Friday, February 26, 2010

From Brent and Becky Allen:
We will be having a gathering of friends and family to share stories, photos, and memories at our home in George West on Saturday February 27 beginning about 5:00 p.m. We sincerely hope that you will join us. There will be a memorial service on Sunday, February 28 at 2:00 p.m. at Maxwell P. Dunne Funeral Chapel, 1222 Morgan at 10th, Corpus Christi.

If you wish, we are suggesting donations to George West Storyfest, PO Box 660, George West TX 78022 or the charity of your choice. Clay was a long-time volunteer with Storyfest.

Thank you for all the emails, phone calls and prayers. They are appreciated.

Brent & Becky Allen

From Bruce Smith:
Visited Wag tonight (Thursday) at the hospital and he said they were going to put in stints tomorrow (Friday). He can't have surgery so they are going to try the stints. Do not know what time they will do the procedure. Keep up the prayers.

From Sherry Maus:
Are you looking for a place to cook chili this weekend?  Come to the VFW in San Angelo, TX.  We are having a 2 day CCO.  The first day benefits West TX Meltdown for Autism and the second day benefits Relay for Life.  On Sat there will be Jackpot beans, turn in at 12 noon, entry fee $5.00. Chili turn in at 2 PM. Entry fee $18.00. CHILI GRIND ONLY. There will be a cake auction and a 50/50 pot.  On Sunday Chili turn in will be at 12 noon Entry fee $18.00. CHILI GRIND ONLY (both days).

Below is the Press Release for the Baghdad CCO:
Troops Hold Chili Cook-off in Baghdad to Benefit Boys/Girl Scouts of Iraq; Stateside CASI Chiliheads Provide Needed Supplies

BAGHDAD, …While preparing for her second deployment to Iraq, Capt. Roxzanna Ponce De Leon of the 447 AEG Protocol Unit, decided to attend the Terlingua International Chili Championship held November 6, 2009 in Terlingua, TX. Having participated in competitive chili cook-offs since 2006, It occured to her that a chili cook-off would be a great way to break the stress of pulling duty in a dangerous zone while also raising money for the Boys and Girls Scouts of Iraq. And too, a few bites of CASI (Chili Appreciation Society International) style chili would certainly provide smiles and pleasant thoughts of life back home.

Upon arriving at Sather AFB, Baghdad, Iraq, Capt. Ponce De Leon secured the support of the Base Commander and began outlining the plans for a cook-off. She determined that 50 or so cooks, with a $20.00 entry fee, would raise a respectable sum for the charity while providing plenty of friendly, competitive fodder among the officers, enlisted personnel and contractors at the base. This was a good plan on paper but several obstacles quickly emerged. For example, the main ingredients for chili, i.e. ground beef, spices, broth, bullion, tomato sauce, etc. were not available at Sather. Nor were cook stoves, pots/pans, stir spoons, propane bottles, sample cups and other items usually needed for a cook-off. The local USO representative managed some items from his AOR, but major stateside help would be required to complete this mission.

Capt. Ponce De Leon contacted CASI Director Jen Windsor in Severna Park, MD and Michelle Ungvarsky of Albuquerque, NM, whom she had talked with at the Terlingua event, and explained the situation. Windsor contacted several other CASI members and Directors throughout the United States, who in-turn contacted the CASI membership at large, and word of the task at hand along with cook-off needs, quickly brought offers of help from CASI chili cooks from coast to coast. Former CASI Director and retired Sergeant Major Ken Rodd, Austin, TX volunteered to act as a clearing house to tabulate and coordinate donations of needed items to prevent duplications.

Within 24 hours, Donna Conrad had arranged for 200 pounds of meat to be donated by Mountain City Meats, Waco, TX. and Mild Bill’s Spices, Bulverde, TX. had provided all the chili spices. Donations of broth, sauce, spoons, cups and the other various supplies required to prepare a proper bowl of red were contributed by groups and individuals within a few days.

All supplies were gathered and staged at a central location for shipment to Capt. Ponce De Leon, along with a mountain of best wishes from stateside chiliheads. With some on-site ingenuity regarding cooking vessels and heat sources, the cook-off will take place 4 April, 2010, with turn-in and judging set for 1400 hrs., that’s 2PM civilian time.

The Chili Appreciation Society International’s, Inc. mission is to promote chili and raise money for charity. A 501 (c) (3) corporation, CASI has no compensated officers or employees which allows the organization to channel all excess profits to charity. CASI sanctions over 550 chili cook-offs and raises over $1,000,000 annually for local charities thru cook-offs held by local clubs called pods. In addition, CASI currently sponsors 26 students with 4-year scholarships at $1,000 per year through the national scholarship program. CASI has also long supported our nation’s military with deep discounts for active duty, reserves and retired military personnel and their spouses that attend the Terlingua International Chili Championship.


It is finally Friday!.  It appears that I may get to cook chili this weekend!  It will be the first time since Nov.  Hope I remember how!  Have a Great Weekend!

Thursday, February 25, 2010

SECOND POST FOR TODAY

From Sue Caffey
I am very saddened to report to you the death of our friend and a good friend of CASI.

J.J. Jeffery McMillan passed from this life Wednesday night from an apparent heart attack. Per his wishes, J. J. will be cremated, there will be no services, and no Memorial. He is survived by his wife, Diana, and many many friends in his extended family.

Condolences can be sent to Diana McMillan at P. O. Box 654, Lockhart, TX 78644. Charity of choice is CASI Scholarship Fund.

Come to Sightfest and we will raise a glass to our
Buddy J.J. He always announced for us, bought stuff at the Silent Auction he didn't need. Would bring it to the next one for a donation. He never referred to the Lions' cook offs as such, but they were always "Susie's Cook Offs." He announced for us each year, blatantly told me he did not have to be reminded, that when he got a new calendar, he always marked the lst weekend in October and lst weekend in March as Susie's cook offs. My heart is breaking but I keep smiling thinking of all the good memories. John and I lost a very good friend last night. GOD BLESS US ALL AND GOD BLESS AMERICA. Mama Sue Caffey.

The picture is from Ken Rodd.

From Bruce Smith:
Wed AM
Wag is out of ICU but not out of the woods. The Dr. still says that they can not operate due to the weakness of his heart. They talked to another Dr. and he suggested stints but that it would still be a risk because of his kidneys also being weak. They have sent out his records to some other doctors outside of the VA for further opinions. He is now on the 5th floor #135 at the John L. Mclellan VA Hospital in Little Rock, Ar. I will be going up later today to check on him. His sister, brother-in-law and neice are there now. His son is due in today around noon. Keep up the Prayers.

Later Update:
Visited Wag tonight and he had better spirit but still worried. The Cardic Team of Doctors had still not made it by tonight as of 7:00. They are supposed to do some more test tomorrow to double check his heart muscle and for sure whether he can have stints or not. That is all at this time.

From Karen Reinke:
Today, Feb 25 is National Chili Day!

From Becky Allen:
Brent's brother - Clay Allen - passed away yesterday evening, after battling a short illness. He did cook chili some with The Buzzard Bar Cooking Team. Will let you know when we know more details.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

From Bruce Stewart:
It is time for pay back to friends of CASI. The Irving Elks will be having their 22nd annual chili cookoff.

This event has been on the same week end for 22 years. As most of you know the Irving Elks host the CASI Directors winter meeting at their lodge.

