Friday, February 27, 2009

Watch your mail box for the arrival of March's Terlingua Trails. As always, Bucky has done an outstanding job. Thanks Bucky.

Texas Men's State is just around the corner. This year besides having Chili and BBQ, there will be a Men's Only Bean Competition with 100% payback. There will be a silent auction. Please remember to bring something for the auction. There will be a Domino Tournament, Entertainment, Vendors and a lot of FUN! For more information, contact Alan Dean 512 567 2835

Have you registered yet for Texas Ladies State? It will be held Sat, April 18 at Max Starke Park Ease in Seguin, TX. You need to register before March 18. You can send your registration to Steve Ashman, c/o Texas Ladies State, PO Box 1632, Bastrop, TX. The cost is $30. Information can be found at http//www.texasladiesstate.com.

Have you used the CIS to input your Cook Off? With postage going up, you can save the price of a stamp. It is a quick and easy process. You just fill in the blanks and push the save button. Your CCO is instantly on the the CIS calendar. CCOs have to be on the calendar by the 15th of the month in order to make the next issue of the trails. This provides you an opportunity to get that CCO that you were just asked to have into the system so that it meets the deadline. If you have questions, please contact Dorathy Williams at 432 371 2595 or email: dorathy@hughes.net.

Do you need a sign on for CIS? Please email me at garjans@suddenlink.net. I will get it back to you as soon as possible. The turn around time depends upon my being home! Once you have that sign on, you can you can access the Name file, the Cook Off File, the State File, the Show Team File, the Organizational Group File, and the History File. Last week in this Blog, I identified these files and what they contain. The personal information for your file is what we have. If it is wrong or incomplete, you need to send this information to me so that I can update your files.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, February 26, 2009

A note from Janita Hinds:
Thanks to all of you who helped make the Richard Hinds Memorial CCO a success last weekend. We raised $11,000 for the Comstock Library. Of that amount $2160 was raised during the auction. Despite the wind and the cold, we had a great CCO. Thanks to all of you who partricipated, judged, assisted with the Judging, the meals preparation and the 42 tournament. There are to many to name. We are starting to plan for next year and hope to make it bigger and better. Janita

Looking forward to this weekend and identifying CCOs.
Saturday, Feb 28

Kokomo, IN CASI. Red Hot & Wild Kokomo 2009 CCO Held at the Johanning Civic Center, 1500 N Reed Rd, US 31. This event is sponsored by and benefiting the Kokomo/Howard County Chamber of Commerce. For more information contact Rhonda Eastman/Interm 1-765-457- 5301, reastman@kokomochamber.com

Yoakum, TX CASI. 22nd Annual Land of Leather Days Chili Cookoff and Festival. Held at the Community Center, 105 Huck St. Info Yoakum Area Chamber of Commerce, 361-293-2309. info@yoakumareachamber.com. Benefits Blue Bonnet Youth Ranch.

Gresham, TX CASI. Half Moon Grill & Saloon 2nd Annual Cookoff. Held at Half Moon Grill & Saloon, 16884 on the corner of FM 2493 & FM 2823 five miles South of Tyler, TX 75703. Benefits St. Mary Magdalen Church Youth Group. Contact Jan Young 903-780-5767 or 903- 780-5766, moe09190@yahoo.com for more info and directions.

Seguin, TX CASI. Comanche Crossing Country Store Held at Camanche Crossing Country Store, 2080 FM 477, corner of FM 477 & FM 466. . Info Kathi Auten 830-379-3402, email kauten@gvec.net.

Wichita, Falls TX CASI. Eagles Cookoff. Held at Eagles Lodge 4128, 5396 Seymour Hwy. Contact Dale Gorman. 940-632-7322. For the Max Bear Fund.

Lytle, TX CASI. 2nd Annual Friends of the Equine Therapy Center CCO. Location: (new) 16486 FM 463. From I-35 south of SA, take exit 133. Follow TX 132 through Lytle to FM 2790, turn right on FM 2790 and proceed approx. 1 mile to FM 463. Turn left onto FM 463 and proceed to 16486 FM 463 on left. Benefits the Equine Therapy Center. Contact: Bob Steinle Crackedpotchili@juno.com (210) 912-6146, ETC office(830) 709-0711.

Edmond, OK CASI. David Curtis Memorial Elks Lodge Benefits Elks Lodge Charities. Contact Joe Spears 405-650-3354 e-mail joespookyj@aol.com, or Donell Dickerson 405-227-8689. Interstate 35 north of OKC to Waterloo rd. turn right go approximately 1 mile. Elks lodge on the north side of the rd. On advertising probation.

Quartzsite, AZ CASI. Chili in Quartzsite Held at Kuen Blv & State Rt 95. On I-10 turn @ exit marked Hwy 95 go south over freeway to lst light and look for chili signs. Benefits Chamber of Commerce. Contact Dick Smith 623-465-9353 dsmyway@aol.com. On Advertising Probation.

Sunday March 1
Seguin, TX Comanche Crossing Country Store Held at Comanche Crossing Country Store, 2080 FM 477. Charity TBD. Contact Kathi Auten 830-379-3402. kauten@gvec.net.

Corpus, Christi TX CASI. K99 Texas Independence Day Celebration. Held on the grounds of the Texas State Aquarium. Contact Roberta www.k99country.com, keyword Texas. 361-289-0111 ext 147. Benefits Stars Scholarship Fund, Texas State Schools.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

I apologize that somehow I could not get the address to Margaret Nadeau's MS web site to work once that I copied it into the Blog. We are going to try it again today. Here is a note from her:

Friends,
I will be riding in the MS 150 this year to support my husband and those who live with this disease on a daily basis. This will be my second year of participating in this great event, and I'm happy to say my husband, Steve will be joining me on the ride. I would appreciate your support and would like to encourage you to click on my personal page below to see how you can donate.
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents?px=5894070&pg=personal&fr_id=10222
Appreciate your support.
Many thanks from my heart.
Margaret

Shirley Bates report last night that JoAnn Scott has been moved out of ICU into a room. She is doing better, but is still not up to having company. Get well JoAnn.

