Congratulations to Fred Lazarus and Sherril Lloyde on their Marriage. It's about time guys! We are all very happy for both of you.



If you go to the web page (http://www.chili.org/) and you go into the Resource Center, you will find the CASI Memorial Scholarship Contribution Form under the Misc heading and there is a new heading "Old 320 Documents and Information." This contains the documents pretaining to the Old 320 to inculde the site map.

It is getting close to the Great Pepper's Meeting in Midland. I hope to have the Draft of the Agenda ready to share in the next couple of days. Remember: Only NEW State Championships must submit an application. Regional Opens must apply each year.

From Lee Kroencke:

Check out the details in the attachment for the upcoming Little Balkins Chili cook-off. There is something here for everyone, and a special reason for you to compete and invite those friends of yours that always seem interested in chili but for some reason keep watching from the sidelines.

This is an opportunity for first time cooks to go "toe to toe" with CASI's best chili cooks for miles around. Somebody's going to win ~ it just might be YOU. The rules are simple.. Go to www.chili.org for details. And consult other Gladiators and all your chili friends for their best chili secrets. We look forward to meeting you and many new first time cooks and seeing old friends.

From Blu Daniels:

Thanks to the Tyler Elks for moving their cookoff to Oct. 24 so that Chandler can have a cookoff at their annual PowWow Festival, 10-10-09, which draws over 5000 people out to the parade and activities. They are giving a great People's Choice prize and would love for all cooks to please have extra pot to serve to large public. October 10, Chandler Pow Wow Chili Cook-off, Winchester Park, Chandler, TX. Pow Wow festivities which draws over 5,000 people annually include parade, craft and food booths, entertainment, inflatibles, little britches rodeo and afternoon and evening circus. Traffic builds early so be at Park by 8:30. Hwy 315 which the park is on will close from around 9:45 until around 11 or until the parade is over. Registration begins at 8:00. Beans 50/50, turns in at noon, CASI (chili grind) at 1:00. Also People's Choice and Showmanship. Bring plenty of throwdown for tasting. Goody bags for first 20 entries, cost $5.00 beans and $20.00 for CASI. Great prizes. Will also hold a raffle. From Tyler, Texas take Hwy 31W about 12 miles to Chandler. Turn left on Hwy 315 follow about 3/4 mile to Winchester Park on left. Friday arrivals OK. Special Parking area for contestants. No Hook-ups. Please contact to make a reservation. Benefiting Chandler Parks Board for Youth Activities. Contact Shirley Parmer at 903-849-6853 or skparmer@chandlertx.com. Mail early entry fees to P.O. Box 425, Chandler, TX 75758.

From Rick Thomas:

Well folks here it is, that time of the year again. We have added BBQ Chicken, Pork Ribs and Brisket by The Lone Star Barbecue Society. Fees for BBQ are $35 per of $75 for all three. LSBS will have a judge on site.

$$$ for People's Choice Chili ( min 2 gals) $25 fee if not cooking CASI.

This CCO is an Auto Qualifier for up to FIVE cooks. For additional info contact:

Rick Thomas
GP/ Ruidoso Chili Society
www.ricktofov@aol.com
520-419-0202
575-336-8399

I have had a request to provide an electronic copy of the form that we used for Memorials Contribution to the CASI National Scholarship Program. Below you will find a copy.

I am posting a draft copy of the Schedule of Events for the Great Peppers Meeting.

If you are planing on requesting a Regional Open CCO this next year, please be sure to fill out the Regional Open Championship application and send it to me or Bill Pierson immediately so that it can be reviewed by the Events Committee and submitted to the Great Peppers at their meeting for approval. I am providing you a copy below.

If you are planning a State Championship CCO, you need to complete the Application below and submit it immediately either to me or Bill Pierson so that the Events Committee and review it and present it to the Great Peppers at their meeting for final approval. I am providing a copy of that form below.

Well, another Friday has rolled around and its time to think about cooking some Chili. May you each have a great CASI weekend.

From Blu Daniels:
October 10, Chandler Pow Wow Chili Cook-off, Winchester Park, Chandler, TX. Pow Wow festivities which draws over 5,000 people annually include parade, craft and food booths, entertainment, inflatables, little britches rodeo and afternoon and evening circus. Traffic builds early so try to to be at Park by 8:30. Hwy 315 which the park is on will close from around 9:45 until around 11 or until the parade is over. Registration begins at 8:00. Beans 50/50, turns in at noon, CASI (chili grind) at 1:00. Also People's Choice and Showmanship. Bring plenty of throwdown for tasting. Goody bags for first 20 entries, cost $5.00 beans and $20.00 for CASI. Great prizes. Will also hold a raffle. From Tyler, Texas take Hwy 31W about 12 miles to Chandler. Turn left on Hwy 315 follow about 3/4 mile to Winchester Park on left. Special Parking area for contestants. Sorry no Hook-ups. Benefiting Chandler Parks Board for youth activities. Contact Rick Ford at rickster517@embarqmail.com. Per CASI Rule V.A.2, on advertising probation.

Remember, if your pod is planning to submit your Great Pepper for Great Pepper of the year, I need this narrative in the next few days so that it will be included in the registration packet. There is not a form for this submission. Prepare a narrative about the accomplishments of your Great Pepper for the 2008-2009 Chili year. You can email it to me at garjans@suddenlink.net.

If you have information that you would like included in the Great Pepper's meeting packet, you must get it to me before Sep 2.



This is a day without much news. It is not suppose to get above 100 for the first time in a week, and the grass grew in all of this heat, so I guess it is the day that we will need to work outside!

From Mayo Blair:
GEORGE THOMPSON SERVICES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28th 10:00 a.m.
FOREST PARK FUNERAL HOME
12800 Westheimer @ S. Dairy Ashford

Reception to follow at Noon at
THE HOUSTON ELKS LODGE, #151
10150 W. Airport Blvd. just West of BW 8
832-328-1151

George was a wonderful man, a sweetheart with a smile for everyone and a friend to so many. He will be greatly missed by his Chili friends and all of his friends at the Elks Lodge. Our hearts, our prayers and our thoughts are with Edna and their children. God Speed and God Bless.

From Bud Barrick:
Saturday Aug. 29th Charity, Chili and Fun and the Pod of the Pass, presents the 2nd Annual "Mr. C's" Chili Cook-Off. Held at Smokey's Pit Stop No.111, 1700 Zaragoza, (rear parking lot), El Paso, TX. Come join us for a complete day of Entertainment, Music, Door Prizes, Silent Auction, Contests and much more. Cooks meeting 11:00 AM, turn in 3:00 PM. CASI Sanctioned, CASI Rules apply. Entry fee $18.00. Also SALSA competion $5.00 entry fee, cash prize, turn in 2:00 PM. Dry camping available. Benefiting the American Heart Association, El Paso Chapter. More info: Carol 915-852-3599 or 915-491-2766

From Ken Peach:

This is late info but I just realized that some people did not get notified when I sent out the first email and I am sorry for that.

