ED's Reflections

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 02:25:00 +0000

Special Notice:

The new ED Blog can be found at:

http://casichilied.blogspot.com

Click above to go to new website and then save to favorites.

Thanks,

Richard Knight

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Tue, 18 Sep 2012 12:38:00 +0000

Tuesday

From Stephanie Parsons, Tequila Rose: Request that each dessert cook for the Thursday Tequila Rose Desert Contest at TICC take an attractive photo of their dessert entry PRIOR to cutting and turning in for judging. Please email the picture to: jennwindsor@gmail.com If you need help in taking picture of your dessert, please contact one of the CASI Directors.

From Ken Rodd: LAST CALL FOR POD NEWSLETTERS FOR THE CASI CONTEST. Deadline to submit is Thursday, September 20. Submit your entry to: casihotrodd@aol.com Top 3 winners to be announced from the stage at TICC. Make your POD proud and submit your entry.

From Connie Collier: 2012 TICC 42 Tournament

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:14:00 +0000

Monday
From Paul and Kathy Mulkey: Update: The CASI Chili Cook-off scheduled for September 29^th-30^thin Hobbs, NM, has been MOVED to the Eagles Lodge parking lot, 1200 E. White Street, Hobbs, NM. The activites in the Terlingua Trails such as Live Music & the auction will not be on site. There will be limited RV hook-ups and plenty of dry camping available. The charities have been changed to Saturday Eagles’ various charities and Sunday will be a Pod fund raising Chili-cookoff. Everything in the Terlingua Trails advertising these two cook-offs will remain the same. There will be a Pot-Luck on Friday night which will include hamburgers. Any questions, please call Paul Mulkey at 575-390-6184 or Kathy Mulkey at 575-390-6675, or email at katpaul2006@hotmail.com.

From Ralph Hay: To All 320 Members:
I have decided to run for Alcalde again, and I am asking for everyone’s support and vote.

From Glenda Vrba: ATTENTION TICC CHILI COOKS:

     As always we need volunteers for the Friday Events at TICC. We will need judges for the Salsa. Beans and Wings competitions as well as table monitors. Please take the time to sign up as a volunteer. You can contact me on FB, send me an email at glendavrba@gmail.com , or call me at 469-386-5600 and I’ll put you on the list.
     We also need volunteers for veggie cutting Thursday afternoon at 3:00 pm in the main pavilion. Please bring a knife, cutting board and a jug of water to wash the veggies. Everyone knows we don’t have running water at the ranch in Terlingua…
      Also as a reminder we will be collecting Christmas toys for the school children in Terlingua at TICC again this year. These children many times would get nothing for Christmas if it wasn’t for the generosity of the chili cooks. And yes we will be more than happy to take cash donations if you don’t have time to buy a toy. All toys should be unwrapped. Let’s make every child in Terlingua happy this year at Christmas by bringing an extra toy or two to share! The school can also use wrapping paper so bring a couple of rolls with you they don’t take up much room.
      We are in need of someone with a truck to go to Alpine on Wednesday to pick up the judging supplies, water and sodas. If you can make the trip please contact me for all the details.
      I’d like to just say thank you to everyone for your support of CASI and the various charities this past year and I look forward to seeing you down the chili trail soon.. See ya in Terlingua!

From Bruce Pinnell: The CASI Ranch will have WiFi Service for TICC provided by Hill Country WiFi. The service will be available from Oct 26th to Nov 4^th@ 7AM. The signal will be broadcast from the judging area, the River Runner area, and Krazy Flats area. This should reach most of the ranch. The cost will be $5/day or $20 for the whole event. It will be offered on first come, first served basis. The service islimited to 100 users so sign up early.

       To access the internet, select the ‘Rancho CASI’ network from your laptop. Then, open your internet browser, select your plan (daily vs. whole event) and enter your credit card info on the secure web page. That’s it.
         Because the service uses relatively low capacity internet circuits (the fastest available in the area), you need to be aware ofsome restrictions before you sign up. These restrictions are necessary to allow more people to have access to basic internet services. The following uses will not be allowed, except in an emergency: Large updates from Microsoft, Adobe or Apple websites, video streaming from web cams, or recorded TV (Hulu), audio streaming from TV or radio stations, or video intensive gaming. There is no restriction for normal email and web browsing activities. There will be several websites that have free access. These include the CASI website, major sponsor websites, the Weather Channel, and others that may be added for public safety reasons.
      If you have questions about the service, please contact Bruce Pinnell at 210.372.0469.

From Karen Wright: Terlingua Five-0 Camp Theme This year is, "WILD WILD WEST". An Era of Old West Saloons, dancing girls Bartender and Saloon Piano player. Gunslinging outlaws like Jesse James, Billy the Kid, Dalton Gang. Cowboys, good Guys, Bad Guys, Bandits, Apache & Cherokee Indians, Town Sheriff and his Deputies not to mention The Town Idiot. Think Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp. Prairie Women...& Men moving West. Famous Women of the Old West like Belle Star & Calamity Jane. Mexican Bandidos, Gold Rush & more. We will recreate this Eventful Era in American History with all it's Iconic People, Places, Events and all the WILD WEST OUTFITS AND FASHION. Put your creative cap on, do some Wild West research and get ready to have some Fun!

From Lee Kroencke: Great cookoff in Norwich,KS. Results are;
10. Peggy Velasquez
9. Tracy Dononvan
8. Ed Parks
7. Jay McCleery
6. Jim Trump
5. Gail Stuart
4. Richard Hewlett
3. Steve Stuart
2. Cecilia Rivera
1. Shelley Kroencke

Show;
3. Gail Stuart - Many Colors
2. Lee Kroencke - Rough and Ready
1. Ed Parls -The Rescue Chili

From Tonya Jester:

Indiana State Chili Championship results. (drum roll)...

10. Larry Walton
9. Tonya Jester
8. Donna Rude

7. David Swaim
6. Rick Thomas
5. Rachel Thomas
4. Brian Spencer
3. Darin Jester
2. Trent Atwood - Q
1. Natalie Atwood - Q

Showmanship
1. Bob Hoffman, Red with Envy

Special Post

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Special Post:
From Lee Kroencke:

Please listen up - Our good friend Rick Poston wants you to know that the George Robinson Memorial CCO is taking place next Saturday, September 22th, at the Lamar County Fairgrounds on Hickory Street in Paris, TX. Casi Rules Apply, and this is Chili Grind only. Turn in is at 1:00pm, and Entry fee is $20. As many of you know this event was recently supported by popular vote of the Great Peppers. Please come out and support the Red River fair Charities. Earn those much needed CASI points too! Call Rick at 903-272-7156 for info or to let him know you are on the way to Chili, Charity, and Fun!

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 11:57:00 +0000

Friday

From Ken Rodd: I used the new "on line" method on the new CASI website, www.casichili.net , to submit cookoff results along with the sanctioning fees. I found submitting this way was very user friendly and the entire process was easy and quick. I encourage everyone to try it when you have cookoff results to submit.

From Joe Trigo: The Chilirado cookoff on October 13th is the official SOT Pod cookoff.   The flyer in the September Trails (p.24) is the official flyer and ad for the cookoff. There was some confusion because the listing (p.29) did state SOT Pod Cookoff. Any questions contact Joe directly at: joetrigo@hotmail.com .