A note from our Scholarship Program Administrator Barbara Herrin:

The scholarship committee reports that the committee received 266 applications. Of those, ninety-six did not list a pod or Great Pepper on the form. Applications were received from nine states and fifteen pods. The committee is in the process of reviewing and evaluating those 266 applications. Applicants will be notified of their status at the end of April.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

I just received this from George Jowers.

Bob Angel, an old time chili head, passed away February 22, 2009 at the age of 92. Visitation will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North. A Graveside Service will begin at 9:45 AM on Friday, February 27, 2009 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with military honors.
All in San Antonio, Texas.

I am again posting Margaret's personal page. I copied it from the email, but when I put it in the Blog it doesn't work. Let's try it again.

Margaret's personal page
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:

http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents? px=5894070&pg=personal&fr_id=10222
This is from Ann & Nick Roberts
Our eldest grandgirl, Jaimie was burned in an accident on Saturday night Feb 14. She was immediately taken to the ER, cleaned up and transferred by ambulance to the Children's hospital in Austin. She blamed the accident on 15 year old boys being stupid. She's going to be 15 next month, so I guess she knows about 15 year old boys?

As of today, Jaimie is home for now at least. She has second and third degree burns with the third degree being just above her ankle. Skin grafts were done on Tuesday. She has tubes and a pump attached to her leg, at least until Monday when she goes back to the operating room to get them removed. She's been on morphine and that makes her goofy, but she's been entertaining the staff at the hospital by telling them she has bedsores? She doesn't have any bedsores, she wasn't there that long? When they brought her back from the operating room after the skin grafts, one of the doctors had bandaged a stuffed animal that she had just like she was.

She went home with a wheelchair, a walker and crutches and is getting up some with the walker as of tonight.

It's going to take some time, but I think she's going to be okay in the long run. She's got a lot of spirit and good friends that are helping her. She is worried about school because she's got to be out all next week, but her catch up work will start coming home tomorrow. She's in all advanced classes, except for algebra.

The kid's mom did have homeowners and a claim has already been filed.

From Keith Karaff:

The 2nd Annual Special Angels of the Woodlands CCO was a lot of fun and a huge success. A total of 31 cooks came to cook. SAW is a wonderful organization and they turned out in force. In the end we raised just over $2000. Way to go everyone. The weather cooperated for the most part and an enjoyable day was had by all. Congrats to everyone. Below are winners:

1st- Stacey Davis
2nd- Lauren ( CJ) Nueffer
3rd- Chuck Spischock (he’s still looking for cups)
4th-Michael Mayorga
5th-Vern Gilpin
6th- Dave Pitts
7th-Roy Davis
8th-Doug Hay
9th-Ed Nesbitt
10th-Sherrie Davis

Show
1st-Oilfield Trash- Larry Hammock (Q’d)
2nd-Pig Stop Chili- Sharon Dozier
3rd- Stone Spider- Lauren (CJ) Nueffer

From Steve and Margret Nadeau:

Dear Friends and Family,
Margaret and I have registered for the BP MS 150 to fulfill a personal challenge, and also to help the National Multiple Sclerosis Society fund research, advocate for change and help people with MS and their families lead powerful lives. Having been diagnosed in 2000 with MS, the MS Society is very dear to our hearts and we want to support their advocacy and be part of it.

The BP MS 150 ride is the largest non-profit event of its kind in North America with 13,000 cyclists, 3,000 volunteers and countless supporters and spectators. They’re great fun and the funds they raise go toward research aimed at treating and eventually curing MS. They also provide education, information, direct financial aid and scholarships to individuals and families living with MS.

On April 18-19, Margaret and I will be riding the 180 miles of the MS 150 and would appreciate your support. You can access our web pages below if you would like to make a small donation. We are both seeking your help, so feel free to split your donation among the two of us.

Steve's personal page If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents?px=5894334&pg=personal&fr_id=10222&et=WuW8s4OjF0lZ20CG-WvXbg..&s_tafId=102539

Margaret's personal page
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents?px=5894070&pg=personal&fr

We appreciate your support and will keep you posted of our progress

Monday, February 23, 2009

Another week has begun. News from JoAnn Scott’s family. JoAnn had surgery on Sat. She was in ICU Saturday night. They expect her to be hospitalized for at least a week. She is in the Odessa Hospital.

Update from Steve Dowdy: Roylene Johnson has been released from the hospital, and is staying in Las Vegas on their original schedule.
I understand that her doctor gave her about 15 prescriptions, ordered her to see her doctor more often, and told her "if it tastes good, spit it out!" Apparently, she's recovering, but, like all heart patients, she must be careful about everything.

A note from Trea "Floozie" Schmidt: The website for the Classic CASI Pod is up and running. The address is: www.classiccasi.org. If you have any suggestions, comments, additions or corrections, please let me know. This is our website, and it can only be as good as the content that is in it. As a way to offset the cost for this websute, we will be offering advertising spots on the website (business card size), for $40.00 per year. Just send me a business card in .jpg file format. You can send a check to Annell for the fees. Also, I will gladly put a link on your member page and our "links" page if you send me the website address.