Dixie Whitefield, wife of former CASI Director Bob Whitefield, passed away last week from a prolonged fight against cancer. They are going to have a memorial for her on Sat 5 Sep at the Community Center in Shelter Bay, near La Conner, WA.

That is all the info I have on this.

It is Wednesday and time to look at the CCOs for this weekend.

Aug 28, 2009-001 - Stafford, TX CASI. Sweetheart Cookoff. Held at 10150 W Airport Blvd Turn in 8 PM. Entry fee $20.00 payable to Houston Auxiliary 151. Contact Bert Hall Home 713-433- 2888 Cell 713-775-8280, or Elks Lodge 832-328-1151 CHILI GRIND ONLY. Swimming pool available. Limited RV Parking. Benefits Summer Camp for Handicap Children and Prosthesis Devices. See cookoff next day.

Aug 29, 2009-001 - Oklahoma City, OK CASI. Tony Newcombs CCO & T Shirt Party, 5600 Tulsa Dr. Benefits Elks general fund. Turn-in 7 PM Entry- $20.00. Chili grind only Contact Donell Dickerson 405-227- 8689 Joe Spears 405-650-3354 e-mail joespookyj@aol.com


Aug 29, 2009-002 - El Paso ,TX CASI. 2nd Annual Mr. "C" Cook-off. Held at Smokey's Bar & Grill, 1700 N. Zaragosa, rear parking lot. Entry fee $18 turn in 6 PM. Benefit American Heart Association Make checks payable to Pod of the Pass. Cooks Meeting 2 PM, Showmanship from 3 to 5 PM. Come on out, last years was a great time. A lot of contests, drawings Belly Dancers, and different entertainment all day. Contact blackgarterchili@aol.com. Eve DuMond 915-345-4397.

Aug 29, 2009-003 - Lebanon, TN CASI. 2009 Tennessee State Championship CO held at the Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon TN at the site of the largest county fair in Tennessee, the Wilson County Fair. Automatic qualifier. Traveling money for Terlingua. 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 Carol Knight, 2003 Dorchester Dr. Lebanon, TN 37090. Contact Carol Knight, info@wilsoncountytn.com 615-444- 1383 or 615-449-6676. Visit Web http://www.wilsoncountyfair.net/co mpetitions/food-contests/chili- championship


Aug 29, 2009-004 - Nichols, NY CASI. Empire State POD Cookoff At Tioga Downs Race Track & Casino 2384 W River Rd. Exit 62 off I-86 US 17. Prizes for top 10 CASI chilis and top 3 showmanship. Come join us for our POD cookoff and then try your luck with the "ponies" and/or the now "armless" bandits. Entry fee $15 turn-in 3 PM. Make checks payable to Empire State Pod. Info Rocky Rockwell rockr323@aol.com, 585- 453-0422. Benefits Community Hunger Outreach Ware.

Aug 29, 2009-005 - Stafford, TX CASI. 17th Annual Auxiliary Chili Cookoff & Beans 50/50. Benefits Auxiliary charities. Held at 10150 W Airport Blvd. Turn-in 2 PM. Entry fee $20.00 Beans turn in 12:30. Entry fee $10.00. Make Check payable to Houston Ausiliary 151. Contact Bert Hall Home 713-433-2888 Cell 713-775- 8280 or Elks Lodge 832-328-1151 CHILI GRIND ONLY. Swimming Pool available, Limited RV parking.

Aug 29, 2009-006 - Denton, TX CASI. North Texas State Fair & Rodeo CCO. Held at North Texas State Fair Grounds, 2217 N. Carroll Blvd. Entry fee $20 turn-in 1 PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Contact Vicki 940-391-6998, Delora 940-230-3238 cowgirlattitudechili@hotmail.com or deloragoin@hotmail.com.


Aug 30, 2009-001 - Downers Grove, IL CASI. 2nd Annual St. Mary of Gostyn CCO Held in conjunction with annual parish picnic. CASI and Open division chili competition. Games, food, beer tent, lots of fun. Located on the west side of Fairfield, approximately half way between 55th St & Ogden (US 34), 444 W. Wilson St. Entry fee $18 turn-in 1 PM. Contact John Gastaldello j.gastaldello@comcast .net. 630-963-0160. Per CASI Rule V.A.2, on advertising probation.

From Joe Trietsch:


The Graveside Service for Robert Nelson is 2 pm Tuesday at the Crawford Cemetery. This is located right near Tonkowa Park.

From Mayo Blair:

Just received word that George Thompson passed away this afternoon (Monday) around 2 pm. His plans of treatment at home were not to be. Our thoughts and prayers are with Edna and their children. When I have details about the services I will pass that on to you all. God speed and God Bless.

From Ron Barnes:

Results from the Happy Armadillo CCO’s held August 22nd and 23rd in Everman, TX:

Saturday, August 22nd
Chili (34 judged)
1. Ginny Williams – Irving, TX (Q)
2. Dale Reinecker – Bedford, TX (Q)
3. Tom Dozier – Irving, TX
4. Ray Calhoun – Waxahachie, TX
5. Jenna Whitehead – Dallas, TX (Q)
6. Tom Hornsby – Benbrook, TX
7. Darren Wood – Arp, TX
8. Sandra Crow – Burleson, TX
9. Ron Baker – Rice, TX
10. Jim Taylor – Arlington

Show:
1. Bull Rush – Ginny Williams – Irving, TX
2. American Legion Family – Karen Ducote – Bedford, TX
3. Dr. Ray – Ray Calhoun – Waxahachie, TX

Sunday, August 23rd
Chili (15 Judged)
1. Susan Spencer – Irving, TX
2. Tom Dozier – Irving, TX
3. David Sexton, Jr. – Dallas, TX
4. Ray Calhoun – Waxahachie, TX
5. Teena J. “TJ” Friedel – Irving, TX (Q)
6. Beth Baxter – Grand Prairie, TX
7. Ron Baker – Rice, TX
8. Doodie Johnson – Irving, TX
9. Lisa Rider – Richardson, TX
10. Ken Bishop – Forest Hill, TX

Show:
1. Dr. Ray – Ray Calhoun – Waxahachie, TX (Q)
2. Roadwarrior Roadkill – Larry Wampler – Terrell, TX
3. Unclaimed

There will be Rule Changes considered at this year's Great Pepper's Meeting. Since we voted at last year's Great Pepper's Meeting to have a National Open Chili Championship. we need to have the wording included in the Rule Book. This 1st National Open Championship was to be held during the 2008-2009 Chili year. Because of scheduling problems, this was not possible. Larry Burruss, Chairman of the US National Open Chili Championship has sent a formal request to allow the cook-off to be initially held in the 2009-2010 chili year. This will be considered and voted on in our meeting. Below is that Rule Change request.

From Dorathy Williams:

The Blanco Cook's for the Cure CCO on Sept 26 and Sep 27 in Johnson City has been Cancelled and will be rescheduled in Feb 2010.