From Ralph Hay: Old 320 Alcalde
*If you will not be using your TICC Site and/or you have given permission for someone to use your site, Please let know, We have a lot of cooks who like to cook in the 320 area but don’t have a permanent Site. The more Cooks we have cooking in the 320 Area the better it looks to our Sponsors.
   *All pods that has a 320 site, please let know who will be using those site.
   *Cooks that do not have a 320 site and want to cook in Arena you can check with me and I will find you a site to cook on, you do not have to be a 320 member to cook in the 320.
   *We are giving away two (2) Wendell Rankin stoves for 2 lucky winners that are cooking in the 320 area.
   *There will be a meeting for 320 members Fri., Nov. 2 immediately after announcements of the Scholarship Cook-off Events.

WE ARE STILL TAKING ORDERS FROM THE PODS FOR WALL PLAQUES. THE COST OF THE PLAQUES ARE $200.00. IF YOUR POD IS INTERESTED IN PURCHASING ONE, PLEASE CALL/E-MAIL ME.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO HELP WITH REGISTERING THE OLD 320 COOKS AND ASSIGNING COOKING SITES, STARTING THURSDAY MORNING AT APPROXIMATELY 10:00 A.M.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED FOR MARKING OF THE 320 AREA , APPROX. 9:30 AM, WED., OCT. 31st

Contact me: rhay16@comcast.net or 713-475-1660

From Richard Knight:   As you travel throughout the world on vacation or business trips, please send me a picture of you reading the Terlingua Trails in front of a landmark. Let's us see where the Trails can turn up in worldly travels.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:42:00 +0000

Thursday

Old 320: The old 320 meeting will be held on Friday, Nov 2, immediately after the Scholarship Day announcements. This is an election year for the Alcalde position, so if you are interested in running for the Alcalde position please e-mail me at CASIChiliED@gmail.com

From Mrs. Renfro's Gourmet Salsa: If you live in the Houston area or will be there this weekend, come to the Houston Hot Sauce Festival. Some of our salsas are competing there.

Blast from the Past: A great older video of the 1979 Chilympiad Men's Championship. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vCO7yeIMbE

From Jennifer Sherfield: I just wanted to thank everyone that purchased a copy of the 2011-2012 Great Pepper's video. I had lots of comments about the video. I hope to make it bigger and better for next year. The video consists of pictures of cookoffs from all over, the 2011 GP meeting and 2012 TICC. If you would still like to purchase a copy of the video, please send an e-mail to jennifer.sherfield@yahoo.com or mail a $5.00 check made out to the CASI Scholarship Fund to: 502 W. Commanche, Hobbs, NM 88240. I can either bring your copy to TICC or mail disk back to you. Hope to hear from you.

From Patti Meyers: We are having a Chili Diva BBQ Ball on Friday after the scholarship day announcements from 6 to 8 at the new Louisianne pavilion in Krazy Flats. We will be serving the BBQ that is from the Tequila Rose BBQ cookoff that in the past has just been thrown away. This was offered to us to do and I jumped on it. We will sell plates for $5 minimum donation and the money raised will go to Skyeward Bound Ranch for children with special needs such as Autism. This is a special charity to Stephanie Parsons that does so much for CASI as the sponsorship rep from Tequila Rose.

Tequila Rose Toast: 2012 Great Peppers Meeting

Tarantula Tequila Margarita Pool Party with Casey Pilgreen entertaining: 2012 Great Peppers Meeting

Wednesday

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 12:54:00 +0000

MORE NEWS FROM THE GREAT PEPPERS MEETING:
The Great Pepper's voted to waive the advertising violations for the following September chili cookoffs, scheduled for 09/15:

Payson, AZ - Chili Cookoff In High Country
Crane, TX - Jr. Livestock Show
Hondo, TX - Medina County Fair

Congratulations to Nancy Hewlett for her selection by the CASI Board of Directors to become the new CASI Scholarship Program Administrator. The new 2012 scholarship application form can be found in the "Resource" section at www.chili.org .

Many thanks goes to the retiring Barbara Herrin for her many years of service as the Scholarship Program Administrator. Barbara now has more time to travel and cook chili and to enter Texas 42 tournaments.

RUMORS: Heard that Gary Brignon passed his Bar Exam

FROM KEN RODD: A reminder to all CASI Pods to submit their three (3) copies of their POD newsletter to Ken by September 20th. Email entries to: casihotrodd@aol.com

FROM TONYA JESTER: Make your plans to cook at the Indiana State CASI Chili Championship this Saturday, Sept 15 at Red Bridge Park, 697 W. Jackson St, Cicero, IN 46034, on Morse Reservoir. CASI's current reigning TICC Champ Larry Walton will be in the house (under the canopy) cooking up a pot of his winning chili. Let's see if Larry has what it takes to complete in Indiana! See the Indiana Pepper Pod page on faceabook for additional information.

2012 TICC Poster:

Larry Walton will be signing autographs at TICC

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 13:11:00 +0000

Had a late night getting back to the Music City via the Windy City.......

Friday morning at the Great Pepper's meeting, Lee Kroencke, introduced the new CASI website that you can submit your cookoff and also you can submit the results from your cookoff and pay the sanctioning fee directly on-line. Check out the new site:   www.casichili.net

From Jenny Windsor, Tally Master:     If you want your cookoff results to appear in the Terlingua Trails for the October issue, then Midnight, Friday, September 14th is this months deadline for submitting your cookoff results online @ http://www.casichilinet/submit-pay-cookoff-results.html. Thanks in advance for your help with this.

If you would like something posted in this blog or need to contact the CASI Executive Director, please use the following e-mail: CASIChiliED@gmail.com

TICC 2012 information and facts will begin to appear later in the week.....the Great Pepper meeting is over and we can all now use the "T" word.....TERLINGUA.....

From Donna Conrad:   I'm sorry, but all the golf carts for TICC have been rented.   Those of you that I talked to this weekend and told to call this week, you may still do so.   But please, I will not be taking any more new calls about the golf cart rental at Terlingua.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:23:00 +0000

Monday morning......... after a great weekend at the Great Pepper's Meeting in Irving, TX. A huge thank-you goes out to the organizing committee, the local Pod volunteers (especially the bartenders), and the Double Tree Hotel staff for a well organized meeting and facility.

The Great Peppers elected the following directors to join the Board:
Richard Knight - Executive Director
Darrin Jester - 3 year term (re-elected)
Robert Schrade - 3 year term (re-elected)
Roger Foltz - 2 year term (re-elected)
Randy Duke - 2 year term

Thanks to all the CASI members that stepped up and ran for the board this year.

The Board of Directors elected the following officers for the next chili year:
Ed Blair - President
Jim Ezell - Vice President
Darrin Jester - Vice President
Roger Foltz - Secretary
David Sexton - Treasurer

From Cynthia Gill:

We are very sorry to announce today that the hard decision has been made to bring Chili and Charros, San Miguel’s Annual International Cook-Off, to an end. Thanks to our many supporters, the event has grown so large that we have faced an enormous challenge finding a space in town large enough to accommodate the event. Through a donation by a very generous organization, we did find a space large enou

gh; however, the space does not have sufficient facilities for 2,500 to 3,000 people. The costs to bring in the infrastructure that we require, such as bathrooms, parking, groundcover and rodeo facilities, will make the event so expensive that we will not be able to generate profits to benefit San Miguel’s charities in a meaningful way.