You can ask any Director and they will tell you what wonderful host they are. The Irving EKLS are not only sponsors but friends of CASI. They send several members to TICC to judge. They have bought tables and chairs for us. Also hauled things down to the site for CASI. So lets be at their CCO March 6th. See the Terlingua Trails for other information.

From Blu Daniels:
Rose City Chili Cookoff. Although we did not advertise pre-registration for our cookoff, our reputation of having some really "Good" goody bags is spreading and I just got a boatload of more stuff donated this morning, such as umbrellas from our local paper. They are also sending a team out and said to "Bring It On" because they are coming to win Chili, Show and People's Choice.

I have at this time 7 registered with their money in my hand, so in all fairness, if anyone is wanting a goody bag, the first 25 registered AND paid cooks will receive one. I will already be gone next Friday, so if I must receive your check by Thursday, March 4 to be counted. Mail to Rose City Chili Pod, 10358 CR 3101, Winona, TX 75792.

From Bruce Smith:
For those who don't know, Dick "Wag" Wagner is in the VA hospital in Little Rock. He went to the emergency room sunday night not being able to breath. They ran a stress test last friday and said it looked okay as far as they could tell. They did an arterial gram or cath scan what ever you call it and found he had some blockage and kept him in the hospital. He has 100% blockage on the bottom of his heart, 90% on the back of his heart and 60% on the front.

James Mosely called me just a minute ago and he got to talk to Wag. Evidently Wag had a light Heart attack last night at the hospital. Wags sister and brother in law are here now with him and his son from Washington DC is on his way. They have yet got to talk to the Doctors about when he will have surgery. Keep him in your prayers.

A Later Update:  Wag is not doing well at all. the Dr. said his heart was too weak to operate and that another Dr would be there in the morning to discuss possible other options.The Dr said if they did operate that his chances of getting off the table were not good. keep up the prayers.

From Terry Graves:
Bad News Glyn Gaines is back in the hospital. Don't know any details, will try to keep you informed.

From Trea Schmidt:
I would like to let everyone know that the Texas Ladies State website has been recently updated. Please check it out at http://www.texasladiesstate.com/.

Note:  In the San Antonio Express news Sunday there was a half page article and picture of Margret Nadeau on stage at TICC with Sy Brown as she received her trophy. It was a large picture with some article about Margret and chili and how she wants to win the world championship and a recipe for frito pie,her chili recipe and a recipe for jelly.

Here is the link to the Article:  http://www.mysanantonio.com/life/food/Chili_champion_shares_some_cook-off_secrets.html


It is Wednesday and here are the CCOs for this weekend:

Feb 27, 2010-001 - Garland, TX CASI. 7th Garland Hella Temple Colder Than Hell Two day cookoff held at Garland Hella Shrine Temple. Entry fee $20, turn-in 1 PM. Beans entry fee $5, turn-in Noon, pay top 3. Benefits Texas Masonic Lodge Retirement fund. Full RV hookups (12) are first come first serve at $15 per day. Depending on weather, you can cook inside or outside. Make checks payable to Directors Staff. For directions or info email davehewlett@msn.com 214-695-3806. Location: Garland Hella Temple Hella Temple 2121 Rowlett Rd, Garland Texas 75043 Bob Sparks at bob@drbobsparks.com 972-771-5366 or Dave Hewlett at davehewlett@msn.com phone 214-695- 3806 CHILI GRIND ONLY. 50/50 cash raffle and other raffle with 6 tickets for $5.

Feb 27, 2010-002 - San Angelo, TX CASI. West TX Meltdown for Autism Day 1 of 2 day CCO, Benefits: Autism. Location San Angelo VFW Lodge, 125 S. Browning St. Limit number of hook ups. $20/ night. Jackpot beans turn in at 12 noon, entry fee $5.00. Chili turn in at 2 PM. Entry fee $18.00. CHILI GRIND ONLY. There will be a cake auction and a 50/50 pot. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. Saturday night Potluck. This is a 2 day CCO. See Sunday's information. Info Sherrie Maus 5876 N Grape Rd San Angelo TX 76903. 325-658-1364

Feb 27, 2010-003 - Midland, TX CASI. Midland Chamber of Commerce Chili and Bar-B-Q Cookoff. Held at American Legion Building 501 Air Park Rd. Friday night dinner for participants 6:30 PM. Entry Fees are: $18.00 Chili with 2 PM turn-in; Chicken $25 (Noon Turn- In), Pork Spareribs $25 (1 PM Turn-In) and Beef Brisket $25(3 PM Turn-In). Prizes 1st thru 3rd for Chili, 1st thru 15th will get event cap. Prizes for BBQ 1st $300.00, 2nd $200.00, 3rd $100.00 1st thru 15th will get event cap. All cooks will receive a tee shirt at registration. Charities are: Hope House; Midland Fair Havens, MLK Center and Rape Crisis Center (Children's Advocacy Center) CHILI GRIND ONLY. Make checks payable to Leadership Midland. Contact Christopher Havins 432-686-3561 chavins@visitmidlandtx.com.

Feb 27, 2010-004 - Overland Park, KS CASI. VFW POST 846 CCO Located at 8804 Grant in Overland Park, KS Go east on 87th Street off I-35 for 1 mile then south on Grant for approximately 600 ft. CASI turn-in @ 2 pm, beans @ 1 pm and home-style chili @ 2:30. Entry fee for CASI $20.00, home- style $15.00 (both entries $30.00) and beans $5.00. This event benefits the VFW POST 846 charities. RV Parking available. Contact: Lee Kroencke 913-754-6074 gladiatorchili@yahoo.com or Larry Velasquez 913-708-2118 larry.velasquez@forbo.com

Feb 27, 2010-005 - Wichita Falls, TX CASI. Eagles Cookoff. Held at Eagles Lodge #4128, 5396 Seymour Hwy. Benefits Max Bear Fund. Entry fee $20 turn-in 2 PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Cooks party Friday. Jackpot Beans $5 turn-in Noon. Contact Dale Gorman 940-632-7322.

 
Feb 27, 2010-006 - Sherwood, AR CASI. 5th Annual Sherwood Rotary Chili Bowl. Held in Sherwood Forest, 1111 West Maryland. Take I-40 west to exit 107/JFK. Take right at traffic light onto JFK/Hwy 107 to Maryland St in Sherwood. Take a left onto Maryland, go about a mile to Sherwood Forest on right. For Sherwood Rotary charities. Entry fee CASI $20, Rotary $5. Turn-in 1 PM. Inside cookoff, tables and chairs provided, entertainment on stage, silent auction, big screen TV for sports, $2 tasting cups, goody bags for 1st 30 chili cooks. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Contact Hershel Bowman 501-833-8844, or Linda Nickle 501-791-2191

Feb 27, 2010-007 - Tyler, TX CASI. Half Moon 3rd 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. No RV overnight parking. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Entry fee $20, turn- in 1 PM. Beans 50/50 $6, turn-in Noon. Contact Jan Young 903-780- 5767 or 903- 780-5766, moe09190@yahoo.com for more info and directions. Keep updated at www.halfmoongrill.com. This is the 1st cookoff in the 1st Ever Bob Conley Memorial Challenge. The cook with the most points at the end of the 4 weekends in a row in Tyler cookoffs (Feb. 27, Mar 6, Mar 13 & Mar 20) will receive a Wendell Rankin hand- painted stove commemorating this event.