From Mavis Nelson:

After a hard fought battle, Robert Nelson has left us.　 He was a good man who will be missed deeply.　 Arrangements are pending. Mavis Nelson's new email address is nelson8@hughes.net.

From Bud Barrick:

Here's an update about the 28th Annual New Mexico State Open Chili Championship.

I guess the first thing you should know is that we're planning a "Peoples Choice - No Rules" chili category. If I have my information correct there will be a cash prize for the winner. So you may want to begin to prepare you "stuff" now because we all know that those that have the most do the best.

Mr. Thomas has been really busy these days. This year we will be joined by the Lone Star BBQ Association. Yup, we're gonna have a "for real" BBQ Smoke out! More cash for the winner.

I guess you folks should also know that the NM Governor, Mr. Bill Richardson, has proclaimed October 3, 2009 as the "New Mexico State Chili Cookoff and Championship BBQ Day". See attached.

If you need housing, we are getting a CookOff deal at www.ruidosoriverresort.com.

Anyway, Rick has asked me to pass this along to as many folks as I can and we're hoping that you'll pass it along amongst your Pod members. Hope to see you folks there!

From Everett Crawford:
<

NOTE: Sept 26 and 27:

Unfortunately, we are having to cancel our event Sept 25-27th. The Blanco cookoffs in Johnson City on September 26 and 27 have been canceled because of sponsorship problems. This cancellation was too late for the September Terlingua Trails so please pass this information along to anyone who might be hunting for last minute points.

From Ken Rodd:

Please check out this CCO.

There will be one rule change voted on this year. Last year we voted at the Great Pepper's Meeting to have a National CCO. This is a rule change to include a National CCO in our rules.

From Ruby Ross:
I feel that I am the bearer of sad news lately. One of my best friends & good buddy, Tom Cook
was diagnosed with Pancreatic & Liver Cancer. The tumors are farely large so Tom feels he has had this for some time. The only thing the doctor recommends is that he go to MD Anderson to see if they have any new cures. We all know Tom, his humor is still there & he is a very strong person. He said today the doctor said his weight is a good thing! Keep Tom, Audrey & his boys in your thought & prayers. Stay Healthy! Love ya, Ruby

From Dana Plocheck:
Due to the similarity of my personal email address and my Mom’s I have created a new email account with Yahoo. This will help eliminate any confusion between the two email addresses. Please address any questions or concerns regarding my candidacy for Director to dplocheck@yahoo.com. Thanks. Dana Plocheck

Remember if your pod plans on nominating your Great Pepper as Great Pepper of the year, please send those nomination packages to me immediately.

Well, It is Friday and time to find somewhere to cook Chili!!! At 101 here yesterday, I don't feel much like standing over a hot stove! I hope each of you have a GREAT weekend and are getting those last points you need.

From Sabrina Klietz:

From Rick Thomas:

I know, I know------it has Saturday for both days and is being corrected.

This is just a heads-up so you can get ready for the BIG EVENTS. We have add BBQ with the Lonestar BBQ Society, open to all, and a $$$ prize for 1st People's Choice. Come on up to Ruidoso and have a great time. Hope you pass this on to other cooks and friends. We got the Governor's proclamation for the BBQ Championship.

If you need housing, we are getting a CookOff deal at www.ruidosoriverresort.com.

From Renee Moore:

Soliciting Judges

If you are aware of someone who will be attending Terlingua and wishes to judge, please provide me with their name and address so an invitation can be sent to them. Send to rmoore@gulfshoresal.gov.

Well, It is Wednesday and there is little news. It is getting closer to the Great Pepper's meeting and I have most of the information that I need to get each of the Pods seated and ready to do CASI business.

It is long after that and we are headed to TICC and a week of activities. The BBQ at Krazy Flats will add a great activity and money for the winners. This is going to be an exciting event!

Watch for the list of new sponsors. We always welcome them. A big thanks to Jim Ezell for his hard work in obtaining support for CASI.

Here's what is happening this weekend.

Aug 21, 2009-001 - Terlingua, TX CASI. Terlingua Friday Night Cookoff. Cancelled.

Aug 22, 2009-001 - Terlingua, TX CASI. Bronze Goat Cookoff Cancelled.

Aug 22, 2009-002 - Cedar Rapids, IA CASI. 26th Annual Iowa State Championship Chili Cookoff. Held at Chromehorse Slophouse and Saloon, 1202 3rd ST SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.Benefits Tanager Place. Turn in time: 2:00 PM Fee: $25 Salsa fee: $5 Jr chili fee: $5. Make checks available to: Tanager Place. Contact Gary Christensen 3216 Iris Ave NW Cedar Rapids, IA 52405 319-365- 2944. No special meat for CASI chili, Junior chili is chili grind only.

Aug 22, 2009-003 - Tulsa, OK CASI. VFW Post 577 Chili and IBCA BBQ Cookoff, 1109 E 6th St. $25 per category. Chicken turn-in 11 AM, Pork Ribs Noon, Brisket 1 PM, Chili 2 PM. Make checks payable to VFW Post 577. Grand Champion $300, Reserve Champion $150, must cook all categories. Payout 1st thru 10th each category, except chili. Contact 918-850-3523 918- 706-1634, 918-284-1329.

Aug 22, 2009-004 - Everman,TX CASI. Armadillo Cookoff. Held at 1701 Everman Pkwy, one mile East off I-35 W, South of Fort Worth at Everman Road exit. Benefits Texas Tardition Corsus. Entry fee $20, turn-in 1 PM. CHILI GRIND ONLY. 1st 20 register ed get goody bags. Contact Gary Napier 817-225-5744,The Armadillo Club 817-293-1402 or email Gary gary@happyarmadillo.com. Referee Bruce Stewart 817-282-6678, 817- 269-4797. Cooks party Friday night, Live Band Saturday night. Jackpot Beans $5, turn-in Noon. RV's welcome, no hookups.

Aug 22, 2009-005 - Lakebay, WA CASI. Puget Pod Championship Held at 3311 178th Ave Ct K.P.N., Lakebay, WA. Benefits Puget Pod. Puget Pod. Turn-in Time: 1 PM Entry Fee: $5. Checks Payable to: Puget Pod. Contact: Larry or BJ Mayer. Contact Address: 3311 178th Ave Ct. KPN, Lakebay, WA, 98349. Phone Number: 253-884- 3414. Please register by July 9th Special Meat: Chili Grind Only

Aug 22, 2009-006 - Canton, GA CASI. 1st Annual Canton Paw Park Chili CO Held at the square on Main Street in Historic Downtown Canton. CASI and Open Chili Competition. CHILI GRIND ONLY. CASI turn in 12 PM Open turn-in 1 PM. Benefits the Canton Paw Park, local community off leash park for dogs. Entry fee $25.00 for both CASI chili and Open chili. Trophies for CASI winners and First Place Open winner. Please make sure to bring extra chili for public tasting for the Peoples Choice / open category. Make checks payable to Canton Paw Park. Mail to Roy Munn, 116 Franklin Hills Ct., Canton, Ga. 30114. Only 23 spaces available. Register NOW! For more information please email cantonchili@gmail.com. Per CASI Rule V.A.2 on Advertising Probation.