We are so proud to end this event on a high note! Chili and Charros has donated more than 150 million pesos over its 6 year history to the charities of San Miguel. We have enjoyed the overwhelming support of the Chili Appreciation Society International for the past 3 years.

Special thanks to the founders, and to all of the individuals and businesses in San Miguel who have provided financial sponsorships and other resources, including everyone who has donated items to Chili & Charro’s auction; to the dozens of local and foreign competitors who brought us great food; to the volunteers who worked so hard every year to bring the event to life (not to mention San Miguel’s amazing Team Sorting organization); to the San Miguel Community Foundation for their steadfast support; and to the thousands of people of San Miguel for supporting the event.

Over its six year life, the event has touched so many lives. Everyone who has participated in this event should be very proud of its legacy!

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 21:28:00 +0000

It is Thursday and we are at the Great Pepper's Meeting in Dallas, TX. We have lots of Great Pepper's here to have a business meeting and to elect new directors. There will be socializing and much fun.

Lots of decisions will be made. Your Great Pepper will be bringing home information to share about CASI and it's business.

Stay cool and enjoy the day!

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 11:48:00 +0000

NOTE: The agenda's that I posted yesterday are subject to pen and ink changes at the meeting. Please if you need something on the agenda, that you see me and I will work with you.

Great Pepper's Meeting Note:

Friday Lunch Buffet at Hotel

The DoubleTree will have a buffet lunch available for under $10.00 for the convenience of those staying on property.

Cliff and I are leaving this morning for Dallas and the Great Pepper's Meeting. This will be my last one as the CASI Executive Director. It has been a fun job and you work with some really nice people. I can not thank each of you who have given me support. This job is not always easy and some decisions do not always feel good, but you must do the job! Thanks to you all and hopefully we will meet somewhere down the Chili Trail while we are out there cooking chili for a charity and having fun!

From Cynthia Gill:
We are having a few venue challenges in San Miguel for January's Chili and Charros that may necessitate a date change. Want to let everyone know that things are in a holding pattern. Will let you know as soon as we have news.

It is Wednesday and time to report the CCOs this weekend.

Sep 7, 2012-001 - Amarillo, TX CASI. "There's NO EXCUSE for Child Abuse" Western Cowpunchers Hwy 287 North, Exit FM 1719 on access/frontage road. Benefits Evyn Vaughn Foundation. CASI entry fee $25, turn in 8:30PM. Salsa entry fee $20, turn in 7:30 PM. Saturday Bar-B-Que (I.B.C.A.) Sanctioned) $1,500 to 2,000 in prize $ pay backs depending on number of entries per category. All Bar-B-Que entry fee $150.00 must enter all three meats for Grand Champion. Brisket turn in 5:30 PM. Ribs Pork Spare turn in 4:00 PM, 1/2 Chicken turn in 2:00 PM, Cook's Choice turn in 3:00 PM with an entry fee of $25, Beans/Dry Pinto type turn in 1:00 PM with entry fee of $25. Best tastin burger contest entry fee $20 turn in 11:00 AM, Green Chili entry fee $20, turn in 10:00 AM, Margarita Mix-Off entry fee $20, turn in 12:00PM Raffle, Door Prizes, Silent Auction items, Live bands all day Saturday. Fun carnival style for the kids. Come join the fun and help raise awareness of Child Abuse. Contact Carmen Nichols 806- 640-7431, 806-351-3244; cln2011fund@aol.com.

Sep 8, 2012-001 - Edgerton, WI CASI. Chilimania WI State Championship and Music Festival. Held at the intersection of Henry and Canal Streets, one block off the intersection of Hwys 59 and 51 in downtown Edgerton, WI. Benefits scholarships and various community improvement projects. Automatic Qualifier for TICC, Top 3 WI cooks and 1st place WI Showmanship. Entry fee $25. Turn- in time 1:30PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Make checks payable to Chilimania Inc. Contact Bridget Keeler at keelerfam@gmail.com or 608-239- 5316.

Sep 8, 2012-002 - Lubbock, TX CASI. 2nd Annual Panhandle Cookoff Buffalo Springs Lake 9999 High Meadow Road Lubbock, TX. (806-747- 3353)Benefits Eagle Boys Basketball. Entry fee $20.00, turn in 2:00 PM. Grind Only. Make checks payable to Panhandle BBQ Association. Contact Toby or Ursula Cooksey 6405 E FM 40 Lubbock, TX 79403; 806-632-2482; sweetlucybbq@yahoo.com.

Sep 8, 2012-003 - Lee's Summit, MO CASI. 10th Annual Kick It Up Chilifest Located in front of the City Hall in Downtown Lee's Summit, MO. CASI entry fee $20, turn in 12:00 noon. Benefits Polio Plus. Contact Steven King 250 W. 2nd St. Apt 4105 Kansas City, MO. 64105. 816-668-3815; king.steven.a@gmail.com.

Sep 8, 2012-004 - Corsicana, TX CASI. 1st Annual Never Forget Memorial The 1st Annual "Never Forget Memorial Celebration" will benefit the American Legion Post 22 located at 632 N Beaton in Corsicana, TX 75110 on September 8th. 50/50 Bean entry is $10-turn in at 12 noon. CASI chili entry is $20-turn in at 1PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. This will be an all day event with vendors and entertainment. Come see us and get those last chance points!!! Please contact Andy Williams at 903-851-7360 or andywilliams1979@gmail.com for any questions.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 11:53:00 +0000

Little Balkans Chili Cook-Off results

1. Peg Velasquez
2. Eric Rosenblad
3. Steve Shepard

4. Karl Johnson
5. Marlene Smith
6. Garin Green (1st time cook) Congratulations!!
7. Kevin Smith
8. Chad McCauley
9. Travis McCauley
10. Laura Green

Results from the 5th Annual Franklin Mountain State Park Chili Challenge...Congratulations

1st Mary Hernandez
2nd Bud Barrick
3rd Bobby Elliott

4th Patsy Childress
5th Carol Straughan
6th Leroy Childress
7th Jason Rosberg
8th Rick Hanson
9th Pat Sherman
10th Donna Von Gentz

Oklahoma State 59 cooks
1. Doodie Johnson
2. Eric Monroe-Ok State Champion
3. Dusty Hudspeth
4. Jerry Hunt

5. Debbie Longabaugh
6. Babs Johnson
7. Larry Walton
8. Dru Stewart
9. Keith Longabaugh
10. Bill Lester

Oklahoma qualifiers-Sonya Spears, Janet Kersey

Show
1 Shawn Fulton
2. Bill Lester
3. Lorinda Crawford

Results Giddy Ups, Manchaca, TX - 49 Cooks
CONGRATS TO ALL THE WINNERS!