Feb 27, 2010-008 - Quartzsite, AZ CASI. 7th Annual Its Chili in Quartzsite CCO & State Salsa Championship. Held at Tyson Wells Showgrounds Kuehn Blvd. Benefits Chamber of Commerce. Entry fee $15 turn-in 2 PM. Salsa, Peoples Choice, Showmanship. Make checks payable to CASA. Contact Dick Smith 623- 465-9353, 602-828-0800 email dsmyway@aol.com.

Feb 27, 2010-009 - Silverton, TX CASI. Silverton Vol. FD Chili Cookoff The Silverton Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a chili cookoff to raise money to offset the cost of a new truck and equipment. There will be a domino tournament on the same day as the cookoff. Public tasting will begin at noon with the chili turn in at 1 pm. There are RV hookups and a limited number of cabin rentals available off site at Silver Wind RV Park. Please contact Silver Wind RV to make your reservations 806-823-2166. Event will be inside the Briscoe County Showbarn. Take Hwy 86 to Silverton, turn south at the courthouse (Broadway) go 4 blocks turn left. Entry fee $25. Contact Juannah Brice 806-336-7161, email juannahbrice@yahoo.com. ON ADVERTISING PROBATION.

Feb 28, 2010-001 - Garland, TX CASI. 7th Day 2 Garland Hella Temple CCO Held at Garland Hella Temple, 2121 Rowlett Rd. Entry fee $20, turn-in Noon. Full RV hookups (12) first come first served. Fee will be $15/day for hookups. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Depending on the weather you can cook inside or outside. Make checks payable to Directors Staff. For info or directions email request to Bob Sparks at bob@drbobsparks.com 972- 771-5366 or Dave Hewlett at davehewlett@msn.com phone 214-695- 3806.

Feb 28, 2010-002 - San Angelo, TX CASI. Relay for Life Day 2 CCO, Benefits: Relay for Life. Location San Angelo VFW Lodge, 125 S. Browning St. Limit number of hook ups. $20 night. Chili turn in at 12 noon Entry fee $18.00. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. Saturday night Potluck. This is a 2 day CCO. See Saturday's information. Info: Sherrie Maus 5876 N Grape Rd San Angelo TX 76903. 325-658-1364









Tuesday, February 23, 2010

From Jen Windsor:
Need to send out a big TEXAS SIZED THANK YOU to: Tony Del Nano from Mountain City Meats he was able to get all the meat donated for the CASI Last Battle Over Bagdad Chilicook of in Iraq. Rick Goodman is our shipping guy. David is from Killeen TX, he is a chili cook and is a CASI member. Lastly but certainly not least Donna Conrad coordinated all of this and made it happen. Without these folks the troops would not have chili meat to cook with. Please take a moment to thank them!!

ED Notes:
Have you visited the History section of CIS lately?  There is a lot of information in this section.  The Board of Director's Meeting Minutes are posted as well as the Financial report.  There is a section that contains the Annual Report information that was reported by each Pod.  

This is where you will find each Terlingua Trails posted.  Each month the new Trails is posted around the 15th of the month.  This allows you to read it prior to receiving it in the mail.

If you select the CASI State File and follow it to the end, you will find that to date there have been 194 CCOs, 5,998 chili's judged raising $523,390.00 reported to date.

There is a lot of information on our Web Page.  If you haven't visited our web page lately and see what's there.  You will find the official documents posted in the Resource Center.

It is snowing here in San Angelo.  Hopefully we will not get enough that I could go sledding!  Here's hoping that Spring is on its way!

Monday, February 22, 2010

From Cindy George:
I need table monitors for Men's State, and if you are interested and want to volunteer, you can respond to me at: cinlargeo@yahoo.com. or call me at 214-770-4592.

NOTES FROM THE ED

The minutes of the Winter Board of Director's Meeting have been posted on CIS in the History Section.

I am still asking each Pod to provide me with the History of their Pod.  I have 4 of them at this time.  If you send it to me in a Word document, I will convert it to a PDF file and post it.

Do you know the rules for requesting and holding a Regional Championship CCO?

REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS - A Regional Open Championship should be a high-profile prestigious event drawing the attention of the public and media that will bring positive exposure for CASI and the cookoff charity.


a. APPLICATION – A Regional Open Championship may be requested by submitting an application to the CASI Executive Director.


1) APPLICANT – A Regional Open must be applied for by a participating pod.


2) DEADLINE – Application must be received no later than 120 days prior to the event.


b. APPROVAL – A Regional Open Championship may be approved by the CASI Board of Directors upon recommendation by CASI Executive Director and regional Great Peppers, based on the following criteria:


1) REGION – A Region must have defined areas but do not have to bound exclusively by state lines.


2) POD REQUIREMENT - Region must have a minimum of two (2) CASI-recognized Pods.


3) COOKOFF REQUIREMENTS - Each region must include fifteen (15) CASI cookoffs in the prior year.


c. REGIONAL REQUIREMENTS - Region involved must maintain the minimum requirements of applicationfor continuance of a Regional Open Championship. Any region falling below the minimum requirements when those standards have been met.


d. TRAVELING - Regional Opens may travel. Rotation would be determined by local organizers.


e. ONE PER YEAR - No region may be the site of more than one Regional Open Championship per chili year.
 
Enough for today.




Friday, February 19, 2010

From Jen Cook:
March 6-7th @ Gander Mountain
Rose City Chili Pod will host thier Annual Cook-offs
CASI Chili, Junior's Chili, Beans and Wings will be prepared and judged on Saturday and People's Choice Chili will be served to the public for a small donation.

Saturday benefits CAMP TYLER and Sunday is for Points Only and will raise money for the RCCP operating account.

We are looking for cooking teams, volunteers, judges and of course Sponsors for this awesome event.

There will be cooks from all over Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and maybe California.  So come Cook, Volunteer, Judge, Sponsor or ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Just let us know you are coming and what your interests are.  Invite your friends to come judge People's Choice for small donation to Camp Tyler.

Sunday is CASI Chili and Showmanship-we need judges and volunteers.

From Jen Windsor:
Last Battle over Baghdad

Here is where we stand today:

We have all the tomato sauce (50 cans), all the sayzon, 25 beef/chicken broth donated. Meat is going thru Ft Hood from Donna Conrad. Mild Bills is sending enough spices for 50 cooks - none of it pre mixed or ready mix or whatever the term is.

Tamara Dees (Mild Bill's Spices) set up a donation area on her website. It will be used to offset any large shipping costs for supplies sent. The balance of the money collected will be a donation to the Boys/Girls Scouts of Iraq.

An anonymous donation of $750 came in yesterday. It was for 50 pots at $15 a pot. We only need 30 more pots so those will be purchased from a Dollar General, good will, etc type store and shipped direct. The balance of the donated money will be used to offset shipping costs. About 10 cooks have stepped forward to donate and send slightly used pots, with their recipes and other momentous to the soldiers. Pretty neat idea!

We are shipping everything directly to Roxanna Ponce De Leon at her APO addy. If it doenst have her name on it, she wont get it.

At this time we need about 15 can openers and 15 measuring spoon sets.

The FB page is up and we are updating it daily with info and the names of donors. Our drop dead date on shipping is March 10th. Its taking about 15 +/- days for supplies to reach Baghdad.


