberry, strawberry and mango. Each is packaged in an aluminum screw top tin that fits conveniently in pocket, purse, or on kitchen shelf – ready to sprinkle on a variety of foods.
He is especially proud of his chili powder in the perfect Bloody Mary.
If you don’t find him on the sidewalks of Alberta Street, reach Geno at 503.477.0533 or StaySpicy503@gmail.com.
After living east, south, north and west, Marsha is home at last. And she wants to hear your story. Contact her at MarshaJSandman@gmail.com.