1. John Caffey
2. Jean Barkley - Q'd!
3. MaryAnn Richardson
4. Sue Caffey
5. Ken Rodd
6. David Richardson
7. Bill Center
8. Julie Darlie
9. Dianne Lewis
10. Robert Talavera

SHOW:
1. Linda Odom
2. Pam Brown
3. Sue Caffey

BEANS:
1. John Caffey
2. Nadine Karnei
3. Donna Conrad

Bloody Mary's
1. Shay Hall

Suez Shrine CCO Saturday Results

1st. Louis Gonzales
2nd Dave Boone
3rd. Lisa Brown
4th. Barbara Herrin
5th. Joann Scott
6th Doyle Smith
7th. Cliff Miller
8th. Guy Bates
9th. Kathy Mulkey
10th. Paul Mulkey

Day 2 Suez Shrine CCO Results

1. Krystal Jones

2. Kathy Mulkey

3. Kelli Scarbourgh

4, Margarett Lopez - Q

5. Matt Jones

6. Barbara Herrin

7, Sheryl Valentine

8. Lisa Brown

9. Sherry Maus

10. Paul Mulkey

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:34:00 +0000

From Jim Ezell:

One of our sponsors, Mrs Renfro's Foods was recently honored by the U S Chamber of Commerce for their success as a small business. They were one of 10 finalists honored in Washington DC for excellence.

Below is a brief video about Mrs Renfro's. We can be proud of our partnership with them. They will be bringing a crowd to Terlingua to celebrate with us. We will be sampling their product at the Great Peppers Meeting and of course, they are the funding sponsor for our Scholarship Day Salsa Competition.

This is not the same US Chamber video I sent out a few months ago – this version has more candid shots - enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlZKHMjyWRM&list=UU-p5RG1-vjH4k6gMgdkYiZg&feature=plcp

From Karin Barnes:

To my dear chili friends,

I cannot tell you how much you all mean to me right now. Phil and I loved cooking chili and spending time with all our chili family. I want to say “thanks” to all those who took time to attend our “Celebration of Life” for Phil on Monday at Blanco’s. It was a fitting farewell and he would have been pleased to know so many folks turned out for him. In true chili fashion, our chili friends provided a gourmet spread for all to enjoy. Your hugs and smiles, along with all the great stories we shared, were heartwarming. And, all the sweet cards and your heartfelt sentiments are so precious to me and the life Phil and I shared for over 30 years. Those of you who have made contributions to the CASI Scholarship Fund … thank you, thank you, thank you for remembering Phil in such a positive way. I will see you all on the chili trail somewhere and as Phil would say “Get your chili ready!!”

With much love, Karin Barnes (and Family)

Here are the Agendas for Friday and Saturday and other information.

Nominations for 4 director Positions

Larry Burruss
Randy Duke
Roger Foltz

Mary Ellen Gillen

Richard Hewlett

Darin Jester

Robert Wappo Schrade

GP of the Year

Shirley Bates
Earl Who Gorhum

Dave Hewlett

Bobby Kirby

From Randy Duke:

Unfortunately it looks like we will need to post pone the Ross Country Store CCO in Ross Tx. It was scheduled for Sept. 29^th and 30^th. The promoters home burnt to the ground so we all know they are having a lot to deal with right now. It will be set up sometime in the near future.

From Donna Conrad:
If you are interested in renting a golf cart at TICC Please contact me at 254-855-4733 /email dangergail@aol.com, or I will be at the GPM from Wed. to Sunday and I can answer any questions you might have. The carts will be on site at the Ranch the whole week at TICC. You will not have to worry about hauling them down there. Make getting around the Ranch easier.

Have a GREAT holiday weekend. Remember there are only 30 days to get those last points. If you are cooking, good luck! Stay Safe and enjoy!

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:48:00 +0000

WOW, what a year it’s been! I remember Jim Ezell telling me before I went on stage that my life will not be the same after this; I just laughed and said to myself after a month everything will be back to normal. How wrong was I? Jim you were right. I want to thank all the Board members for their support because I didn’t have a clue on what was to be expected of me after winning. I have had the honor of meeting so many great Chili Heads out there that made me feel so proud to be a CASI member. This year I have had the opportunity to cook in so many cook offs in so many new places. I cooked in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Kansas, Mexico, and I still have Indiana and California left to go to. Please everyone try to go to some cook offs that you have not been to before, you will meet new people and have a great time. The reason I am posting this letter is to say thank you to all the sponsors and members for supporting CASI. You have invested a lot of time and money to get qualified, you need to make plans to go to Terlingua you just might win the whole thing; I never thought I had a chance.

Thank you for such a great experience.
Larry Walton
2011 Terlingua Champion

From Richard Knight:

The Tennessee State CASI Open was attended by cooks from five different states with the following cooks placing in the top 10:

Chili:

1^st– Jeff Nester, Seymour, IN –

2^nd– Kristina Knight, Lebanon, TN –(TN State Champion)

3^rd- Rick Seadler, Spring Hill, TN – Q – (TN 1^st Runner Up)

4^th- James Murray, Como, MS

5^th- Julie Nester, Seymour, IN

6^th- Carol Knight, Lebanon, TN – (TN 2^ndRunner Up)

7^th– Preston Shaw, Parsons, TN – Q

8^th- James Brockman, Mt. Juliet, TN

9^th– Chuck Stock, Orange Park, FL

10^th– Lynn Murray, Como, MS

From Ken Rodd:

August 6, 2012

Subject: CASI Newsletter Contest

TO: Great Peppers

POD Newsletter Editors

I am pleased to announce there will be a CASI Newsletter Contest this year. The TOP 3 winners will be presented a nice trophy from the stage at TICC on Saturday.

I highly encourage your POD to submit your newsletter for consideration. A newsletter for the purpose of this contest is: "A document containing information for POD members that is sent to the POD membership by email or the U.S. Postal Service". If your POD has not had a newsletter - this would be a good time to "create" one. FACEBOOK and WEB SITES are good means of communicating with members, but a POD newsletter is the basic communication for ALL your members.

The contest rules are as follows:

1. A POD may submit from one to three newsletters published during 2012. The deadline for entries received is September 20, 2012.

2. Entries will be sent to Ken Rodd by email - casihotrodd@aol.com or postal mail to: Ken Rodd, 7009 S IH-35, Austin, TX 78744

3. The newsletters will be judged by 6 judges from various parts of the USA. Judges do not know who the other judges are.

We look forward to a lot of entries in this year's Newsletter Contest. We know you are doing good work out there - let us recognize you and your POD for what you do!!!!

If you have any questions please email me or call me on my cell phone.

Ken Rodd

Newsletter Contest Chairman

Cell phone 210 887 8827

From Sheryl Valentine:

I was just told that an old chili friend was called home . Pat Frith of Amarillo, former Tall In Texas pod member, went to be with our lord in heaven. Condolences to his wife Deana.