Here's hoping that everybody has a GREAT weekend!  

Thursday, February 18, 2010

From Dana Plocheck:
The March issue of the Terlingua Trails is available for viewing on the CASI website. Read about some great cookoffs that took place that you will want to put on your calendar for next year. In addition, check out the Upcomings; there are a lot of cookoffs coming up you don’t want to miss. Most importantly, please continue to send in your articles and photos for publication. Thanks.

From Jenny Windsor:
Thanks to Tamara Dee's, we now have a link on the Mild Bill's website for anyone wanting to make monetary donations for the CASI Baghdad CCO.

http://www.mildbills.com/p-123-baghdad-cook-off.aspx  

From Bob Horan:
Donations Needed - Please Help Us Support Your Soldiers!

The Soldiers' Angels, http://www.soldiersangels.org/ have adopted the Combat Support Hospitals in Iraq and all the Military hospitals worldwide. Soldiers’ Angels Germany supports the patients at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. Receiving comfort items as donations from everyday Americans provides a level of personal support that has a very positive impact on a patient´s morale, and therefore on the recovery process.

Soldier’s Angels is an outstanding organization helping all wounded service members, Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard. I will have some additional information on their Cooking With The Wounded Project later.

MOST-NEEDED ITEMS FOR FEBRUARY/MARCH 2010

- Sweatpants and Zippered Hoodie Sweatjackets, size MEDIUM (grey, black, dark blue)
- Sweatpants and Zippered Hoodie Sweatjackets, size LARGE, need more pants than tops (grey, black, dark blue)
- Sweatpants and Zippered Hoodie Sweatjackets, size EXTRA LARGE, need more more tops than pants(grey, black, dark blue)
- Lounge/sleep pants/pj bottoms (M, L, XL - any color or pattern)
- Shorts, baggy basketball-type (M, L, XL - any color)
- FlipFlops to wear while showering (men's large sizes)
- Body lotion, travel size only
- Lip balm
- Shaving cream, aerosol cans, travel size only
- Calling cards (see web site for details)

Further details and shipping instructions can be found at:
http://soldiersangelsgermany.blogspot.com/2005/07/donations-needed-for-landstuhl.html




Wednesday, February 17, 2010

I am going to try this again.  I had it all completed and when I posted it, somehow it disappeared!

TODAY IN HISTORY:  Today, February 17, is a significant date in CASI history. CASI Rancho de los Chisos was dedicated 20 years ago today!


From Jen Windsor:
Planning is well under way for CASI's first cookoff in Sather, Iraq for the Last Battle Over Baghdad CCO. This idea started at TICC this past year when Capt PDL Roxzanna Ponce De Leon started kicking around the idea of having a cookoff in Iraq; she was due to return for another tour of duty and thought this would be a great morale and Nation building experience. It is now officially listed with CASI as a cookoff and is being planned for April 4th. Approximately 50 soldiers are planning to cook.

We need to ship them just about everything to make this event happen. Mild Bills has already stepped up to the plate and is sending enough spices for 50 cooks! Thanks to Donna Conrad for securing 200lbs of meat and finding a way to get it shipped to Iraq.

If you plan to attend the Texas Open this w/e you can make donations of product or cash to Roger Foltz, Ed Blair or Dana Plocheck on behalf of this cookoff. ?'s contact jennwindsor@gmail.com or please check out our Facebook page "CASI Last Battle over Baghdad" for more information

From Ken Rodd:
Hello,

These are the items that are needed for the Sather, Iraq CCO which is the Last Battle Over Baghdad CCO.

50 cans of: 8oz tomato sauce, 15 oz can of beef boullion, 15 ounce can of chicken Boullion, 50 beef boullion cubes, 50 chicken bouillon cubes, 50 spoons to stir chili.

To keep it somewhat easy, I would like to have things donated in lots of 25 - make it a POD donation, a group donation, a local organization donation.

Items need to be shipped to the APO NO LATER THAN March 10th to insure their arrival.  Put your names and address inside the package also.

Here is the official shipping address for the Baghdad Cookoff

Capt Roxzanna Ponce De Leon
447 AEW/CCP
APO AE, 09321

With that in mind - tell me what you would like to donate and I will confirm your donation.

We need 50 - 3 quart pots donated for the Bagdad Chili Cookoff - new or used (if if does not have a lid they can use foil). The price of the pot is not important - Dollar General, Big Lots etc often have some at low prices.

I would like to have each doner put their chilie receipe inside of it with their name and address so the person cooking with it knows who sent it.

If you can assist with a pot dontion, I will send you the official address to send it to. It has to be mailed out no later than March 10th to arrive on time.

Those that donate need to include names and addresses along with emails so the soldiers know who they came from .

Thanks
Ken Rodd
casihotrodd@aol.com
210 887 8827




From Dianne Stimson:
Well We had another fun time at the Out West Bar & Grill Chili Cook Off in West and yes the weather was COLD & WINDY (and the snow from the day before didn't help a lot but we made it and still had a lot of FUN!) but we were able to cook INSIDE and again Mike & Wanda and their staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome or to help us in anyway they could.....and as usual they have GREAT food there! And had Great entertainment for those who didn't come out you missed out..........So you will just have to come next year to see just what we are all talking about.! Now wont you?

And Mike & Wanda want us to come back NEXT YEAR! soooooo MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!!!!!!! And let's plan on having a good turn out !!!!!! On Saturday the Charity was meals on wheals. And on Sunday the Charity was the West Volunteer Fire Department.. We had plenty of judges and didn't have to use a single chili cook! Whoo! Hoo!!! I would also like to Thank my monitor for both days Pat Pilchiek, Randy Duke for being head judge.my Tally crew Randy Duke, Jim Trietsch, Larry Walton,Dee Palmer,Raymond Pilchieck and Ray Daily Jr. for running the 50/50 (which Angie Duke won) Thank you to all of the cooks who came out t without out you it wouldn't have been possible! Sooooo on to the results!!!!!!!

Saturday
2-13-2010
21 chilis Judged

1st.- Jim Trietsch - Waco, TX
2nd - Pat Pilchiek - Bluffton, TX
3rd- Ray Daily Jr. Cedar Park, TX
4th - Johnie Sullivan - Ennis, TX
5th - Samuel Roberts - Arlington, TX
6th - Dee Palmer - Mansfield,TX
7th - Angie Duke - Valley Mills, TX
8th - Randy Duke - Valley Mills ,TX
9th- Grace Walton - Robinson ,TX
10th - Bill Lester - Garland, TX

SHOW
1st -Ain't No Chili Show - Bill Lester
Garland, TX
2nd - Stink Foot Chili - James Trietsch Waco, TX
3rd- Walk Away Chili - Larry Walton Robinson, TX

Sunday
2-14-2010
19 chilis judged

1st- Angie Duke - Valley Mills, TX
2nd - Dianne Stimson - Crawford, TX
3rd - Rosa Gonzales-Johnston - Corsicana, TX
4th- Samuel Roberts - Arlington, TX
5th - Bobby Kirby - Kennedale, TX
6th - Ray Dailty Jr. - Ceadar Park, Tx
7th - Pat Pilchiek - Bluffton, TX
8th - Bob Pulliam - Burleson, TX
9th - Raymond Pilchiek - Bluffton, TX
10th- Randy Duke - Valley Mills, TX

SHOW
1st- Aunt Donna's Chili - Donna Conrad, Crawford, TX
2nd - Walk Away Chili - Larry Walton (Q),
Robinson, TX
3rd - Rods & Wheels Chili Team - Bob Pulliam, Burleson, TX

Personal Note:  Thanks to all of you for the support the last couple of days.  Your prayers have been answered in a way that I did not expect.  On Monday morning they gave my Dad just hours.  Right after noon time, my Father asked to sit in the chair, and he was as though he just came too.  Your prayers and his determination or will Power to survive made a difference.  We are a long way from him being able to be on his own again.  He is too weak to stand or walk, but he thinks that he can do it soon.  The CT scan yesterday shows that the infection is getting smaller.  Thank you all for your love and patience.

