4 March 2023, American Legion Chili Cook Off

The American Legion Post 170, Auxiliary Unit 170 and Sons of the American Legion Squadron sponsored its first chili cook off on Saturday, March 4, Lange Hall at Hope Lutheran Church. The entire community was invited to attend.
     The fun started at noon as the chili chefs brought their treasures for the competition. Attendees ranged from little kids to big kids, they all became “judges” of the eleven different flavors, including pork chili, beef and pork chili, red chili, green chili with beans, some were spicy, some were mild. After tasting each chili, the “judges” voted for their favorite and then settled down to a full bowl of their tasty choice.
     The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 170 complemented the chili with their bake sale. Items included cookies, chocolate treats, brownies, pumpkin bread, cake pops, and cupcakes just to name a few. Sons of the American Legion Squadron sold sodas and water to complete lunch.
     Chili chefs came from all three groups as well as our community family and friends.   One team of chefs were husband and wife competing against each other. Guess who won??!!
    Trophies were presented for 3rd, 2nd and 1st prizes, along with refund of their entry fees and they already head up on the list of cooks for the NEXT Chili Cook Off. Trisha Schoenfelder won third prize but by no way was it a less tasty delicacy. Marilyn Kieffer won 2nd prize with another fabulous chili and Marilyn Kieffer won 1st prize. YES that’s right, she won 1st and 2nd a double batch of outstanding chili.   We say Marilyn is the “Queen of Chili.” Congratulations to all entries because they were all winners. The veterans were the real winners because all proceeds go to The Legion, Auxiliary and Sons program for Veterans, Affairs and Rehab. These programs are available to any veteran, widow or family in Custer County. VA & R are Americanism programs.
     Special thank you for everyone that had a chili entry, all the “judges” and all who worked really hard to make this event happen. Everyone had a “rootie, tootie” good day.

Carol Kennedy, The American Legion Post 170 Westcliffe Jr. Vice Commander/Chaplain