NOTE: Does anybody know where the CASI Great Pepper's Meeting Banner is? At this time, no one on the GPM has any clue where it went following last year's Great Pepper's Meeting. If you have any knowledge of this, please email me. Thanks.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 11:49:00 +0000

From Blu Daniels:
"Rose City Camp will once again sponsor "goody bags" for the Terlingua students and we request all leftover items from cookoff cooks goody bags, including koozies, baseball caps, t-shirts, mugs, pens, pencils, note pads, keychains, and also perfume samples and all hotel soaps, shampoos, conditioners and lotions. NO Alcoholic advertising items. This is not the Christmas Toy drive, nor the Food Bank drive. You can bring them to GPM and give to Eric Jensen, Rose City Pod GP, or anyone from our Pod at a cookoff before Terlingua. All items must be in our camp by 3:00 Thursday afternoon of TICC so they can be assembled and ready for distribution Friday morning when the ROTC and Dancer and Band members come for their performance.

Thank you,

GREAT PEPPER'S MEETING INFORMATION:

The Hotel provides a shuttle which goes out to the airport every half hour on the half hour daily. Sat and Sun you just need to call for pickup or make arrangements with the hotel for drop off.

Pick up is on the lower level to the far left side. There is a gray sign that states "ground transportation " that is where you need to wait. The shuttles can not come to you.

Below is the Friday Agenda (It may change due to circumstances):

2012 GREAT PEPPER'S MEETING

DELEGATE REGISTRATION TIMES

Thursday, September 6                                  1 to 5 pm

Friday, September 7                                      9 to 11 am and 3 to 5 pm

Saturday, September 8                                 8 to 9 am

From Jim Ezell:

Have you taken the time to view the YouTube Video?

This is the CASI Video produced by Lion TV for the Hungry Channel. It got 7000 hits the first week. If you have not watched it yet, there are many CASI cooks in it you will recognize. Take a look and pass the news on to other cooks. There was good visibility for several of our sponsors, cooks and former TICC champs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7HYEQHgyGg&feature=g-u-u

From Kelly Brignon:

It's already WEDNESDAY and time to review the CCOs for this weekend. We only have a month left in this 2011-2012 Chili Year! It's time to get those last few points.

Sep 1, 2012-001 - Manchaca, TX CASI. "Faces of Hep C" Giddy Ups Saloon, Manchaca Rd, Manchaca, TX Bloody Mary's 10:30 turn in - Beans noon turn in. RV Parking no hookups - Music Friday and Saturday evening. Contact Nancy - 512-280-4742 cookoff host. Cookoff next day same location

Sep 1, 2012-002 - Kemah, TX CASI. 4th Annual Elks and CASI CCO Located at The Elks 2322 Clear Lake (Kemah) Lodge 623 Hanson Road, Kemah, TX 77565 $10 Elks Challenge (Members & Guests). $10 Jackpot Beans. $10 Jackpot Salsa. $20 CASI Chili. Chili Grind Only. Turn in times: Salsa 11:00AM, Beans Noon, Elks open chili 1:00PM and CASI Chili 2:00PM. Cake Walk - 50/50s - Booze Basket Raffle, Swimming, Pot luck dinner. This is a two day cook off see September 2nd for Sunday information. Contact Al Austin at 281-326-8050 or 713-203-1217.

Sep 1, 2012-003 - Pittsburg, KS CASI. Little Balkans Chili Cook off Held at 2nd and Broadway, Pittsburg KS 66762. CASI entry fee $20, turn in Noon. Other events include Hot Wing competition any style $5, Home Style chili $5, Salsa $5, Rookie $5, People's Choice and Junior Chili Free. Turn in times TBA. First year CASI cooks 1/2 price. Goody Bags to the first 20 cooks to register. We get great public throw-down participation for charity and appreciate cooks preparing extra! Benefits Habitat For Humanity. Make checks payable to Kansas Legal Services. Contact Eric Rosenblad 620-232-1330; rosenblade@klsinc.org.

Sep 1, 2012-004 - El Paso, TX CASI. 5th Annual Franklin Mtn St Park CCO This CCO will be held at the RV parking area located within the park at Tom May's Unit of Franklin Mountain Park located just off Transmountain Rd on the West side of Franklin Mountains. From 1-10 take the Transmountain Rd exit, travel 3 miles and the entrance gate will be on your left. From Hwy 54 in El Paso, take the Transmountain Rd exit and travel about 7 miles, over the summit, and the entrance will be on your right. Once in the park, check the signs. Turn- in 1:00PM. Entry fee $20.00. Bean competition entry fee $5. Make checks payable to Pod of the Pass. Bud Barrick 575-382-5107 teamorgan@q.com'

Sep 1, 2012-005 - Durant, OK CASI. Oklahoma State Championship Held at Choctaw Casino 4216 S. Hwy 69/75 Durant OK. Benefits KOA Care Camp. Turn in time 2:00PM and entry is $25.00. Junior division turn in 1:00PM entry fee $10.00. Make checks payable to Hooch Pod. Contact Joe Spears 405- 650-3354, joe.spears42@yahoo.com. Chili Grind Only. Accommodations available at the following, Holiday Inn, 580-924-9777; Hampton Inn, 580-924-0300; Comfort Inn, 580-924-8881; Micro Tell , 800-771-7171. Mention your a chili cook for discounts.

Sep 1, 2012-006 - San Angelo, TX CASI. Shrine Fall Festival CCO. Day 1 of a 3 day CCO. It benefits Suez Shrine Charities. Location at the Suez Shrine Parking lot There will be a Jackpot Beans Competition. The Entry Fee will be $5.00 and the turn in time will be 1:00 PM. Chili turn in will be at 2:00 PM. Entry fee $18.00. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. This is a 3 day CCO. See Sunday's and Monday's information. There will be a 50/50 Raffle. For more Information contact Janice Miller at 325-947 8753 or Boomer Kingston at 325-234-205. It wil1 be CHILI GRIND ONLY .

Sep 2, 2012-001 - Manchaca, TX CASI. "The Shootout" Giddy Ups Saloon, Manchaca Rd, Manchaca, TX Last day of the "Shootout" so come support your team.

Sep 2, 2012-002 - Kemah, TX CASI. 4th Annual Elks and CASI 2nd Day CCO Located at The Elks 2322 Clear Lake (Kemah) Lodge 623 Hanson Road, Kemah, TX 77565. CASI entry fee $20, turn in noon. Chili Grind Only. This is a two day cook off see September 1 for Saturday information. Contact Al Austin 281-326-8050 or 713-203-1217.

Sep 2, 2012-003 - Durant, OK CASI. Hooch Pod CCO Held at Choctaw Casino 4216 S. Hwy 69/75 Durant OK. Entry fee $20.00, turn in 1:00PM Make checks payable to the Hooch Pod. Contact Joe Spears 405-650- 3354, email joe.spears42@yahoo.com. Chili Grind Only. BIG SCREEN TV FOR 1st PLACE CHILI.

Sep 2, 2012-004 - San Angelo, TX CASI. Boy's Ranch Day 2 of a 3 day CCO. It benefits Boys Ranch. Location Suez Shrine.Chili. Turn in will be at 2:00 PM.Entry fee $18.00. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. This is a 3 day CCO. See Saturday's and Monday's information. There will be a Cake Auction. Contact Janice Miller at 325-947-8753 or Boomer Kingston at 325-234-205. It wil1 be CHILI GRIND ONLY.

Sep 3, 2012-001 - San Angelo TX CASI. Suez Shrine Fall Festival Day 3 Day 3 of a 3 day CCO. It benefits the Shrine Hospital. Location Suez Shrine. Chili turn in will be at 12:00 PM. Entry fee $18.00. Payable to Concho Valley Chili Pod. This is a 3 day CCO. See Saturday's and Sunday's information. There will be a 50/50 Raffle. Contact Janice Miller at 325-947 8753 or Boomer Kingston at 325-234-205. It will be CHILI GRIND ONLY.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 12:08:00 +0000

From Jim Ezell:
If you missed this here is the link to the CASI Video produced by Lion TV for the Hungry Channel which got 7000 hits the first week. If you have not watched it yet, there are many CASI cooks in it you will recognize. Take a look and pass the news on to other cooks. There was good visibility for several of our sponsors, cooks and former TICC champs.

http://www.youtube

Bazula CCO - Amarillo, TX

August 26, 2012

16 Cooks

1. Scott Campbell

2. Steve Lopez - Q

3. Pam Matheson

4. Vickie Childers

5. Susan Campbell

6. Sheryl Valentine

7. Margarett Lopez

8. Nelda Matheson

9. Ted Hoover

10. Rodney Lilly

FromBarbara Herrin,

Want to have a fun Labor Day Weekend? Come to the Shrine in San Angelo for our 3 day CCO. We will cook Saturday, Sunday and Monday. We will have several activities and a lot of fun. Plan to attend!

NOTE: Today is the big day for me. At 1:00 this afternoon, the Air Force will promote my son to Major Jeffrey Naff. We are all very excited. I have had a wonderful week with Jeffrey and his family. We have seen a lot of DC and the surrounding area. We capped it off last night at the Kennedy Center of the Preforming Arts watching the Army's All Men Choir Concert.

I am flying home early tomorrow, so the blog will be done later in the afternoon when I finally get home. I will also be doing last minute touchups for the Great Pepper's Meeting. If you have something that you would like printed and included in the notebooks for each Great Pepper, please get it to me no later than Wednesday.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Fri, 24 Aug 2012 11:10:00 +0000

It's already Friday. The summer is fast coming to a close as is the chili year. If you need points, there are several cookoffs this weekend that you can cook at.

I am still enjoying my son and his family and seeing lots of DC. Of course there is lots to see and do which includes a high school volley ball game that my granddaughter is playing.

I have no more news for the week. Have a great weekend and enjoy cooking and hopefully nice weather.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 11:10:00 +0000

Celebration of Life: Phil Barnes
Monday, August 27, 3:30 PM

Blancos Bar and Grill

Please keep Karin and her family in your prayers.

NOTE: If you have something that you want included in the agenda, this is your last chance to send it to me. If you have support material for any of the meetings, please get that to me.

Have a Great Day. I am. We are going to several of the Museums in DC. Having a great time and the weather is good.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 17:45:00 +0000

2nd POST FOR WEDNESDAY

It is with a great sadness that I report the death of Phil Barnes. He passed away today. Please Keep Karin and her family in your prayers.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 11:25:00 +0000

Today I am in Washington D.C. with my youngest son and his family (Grandkids Yeah!!!). I will be with them until next Tuesday. My son is in the Air Force and is stationed at the Pentagon. On Monday, August 27, he will be promoted to major and I get to help with the ceremony! I do have some email capability and my cell phone, if someone needs me!

It's Wednesday already. Here are the CCOs for this weekend!

Aug 24, 2012-001 - Houston, TX CASI. Houston Elks Lodge 151 Sweetheart CCO, Located at 10150 W Airport, Stafford, TX 77477, Benefiting Elks Children's Charities. Join us for a great Friday Night with a Silent Auction, Music, Pool, covered cooking area and plenty of Room for RV's. Entry fee $20. Turn in at 8:00 PM. Chili Grind Only. No outside alcohol can be brought into the Lodge or Pool area but a full bar will be open throughout the cookoff. Limited Full Hookups for $18/night. For more information contact Bert Hall at 713-433-2888 or 713-775- 8280. See Saturday Cookoff.

Aug 25, 2012-001 - Houston, TX CASI. Houston Elks Lodge 151 21ST Annual Auxiliary CCO, Located at 10150 W Airport, Stafford TX 77477. Benefiting Auxiliary Charities. Join us for a great day of cooking with friends, Booze Basket Raffle, Music, Pool, covered cooking area and Plenty of Room for RV's. 50/50 Jackpot Beans $10 entry, Turn in 12:30PM. Chili Entry Fee $20. Turn in 2PM. Elks Challenge is an additional $5 entry. For one entry fee awards will be given to the top 3 Lodge 151 members, top 3 District Lodge memebers and top 3 State Lodge members. Take the bragging right back to your Lodge. Chili Grind Only. No outside alcohol can be brought into Lodge or Pool area but a full bar will be open throughout the cookoff. Limited Full Hookup's for $18/night. Grab your bathing suit and come cool off in the pool while cooking your chili. For more information contact Bert Hall at 713-433-2888 or 713-775-8280.

Aug 25, 2012-002 - Lebanon, TN CASI. CASI 2012 Tennessee State Chili Championship. Held at the Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon TN at the site of the largest county fair in Tennessee. Automatic qualifyer for top three, Camp on site, Entry fee $25, turn-in 1 PM. Benefits Brooks House Homeless Shelter for women and children. Make checks payable to HOT POD and mail to 2003 Dorchester Dr. Lebanon, TN 37090. Contact Carol Knight, 615-449- 6676. CHILI MEAT OPEN.

Aug 25, 2012-003 - Broken Arrow, OK CASI. Linda Carter Memorial CCO Held at The Crawford Hacienda, 23400 E 111th St., Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74014. Take Hwy 51 East thru Broken Arrow, continue on at Coweta/81st St. Exit at the 4th stop light which is Oneta Road. Turn right (South), go to the second stop sign which is 111th St, turn right (West). Go 1/2 mile. The house is on the left (South). Benefits Wipe Out Cancer Foundation. Make Advanced Checks Payable to: Wipe Out Cancer CASI turn in 2:00PM. Chili Grind Only. Go to www.facebook.com/lindacartercco for the latest cook off information or contact Joshua Seabolt, 918-510-7084, 13168 N. 134th E. Ave., Collinsville, Oklahoma, 74021 ; gratefulroots@yahoo.com.

Aug 25, 2012-004 - Boyds, MD CASI. MD State - Wounded Warrior "Pro-AM Day" Held at 20601 Bucklodge Rd, Boyds, MD near Germantown, MD 270N to 118 S. Right on Clopper (117) and it turns into Bucklodge. Benefits Wounded Warriors. CASI entry fee $25, turn in 2PM. This is an Auto Qualifier for Top 3 MD cooks and 1st place MD Showmanship. Make advanced checks payable to Christii Watkins 15808 White Rock Rd. Gaithersburg, MD 20878. For additional information contact Christii Watkins 301-651-2963; cwatkinsgolf@gmail.com.