It is Wednesday and time to list this weekend's CCOs.

Feb 20, 2010-001 - Kokomo, IN CASI. Red Hot & Wild 10th Annual Kokomo Chili Cook-off. Held at the Kokomo Event Center, 1500 N Reed Rd, US 31. This event is sponsored by and benefiting The Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce. Make Checks payable to the Chamber of Commerce. Registration and set-up begins at 8:00AM. Mandatory Cooks Meeting at 9:00AM. Entry Fee $22, CASI Chili Turn-in at 1:00 PM. CASI Showmanship Judging begins at 1:30 PM. Doors Open and Public tasting begins at 1:00 PM. Other categories include Corporate Team; Individual Team; Fire/Law Club/Organization; and Junior Pepper. For more information and fees check out the website at www.kokomochamber.com or contact Rhonda Eastman, VP Existing Business 1-765-457-5301, reastman@greaterkokomo.com.

Feb 20, 2010-002 - Spring, TX CASI. 33rd Annual Texas Open Chili Championship. Once again we will be at Pappa's Ice House. Entry fee- $30.00 Turn in time is 2 pm. Jr. Entry fee $10.00 turn in at 1 pm. Meat for Juniors will be furnished. Our charities are excited and raring to go. There is plenty of parking for motorhomes, no hookups. If you pre-register, please indicate if you are bringing a trailer, motorhome, etc. Please no saving spots. First come, first served. Hotel information will be following. Pre-registration form will be published in the Trails or you can have one emailed to you from the contact information below. Special Goody-bag item to the first 100 registered. We have the beautiful stained glass trophies again this year. Day trip cooks--there is plenty of room to set up. Please, no saving spots and like last year, there is no setting up the night before. Please remember that this is a bar and restaurant. Please no outside alcohol or pets inside. We look forward to seeing all our friends again. Stay around the next day for a Day After CCO at Pappa's. Entry fee $18.00 turn in 1 pm. See ad for next day cookoff. For more information, contact Keith Karaff at kdkone@aol.com or Dana Plocheck at danap903@comcast.net

Feb 20, 2010-003 - Comstock, TX CASI. 5th Annual Richard Hinds Memorial Scholarship Cookoff. Desert Hills RV Park, Hwy 90 W. Comstock, TX. Call 830 317-4336/830 292-4451 for reservations. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Turn in 2:00. $18.00 fee. Make checks to Black Gold Chili Pod. Lloyd Goldwire Bronze PANTHER Trophy for1st place chili. Traditional Trophies on Chili and Show. Dessert and Art Auction 3:00 pm Sat afternoon. 42 Tournament 6:00 pm with special trophies from Thunderbird Machinery for winning team. Chicken & Dumplings Friday nite Cooks Party. Black Gold Breakfast Sat am. Hinds Well Service Southern Style Pulled Pork Supper Sat nite. Benefits Comstock School Scholarships. Sunday CCO same location. Call Janita Hinds for more info at 830 703-0096.

Feb 20, 2010-004 - Amarillo, TX CASI. Elks Lodge Winter Cookoff. Held at 932 Clyde. Benefits the Scholarship Fund. Entry fee chili $20 turn-in 2 PM. Salsa entry $10 turn-in 1 PM. Contact Pam Matheson 806-359-8469, 806-373- 9292.

Feb 20, 2010-005 - Wichita Falls, TX CASI. American Legion Post 120 Auxilary This is a 2 day CCO. Held at 4601 Lake Shore Drive. Saturday Day 1 benefits the American Legion Auxilary Post 120. Jackpot Beans, Entry Fee $5.00 Turn in at 1200 Noon, Chili Entry Fee $18. Turn in at 2:00 PM Chili will use CASI Rules. Chili Grind only. Climate Controlled inside cooking available. RV Parking available, Limited Electrical hook ups with plenty of water. There will be a cooks party Friday night beginning at 7:00 PM. Saturday there will be a Continental Breakfast from 8-10 AM. FMI Contact Peggy Gahagen at 940-691-3798.

Feb 20, 2010-006 - Apache Junction, AZ CASI. Arizona Men's Open Championship Automatic qualifier for TICC. The Goldfield Ghost Town is hosting the 12th annual chili extravaganza! Dry camping available. Cook's Party Friday 02/19, Meat supplied by host. Please bring a dish to pass. Events include Competition Red Chili, Showmanship, People's Choice Chili and Salsa. One entry fee of $25.00 covers all events. Held at the Goldfield Ghost Town 4650 N Mammoth Mine Road Contact Tom Klug home # 480-288-4375; cell # 602-384-1488; email chiliklug@msn.com . Make checks payable to Desert Breeze Pod.

Feb 20, 2010-007 - Apache Junction, AZ CASI. Arizona Women's Open Championship Automatic qualifier for TICC. Arizona Women's Open Championship held in conjunction with the Arizona Men's Open Championship. The Goldfield Ghost Town is hosting this 12th CHILI Extravaganza! Cook's Party Friday 02/19/2010. Meat supplied by host, please bring a dish to pass. Evenets include Competition Red Chili, Showwomanship, People's Choice Chili and Salsa. One $25.00 entry ffee covers all events. Held at the Goldfield Ghost Town 4650 N Mammoth Mine Road. Contact Tom Klug home # 480- 288-4375; cell # 602-384-1488; email chiliklug@msn.com

Feb 20, 2010-008 - Edmond, OK CASI. David Curtis Memorial CCO. Held at I-35 to Waterloo Rd, go East about 3/4 mile to Elks Lodge. Entry fee $18 turn-in 1 PM. for Elks General Fund. Make checks payable to Hooch Pod. Contact Joe Spears or Donell Dickerson home 405-275-1164, cell 405-650- 3354 or 405-227-8689. Email Joe jor.spears42@yahoo.com . CHILI GRIND ONLY.Chili Grind only, turn in 1 pm, $20. Location is De Leon City Hall, downtown De Leon TX. For information call Jamie Ballenger 254-485-2877 Brad Ballenger 254-592-5062 ON ADVERTISING PROBATION.

Feb 20, 2010-009 - De Leon, TX De Leon Rodeo Association CCO Benefits the De Leon Rodeo Association. Chili Grind only, Chili turn in 2 pm, $20. Beans turn in 12 pm $10. Location De Leon City Hall, Downtown De Leon, TX. Plenty of parking, no hook ups. See Pod Cookoff next day. For information call Jamie Ballenger 254-485-2877, Brad Ballenger 254-592-5062Feb 21, 2010-001 - Amarillo, TX CASI. Polar Bear CCO Held at Elk's Lodge, 9th & Clyde. Cook indoors, no polar bear meat allowed. Entry fee $20 turn-in 2 PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Make check payable to Elks of Amarillo Contact Scott Campbell 806-358- 3576, 4camkids@sbcglobal.net
ON ADVERTISING PROBATION.
 

