MONDAY - April 30, 2007

Moms of Military District Chili Cookoff

Patriotism was the theme of the day last Saturday at the 1st Annual Moms of Military District Chili Cookoff. The venue was the parking lot of the National Guard Armory adjacent to Fairmount Park in Riverside, CA. A warm day was anticipated with temperatures close to the 90's predicted. We were lucky that we were able to set up our booth under one of the big, old trees bordering the venue.

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This was a first effort at organizing a cookoff for Russ and Judy Barnes, who have been actively cooking in Southern California for about three years. They brought a few fresh ideas to the event, combined with some tried and true suggestions from Mike Austin and Bill Ray. They also had excellent support from the Moms of Military/Gold Star Mothers Groups, American Legion Post 155 and various local friends and coworkers. Four or five different bands performed, and we were told that all of them donated their time.

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Before noon the venue was filled to overflowing with activities. The Old Farts Racing Team combined with the Over the Hill Gang brought a great display of classic cars and trucks. A group led by George Olivos had an impressive display of classic motorcycles, although the Legacy Vets were some of the first motorcycles to arrive. A very talented gunfighter group performed for the pleasure of the spectators. Just before noon we were all called to the stage where a trio of young girls led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. This was followed by a very creditable performance of the National Anthem by ten-year-old Jacquelyn Savell. Then down to the serious business of cooking chili.

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At the end of the day the winners were:

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People's Choice Chili: "Hooker's Chili", a brand new, first-time cook

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Booth and Showmanship: Charlie Blosfield's "Fired-Up Chili". Charlie cooked chicken legs on his wood pellet barbecue and gave them away to all comers. Pretty hard to beat that for showmanship!

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The salsa contest did not have enough entries for a qualifier, but a very nice trophy was won by Tom Clarke.

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Chili Verde (7 entries):

3rd, Charlie Blosfield

2nd, Tom Clarke

1st, Karen Ray-----finally!!

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Traditional Red Chili (12 entries):

3rd, Red Brecke

2nd, Eileen Beaty

1st, Mike Hulka, whose second District win in as many weeks advances him to the World's Championship!

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Russ and Judy want to express their gratitude to all of the cooks and judges who came to support their event.

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