Aug 25, 2012-005 - Amarillo ,TX CASI. Buzula Furniture Outlet Cook Off Held at Buzula Furniture Outlet located at I40 and Washington. Benefits Coffee Memorial Blood Center. CASI entry fee $20, turn in 2:00 PM. Chili Grind Only. Contact Rodney Lilly 806-373-9774

Aug 26, 2012-001 - Downers Grove, IL CASI. St. Marys 5th Annual CCO Held at 444 Wilson St. Downers Grove, IL. 60515. Beer Tent, Live Music, Food Stand, Bingo Game, Dunk Tank, and much more. CASI entry fee $20, turn in 1:00PM. Benefits St. Mary's Homeless. Make checks payable to Chilini Pod. Call John for directions if needed at home-630-963-0160 or cell-630-687-5202.

Aug 26, 2012-002 - Olympia, WA CASI. Puget Pod CASI Championship CCO Held at 10841 Kennedy Creek Rd S.W. Olympia, WA on site of restaurant RanchHouse BBQ. CASI Rules Apply. Entry fee $20, Home Style turn in 12 noon, CASI turn in 1PM. CASI Cut meat only. Make checks payable to Puget Pod Treasurer. Contact Ken Peach 3125 148th St. E, Tacoma, WA 98446, 253-537-4591; kkmpeach@aol.com. This cookoff is on advertising probation.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 10:57:00 +0000

From Delfino Romero:

From Rachel DesPlaines

Dear Chiliheads,

The Orlando Chili Cook-Off is ramping up for its 4th tasty year! Please mark your calendars and prep your taste buds for February 9, 2013. We have a few changes this year that are sure to make the Cook-Off better than ever. The Cook-Off will be held at a new location, Festival Park in Orlando, just across the street from Orlando Executive Airport in the Milk District.

Interested in becoming a cook, sponsor, vendor, volunteer...or just want to attend the cook-off? We're currently updating our website and will e-mail you when everything's prepped, chopped, and cooked. In the meantime, e-mail us at: info@orlandochilicookoff.com

To sign-up for our priority list please call us at: 407-777-8309.

We look forward to seeing all of you there!

From Jim Ezell:

Well all I can say is "I am not ready for the movies yet!" Here is the edited version of the film produced at the Garland Elks Cookoff for the Hungry Network on Utube. We did get 10 1/2 minutes of good publicity for CASI and many of the sponsors products are visible. Roger and Tom did a good job with the chili.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7HYEQHgyGg&feature=g-u-u

From Dana Plocheck:
The September Terlingua Trails is posted and ready to read! Enjoy!

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 12:54:00 +0000

From Jennifer Sherfield:
CASI: for months now I have been working on the 2011-2012 Great Peppers Video. Last night I was putting the final touch to it! You people ROCK! Over 1400 pictures!!! Thanks to each and everyone of you that sent pictures and helped with my efforts. I am going to start taking orders. The video will be shown for the first time at the Great Peppers Meeting on Saturday. If you are not attending you can purchase the video by mailing me $5. Please make checks to the CASI scholarship fund. You can mail me payments to: 502 W. Commanche Drive Hobbs, NM 88240. If you are going to be at the Great Peppers meeting I will have copies there you can purchase. Thanks!!

From Ken Rodd:

August 6, 2012

Subject: CASI Newsletter Contest

TO: Great Peppers

POD Newsletter Editors

I am pleased to announce there will be a CASI Newsletter Contest this year. The TOP 3 winners will be presented a nice trophy from the stage at TICC on Saturday.

The contest rules are as follows:

1. A POD may submit from one to three newsletters published during 2012. The deadline for entries received is September 20, 2012.

2. Entries will be sent to Ken Rodd by email - casihotrodd@aol.com or postal mail to: Ken Rodd, 7009 S IH-35, Austin, TX 78744

3. The newsletters will be judged by 6 judges from various parts of the USA. Judges do not know who the other judges are.

We look forward to a lot of entries in this year's Newsletter Contest. We know you are doing good work out there - let us recognize you and your POD for what you do!!!!

If you have any questions please email me or call me on my cell phone.

Ken Rodd

Newsletter Contest Chairman
Cell phone 210 887 8827

From Robert Wappo Schrade:

The new pavilion in Krazy Flats is almost finished and ready for TICC.

From Bruce Stewart:
The Chili Cookoff advertised for Weatherford, TX on Oct 6th has been canceled as a CASI CCO. They are still going to have a CCO, it just won't be CASI Sanctioned and the Winners will not get CASI points.

From Darin Jester:

CASI Members,

Please be patient with us in regards to your checks clearing the bank for your CASI membership dues. This is a busy time of year for your Board of Directors. We are processing your renewals, and Pod credentials which takes numerous hours. I have had several renewals to post and update which takes time. If you have a question in regards to the status of your recent check or on the status of your renewal please do not hesitate to email me at membership.chili@att.net . Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding as we process everyone and prepare for the Great Pepper’s meeting.

Results of the Everman, TX CCO

29 Cooks

1. Benny Hay
2. Frank Gadberry
3. Tom Dozier
4. Kenny Short
5. Glenda Vrba
6. Ron Baker
7. Joel Sexton
8. Robin Short
9. Dee Palmer
10. Jason Clark

Reminder from Jim Stateczny:

Greetings

As most of you know, we have been sifting through boxes of CASI history in order that we might archive all important documents. If any of you have any documents that should be included in this project, would you please bring them with you to Dallas. I will have the necessary scanners there to process these documents.

Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Fri, 17 Aug 2012 13:20:00 +0000

From Debbie Turner:

The Cooks Register, the historic Who's Who of the chili world address and more book is still accepting applications to be in the book and purchase one at the $20 pre-sale rate until Sept 1st. Wayne (my husband, also know as the Hugger and Gabby) is having health problems, so I will be more occupied taking care of him instead of the book for a now, which is also way I'm late in getting started on updating this 19th edition. Contact me if you did not receive your application, wish to be in the book or update your current listing or just want information.

NOTE:
I have gotten through all the reports that I have received and I am still working with them. I am missing reports from the following Pods:

Chili Hawg Pod
Cowboy Capital Chili Pod
Empire State Pod
MasonDixon Pod
Piedmont Pepper Pod
Virgin Pod

If you have a Great Pepper that you would like to honor by nominating them for Great Pepper of the Year, please get that letter of nomination to me right away. Remember that the Great Peppers vote on this at the Great Pepper's Meeting.

It's Friday and time to start thinking about the weekend! Here's hope you have a great weekend and can enjoy the fact that summer is almost over. If you still need points, there is only a short time left to get them for this year's TICC. Remember Chili, Charity and Fun.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 13:14:00 +0000

From Darin Jester, Membership Director:

CASI Members,

NOTE: I have recieved most of the Credential Annual Report from each pod (32 in the last 2 days) and I am working through each of them. I will be posting tomorrow the names of any Pod that I have not received a report from. Hopefully, I will be able to contact each of your and verify that all the needed information is in your report as well as the memberships of your Officers and Referees are paid to Sept 30, 2013. Feel free to contact me if you have concerns.

I will be preparing the Friday and Saturday's draft agendas this weekend and will post them next week.

Below is the draft of the Board of Director's Meeting held on June 30.

noreply@blogger.com (Richard Knight) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 11:35:00 +0000

From Traci Bond:

27 Chilis Judged:

1^st Mike Park

2^nd Billy Reiter

3^rd Tricia Byrom

4^th Mike Zaccaro

5^th Jessie Waguespack

6^th Sue Ann Brooks

7^th Jeanette Cardenas

8^th Joe Trigo

9^th Barbara Schueler

10^th Lisa Zaccaro

Show:

1^st Jeanette Cardenas

2^nd Sue Ann Brooks

3^rd Mary Ellen Gillen

Thanks to everyone who braved the miserable heat to come out and join us! Also thank you to Mike Park, Tricia Byrom, and Kyle Bond for monitoring and Jessie Waguespack, Caroline Wilson, Traci Carlson and Sherry Jones for helping us tally, pull tickets, run tables etc.! We are looking forward to another fun filled event next year!

(I have attached a picture of Mike with his 1^st Place Bronze! See below)

From Donna Conrad:
Please mark your calendars for this upcoming CCO.

From Larry Burruss:

From Randy Duke:

Today is August 15, 2012. This is the day that each pod must get me their Credential Annual Report to be on time. This report must be completed, dues for all officers and referees current to September 30, 2013. I have several reports missing. Tomorrow I will be listing those reports that are not here as of yet. This is important and needs to be completed or your pod will not be allowed to have representation during the Great Pepper's Meeting.

It's Wednesday and time again to post the CCOs scheduled for this weekend. The weather in West Texas promises to be HOT!!!

Aug 18, 2012-001 - Horn Lake, MS CASI. American Legion Post 134 CCO Located at 2520 West Goodman Road Horn Lake, MS 38637. CASI Rules Apply. CASI and Open Cook-off CASI Fee is $20.00. Open Fee is $10.00. To compete in both events only $25.00. Turn in is 1:00 pm Limited space for RV parking. NO hook ups available. For additional information contact: Lynne Murry 662-526-5722 lynnemurry@gmail.com or Rodney Jones 901-268-7593

Aug 18, 2012-002 - Red River, NM CASI. Hot Chili Days. Cool Chili Nights /Four Corners Regional. Downtown Red River, NM. This year's event is being hosted by the Colorado Chili Pod. This three-day music, BBQ and CASI chili event will once again be held in Brandenburg Park (adjacent to the Red River Conference Center) in quaint downtown Red River. This weekend is comprised of the Larry Joe Taylor music festival, the Lone Star BBQ competition, the Four Corners Regional CASI red chili cook-off, the State of New Mexico Green Chili Championship, the "open" Salsa Competition and the "open" Chili competition. The fees are as follows: $20 for the first chili or salsa category and $10 for every additional chili/salsa category. All cooks that sign-up and "pay" by August 4, 2012 will receive a $5 discount on their first chili/salsa category meaning the "first" category fee is $15 for those signing up early. Chili entry fees benefit the Red River Charter School. Make checks payable to the Colorado Chili Pod. Checks can be sent to the Colorado Chili Pod, c/o John Montgomery, 1670 Broadway, Suite 3000, Denver, Colorado 80202. For chili information, please contact John Montgomery at 303-831-5061. For event/lodging information, please contact Rebecca at 505-754-1708.

Aug 18, 2012-003 - Alpine, AZ CASI. 17th Annual Alpine Chili Cook off Located at the Rodeo Grounds. BBQ, Spam and Jackpot Beans. Biscuits/Gravy. Entry fee $15, turn in 1:00PM. Benefits Volunteer Fire Dept. and Alpine School Projects. Make checks payable to Alpine Chili Society. Contact Dick Seehusen PO Box 77 Alpine, AZ 85920; 925-245-5166; seealpine@yahoo.com.

Aug 18, 2012-004 - Indianapolis, IN CASI. Chad Jester Memorial CCO Held at Bel-Aire Park, 2915 South Tibbs Ave. Indianapolis I-465 to Kentucky Ave, on the southwest side of Indianapolis. Go North on Kentucky Ave, turn right on Tibbs. Registration 9:00AM, Cooks meeting 10:00AM. Turn-in 1:00PM (all categories). CASI Rules Apply. Categories/Entry fees are CASI $20, Homestyle $10, Jr's $5. Make checks payable to the Indiana Pepper Pod. Music Fest and Classic Car Show on site during the cook-off. For more information contact Tonya or Darin Jester at 317-856-3231 or crazyladychili@sbcglobal.net Proceeds from this event to benefit Maywood Manor Park Association.

Aug 18, 2012-005 - Cedar Rapids, IA CASI. 29th Annual Iowa State Championship CCO Held at Chrome Horse Slop House and Saloon 1202 3rd St. SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52403. Benefits Tanager Place.Turn-in time 2:00 PM CASI chili, 2:00PM homemade salsa, 2:30 PM Junior chili Entry fees: CASI chili $25, Jr. chili $5, Salsa $5. Junior chili is chili grind only. Make checks payable to Tanager Place. Contact Gary Christensen 3216 Iris Ave NW Cedar Rapids, IA 52405; 319-721- 1580; chiliman1955@yahoo.com.

Aug 18, 2012-006 - Everman, TX CASI. 5th Annual Happy Armadillo CCO Held at Happy Armadillo Bar 1701 Everman Parkway. From Ft.Worth take I35 south past I-20 to Everman parkway go East 3.1 mi. Bar is on your left. Look for Armadillo Sign. Turn in at 2 PM $20.00 Entry fee. CASI rules, Grind Only. Trophies for top 10 chilis, and top 3 show. Throw cups will be sold. Please bring throw-down for sampling. 50/50 drawing. Jack pot Beans Turn in at Noon $5 entry fee 100% back to winners. Goody bags to first 60 cooks registered and a Raffle. Benefits North Texas Charities. Cooking will be outside. NOTE: kids are welcome till 5 pm. BUT remember this is a bar! Contact Gary Napier 817-225-5930. Email Gary@thehappyarmadillo.com.

Aug 19, 2012-001 - St. Thomas, VI CASI. St Thomas, United States Virgin Islands 28th Annual Texas Society of the Virgin Islands Chili Cookoff. Located at #2 John Brewers Beach UVI Campus. Benefits Queen Louise Home for the Aged, Dial a Ride, Family Resource Center, St Thomas Power Squadron, VI Institute for the Performing Arts. Entry fee $35.00, (includes both CASI and Virgin Island Cookoffs), turn in noon. Both chili grind and regular grind accepted. Make checks payable to: Texas Society of the Virgin Islands. For additional information contact Erik Ackerson PO Box 306926 St. Thomas, USVI 00803. 340-774-3944; 340-473-8706 Preregistration deadline: Saturday August 18th at 6pm.

Aug 19, 2012-002 - Everman, TX CASI. Sunday After Happy Armadillo Chili Cook-off. Turn in at 1PM $20.00 Entry fee. CASI rules, grind only. Trophies for top 10 chilis, and top 3 show. Throw-down cups will be sold. Please bring throw-down for sampling. 50/50 drawing and a Raffle. Benefits North Texas Charities. Cooking will be outside NOTE: kids are welcome till 5 pm. BUT remember this is a bar! Info Gary Napier 817-225-5930. Email gary@thehappyarmadillo.com. From Ft.Worth take I35 south past I-20 to Everman parkway go East 3.1 mi. Bar is on your left. Look for Armadillo Sign.