 
Feb 21, 2010-002 - Wichita Falls, TX CASI. American Legion Post 120 Bldg Fund Day 2 CCO, Held at 4601 Lake Shore Drive. Sunday Day 2 benefits the American Legion Post 120 Building Fund. Chili Entry Fee $18. Turn in at 12:00 Noon. Chili will use CASI Rules Climate Controlled inside cooking available. RV Parking available, Limited Electrical hook ups with plenty of water. Sunday morning there will be a Continental Breakfast from 8-10 AM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. See Day 1 for more information about the 2 day CCO. FMI Contact Peggy Gahagen at 940- 691 3798.
 
Feb 21, 2010-003 - Comstock, TX CASI. 5th Annual Comstock School Library Cookoff. Desert Hills RV Park, Hwy 90 W, Comstock, TX. Call 830 317-4336/830292-4451 for reservations. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Turn in 12:00 NOON. $18.00 fee. Make checks to Black Gold Chili Pod. Guy W. Bates Trophies. Sunday morning breakfast by Lorina's Cantina. Saturday CCO at same location. Call Janita Hinds for more info at 830 703- 0096.
 
Feb 21, 2010-004 - Spring, TX CASI. Pappa's Ice House Cookoff. Many have requested it, now its reality. Pappa's really wanted us to stick around for one more day and so here we are. The DAY AFTER Texas Open Chili CCO. Same location. Turn in time is 1 pm. Entry fee, $18.00. Make checks payable to: Texas Open. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Info contacts remain same as Texas Open kdkone@aol.com or danap903@comcast.net . Look forward to seeing everyone.


Feb 21, 2010-005, De Leon, TX CASI Cowboy Capital Chili Pod Cookoff.

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

I need to make a correction to yesterday's posting.  I was given the wrong information.  It was not Tammy Wooster who won the Bronze Road Runner.  It was Laura Wooster.  I apologize for the mistake.

From Mikie McGarity:
We had a great time in Paradise this past week-end despite just about every obstacle that you can imagine. We had 12” of snow on Thursday followed by bitter cold weather – hence, no melting. Nick and Jimmy Moon got out the tractor with the front-end loader and shoveled our drive ways (2) and the street as well. Although our turn out was small, the good times were big. We had many competitions and at the end of it all, Ron Barnes became the winner of the coveted “Brass Balls” Grand Champion Trophy.

Those that were here will never forget cooking knee deep in show in beautiful Paradise, Texas. Thanks to all you hearty soles. We appreciate your support.

Mikie and Nick McGarity

Results: McChili McHog-In (2/13/10)
CASI Chili

1. Kelly Killingbeck
2. Ron Barnes
3. Tina Barnes
4. Nick McGarity
5. Toni Bowman
6. Larry Preston
7. Bonnie Loxterman
8. Mac Walker
9. Delora Goin
10. Beth Moon

Show
1. Trail Blazer – Beth Moon
2. Hot To Trot – Sherree Duncan
3. Bringing Mama – Bonnie Loxterman

Beans
1. Mac Walker
2. Nick McGarity
3. Kelly Killingbeck
4. Beth Moon
5. Larry Preston

Cheeseburgers in Paradise
1. Jimmy Moon
2. Ron Barnes
3. Beth Moon
4. Tina Barnes
5. Nick McGarity

Results: Another Day in Paradise (2/14/10)
CASI Chili

1. Tina Barnes
2. Bonnie Loxterman
3. Beth Moon
4. Toni Bowman
5. Jimmy Moon
6. Ray Calhoun
7. Ron Barnes
8. Bob Clark
9. Jim Ridgeway
10. Corky Moody

Show
1. Dirthead Chili – Ron Barnes
2. Lair of the Fox – Toni Bowman
3. Bringing Mama – Bonnie Loxterman

Bloody Mary
1. Nick McGarity
2. Ron Barnes
3. Jimmy Moon
4. Beth Moon

Omelet
1. Ron Barnes
2. Nick McGarity
3. Beth Moon

Grand Champion: Ron Barnes




 From Vickie Childress:
The Phi Delt Fraternity Chili Cook-off held at the Tri-State Fairground in Amarillo, TX which benefits ALS has had a date change. From March 6,2010 to March 20, 2010. Everything else stay's the same. Thank You Vickie Childers
 
From Laura Coad:
 

Monday, February 15, 2010

From Margaret Nadeau:
Mini Update:



CBS Radio Boston called me the week before the Super Bowl for a phone interview to discuss chili. Special thank you to Alan Dean who was contacted by the station trying to locate me. The promo was fun to do and aired the day of the Super Bowl in Boston. The City of Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau contacted me this past week, they heard from a German travel writer who was traveling through Texas writing articles. The writer cooks chili as a hobby and wanted to learn about our Terlingua International Chili event. He writes for Spiegel Online, an international publication based in Germany. Had great fun discussing CASI and the great things everyone does for charity. Happy Chili Trails, Margaret Nadeau

I did not get any other information for the Blog today.  I know that there were lots of CCOs this weekend and I hear the Tammie Wooster  has a new bronze Road Runner.  Congrats!

An update on my situation: On Friday we called HOSPICE in for my Father. It appears that this time he is not going to be able to make it back. He has given it a real try and we were all sure that he was coming home. I am still staying with him nights. His condition deteriorated over the weakened and he is very week. Nobody can tell us what has caused this deterioration. He had Physical Therapy on Friday and did stand with help. He definitely has a strong desire to live and to beat this, but it appears that this will not happen. I am doing the blog as I get information and when I can come home for a short while and prepare the posting. Thanks to all of you for your support for my family, Cliff and myself.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

From Darin Jester:

Come to Indiana, and enjoy this picturesque winter wonderland and the Red Hot and Wild Kokomo Chili Cookoff. This is an indoor CCO held on February 20, 2010 at the Kokomo Event Center, 1500 N Reed Rd, US 31. This event is sponsored by and benefiting The Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce. Tables and chairs will be provided, make Checks payable to the Chamber of Commerce. Registration and set-up begins at 8:00AM. Mandatory Cooks Meeting at 9:00AM. Entry Fee $22, CASI Chili Turn-in at 1:00 PM. CASI Showmanship Judging begins at 1:30 PM. Doors Open and Public tasting begins at 1:00 PM. Other categories include Corporate Team; Individual Team; and Junior Peppers. For more information and fees check out the website at www.kokomochamber.com or contact Rhonda Eastman, VP Existing Business 1-765-457-5301, reastman@greaterkokomo.com or Darin Jester, 317-319-4961, flashoveroverchili@sbcglobal.net or indianapepperpod@sbcglobal.net


Need a place to celebrate Valentine's Day?  Come to Water Valley and Cook Chili.  Sat there will be beans (entry fee $5) turn in at noon.  Chili (entry fee $18) turn in will be 2PM.  Potluck Supper Sat night.  Then on Sunday, it is Chili again!  Turn in at noon.  Entry fee is $18 or $15 with 2 cans on food for the food bank.  Hope to see you there!