Aug 23, 2009-001 - Everman, TX CASI. Day After Armadillo CCO. Held at 1701 Everman Pkwy, one mile East off I-35 W, South of Fort Worth at Everman Rd. Exit. Entry fee $18 turn-in Noon. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Benefits Everman Police K-9 Unit. Make checks paid to The Armadillo. Contact The Armadillo Club 817-293-1402 or Gary Napier 817-225-5744 or email Gary@happyarmadillo.com. Referee Bruce Stewart 817-282-6678, 817- 269-4797.

If you have not taken time to go to the web page and read the current Terlingua Trails, you need to do that. It is really a great issue. Thanks Bucky for all your hard work. The result is a great paper!

Well, that's all the news for today! Keep cool and enjoy the last few weeks of summer. There aren't a lot of CCOs this weekend, but the ones that we have are going to be a great place to have a weekend of fun and cooking chili. Plan to attend one of them

Happy Birthday to my husband, Cliff! Have a Great day. I guess I had not better print his age or I might wish I had not. I will tell you he is OLD! But as he says, he can never be as old as I am.

From Bucky Seelig:
If you are sitting at home, bored with nothing to do, and as the country song goes, “It’s too hot to fish, too hot to golf, and too cold at home,” download the September issue of the Trails. Find a cool quite corner in your house, grab a cold drink, read all about the candidates running for the CASI Board, and plan your next cooking adventure. Even if you’re qualified, go out and support an event near you. Help monitor, judge, tally or whatever may be required. You know you will be welcome.

NOTE: As of the mail yesterday and contact with several people, I have recieved or had contact with every Pod except the Mason Dixon Pod. Thank you to all of you who have worked hard to meet the deadline. The reports have been complete and ready for me to record. Thanks for ensuring that every question was answered. We still have a few people who need to get their dues paid.

On another note, if your pod is planning on submitting your Great Pepper for Great Pepper of the year, you need to send me your nomination with support immediately. I have already received some, but want to give every Pod a chance to nominate. Please send those nominations right away. If you have questions about it, please contact me.

From Midland 8-15-09:
It was a hot day on the asphalt at the Harley Davidson Store, but there was lots of enthusiasum! It also was a day of celebration. It was Louis Gonzales' Birthday (61), Patsy and LeRoy Childress Wedding Anniversary (40) and Dave and Kathy Boone's Wedding Anniversary. After Chili came a celebration for Patsy and LeeRoy. It was a full day of activity.

39 Chilis

1 Amy Patton
2 Louis Gonzales
3 Dave Boone
4 Barbara Herrin
5 Pat Timmons
6 Connie Collier
7 Guy W Bates
8 Keith Patton
9 Karen Baines
10 Leroy Childress

SHOW
1 Guy W Bates
2 Sherry Maus
3 Donny Warner

From Dave Hewlett:
The word Pondarosa has a meaning all its own. I think of a hot dry dusty barren plain where the wind blows and the tumble weeds roam. Well the east Texas Pondarosa CCO was held this past week end and I felt like I was on an oasis of sorts with blue water in front of me and trees behind. The brown skin of the local people were on display and enjoying a great very hot day. The cooks huddled under their sun reflecting many colored canopy and labored with love on their prize seeking pot of gold(chili). There were 32 harty heat suffering cooks looking for only 10 places in the much seeked after CASI CHILI points on Saturday. Some were waiting on the magic bell to ring when they could stop sweating and turn in their chili. Then wait more as the skin bared judges did their task and evaluated the chili with their low or none experience in chili. Many came thru and did a good job while the inevitable one judge killed the hopes of the good to best cooks with the favored 1's and 2’s on the sheet mixed with a few 9's and 10's.

Then came Sunday and 19 cooks came to seek the next day points and it was just as hot and the barred skin judges waited in the water so they could be cool until they did their good or bad deed once again. Here are the results of the 2 days where some made it and became qualified or are just 1 point short. These will try next weekend somewhere but the scenery may not be as good due to there not being the blue water barred skin team waiting to judge

8-15-09 Sat CHILI: 32

1. Charles Breeden
2. Ron Baker
3. Lou Hewlett
4. Dee Palmer
5. Dave Hewlett
6. Eric Williams
7. Steve Heaser
8. Budda Manske
9. Larry Wampler
10. J.D. Dugan

8-15-09 SHOW:

1. Nancy Hewlett
2. Larry Wampler
3. Dee Palmer

8-15-09 BEANS 7

1. Larry Wampler


8-16-09 CHILI: 19

1. David Whitehead
2. Dave Hewlett Q
3. J.D. Dugan
4. Meredith Martin
5. T.J. Friedel
6. Steve Heaser
7. Larry Wampler
8. Jason Clark
9. Jenny Whitehead
10. Dee Palmer

8-16-09 SHOW:

1. Bill Seifert
2. Larry Wampler
3. Dee Palmer

The Following is a letter I recieved. Thanks James for taking the time to share with us.

James F. Basile
63 Pennfield Street
Springfield MA 01129
413-783-0969 or 413-222-3940

August 17, 2009

To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing today to give my support 100% to Jenny Windsor in her bid to run for the CASI Board of Directors. I have recently gotten to know her through my first involvement with CASI and my first attempt at running a Chili Cook Off here in Massachusetts. I jumped into this without having the first clue as to what I needed to do to make this a success and not make a fool of myself. Jenny came to my aid and took me under her wing. She was there to give me great advice, explain things to me and was a tremendous amount of support. I am sure without her help and guidance our first ever CASI sanctioned event in Massachusetts would have been a big failure. A great time was had by all, and so many are looking forward to next year’s event!

I believe that Jenny has what it takes to be a great representative to CASI. Her dedication and passion for this organization can only be an asset to everyone she would represent. I believe your organization can only grow and continue it’s great reputation with her guidance. Thank you for taking the time to consider my recommendation of Jenny Windsor for the Board of Directors of CASI. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like me to expand on anything specific.

Sincerely,

James Basile
Chili Cook Off Director
Middlefield Fair

From Ron Barnes:

Gratitude Salute
This is a great way to say thank you!!!!!
Gratitude Salute This is pretty neat.....(30 second video)... Have you ever seen one of our military walking past you and wanted to convey to them your thanks, but weren't sure how, or it felt awkward? Recently, a gentleman from Seattle created a gesture which couldbe used to express your thanks and has started a movement to get the word out.. Please everybody take just a moment to watch..... The Gratitude Salute....and then forward it to your friends! THEN START USING THE SIGN. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSfFYxSdKdo

I have corrected the Annual Report. Thousand Trails - Lake Tawakoni has contacted me.

Janice

To the CASI Board of Directors and Fellow Cooks,

I hereby announce my candidacy for the CASI Board of Directors. I am seeking a position on the BOD because I believe in CASI and I want to be an integral part of its growth and success. What I have to offer to CASI is my long term history with the organization, personal job experience, and my devotion to CASI’s mission.

