Participants, Tasters Welcome to Attend Fourth Annual Chili Cookoff

FORT WORTH, Texas (NNS) -- The 4th Annual Interservice Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by the Marine Corps League's Bluebonnet Detachment 817 is slated to take place at VFW 8235, April 30.

"If you are not a chili aficionado, you will be by the time you leave," said Jason McManus, Bluebonnet Det. commandant.

The event, held every year on the lawn behind VFW 8235 at 5333 White Settlement Road, continues to grow, said Cindy Norcross, vice president, Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Branch 11. She said the first two years there were only six or seven entries, but last year there were more than 16 entries.

"I am really looking forward to see how many come out this year," she added.

Norcorss' group is the current holder of the Captain's Cup, a silver engraved cup awarded by Capt. T.D. Smyers, Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base commanding officer, who is a judge each year.

"FRA Branch 11 has won the Captain's Cup two times," Norcross said. "I always make up a huge stock pot of chili, and last year came home with none because people came back and asked for bowls and containers of it to take home. I'm not bragging, I'm just saying. Okay, so I am bragging a little bit."

The event will kick-off with an opening ceremony at about 8:50 a.m., which will include the National Anthem and presentation of the colors.

"Live music will be by Mr. Kim O'Connor — The Modern Singing Cowboy," McManus said.

McManus describes the event as "a big neighborhood picnic."

"We come out to have fun, camaraderie, friendly competition and maybe swap a sea story or two," McManus said.

Although this event is not a Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI) event, McManus said, the rules are fairly broad. Cookoff rules dictate that participants must cook on site, and may use portable gas or butane burners to get the job done.

As far as ingredients, Norcross said anything is welcome, but recalls that "the 'pork and curry chili' entry the first year did not fare well at all."

The chili is judged on aroma, red color, consistency and aftertaste, McManus said.

"A lot of groups bring extras like crackers, chopped onions, jalapeños and shredded cheese as toppings for their chili," Norcross said.

Participants will vie for the much-coveted Captain's Cup, Judge's Choice and the People's Choice awards. Additionally, participants may win the Best Booth award or the Best Participation award.

Friends and family of the chili cooks are encouraged to buy "tasting tickets," which gives them a sample of several different chilis.

Funds raised will help with several Marine programs, including Warrior Breakfast, Simper Fidelis lunches, Marine Family Days, Retirement/Change of Command/Post and Relief ceremonies, Toys for Tots logistical support and support of other organizations supporting Marines.

"It's very relaxed; stay for a little while or all day," McManus said. "You may want to bring a chair. If you just want to come out and listen to music, that's okay too."

For more details call 817-692-6086.

For more news from Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, visit www.navy.mil/local/nasjrbfw/.