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

From Tamara Dees:
Need spices at the Texas Open? Doyle and Melodie Smith will bring them if you order in advance. Place your order before 5pm on Wednesday Feb. 17th via the website (we'll deduct the shipping!) or by calling Tamara. You can pick them up Friday or Saturday from Melodie or Doyle at the cook-off. Thanks,

Mild Bill's Spices, etc., LLC
http://www.mildbills.com/
830-980-4124

From Dana Plocheck:
Greetings Everyone,

This is just a friendly reminder that the Texas Open is next week! We have goody bags for the first 100 registered and that number is getting close so get your entries in quickly. Don’t forget, we have a second cook-off on Sunday. Turn in time is 2:00 pm on Saturday and 1:00 pm on Sunday. Saturday’s cook-off is an Automatic Qualifier for 1st Place and Top 3 State Residents. Junior Cook-off is on Saturday and stoves will be awarded to the Top 10; turn-in for Juniors is 1:00 pm. There is limited space available for RV parking but there are hotels nearby. All hotels are first come, first served; here is the info -

Super 8 Hotel (hotel connects to directly to property of Papa’s Icehouse)
24903 I-45N, Spring, TX
281-367-5040
One Bed $59.00 plus tax a night
Two Beds $65.00 plus tax a night
No pets

LaQuinta Inn-Woodlands
24868 I-45N, Spring, TX
281-681-9188
 Rate available
Pets accepted, call for details
Book direct with hotel or online at http://www.laquinta.com/

Holiday Inn Express
24888 I-45N, The Woodlands, TX
281-681-8088
No Rate available
Pets accepted, call for details
Book direct with hotel or online at http://www.hiexpress.com/






Attached is an entry form for your convenience. Hope to see you there!
DanaIt is Wednesday and time to publish the CCOs for this weekend.



Feb 12, 2010-001 - Terlingua, TX CASI. Friday Chili Cookoff. Held at Community Center. Entry fee $20 turn-in 7 PM. Cooks dinner at 5 PM, furnished by Mel & Diane. Contact Dorathy Williams 432-371-2595.

Feb 13, 2010-001 - West, TX CASI. Out West 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off Held at West Bar & Grill 301 S. Main St. West, TX. Take Exit 353 off I-35. Contact Mike or Wanda Hutyra @ 254-826-5509 or Donna Conrad @ 254-855-4733. Entry $18.00/ Turn In Time 2:00 PM/ Chili Grind Only. Plenty RV Parking/ NO HOOK UP's.Charity is Meals On Wheels. Live Entertain- ment Friday & Saturday Night. Raffle/50/50 Pot. For More Information Contact Mike & Wanda Hutyra @ 254-826-5509 or Donna Conrad @ 254-855-4733.

Feb 13, 2010-002 - Hernando, MS CASI. Ed Daniels Memorial Mississippi State Championship. Held at the Barn. Turn-in 1 PM Entry fee $20.00 Information Lynne Murry 662-526-5722, lynne_murry@yahoo.com 

Feb 13, 2010-003 - Terlingua, TX CASI. Roadrunner Cookoff. Held at Community Center. Entry fee $20, turn-in 2 PM. Contact Dorathy Williams 432-371-2595. Bronze Roadrunner Trophy for first place chili. Benefits the Big Bend High School Activity Fund in Memory of Carolyn Hejtmancik. Fish fry dinner at Noon.

Feb 13, 2010-004 - Paradise, TX CASI. 19th Annual McChili McHog-In At the McGaritys place in Paradise (150 CR 3579). Jackpot beans ($5.00) - noon turn-in. CASI chili ($20.00) - 1:00 turn- in. Cheeseburgers in Paradise (free) - 7:00 turn-in. Overnight camping. No hook-ups. See Sunday, February 14 cookoff (Another Day in Paradise). Contact Nick (817-975-0484) for information and directions. Grand Champion will be awarded (call for details). Make checks payable to Cottondale VFD.

Feb 13, 2010-005 - San Angelo, TX CASI. Valentine's Day Massacre. CCO will be held at Water Valley at Seymour Crossing Harper Park located on South FM 2034 off US Hwy 87. Benefits Concho Valley Chili Pod. This is a 2 Day CCO. See Sunday for more information. Limited RV Hook Ups. $20/night Jackpot Beans: turn in 12:00 Noon, entry Fee $5.Chili turn in 2 PM. Entry fee $18.00. CHILI GRIND ONLY. There will be a cake auction and a 50/50 pot. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. Pot Luck Supper Sat Night. Info Sherrie Maus 5876 N Grape Rd San Angelo TX 76903. 325-658-1364

Feb 13, 2010-006 - Bandera, TX CASI. Alamo Area Pod Cook-Off to be held at the Pioneer RV Resort, Hwy 173 & 1202 Maple St. 866-371-3751 or 830-796-3751. Charity is the Frontier Times Museum in Bandera Texas. Call for reservations. Turn in 2 pm. Entry fee $20.00. Chili Grind Only. Contact Jennifer or Sally Lee with questions 210-490-4436. jlee@guidobros.com.  Contact Pioneer RV for reservations, 866- 371-3751 or 830-796-3751. See cook-off same location next day. Make check payable to Alamo Area Pod.

Feb 14, 2010-001 - West, TX CASI. Out West Bar & Grill Next Day Cook Off @ Out West Bar & Grill. Entry $18.00/Turn-in Time 1:00 PM. Charity is WFD. Valentine Special's all day. Contact Mike or Wanda Hutyra @254- 826-5509 or Donna Conrad @ 254- 855-4733.

Feb 14, 2010-002 - Paradise, TX CASI. Another Day in Paradise. Held at McGaritys place in Paradise, 150 CR 3579. Omelet- off ($5.00) - 10:00 a.m. turn-in. Bloody Mary-off ($5.00) - 10.00 a.m. turn-in. CASI Chili ($20.00) - noon turn- in. Overnight camping. No hook- ups. Call Nick for information or directions (817-975-0484). Grand Champion trophy awarded (call Nick for details).

Feb 14, 2010-003 - San Angelo, TX CASI. Day 2 Valentine's Day Massacre CCO will be held at Water Valley at Seymour Crossing Harper Park located on South FM 2034 of US Hwy 87. Benefits of Concho Valley Food Bank. This is a 2 Day CCO. See Saturday for more information Limited RV Hook Ups. $20/night Chili turn in 12:00 Noon. Entry fee $18.00. or $15 and 2 cans of food. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. Pot Luck Supper Sat Night. Info Sherrie Maus 5876 N Grape Rd San Angelo TX 76903. 325-658-1364

Feb 14, 2010-004 - Bandera, TX CASI. Day After Alamo Area Pod to be held at the Pioneer RV Resort. Charity is the Frontier Times Museum in Bandera Texas. Call for reservations. Turn in 2 pm. Entry fee $20.00. Chili Grind Only. Contact Jennifer or Sally Lee with questions 210-490-4436. jlee@guidobros.com. Contact Pioneer RV for reservations, 866- 371-3751 or 830-796-3751. Make check payable to Alamo Area Pod.

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

From Ken Rodd:
Georgia Horner, who ran the Converse American Legion Chili Cookoff for over 10 years passed away Monday evening at 5:00 PM. Georgia was very dedicated to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary in her work. Her work as chairman of the Chili Cookoff was tireless and friendships made with the chili cooks. She believed so much in the cooks and CASI she became a CASI member herself even tho she did not cook or go to cookoffs. The Converse Legion renamed the chili cookoff the Georgia Horner Chili Cookoff. She was able to be present at the cookoff last month each day and enjoy visiting with the cooks and the honor the Legion gave to her.