I have been associated with CASI for over thirty years. In that time I have always been willing to help in any way I could for the benefit and success of cook-offs. Some of my duties have included, but were not limited to, helping in the judging area and being accountable for the registration at numerous cook-offs. Currently and for the past four years I have been on the Committee for The Texas Open Chili Championship managing the registration of 140 to 175 cooks. If elected Director I feel it my responsibility to fulfill any and all assignments required of me at TICC in order to achieve another successful cook-off at Rancho CASI de los Chisos.

My personal job experience consists of twenty four years as the Office Manager for my company. Through my position I have developed inter-personal skills that would be an asset as a Director. I am a great listener and believe the chili cook’s opinions are very important to the organization. I will always be available to listen to you, your idea and concerns. Whether I agree with them or not, I feel my obligation would be to present them to the Board and help in achieving a solution that works best for all. In addition, I consider myself a team player. I will work together with the BOD to meet the necessary goals and challenges of CASI while maintaining the needs and wishes of the members.

I am very passionate about CASI and dedicated in its mission to raise money for charity through the promotion of chili. As the 2006 TICC Champion I traveled to numerous states to help promote cook-offs and instill my passion in others. Today I continuously share my enthusiasm and admiration for CASI with the public. I truly believe a lot of good comes from CASI and I feel that, if elected Director, my devotion to CASI will be beneficial to its continued growth. Together we can continue to make CASI an organization we are proud of.

I welcome anyone with questions or concerns to contact me at either by phone at 713-444-5066 or by email at

dhay5@comcast.net

. I would consider it a great honor to serve as YOUR representative on the CASI Board of Directors and hope you will consider me at the Great Pepper’s Meeting in Midland. Thank you.
Dana Hay Plocheck

From Jen Windsor:


August 15, 2009 – Cooks participating in the Massachusetts State CCO held at the Middlefield Fair in Middlefield, Mass were greeted by fantastic weather and beautiful surroundings; the warm, friendly people at the event made the cooks feel welcome as they tried samples of their chili and talked of recipes and adventures in the chili world.

Current champion Susan Dean was treated as a bona fide celebrity as she and Mr. Susan cooked under the awning of fellow Texan Janita Hinds of Del Rio. At the end of the day, the consensus among the competitors and fair-goers alike was that the cook-off made a fantastic addition to the fair, which is celebrating its 154th year. Local competitors loved the idea of being able to test their recipes against those from Texas. In fact, two of our first time CASI participants were so delighted in what they experienced that they became CASI members.

A very special thanks goes out to Jim Basile, promoter and organizer of the event, whose diligence in making this cook-off a success has guaranteed its place on the CASI schedule of events for years to come. Thanks also go out to the Deans and Janita for traveling all the way from Texas to compete in Massachusetts’ first CASI State Championship and first ever CASI cook-off. We couldn’t have done it with out you!!

The Winners:
1. Susan Dean Johnson City, TX (won by 9 pts!!)
2. Alan Dean Johnson City, TX
3. Tim Lawler Arnold, MD Q (won tie breaker)
4. Jen Windsor Severna Park, MD
5. Jack Windsor Severna Park, MD
6. Janita Hinds Del Rio, TX
7. Mark Pigeon Springfield, MA Q
8. Skip Dean Becket, MA Q
9. Jim Basile Springfield, MA Q
10. Steve Stark Agawam, MA

From Raymond Pilchiek:

Pat got out of the hospital Monday around 2:00 PM. We are back home now and Pat is doing quite well,we went to our Dr. in Fredericksburg Thursday and had the last drain removed. All the wounds are healing good and the swelling on her face is starting to go down also. She is having a hard time seeing out of only one eye. We have to go back to MD Anderson next Thursday for a check up.

From Steve Nadeau:

Rusty Paske will be missed by everyone that made his acquaintance. I was fortunate enough to be one of those people and have posted some photos of Rusty from cookoff's and other events on my facebook page. They can also be accessed here:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2030667&id=1135149401&l=641bb38e8e

From Don Hoy:

I would like to thank my chili family and friends for the cards,calls and prayers I received after the recent death of my Mother.Your are truly a great organization in which I am very proud to belong.Thanks again.
Don Hoy

From Jim Ezell:

As chairman of CASI Sponsorship, I am often asked about the Tolbert Terlingua event and organization. Not having much first hand information myself, I am asking our membership to please give me some insight into any dealings and structure as they see it. I need to derive a description I can use for our information dissemination.
Thanks
Jim Ezell

NOTE: I have 3 pods that I have not had any contact with them concerning their Annual Report that was due to me by last Saturday, August 15. Those Pods are Mason Dixon Pod, and San Angelo Cookers Assoc. Thanks to all of the rest of you for getting your information in on time and mostly complete.

Janice

2nd Post for Friday:

There will be visitation & viewing for Rusty Paske Sunday 4 - 6 pm at Putnam Funeral Home in Kingsland, 145 Texas Ave, Kingsland, Texas 78639. Everyone is welcome.

I have received a message from Patsy Childress that has the following pods not registered for the Great Pepper's Meeting. Please send you registration to her today!

Here are those Pods not yet registered
ACES Pod
Alpine Chili Society
Capitol Pod
Chili Hawg Pod
Colorado Chili Pod
Casinova Pod
Green Country Chili Pod Higland Lakes Pod
Iowa Chili Pod
Mason Dixon Pod
Mo-Kan Pod
New Mexico Chili Society
Pacific Pod
Pepe’s Pod
Pod On The Perdernales Rose City Pod
Spice Up California Pod Tall In Texas Pod
Thousand Trails Whitney Virgin Pod
Cowboy Capital Chili Pod
Gladiator Pod

From Nancy Natardus:

From Larry Wampler:

This is a new CCO for the Hunt Co. Kids, this is for their Christmas Party. Bring a extra ice chest, there going to be 3 meat package on the raffle table from Gormans Meat Mkt.

Date 10/10 &10/11/09
Location 236 West Hi 276 -- West Tawakoni, TX about 6 miles East of Quinlan, TX
Name & Charity -- Sat---Hunt Co Kids Sunday American Legion Post # 517
CASI Sanctioned & Rules Both Days Meat-- Ground Beef Only
Checks--Sat--Hunt Co Kids Sunday American Legion Post # 517

Beans @ noon Sat $5.00 top 3 CASI Chili @ 1:00 PM and @ 12:00 noon Sunday $20.00 both days

Raffle table--50/50 drawing Free BBQ lunch for Chili Cks on Sat and @ Cook's party Sat nite
RSVP for Dry RV parking and maybe Cook's party Fri. nite (American Legion has 2 pool tables) and 2 other Club near by.
Contact::Larry Wampler (903) 450-5541(roadwrkcb@aol.com) or June Appler (903) 356-2789 or cell (214) 534-1622 or Tom Cope (903) 447-4247

From Bruce Smith:

We had a great turn out at VFW 9095 in Little Rock for the Ark. State Men's and Women's Chili Cookoff Saturday August 8th. Big thanks goes out to the VFW 9095 for all their help and a place to hold our cookoff. We had 30 Men's Chili and 25 Women's Chili Judged.

