Professionals, amateurs and kids participated Saturday, July 21, 2007, when Pastrami Joe’s Deli and the Association of Independent Competitive Eaters vied for championships in the 2nd Annual World Reuben Eating Contest in downtown Marshall.
The eating was great to watch, but the overwhelming benefit of the day’s activities was that $5,600 was raised for Marshall’s Fountain Clinic, the free clinic dedicated to providing needed health care for those unable to pay for it. The proceeds from the contest were dedicated primarily to purchasing medications.
Five professionals put their elbows on the table and downed a phenomenal number of sandwiches, led by Gentleman Joe Menchetti of Wallingford, CT, who barely broke a sweat as he set a new world record (six meat-filled delights) on his way to the win. Amateur honors went to Dale Greer of Marshall.
Twenty-four amateurs competed in bright sunshine, including the Mayors of both Marshall and Albion, Bruce Smith and Bill Wheaton, and a cadre of police professionals from the State Police, Sheriff’s Department and Marshall Police Department.
For the first time, a dozen children competed in the first annual Reuben Relay, constructing sandwiches from one end of an obstacle course to the other and drawing loud praise from the spectators gathered to watch.
The 2008 competition is slated to be held Saturday, July 19, 2008, beginning at 2 p.m. Those who want to compete may obtain entry forms at Pastrami Joe’s on Jefferson Street in Marshall.

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