Viewing will be at the Colonial Funeral Home, Kitty Hawk Rd, Universal City, TX and a memorial service at the same location at noon on Thursday.  The viewing hours are 3:00 PM to 9:00PM. Also, the family has asked that donations be made to your favorite charity in liew of flowers.

From Donna Conrad:
ATTN: Chili Cooks. Out West Bar & Grill in West TX. is having their 3rd. Annual CASI Chili Cook Off this week end. It will be held at 301 S. Main St. in West TX. You take exit 353 off I -35.

Sat. Feb. 13th / Entry Fee $18.00 / Turn In Time 2:00 PM / Chili Grind Only. Charity is West Meals On Wheels.

Sunday Feb. 14th VALENTINE'S DAY / Entry Fee $18.00 / Turn In Time 1:00 PM / Chili Grind Only. Charity is West Volunteer Fire Dept. Plenty of RV Parking NO HOOK UP's. If the weather is bad we can COOK INSIDE. So no need to let the cold keep you away. There will be Live Entertaimnet both nights.

Pack up and come to West this week end. Hope to see Yall there.

For more infromation call Mike or Wanda @ 254-826-5509 or Donna @254-855-5733

A correction for money given to the Scholarship Program from Sattler from Rhea Weatherly:

The $1000.00 check which was given to John Goforth at Sattler was not from the Sattler cook-off. The $1000.00 was donated by the Canyon Lake BBQ and Chili cook-off which we held in August of 2009. Promoters were Billy Bob and Reva Weatherly, Roger and Cindy Patteson and



Randy and Darlene Evans and all the Cooks and Sponsors. At that time we also donated $1000.00 to the Comal County Junior Livestock Association and $1000.00 to ALS (Lou Gehrigs Disease).

From Karen Bains and Connie Collier:

10th Horn Toad Roundup and Chili Cook-Off Results

Saturday Feb 6, 2010 in Rankin, Texas was a beautiful spring-like day for the 10th annual Horn Toad Roundup and Chili Cook-Off. 79 eager chili cooks showed up in quest of the elusive bronze Horn Toad, cast by Lloyd Goldwire, 46 women and 33 men came from as far away as Phoenix, Az.

This year things changed at the old roundup, for the past 9 years only women have captured 1st place...well....it wasn't meant to be this year. In Rankin, 2010 is now known as "The year of the men", with Guy Bates from Midland, Texas, taking 1st place chili and wining the prized bronze Horn Toad!
2nd place Keith Patton - Odessa Tx
3rd place Sharon Roy - Johnson City, Tx
4th place Grace Davis - Odessa, Tx
5th place Dave Boone - Odessa, Tx
6th place Lisa Clevenger - Odessa, Tx
7th place Diane Fitzhenry - Wichita Falls Tx
8th place Clint Wooster - Wichita Falls Tx
9th place Jennifer Sherfield - Seminole, Tx
10th place Kelly Draper - Tahoka, Tx

1st SHOW Goat Gap Gazette Chili
2nd SHOW Farm Boy Chili
3rd SHOW Wild Women Chili

Traveling Toad awarded to Willie & Lylah Ravens from Phoenix, Arizona.

42 tournament Winners:
Dee Hay Pasadena, Tx
Ronnie Yates San Angelo, Tx.

There were approximately 300 people including cooks, judges and spectators. Make your plans now to attend next year.





Monday, February 8, 2010

From Jenny Windsor:  ( at least you can see the mail box even if the mailman can't get there! Qualification Cards on their way! Didnt have mail service on Saturday and we dont expect to have it tomorrow - is it summer yet?? 



From Donna Conrad:
Out West Bar & Grill In West, TX is looking forward to seeing everyone out for their 3rd. CASI Chili Cook Off on Feb. 13th & 14th. Sat. Feb. 13th entry fee $18.00 / turn in time 2:00 PM / CG only. Charity is West Meals on Wheels. Sunday Feb. 14th Valentines Day, entry fee $18.00 / turn in time 1:00 PM /CG only / Charity West Volunteer Fire Dept.

Address is 301 S. Main St. / take exit 353 off I- 35. Live entertainment Friday & Saturday night. Plenty of RV Parking NO HOOK UP's. For more information please call Mike or Wanda @ 254-826-5509 or Donna @ 254-855-4733.

Hope to see Yall there

From Kelly Brignon:

What a GREAT weekend! I have to start off by thanking all of the chili cooks, monitors, judging and tally crew as well as The Gingerbread House volunteers and sponsors. Without the help of so many wonderful people, our cook off wouldn't have been such a success! Thank you again to everyone - your support is invaluable! How about some results????

Friday Night NOW Pod No Frills CCO
39 Chilis

1. Ron Baker (Q)
2. Gary Brignon
3. Angie Anderson
4. Mark Sanders
5. Courtney Bowden
6. Rosa Gonzales Johnston
7. Bonnie Loxterman
8. Beth Moon
9. Kelly Brignon
10. Jimmy Johnston

Show
1. Hard Hat Chili - Darrell Baxter
2. Telico VFD - Retha Pechal
3. Dr. Ray - Ray Calhoun

Saturday 9th Annual Gingerbread House CCO

61 Chilis

1. Kelly Brignon (Q)
2. Patrick Sullivan
3. Karen Bowden
4. Toni Bowman
5. Tina Barnes
6. Rosa Gonzales Johnston
7. Ray Calhoun
8. Roger Foltz
9. Greg Goodwin
10. Jimmy Johnston

Show
1. Telico VFD - Retha Pechal
2. Hard Hat Chili - Darrell Baxter (Q)
3. The 3 Knuckleheads - Terry Skipper

Beans
19 Beans

1. Mark Sanders
2. Vicki Sanders
3. Tina Barnes

Junior Chili
19 Chilis
1. Paige Brignon
2. Mackenzie Fieseler
3. Blake Sexton
4. Kelsey Dozier
5. Zoe Brignon
6. Casey Carney
7. Ty Kriska
8. Mykala Burton
9. Jacob Bunch
10. Kelsy Medlin

Sunday 9th Annual Cotton Patch CCO

21 Chilis
1. Ray Calhoun
2. Tom Dozier
3. Courtney Bowden
4. Dee Palmer
5. Rosa Gonzales Johnston
6. Gary Brignon
7. Karen Bowden
8. Bonnie Loxterman
9. Toni Bowman
10. Paul Seastrunk

Show

1. Telico VFD - Retha Pechal (Q)
2. Lair of the Fox - Toni Bowman
3. Dr. Ray - Ray Calhoun

From Larry Wampler:
The Chili Cook-off on March 13th & 14th @ the 429 Marina, Quinlan, TX has been canceled.

Looking for a place to celebrate Valentine's Day?  Come to  Water Valley for 2 days of Chili Cooking.  Sat there will be Beans (entry fee $5) at 12:00 and Chili turn in at 2:00 (entry fee $18)  This is a Chili Grind only!.  Then on Sunday Chili Turn in will be at 12:00 (entry fee $18)  There will be lots of fun and sharing time.  For more information, Call Barbara Herrin at 432 559 5424.