Arkansas State Women's Results 25 Chilis Judged

1. Anne Braud Springfield, AR.
2. Susan Hammock North Little Rock, AR.
3. Cheryl Oswalt Little Rock, AR.
4. Donna Jones Roland, AR.
5. Rita Farner Little Rock, AR.
6. Rachel Mckinney Little Rock, AR.
7. Beverly Mosley Little Rock, AR.
8. Lynn Murray Como, MS
9. Pam McGraw Little Rock, AR.
10. Patti Watkins Fort Smith, AR.

Show
1. Hillbilly Chili 2 Rheaba Goeble Ft. Smith, AR
2. Invisible Chili Karen Bailey Maumelle, AR
3. Line Gang 2 Erma Smith Ft. Smith, AR.

Arkansas State Men's Results 30 Chilis Judged

1. Bo Prewitt North Little Rock, AR
2. John Willinghoff North Little Rock, AR
3. Bill Watkins Ft. Smith, AR.
4. Steve Doss Shreveport, LA.
5. Matt Zimmerman Oppello, AR
6. Rick Williams Memphis, Tn
7. Dick Wagner Little Rock, AR
8. Tim Swicegood Maumelle, AR
9. Preston Nickle North Little Rock, AR
10. Stuart Frye Little Rock, AR

Show

1. Hillbilly Chili Steve Goeble Ft. Smith, AR
2. Cowboy Chili Bob Cagle Bigelow, AR
3. Line Gang Chili Guy Smith Ft. Smith, AR.

Note: Please keep Kelly Draper and his family in your prayers. He lost his Dad, John Gordon Draper on July 31. A Celebration of Life Service was held on Tuesday, August 4, 2009.

From Sherrie Davis:

NOTE: The Concho Valley Chili Pod CCOs scheduled for Labor Day Weekend has a change of location. Instead of being held at Ashley Furniture, they will be held at Water Valley Park.

Be sure to review the 2nd Post from Yesterday. It has the information concerning Rusty Paske's funeral. It also has the Application for a Board of Director's position from Dana Plocheck.

As of last night I have 57 returned Annual Reports. Remember that Saturday is the last day to mail your report and it not be considered late. Most of the reports are complete. The one item that has been a problem is ensuring that all of your officers to include your referees must have their dues paid until 09/30/2010. You must check the date of your membership. You can find it in CIS. Many of you think that we are on a 1 Oct to 30 Sep cycle for membership. That is not the case. Your membership date is the date that your dues are recorded by the Membership Chairman. It is the date that he receives you payment for your dues. For some of you, that means if you are an officer, you may have to pay your dues to sometime in 2011 to have your dues paid through the 30 Sep requirement.

Also remember that Saturday is the last day to Register for the Great Pepper's Meeting without being charged with a late fee. Please get your registration into Patsy Childress immediately.

One last item. If you are planning to run for a CASI Board of Director's position, your application needs to be sent to Karen Bains by Saturday, Aug 15. At the present time the following people have announced their candidacy: Dana Plocheck, Jen Windsor, Robert Schrade, Dale Reinecker, Kelly Brignon, Bill Pierson, and John Goforth.

Well, it is almost the weekend. I hope everybody has a Great Chili Weekend!! If you are still in need of points, may this be the weekend that you get them!

2nd Post for the day

From Ruby Ross:

The chili family lost another member this morning. Rusty Paske passed away at 3:15 am in the South St. David's Hospital in Austin. The funeral services will be: Monday at 11 A.M. at the Putnam Funeral Home, 145 Texas Ave, Kingsland, Texas 78639, at 11 A.M.. Burial will be at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park, 4219 Park Road 4 S Burnet, Tx. Memorials to CASI Scholarship or your choice. At this time the viewing time is not known. I will keep you posted. Fae's mailing address is: 121 McGee Road, Kingsland, Texas 78639. Please keep Fae in your prayers. Ruby

ANNOUNCEMENT: From Dana Plocheck:

From Becky Allen: (This did not get into yesterday's CCOs. It is on advertising probation)



Spring Creek BBQ Cook-Off
Aug. 14 & 15
Fossati Park
5102 N Vine Street
Victoria
IBCA & CASI sanctioned
benefits the Victoria Fair Association & the Wesley Richie Memorial Fund
FMI call 361.571.6781 (Bobby) or 361.652.3835 (Ed)

Friday: jackpot margaritas, fajitas & salsa
Saturday: Bloody Mary's, Chef's Choice, Beans, Chili, Chicken, Pork Spare Ribs, Brisket
Live Auction, Raffle & Awards



NOTE: Robbie's Swart's Grandmother passed away yesterday in Texas. Please keep Ken and Robbie and their family in your prayers.

Middlefield Fair and state Chili Cook-Off Championship this weekend

by The Republican Entertainment Desk
Wednesday August 12, 2009, 6:57 AM
By MANON L. MIRABELLI
Organizers of Middlefield's 154-year-old fair are hoping this year's first state chili championship will become an ongoing tradition and breathe new life into the historic event that attracts visitors from as far as Texas to one of the oldest agricultural fairs in New England.

James F. Basile, a former Middlefield Fair board member and the chili cook-off coordinator, says the cook-off, part of a national competition, is being brought here to help fill the fair's coffers left empty by the loss of funds traditionally provided by the state through dog and horse racing revenues.

"It got us by from year to year, but now we have to go back to the basics and have fund-raisers," Basile said.
The chili contest, he added, is being sponsored by the Chili Appreciation Society International, an organization that helps groups throughout the United States hold chili-cooking contests for charity.

"We're very excited about this," Basile said. "We've already had a tremendous response from people all over the United States. An old- fashioned country fair really draws their attention, and this is one of the oldest in New England."

The chili, he said, will be evaluated by volunteer judges based on aroma, color, taste and aftertaste. Judges, who are scheduled to meet on the fairgrounds at 10 a.m. on Aug. 15, are being sought to participate in the event, and anyone interested in sampling the contestants' culinary creations should contact Basile.

"This contest is for a traditional chili," he noted. "It can't have any beans or fillers. It's supposed to have a little kick, but it doesn't have to be kicked-up too many notches." Basile also said he and other fair organizers are hoping that the "staycation" phenomenon will result in a greater number of visitors to the fair, as well as chili cook-off contestants and judges.

"We are looking for the best chili in Massachusetts," Basile said. "The winner will be eligible to compete in the National CASI Chili Cook-off in Texas."
Registration applications, he added, will be accepted "right up until the burners are turned on."
"We will not turn anyone away," Basile said.