From the COWTOWN BULLSHEET and Mike Peters: We have a web site now. It is still under construction so bare with us until we get all the bugs worked out. Members will be able to renew their membership from it and read the current and the previous months Bullsheets. It will have pictures and a list of up and coming events. So go
check it out at (www.cowtowncasi.org)

Congratulations to Tim Collier. He won the bronze panther at Comstock on Saturday. The list of the winners is as follows:
1. Tim Collier
2. Janita Hinds
3. Cliff Miller
4. Janice Miller
5. Dodie Simpson
6. Carrie Kennison
7. Kathy Boone
8. Norma Hensley
9. Patsy Childress
10. Lee Roy Childress
Show:
1. Kathy Mulkey
2. Louis Gonzales

Friday, February 20, 2009

Well, It is Friday again. Another weekend for cooking chili. I hope the weather is nice where ever you are going to cook. We will be going to Comstock. Of course, I hoping for a Bronze Panther.

If you have not been to the CASI web page in the last day, you will find some things updated. The new amended Bylaws are in the Resource Center as well as next year's Scholarship Application. The corrected Rule Book (grammar and spelling corrections) has also been updated and can be accessed. The CASI Board page has been updated to include our new Scholarship Chairman. You can even ask me for you CIS log in. Thank You Jim Stateczny for all your help.

If you have never taken time to look in the History File, you will find there is a lot of information in here also. Our Board minutes from our January Meeting are there as well as minutes from our Great Pepper's meetings. Past Financial reports are there and can tell you a lot about what CASI has done. And of course, the Terlinqua Trails are there.

If you go into the Organizational Groups, you can find information about the board, committees, candidates for last year's Board Election which will be updated as new Candidates for this year's election send in their information. And then there is information about each pod and their Officers.

If you go to the Show Team file, you find each show team listed and the number of points they currently have.

If you go to the State File, you will find by State how many points are required to qualify, how many CCOs they currently have held, the number of chilis judged and the amount of money raised to date.

Of course, most of us are familiar with the Cook Off file where you can input new CCOs and also check the calendar for cook offs by date. This file will also let you know if the results have been submitted.

And then there is the name file. Here of course you can find the name of the cook and information about that cook. Of course, there are a lot of names that we don't have very much information about ( their local pod, their address, email address, birthday, etc). If that information is sent to me by that person, I will gladly update their personal file. Having this file current helps many of us when we want to contact a cook.

There are several other areas on the CASI web page that have lots of information. You can find a list of last year's TICC sponsors. Past TICC winner's chili recipes, information on the Scholarship Program, a map that identifies where there are pods and members, information about Terlingua with a picture of our current Champion MS Susan Dean, and then just a tab that gives information about CASI.

Take time and investigate our web page and see how much information is really available to you in just one place of the web.

Have a great weekend! May Chiligula bless your weekend and keep you safe.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Just a reminder: Pods will be allowed a 1/4 page ad in the Terlingua Trails for one issue only. Have you used this ad to advertise you Pod CCO? Remember that you must have the information to Bucky Seelig by the 15th of the month before you want this ad to run. This is a good way to get some free advertisement of your CCO.

From Mikie McGairity:
Thanks to all the hearty souls that participated in the McHog-In events this past week-end. We had more darn fun than is allowed and proved, beyond a shadow of a doubt that chili cooks can cook just about anything.

The weather was chilly (we even had sunshine and hail at one point) but we all stayed toasty cooking in the shop. There were lots of laughs, some great food and lots of fond memories for Nick and me. The Cottondale VFD is ecstatic with the turnout and has already enlisted for next year.

And here are the results:

Saturday (44 chilis judged)

Chili
1. Cathy Preston
2. Gary Brignon
3. Dee Palmer
4. Sylvia Riordan
5. Doris Coats
6. Sam Roberts (1st point)
7. Kelly Brignon
8. Bob Coats
9. Johnnie Sullivan
10. Lee Brett
11. Dale Reinecker

Show
1. Cool Cat Chili (Stephanie Brockman)
2. Lurch Cave Café (Robert Sullivan)
3. Bull Rush (Ginny Williams

Beans (19 judged)
1. Tina Barnes
2. Bill Riordan
3. Bob Coats

Cheeseburgers in Paradise
1. Kary Fieseler
2. Beth Moon
3. Dee Palmer

Sunday (25 chilis judged)
1. Beth Moon
2. Sylvia Riordan
3. Sherree Duncan
4. Stephanie Brockman
5. Babs Johnson
6. Kary Fieseler
7. Coby Davis
8. Bob Coats
9. T.J. Friedel
10. Gary Brignon
11. Doris Coats

Show
1. Dream Catcher (T.J. Friedel)
2. Hawg Wild Chili (Melissa Rosa)
3. Cool Cat Chili (Stephanie Brockman)

Omelet
1. Keith Longabaugh
2. Beth Moon
3. Kary Fieseler

Bloody Mary
1. Doris Coats
2. Jimmy Moon
3. Stephanie Brockman

JoAnn Scott is currently hospitalized in Midland. Get well really soon JoAnn.

Remember Dave and Kathy Boone in your prayers. They are in Houston and are awaiting results from some tests.

The deadline guaranteeing major goodie bag items to Texas Men’s State cooks has passed, but we should have plenty. To be sure you get these items, get your entry in soon.We will have an open beans competition (for men only) at TMS this year. Entry will be $10 and it will be 100% payback. That should provide a pretty good payday for some lucky cooks.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009


From Keith Karaff

Saturday, February 21 at Papa's Ice House in Spring TX. 2nd Annual Special Angels of the Woodlands CCO. This is the second year for these folks and they are a great charity. Turn in is at 2pm. Entry fee is $20. If you can make it to Papa's we would love to have you join us. They Angels are really looking forward to seeing all their chili friends again. One reminder please, Papa's is a bar and grill and alcohol can't be brought under the big pink awning. Please be discrete with your adult beverage. No open containers please. See flyer above for directions and details.


Please Note: The CCO scheduled for this weekend at Houston's St James Episcopal Church has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled.

From Kathi Autin: CLASSIC CASI Pod Meeting will be held at Comanche Crossing 2080 FM 477 Seguin, TX 372-1952 Wednesday Feb. 18th 6:00 PM.

Texas's 39th Ladies State Chili CCO will be held April 18th at Max Starke Park East in Sequin, Texas. Early registration should be sent to Steve Ashman c/o Ladies State, PO Box 1632, Bastrop, TX 78602. TLS information can be found at http://www/texasladiesstate.com

Please continue to support our sponsors. With the economy as bad as it is, we must ensure that we keep the support of our sponsors. This is going to be a tough year for CASI and TICC. Our continued support of our sponsors will encourage their participation.



Tuesday, February 17, 2009

An addition to the original post today.

From David Richardson:

I just got an email from Sue Ann Brook-Grieves, Jim Statecnzy's sister, that her husband George passed away this morning. He had a sever heart history and had been in the hospital most of the time from 21 Oct to present. Services are pending. If I get any more info I will pass along.


I know that the funeral will be Wednesday

Janice
From Tonya Jester:

We received word that Roylene Johnson had a mild heart attack last week and had to be placed on a ventilator.
Since then, she has been taken off the ventilator but there is a heart issue yet to be determined.

She cannot take phone calls right now, but she can receive cards, letters, flowers, etc. The hospital info is…

Spring Valley Hospital
5400 S Rainbow Blvd.
Room 231
Las Vegas NV 89118

I will keep you posted as I receive info. Also, info is updated on Chili Hot News.

Please keep Roylene and Virgil and their family in your prayers.

From Connie Collier:

If you are planning on travelling to Comstock this weekend for the Fourth Annual Richard Hinds Memorial Scholarship CCO here is the agenda:

Friday Night-Cooks Meal with Chicken & Dumplings and Beef Stew

Saturday-February 21, 2009
9:00 am – Cooks/Show Teams Registration

10:00 am – Cook’s Meeting

11:00 am to 1:00 pm – Showmanship Events

1:00 pm – Washer Pitching Tournament Begins

2:00 pm – CHILI TURN IN – Judging begins
MILD BILL’S SPICES GIFT BASKETS to school and government employee (past & present) scoring highest in Chili

3:00 pm – Dessert and Art Auction begins (If you would like to donate a homemade dessert, that would be great!!!)

4:00 pm – Winners Announcement if through judging chili- FIRST Place CHILI wins Bronze Panther by LLOYD GOLDWIRE

5:30 pm – Southern Style Pulled Pork Supper sponsored by HINDS WELL SERVICE

6:00 PM – 42 Tournament begins – Commemorative Domino Trophies Sponsored by THUNDERBIRD MACHINERY, Odessa, TX

From Bucky Seelig:
The March 2009 issue of the Terlingua Trails is now available on the CASI web site. If you are not a CASI member, join now and read the latest in the happenings of CASI: winners, qualifiers, and upcoming cookoffs. Join online at www.chili.org or call John Goforth, CASI Membership Director at 830-832-5070 for more information.

Monday, February 16, 2009

From Dorathy Williams:
Friday Terlingua Cookoff was won by the following"

1. Dave Boone Odessa TX
2. Tim Collier Synder TX
3. Scott Johnson Englewood FL
4. Mike Rider Richardson TX
5. Connie Collier Snyder TX
6. Lisa Rider Richardson TX
7. Bucky Seelig Fredericksburg TX
8. Dru Stewart Hurst TX
9. Sharon Neff Irving TX
10. Lynn Hejtmancik Buda TX

Show Scott Johnson

Saturday Bronze Roadrunner Cookoff (Valentines Day)

1. David Hurray Manske Arlington TX
2. Bruce Stewart Hurst TX
3. Dru Stewart Hurst TX
4. Sharon Neff Irving TX
5. Tim Collier Snyder TX
6. Mike Rider Richardson TX
7. Janita Hinds Del Rio TX
8. Barbara Taylor Cedar Park TX
9. Carolyn Seelig Frederksburg TX
10. Lynn Hejtmancik Buda TX
Show
1. Shirley/Jim Stateczny Comfort TX
2. Carolyn Seelig Frederksburg TX
3. Scott Johnson Englewood TX

We had a wonderful weekend at Water Valley. Thanks to all of you who came and made this CCO such a huge success. Friday the weather was in the 80's and then came Saturday. It was cold with a cold wind. Despite that 16 Jackpot Beans and 42 chilis judged.

1. Kim Draper
2. Laura Coad
3. JoAnn Scott
4. Keith Patton
5. Ray Pilchek
6. Guy Bates
7. Amy Patton
8. Kathy Mulkey
9. Karen Bains
10 Cliff Miller

Show
1 Paul Mulkey
2 Way to Go Ronnie
3 Guy Bates

Sunday was a wonderful day. The sun came out and the weather was super.

1. Barbara Herrin (Q)
2. Keith Patton
3. Amy Patton
4. Maria Scarlett (New Cook)
5. Laura Coad
6. Guy Bates
7. Kim Draper
8. Kathy Mulkey
9. Susie Bryan
10. Patsy Childress

Show

1 Paul Mulkey
2 Sue Yates
3 Guy Bates

Just to let each of you know, the corrected Rule Book is now posted on the web page. Minor grammar corrections have been made. Also, you can find the draft copy of the Board Minutes from our Jan meeting.

Happy President's Day.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Well, here it is Friday. Everybody is scurring to be ready to cook tomorrow. There are a lot of CCOs to choose from.

From Mikie McGarity:
Nick and I hope you’re planning to come to Paradise this week-end. We have a jam packed 2 days full of fun and friendship. We have room to park your RV (no hookups). If the weather is bad, there’s room to cook “under cover”. We have some unique competitions (other than chili) planned for you. Our volunteer fire department is very excited and look forward to seeing you.

We will do Saturday night hospitality (pizza and NASCAR) in our living room.

Please note that we will have a 1:00 turn-in for chili on Saturday.


There is a fun Valentine Massacre CCO at Water Valley, TX. It is a 2 day event. There will be lots of fun for everyone. The weather is suppose to be great. Beat those Winter Blues. Come cook and enjoy. Janice

There is a 2 day CCO om Terlingua. Tonight, turn in is 7 PM. Tomorrow if you win, you will be the proud owner of the Bronze Roadrunner.

If you are in the vacinity of Hernando, MS, you can attend the Lions Club CCO.

There is also a 2 day CCO in Bandera. It is being held at the Pioneer RV Park.

Good Luck to all of you!

We are getting close to the half way point of this chili year. Each pod needs to review the credential criteria and make sure that they have plans to complete each requirement before Sept 30.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY to each if you.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Texas Men's Date Chili Championship is just right around the corner. As you are planning for the event, please remember to bring an item for the Silent Auction. We need lots of items. We had a great silent auction last year and only want it to be better every year. This silent auction helps us make money to support this event. If you have questions concerning the Silent Auction, contact me. Janice Miller. garjans@suddenlink.net.

Have you had a CCO for the Scholarship Program? This is one of CASI's Programs that is growing each year. This is an excellent way to showcase CASI. As we contact High School Counselors and give them the information about this program, it puts our name in front of a lot of students and their parents. Then when we advertise CCOs in our local areas, we might have better public participation. After contacting the 30 High Schools in our Regional Referee's area, I have had many phone calls asking about CASI and requesting a CCO for other charities. If every pod would have 1 CCO each year for this program and only made $300, we would be contributing over $21,000 to the program. We do get a lot of the support for this program from Memorials. This is a GREAT program. Keep up the support and keep promoting CASI. Chili, Charity and Fun!

Wednesday, February 11, 2009



hey Girls, Wasn't Rankin a Blast?!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for attending our Tequila Rose Toast. Congratulations to our first two time winner, Carolyn Seelig. She made it 9 for 9 in 09!!!!!!! In fact 7 out of 9 winners were women-congratulations to each of you.

If you would like to drop Stephanie Parsons (the TR representative that sent us the goodie items and attended our TR party in Terlingua) an email thanking her or giving a brief description of the party, etc., her email address is mhtml:%7B2151797C-3300-4934-9290-7A4D3927DC78%7Dmid://00000146/!x-usc:mailto:sparsons@mccormickdistilling.com .

Thanks again,
Connie Collier

Congratulations to Barbara Herrin on being selected as the new CASI Scholarship Program Administrator. There were over 200 applications submitted for this years scholarships. If you are sending a memorial or money to the scholarship Program, please send it to Barbara. Barbara can be reached at:

Barbara Herrin
Scholarship Program Administrator
7291 FM 380
Paint Rock, Texas 76866
325 732 4292

Krazy Flats Coordinator

The Board of Directors is soliciting applications from anyone interested in being the Krazy Flats Coordinator during TICC 2009. The Krazy Flats Coordinator will work under a CASI Board member and may solicit volunteers to work in Krazy Flats. Job duties include:

Ø Cleanup of Krazy Flats Concession and Pavilion Areas prior to and after event
Ø Set up of tables and chairs and tear down at conclusion of event
Ø Securing ice from ice trailer to stock freezers prior to event
Ø Securing beer and icing down stock
Ø Stocking concession items for sale
Ø Selling of wristbands to early arrivals in Krazy Flats
Ø Replenishing ice and beer stock, when necessary
Ø Work with CASI Treasurer on cash/inventory reconciliations and pickups Ø Ongoing cleaning of patio/concession area
Ø Packing of all unsold merchandise and beer at conclusion of event
Ø Preparing and coordinating Volunteer schedule
Ø Meet and greet sponsors visiting Krazy Flats Saloon
Ø Within two weeks after event, submit report to CASI Board outlining operations, suggestions, concerns, etc.

If you are interested in this job, please contact me. Janice

This weekend at Water Valley, Texas, Concho Valley Chili Pod will be having their annual Valentine Massacre CCO. It is a 2 day CCO. On Sat, there will be Jackpot Beans. Turn in time is 12:00. Entry Fee is $5. Chili turn-in is 2:00. Entry Fee is $18. There will be a cake auction and a 50/50 pot. Sat evening there will be a Mexican Pot Luck. On Sunday, the chili turn in time will be 12:00. Entry Fee is $18 or 2 cans of food and $15. The food will go to the Concho Valley Food Bank. This is going to be a great time and the weather is going to be nice. If you need more information, call me at 325 947 8753; cell: 325 650 1854, or email me at garjans@suddenlink.net. Janice Miller

Tuesday, February 10, 2009



A Note from Sherrie Davis:


Due to circumstances beyond our control the the CASI sanctioned portion of the cook off advertised for Feb 21 at St James Episcopal Church in Houston has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.


From Kelly Brignon:


“The NOW Pod is so grateful for all of our members, volunteers, and amazing chiliheads that came out to help and support the Gingerbread House and Ellis County Children’s Advocacy Center February 6th-8th. We had a record turnout of cooks and the public came out to support a wonderful charity. We also judged 30 beans, 9 junior chilis and 11 novice chilis. We want to thank everyone again for stepping in and helping make this cookoff a huge success. We raised $2000 more dollars than last year for The Gingerbread House!!!! And now, the winners:

Friday Night NOW Pod No Frills CCO
57 Chilis

Lisa Duggan Many, LA (won her first stove! Yeah!!!)
Courtney Bowden Ferris, TX
Toni Bowman Rowlett, TX
Mack Walker Arlington, TX
Sherree Duncan NRH, TX
Mark Sanders Ennis, TX
Suzie Manske Arlington, TX
Danny “Duke” Strunc Ennis, TX – Q
Kay Lefler Bardwell, TX
Kelly Brignon Waxahachie, TX

8th Annual Gingerbread House CCO
97 Chilis

Babs Johnson Irving, TX – Q
Allison Ballard Waxahachie, TX (winner of the NOW Pod Traveling Chili Pepper Trophy)
Courtney Bowden Ferris, TX
Susan Dean Johnson City, TX
Tina Barnes Euless, TX
Blue Kriska Ennis, TX
Vicki Sanders Ennis, TX
Angie Slovak Ennis, TX
Larry Haskovec Waxahachie, TX
Cathy Preston Arlington, TX

We also had three cooks qualify on Sunday as well – Toni Bowman, Suzie Manske, and Blue Kriska. We gave away Wendell Rankin stoves all three days to the first place winners as well as raffling off a stove and five liquor baskets. We couldn’t have had a successful cook off without all of the great chili cooks that step in and help whenever and wherever help is needed (even extinguishing a dumpster fire!). The Gingerbread House staff and volunteers are the absolute best people you could ask for and helped run a heck of a cook off. Thanks again to everyone for coming out to the Ellis County Expo Center and we look forward to seeing ya’ll again next year!” (Kelly Brignon)



Instructions to Show Judges:
When you select your Judges for Showmanship, are you giving them the judging criteria and detailed instructions for judging show just as you do when instructing chili judges how to judge each chili? I believe that many of us seldom take the time to remind each judge what is expected of them.

In accordance with the Rule Book: "Instructing Judges - Every showmanship judge must be given an explanation of the judging criteria and scoring for showmanship" "A single score takes into consideration 5 criteria." These criteria are Theme, Costume, Booth set up, Action, and Audience appeal. "Showmanship judges must remain anonymous to everyone during the judging." "The official CASI Showmanship Judging Sheet ... must be used for the judging.

Showmanship qualifies for TICC also. We need to remember to give it the same attention to the judging as we do our chili judging. Take the time to remind your judge of the criteria and how to score.

May you each have a Great Day!!!!

Monday, February 9, 2009

Congratulations to Carolyn Seelig! She has another Bronze Horn Toad. This is her second Bronze Horn Toad. It was also the 9th time a woman has won this CCO. A man has never won this CCO. Only 2 men placed in the top ten. Way to go Tequila RoseBuds!!

A big THANK YOU to Dave Boone and Karen Bains for making this 9th Horn Toad CCO a BIG success. There was lots of food, drink, and fun. I am sure that next year there will be plenty of men again trying for the bronze!!!

A note from Blu Danials:
The 28th annual Rose City Chili Cookoff in Tyler will be held for the 3rd time at the Gander Mountain store on Hwy 69 South. There is more than enough RV parking, just no hook-ups. Plenty of spaces for day cooks and overnighters. We also are continuing our popular, highly coveted People's Choice competition so please bring plenty to serve our large crowds and enter the "Local" competition. Benefits East Texas Humane Society and they will have pets for adoption on-site. Stay for the cooks party Saturday evening; $5 will get you gumbo and wings and the all important Margarita Contest judges wristband. And by all means, bring your tequila and enter your own concoction, contestants eat free. Next day "Twice Is Nice" cookoff turn-in at noon, extra chance for points.

Winners from the Blanco CCO Feb 7, 2009
49 cooks

10th Barbara Schuler
9th Jana Daily
8th Melodie Smith
7th Doyle Smith
6th Mary Rheinhart
5th James Bauer
4th Reva Weatherly
3rd Brandy Page = Smith
2nd Robert Schrade
1st John Goforth

3rd Show Dead Boot Chili – Laura McCullought
2nd Show DB Cattle Company - Lisa Edwards
1st Show Hot Muffler Chili – Gunter Woodson

Note from Patti Watkins:
Congratulations to all the winners at the BELCH Amateur Cook-off at the Oaks in Fort Smith on February 7, 2009. Thanks to all those that came out and especially those who traveled a long way to participate. We had participants from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, and Kansas this year and a good time was had by all in raising money for the local Children’s Service League. The charity helps to clothe local children that may need a coat or just something new to wear to school. I want to thank everyone for their time and I appreciate all of you. We hope to see you all the 3rd weekend in June for the Hanging Judge Chili Cook-off.

Chili Winners:
Rheaba Goebel – Van Buren, AR
Jamie Gregory – Broken Arrow, OK
Dick Wagner – Little Rock, AR
Aaron Gregory – Broken Arrow, OK
Judy Hawthorne – Wichita Falls, TX
Peggy Velasquez – Mission, KS
Bruce Smith – Little Rock, AR
Stuart Frye – Little Rock, AR
Don GreenleeTontitown, AR
Larry Velasquez – Mission, KS

Show Winners:
3 Frogs Cajun Chili – Patti Watkins – Fort Smith, AR
Hell Fire & Brimstone – Margo Smith – Coffey, MO
Goebel Hillbilly Chili – Steve Goebel – Van Buren, AR

Patti Watkins
Great Pepper
BELCH Pod Fort Smith, AR

A note from Gil Hewitt:
The Tyler Elks Club 9th Annual Cook Off scheduled for Mar 14 is being held in a new place this year. Please note it is 13624 State Hwy 31 West, John Nash Bldg, across from Goodyear Plant. THERE IS NO RV HOOK UPS, NO BAR, BYOB, and NO FRIDAY MEAL. The Elks will be in their new building by next October's cook off.

Donna Langford sent the following change:
The location for the March 14 Battle on the Border cook-off has been moved to HolidayTrav-l Park, 11490 Hwy 90 W., The cookers can call the park at 830-775-7275 and tell them they are with the CASI cook-off for discounts.

From Mikie McGarity:
Nick and I hope you’re planning to come to Paradise this week-end. We have a jam packed 2 days full of fun and friendship. We have room to park your RV (no hookups). If the weather is bad, there’s room to cook “under cover”. We have some unique competitions (other than chili) planned for you. Our volunteer fire department is very excited and look forward to seeing you.

We will do Saturday night hospitality (pizza and NASCAR) in our living room.

Please note that we will have a 1:00 turn-in for chili on Saturday.

Mikie and Nick McGarity


This is enough for today.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Have you considered leaving CASI as one of the benefactors in your will? This was discussed during the Winter Board Meeting. Jim Ezell introduced this idea. Since CASI is such an important part of our lives and most of us spend a lot of time and money supporting CASI and it's charities, this could help endow CASI for future generations. Consider this idea.

A note from Ken Rodd

CHILI COOKOFF IN BLANCO, TX
FEBRUARY 7, 2009

THE TURN IN TIME FOR CASI CHILI IS 4:00 PM. The ad in the Trails does not have a CHILI TURN IN TIME and you may be confused reading it with the Margarita OFF time.

Remember that we will be electing 3 CASI board members at our Great Pepper's meeting in September. Bucky Seelig and Ken Rodd have announced that they will not run for reelection. Bill Pierson is running for reelection. September is not far away. It's not to early to announce your intention to run for a CASI Board Position.

If you have articles or pictures for the Terlinqua Trails, please send them to Bucky Seelig. This month, the articles need to be send to him by February 11. Bucky can always use more news. We have a great monthly paper and it is because each of you help provide the news.

A reminder that the 9th Horn Toad Round-Up & Chili CCO will be held in Rankin, Texas at the Tommy Workman Park this Saturday, February 7th. First place is a Bronze Horn Toad by Lloyd Goldwire. Be ready for lots of good food, fun, and fellowship.

Alan Dean Reports:
Texas Men's State is coming up very soon. If you have not preregistered, you should do it today. The JC Chamber of Commerce is working hard to help our event be successful with lots of visitors for ourselves and for the town. About five thousand dollars has been allocated to create and post three billboards touting our event. These billboards will be able to be reused in future years.

The Chamber has also promoted our event through a wide network distribution group for press releases. Magazines throughout the state have been printing articles about the cookoff. The Chamber (Visitor’s Center) will continue to mass distribute our press releases.

We have obtained a proclamation from Rick Perry designating our cookoffs as the state championships.

Last minute thoughts: There are several big CCOs this weekend. I hope the weather is as nice as it is suppose to be here for your CCO. I hope each of you have a great weekend and that the Chili God, Chiligula, bring you luck!

This will be my last post for this week. Later today, Cliff and I are heading to Rankin, TX in search of a Bronze Horn Toad.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

We are going to have our Poster Contest again this year. Last year's contest went very well so we're trying it again. We will be choosing the winning poster at our Summer Board Meeting in June. Here are the rules:

Poster Rules and Guidelines

CASI is looking for a unique, creative design that embodies the essence of TICC and CASI.

Artwork must be original and should include bold colors.

The dimensions of the two posters will be 18” X 24” and 11” X 17”. Submissions do not need to be that size, but they must maintain that proportion. The 11” x 17” poster is an informational poster. Copies of last years posters will be made available in PDF format upon request. These posters may be used as a guideline for some of the content required in the design.

Winning designs may also be used for souvenir TICC shirts.

All entries should include in the title, “43 Annual Terlingua International Chili Championship”, and the date, “November 7, 2009”. It must also list the names of the current Board members and include the CASI logo.

Designs may be sent electronically in a standard graphic format (PDF or JPG) or may be a hard copy, suitable for scanning.

Pictures of last year’s winners and sponsor logos will be made available and must be added to the poster design before printing. Changes to the wording and design may be requested by the Board.

If selected, the artwork becomes the sole property of CASI and the Terlingua International Chili Championship and may or may not be used in any manner CASI desires. The winning designer will receive credit with their name included on the final product.

Submission deadline will be June 20th. Entries must be sent to Janice Miller, 3014 Oak Mountain Trail, San Angelo, TX 76904 or garjans@suddenlink.net. Winning entries will be chosen at the Board of Directors Meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas on June 27, 2008.

We hoping for several entries this year.

From Kelly Brignon:

“Don’t forget the 8th Annual Gingerbread House and Cotton Patch Chili Cook Off this coming weekend (Feb 6-8) at the Ellis Co. Expo Center in the big town of Waxahachie, TX. This is a three day cook off with first place receiving a Wendell Rankin hand painted stove each day. Friday night is the NOW Pod No Frills CCO – turn in is at 8 pm and there will be a cooks dinner provided by the NOW Pod and if you think you can handle it, BULL RIDING!!!! On Saturday, we will have Junior, Novice, and CASI Chili as well as Jackpot Beans. Chili turn in for all three divisions will be at 1 pm, bean turn in will be at noon. All chili cooks will receive free entry to the Barn Dance that evening as well. And if you still need those last few points, we will have a cook off on Sunday with a noon turn in. Chili grind only all three days – indoor cooking is available. Gates open at 8 am Friday morning….plenty of RV Parking – no hook ups. Please bring your own tables (the Expo Center is unable to provide the cooks with tables this year) as well as throwdown chili for the concession stand. This three day cook off benefits the Ellis Co. Children’s Advocacy Center in Waxahachie and over the last eight years, this cook off has helped build their wonderful facility and provide services to the children of Ellis Co. The Blue Knights will be out there once again putting on the Silent Auction and there will be activities for the kiddies. We will also be raffling off a Wendell Rankin stove on Saturday as well as liquor and wine baskets for any of you needing a last minute Valentines gift or a way out of (or into if you can’t behave!!!) the doghouse. Please call or email with any questions mail to: kbrignon-tbdemo@sbcglobal.net or 469.628.8840. Come on out and stay all three days – we’re going to have a great time!!!!!” (Kelly Brignon)

From Barby Harris Obrien:

Cook for the Cure; Blanco CASI CCO Benefiting Susan G Koman Foundation for the Cure, San Antonio Branch held at Yett Memorial Park, Blanco TX. This weekend Feg 6, 7, and 8th.

Pancake Breakfast for the Cure

A special pancake breakfast will be held at Yett Memorial Park by the Blanco Cooks for the Cure Cook Off contestants. This will conclude their weekend of cooking competition. Pancakes will be ready Sunday morning at 7 am first come first serve. A cash donation is requested, as all proceeds will go to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure branch in San Antonio, which service the Blanco area. There will be a variety of freshly made pancakes cooked to order with delicious syrups and sauces, which include fig jam, blueberries, apples, strawberry and maple. The famous Tyler’s Ultimate Pancakes recipe from the Food Network will be served. These include cottage cheese and orange zest. Also a simple oatmeal pancake with nuts and raisins for that extra fiber will be offered. Add a slice or two of Smokey peppery bacon on the side and you are good to go! It can all be washed down with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate, orange juice or a chilly glass of milk.

Join us all weekend with events beginning Friday night, with a Pot Luck Venison Stew dinner along with a Margarita Mix Off, Jackpot Bean and a dessert competition. Saturday morning, the air will be filled with Smokey aroma of Mesquite wood and jalapeño peppers. There will be chili, chicken and pork rib categories along with the salsa for judging and sampling. Also, not to forget our friendly best friends, there will be a Pretty in Pink Pet Parade, open to the public for a $2.00 donation beginning at 11:00 am. Hand Made rugs and Crochet Tuscany Blankets will be in the raffle along with beautiful neck scarves (lots of pretty pink ones) to help keep you warm and lots of other crafted items. And of course, there will be those fantastic plants from Kalpak that everyone fights over. There will be desserts and cakes for the spinning wheel cakewalk.

On stage on Saturday afternoon, local musician Alan Cooper and Penny Conn and friends will perform for your pleasure. A special SHOWMANSHIP effort will be on stage about 4ish with the guest band Long Woodson from Austin for that acoustic rock sound. And it’s all free!!

Vendors are welcomed to set up for a $20.00 donation and donate one item for the raffle. And if you are not a cook, but love to eat, come out and be a judge. To judge, you must sign up in advance at the contact information below. Already some vendors who plan to attend will bring a host of crafted items that include hats, purses, charms, belts, and a variety of décor.

The weather is supposed to be gorgeous this weekend so as the friendliest folks in the Texas Hill Country host Blanco Cooks for the Cure Chili and BBQ Cook Off, the public is invited to participate all weekend. Our event will take place in Blanco, Texas at Yett Memorial Park on February 6, 7 and 8th. We are hoping this event will help raise funds towards the Cure and help support the local economy at the same time. Rain or shine won’t matter to these cooks. CONTACT: Barby, 830 833-1442 ; blancobarby@netzero.com

Sunday, February 1, 2009

From Jen Windsor:


Subject: Jack Ware: To my friends, my dad's friends and chili companions, I'm sad to say that my father passed away peacefully late Saturday nite, 1/31/09, at his retirement home in Sterling, Va. My brother Don and I were there at his side. He did not suffer and passed away peacefully. The cause of death was complications resulting from Parkinson's disease. His wishes are to be cremated immediately and then a family service and burial at Jefferson Barracks Military Cemetary in St. Louis. I will be working on those plans, and tending to the zillion things that must be done over the next few weeks. I also want to apoligize to you all for not staying in touch as I should, the rapid decline of the last few months, especially recently, as simply kept me out of touch with just about everyone. Please accept my apologies. With much gratitude, Ken Ware (a.k.a. Kenny)
From Karen Bains:
The 9th Annual Horn Toad Roundup and Chili Cook Off will be held in Rankin, Texas at the Tommy Workman Park this Saturday February 7th. First Place is a Bronze Horn Toad by Lloyd Goldwire. Be ready for lots of food, fun and fellowship. Here is the schedule

Friday
6:00 P.M. Fish Fry
7:30 P.M. Tequila Rose Toast

Saturday
8:30 a.m. Breakfast furnished by the Rankin Museum
9 a.m. Registration
10 a.m. Cook's Meeting
2 p.m. Chili Turn-in
Stew/Soup Dinner one hour after results
42 Tournament immediately after Supper

Hope to see you there.

As most of you know, this CCO has never been won by a man!!

Just a note from Connie Collier

Ladies don't forget the Tequila Rose Bud gathering and toast on Friday night. Please pass the word for those girls going to Rankin, to bring a chilled bottle of the "Sweet Nectar", your special shot glass, and something pink or your Tequila Rose shirts for our photo opt!

This is going to be a great cook-off so come on down and join the fun -- Cooking Chili for Charity with CASI!

From Pat Krenek

As many of you now know, Richard W. King passed away on Friday, January 30, 2009. In an effort to inform family and friends I wanted to get this information out as soon as possible to allow folks to make arrangements.

The service will be at 3:00pm on Sunday, February 8, 2009

Manassas Seventh-day Adventist Church
9858 Fairmont Avenue
Manassas , Virginia
703-335-1710
http://msdachurch.org
Gathering afterwards at 5:00

From Renee Moore:

102 cooks on Saturday in Minden. George French and Jerry Hunt were overwhelmed; even had to make more judging cups. There were 35 Louisiana cooks and none in the top 10.

They got 2 from the final table and the 3rd was further down the line.

David Manske’s aunt won. This was her 3rd cookoff. David Lake from Tyler was 2nd, Phil Greenlees from Houston was 3rd.

Bo Prewitt, Dana Hay and Susan Dean represented the champions that were present. Bo and I were the only Directors in attendance.

Great cookoff for a great cause, and they raised lots of money for St. Jude’s. There is an auction that goes on all weekend, too, that adds to the totals collected.

Well, with all this news that was sent to me, I will not add to the column today. Thanks to all of you who have sent me something and for all the emails encouraging me on this blog.