Winning the top three places at the annual Chamber Chili Cookoff were, from left, Luis Rodriguez, second, and also the People’s Choice winner; sisters Jasmine and Keylee Johnson, first; and Andre Rodriguez, third. Contest coordinator Jack Schieder said this year was the first time one of the place winners was also the People’s Choice winner. (Johnson Publications photo)
Contestant Barb Prottsman serves up some of her chili to Theresa Schilke and daughter Jenna Rodriguez at last week’s contest. (Johnson Publications photo)
Chili chefs vie for title
Tasters enjoyed both spicy and mild concoctions at the sixth annual Chili Cookoff, sponsored last Thursday by the Imperial Chamber of Commerce.
Nine contestants vied for the first, second and third place honors chosen by judges, as well as a People’s Choice award winner, picked by the public.
After judging was complete, people were invited in to taste test the creations, and enjoy some of the special efforts some contestants took to enhance their presentations.
In the end, a pair of elementary students at Chase County Schools took first place honors. Keylee and Jasmine Johnson took first place with their “Best Damn Chili in the Whole Wide World” entry.
The sisters, in third and fifth grades, provided both a mild and spicy version of their recipe to tasters, according to their dad, Ryan Johnson.
As the first place winners, they received $50 in Chamber Bucks and a coffee mug.
Second place went to Luis Rodriguez, who created a chili that featured smoked beef and venison that had a tasty barbecue flavor. He won $25 in Chamber Bucks and a mug.
Luis’ chili was also picked the People’s Choice winner. For that honor, he received an embroidered apron.
Third place went to Andre Rodriguez, Luis’ brother. His was a very spicy recipe with a real kick. He received $15 in Chamber Bucks and a mug.
Judges for the selection of first, second and third were Johnny Miller, Eric Exum, Justin Owings, Jody Fenwick and Jake Francis.
Jack Schnieder coordinated the contest for the Chamber. He encouraged everyone attending to mark June 23 on their calendar’s for the Chamber’s annual Smokin’ on Broadway this summer.