In addition to the chili-cooking contest, other fair highlights will include pie-baking contests, a skillet pitching contest for the women and a chainsaw tossing contest for the men, and tractor and ox pulls, as well as all-day live country western music. The gates open on Friday; a rededication of the exhibition hall, which dates back to the fair's first run in 1855 is set for Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

All proceeds from the chili contest will benefit the betterment of the fair, which is presented by the Highland Agricultural Society.

Middlefield, a community of about 200 residents in the winter months, grows to a population of up to 1,200 in the summer when many New Yorkers come to their second homes, Basile said.

NOTE: Thanks to all of you who have responded concerning the Registration for the Great Pepper's meeting. Hopefully by Sat everyone will have resolved the issue and all the registrations will be in.

I still have MANY annual reports missing. Please get them to me. I have had several emailed to me in the last couple of days. It can either be emailed or snail mail, I just need to get the information so that I can prepare for the Great Pepper's Meeting. All of the reports have been complete except for having the dues of the officers paid through Sep 30, 2010. This has meant that several individuals have had to pay 2 years worth of dues. I am hoping that this has not created a hardship for any of our members.

Have a GREAT DAY. We had rain last night and its to wet to mow so I know I will have a good day!

From Ruby Ross:

It is with much sadness that I report to you Rusty Paske is in ICU at South St David's Hospital in Austin. They transported him from LLano yesterday by ambulance. The report I received is that his kidneys and liver are not functioning properly at this time. Please keep Rusty & Fae in your thought & prayers. I will keep you updated.

From Patsy Childress

From Patsy Childress:

REGISTRATION AS OF 08/11/09

DIRECTORS Complete

PODS 42
Those Not Registered:
ACES Pod
Alpine Chili Society
Chiliheads of Arizona
Chili Hawg Pod
Colorado Chili Pod
Casinova Pod
Desert Breeze Pod
Green Country Chili Pod
Highland Lakes Pod
Iowa Chili Pod
Indiana Pepper Pod
Mason Dixon Pod
Mo-Kan Pod
New Mexico Chili Society
Pacific Pod
Pepe’s Pod
Pod On The Perdernales
Rose City Pod
San Angelo Cookers Assoc.
Sunshine State Chili Pod
Spice Up California Pod
Tall In Texas Pod
Thousand Trails Whitney
Virgin Pod

New Pods to Be Seated: No Registration
Cowboy Capital Chili Pod
Gladiator Pod

REGIONAL REFEREES 8

ALCALDE Complete

From Jen Windsor:

Hello CASI!! My name is Jenny Windsor and I am writing this letter as notice of my intent to run for the CASI BOD. I am a relative newcomer to CASI. I have been on the Chili Trail for five wonderful years. In that time I have worn many “Hats” in the CASI family.

In the beginning I was like all of us; a humble newcomer that wished to learn how to cook really great Texas Chili. I heard a great many stories about CASI and the people that spread the Chili Gospel to others like me; I knew I had to contribute more. I turned my interest to a more Local level. I had a term as Treasurer of the Mason Dixon POD. The position gave me a great deal of insight into the inner workings of a Chili Pod. I was there to experience the trials and tribulations of gathering such a diverse group of people, as well as the reward of watching an event go off successfully after putting in a lot of hard work. As Treasurer I maintained the “Business” of Mason Dixon, my position allowed me unfettered access to witness the PODs governance. I saw things I liked and things I did not care for much.

Soon after my term as Treasurer/Chili Penny there was an opportunity for me to become the Regional Referee for Maryland; this enlightened me to the need for structure within the organization and at our events. I have seen many Chili Sisters and Brethren on the Trail that make up our CASI Family. But as with every Family, there needs to be guidance and the ability to make decisions that are good for all. I see the opportunity in being a member of the BOD to help all our CASI Members to be the best Chili Heads they can through open communication and support of CASI’s vision.

While still serving CASI as Regional Referee for Maryland I was elected Pepper Popper for the Mason Dixon Pod. During this experience I started to think how I would do things differently as a Great Pepper, soon after I got a chance to “put my cards on the table”, so-to-speak. As Great Pepper of Mason Dixon I was able to build a moment of togetherness between all of the Mid-Atlantic PODs. For this to become permanent I realized that the will of one person or even the will of several MDP Board Members would not be enough to create unity. I needed the other members and Great Peppers to accept the plans that were being made. After all, it is a fine thing to want to steer the ship, but if no one is pulling on the oars you’re pretty much standing there with a stick in your hands. In working with the other Great Peppers and POD members we were able to band together to pull off a string of Cook-offs that were unprecedented in participation and earnings for charities in Maryland.

My term as Great Pepper was brief as measured against others people’s tenure. I left the POD in good financial standing, with well established cook-offs and in the hands of new cooks who assured me they would do bigger and better things for CASI and MDP. I have since returned to the Chili Trail to spread the word and to more importantly, be a chili cook.
The reason behind writing a brief History of who I am and where I come from is my way of saying what I feel the important qualifications are for being part of the BOD. In my mind it’s not enough just to have a good head for business. I could go on about how I’m the Controller of one of the largest Candy Distributors in Maryland/the Mid Atlantic. How I ride herd over millions of dollars worth of transactions a month. I could tell you that the owners think I’m doing an excellent job and that they know my dedication to the company is real. Don’t get me wrong knowing how to run a business is a very important qualification. But equally important is knowing the value of people. Understanding that everyone brings something to the table; that the ability to see the merit of someone’s ideas you may disagree with will bring unity. For all of the reasons and experiences I have had with CASI I feel that I would be able to contribute to growing the CASI family and help make the appropriate decisions to make the organization even more successful. I would be honored to serve the fine group of people that are my CASI family. Thank you for your consideration.

NOTE: Today is Aug 12 and I have only received approximately half of the Annual Pod Reports. They are due to me no later than Sat Aug 15.

It is Wednesday and time to post the CCOs for this weekend.

Aug 15, 2009-001 - Middlefield, MA CASI. Massachusetts State Championship First EVER Massachusetts State Championship to be held in conjunction with the Middlefield Fair at the Highland Ag Society's grounds,7 Bell Road. Come join us at a beautiful country setting for a down home country fair! Activities to include pie baking contests, skillet pitching contest for the women and chainsaw tossing contest for the men, Country Western bands to entertain all day long, tractor and OX pull, Clydesdales will be on hand too! Cows, horses, and all sorts of farm animals for the kids and much much more... CASI Red turn-in 2 PM, fee $20. CASI Juniors turn-in 3 PM, fee $5 Camping and hotel info to follow or check www.chili-mac.com for updates. For you chili cooks looking to add another "title" to your repertoire this is the one you have been waiting for! Contact Jen Windsor jennwindsor@gmail.com 443-878-7999. Benefits Highland Agricultural Society. Make checks payable to Middlefield Fair. This is an automatic qualifier for TICC

Aug 15, 2009-002 - 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 8:00 AM, Cooks meeting at 9:00 AM. CASI turn-in 1:00 PM. Entry fee is $20.00 make checks payable to the Indiana Pepper Pod. Other categories include: Anything Goes $15 ($10 w/CASI entry), Jr's Division $5, Salsa $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 Darin or Tonya Jester at 317-856-3231 or crazyladychili@sbcglobal.net. Proceeds from this event to benefit Maywood Manor Park Association.

Aug 15, 2009-003 - Wills Point, TX CASI. 2nd Annual Pondarosa CCO. Held at Pondarosa Resort, 32891 State Hwy 64, Wills Point, TX 75169, a clothing optional naturist resort with excellent facilities. From Dallas take I-20 East to exit 523 & turn left on Hwy 64. Go 2.7 miles, turn left into drive. Benefits Myrtle Springs Volunteer Fire Dept. Entry fee $20, turn-in 1 PM. Jackpot Beans $10, 50/50 drawing, raffle prizes, showmanship. Pot Luck Dinner at 6:30pm, $6. Live Band later. Day fees waived for cooks and 1 guest. See website www.pondarosaresorts.com for more details. Contact Pondarosa office for rentals, pull throughs, and overnight camping reservations at 903-865-1104 Contact Gayle for CCO info at hlmglm@aol.com with CCO in the subject line please.

Aug 15, 2009-004 - Alpine, AZ CASI. 14th Annual Alpine POD Chili CCO. Held at the Alpine Rodeo Grounds Dry camping. Entry fee $18.00. Other events: BBQ, Spam and People's Choice. For more information contact: Dick Seehusen, 928-339-1840 or alpineinn@frontiernet.net.

Aug 15, 2009-005 - Midland, TX CASI. 2009 Great Pepper's Meeting CCO Held at Legacy Harley Davidson, 12100 W Hwy 90. Dry camping. Entry fee $18, turn-in 2 PM. Make checks payable to Black Gold Pod. CHILI GRIND ONLY. Contact Patsy Childress, 432-520- 4433, 432-425-4473 or email patsy@t3wireless.com.

Aug 15, 2009-006 - Red River, NM CASI. Hot Chili Days/Cool Chili Nights. The event will be held once again in Brandenburg Park, 101 West River Street in downtown Red River The weekend event also includes the Larry Joe Taylor Music Festival New this year: RV parking will be available around park. Benefits Red River Valley Charter School. Entry Fee $15 for CASI Red or Green, $10 additional fee for Green if already cooking CASI Red, other categories will also be available for additional fee. Make checks payable to the Colorado Chili Pod. For chili cookoff information, please contact: John Montgomery at 1670 Broadway, Suite 3000, Denver, CO 80202. 303-831-5000 or e-mail coloradochili@aol.com. For Red River information, please check www.red river.org or call 877-885-3885

Aug 16, 2009-001 - Addison, IL CASI. Medinah Chili Cookoff. Held at Medinah Shriners, 550 N Shriners Dr. Take I-355 to Army Trail, go West on Army Trail to Swift Road, turn Right on Swift Road, go 1 block, Shrine center on Right. Entry fee $25, turn-in 2 PM. Make checks payable to Medinah Shriners. Cooks meeting 10 AM, open 7 AM. Contact Ray Billock, Perfect Promotions, 11 N Skokie Hwy, Suite G14, Lake Bluff IL 60044. 847-295-6990, email ray@promoman.net. CHILI GRIND ONLY.

Aug 16, 2009-002 - St Thomas,VI CASI. 2009 Texas Society of the Virgin Islands. Held at #2 John Brewer Bay/UVI Campus. Entry fee $25. turn-in Noon. Make check payable to Texas Society of the Virgin Islands. Automatic qualifier for TICC. Contact Erik Ackerson P.O. Box 306926 St ThomasVI 00803. 1-800-524-2061, 340-473-8706. Benefits Queen Louise Home for the Aged, American Red Cross, Dial-A-Ride,St Thomas Rescue, V.I Institute for the Performing Arts The Family Resource Network.

Aug 16, 2009-003 - Wills Point, TX CASI. No Frills Sunday Cookoff. Held at Pondarosa Resort, 32891 State Hwy 64, Wills Point TX. 75169. See cookoff previous day.Turn-in Noon. Entry fee $20. Benefits C.L.A.W.S Contact Gayle HLMGLM@aol.com. This is a clothing optional event.

An Addition to today's blog.

I made a typo on today's blog. It is Jen Windsor instead of Jan.

From Bud Barrick:
The members of the Pod of the Pass would like to invite everyone to a pot luck dinner at the American Legion on Shell Drive following Patsy's memorial. It will be served at 4:00 p.m.

From Tonya Jester:

From Diane Stimson:

ATTENTION!!!! To ALL who will be attending TICC this year you may think this is to early to be asking but it is not we need gate volunteers!!!!!!!! So if you are interested in helping again this year or have never done it and want to help please email me at Winksintexas@aol.com I will also be at the GPM we will need all shifts covered again this year......we can never have too many people helping.................Thanks in advance!

From Larry Wampler:

Sat Aug 1st we had 32 CASI cooks---3 firehouse challenge cooks and 15 bean cooks. We raised $1125 for the ASFVD

CASI Cooks-- 8/01
1 Theresa Peters-- Shreveport LA
2 Larry Russell-- Shreveport LA
3 Beth Baxter-- Grand Prairie TX
4 Ron Baker-- Ennis TX
5 Susan Spencer-- Irving TX
6 Jerry Hunt-- Shreveport LA
7 Doodie Johnson-- Irving TX
8 David Hewlett-- Murphy TX
9 Judy Russell-- Shreveport LA
10 Mark Martin-- Dallas TX

Show-- 7 teams
1 Flipped Out Chili-- Shawn Fulton-- Telephone TX
2 Firehouse Chili-- Cheryl Wells-- Terrell TX
3 Old Red 76-- Renee Griffin-- Arp TX

Beans--15 cooks
1 David Hewlett-- Murphy TX
2 Vicky Esford-- Trinity TX
3 Larry Russell-- Shreveport LA

Firehouse Challenge
1 Mark Spencer--Irving TX (Babs & Doodie Johnson's son-in law)
2 Sandy Cleer--Mesquite TX
3 Rick Adams-- Terrell TX

Sunday 8/02-- 23 CASI Cooks
1 Jena Whitehead-- Dallas TX
2 Meredith Martin-- Dallas TX
3 Lydia Alexander-- Shreveport LA
4 David Whitehead-- Dallas TX
5 Ray Calhoun-- Waxaahachie TX
6 Ron Baker-- Ennis TX
7 David Hewlett-- Murphy TX
8 Ginny Williams-- Irving TX
9 Larry Wampler-- Terrell TX
10 Glen Horne- Shreveport LA

Show--
1 Firehouse Chili-- Cheryl Wells-- Terrell TX
2 Native Chili-- James Gowins-- Kaufman TX
3 Roadwarrior's Roadkill Chili Brew-- Larry Wampler-- Terrell TX
Thanks to everyone that came out, that cooked and helped with the CCO.

From Patsy Childress:

From Shirley Bates:

Announcement from Jen Windsor: