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 Whether you like chili mild, hot, spicy, or sweet,
you can find almost any kind to your taste at the annual event held
the final weekend of the Logan County Fair.
Last year, the event was named in memory of Doug DeMay who was in
charge of the cook-off for many years. After DeMay's passing, Doug
Ritterbush, a longtime veteran of the cook-off, took the helm, and
continues to head up the cook-off.
This year's cook-off had eleven participants.
For several entrants, the cook-off is part of their
fair tradition and a family affair, with even “little chefs”
helping. For a few teams, it was their first time entering the
contest.
Contestants use a variety of seasonings, spices, meats, and beans to
give their chili its own unique flavor.
As the chili bubbled, friendly rivals joked around about who had the
best chili.
People sampling the chilis described some as spicy
and others as sweet with a little bit of a kick.
A dozen judges sampled each chili and deliberated over the scores.
After the judges sampled the various chilis and made
their decision, Ritterbush read the results. To honor DeMay's
memory, Ritterbush had everyone raise their drinks between
announcing each prize.
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 This year's winners received plaques and the top
team will have its name on a plaque that will be placed in the fair
office.
Winners of the chili cook-off included:
Brett and Janna Conrady, first place and people’s
choice. Ritterbush said besides having their name on a plaque, they
received a $200 check and $50 cash left over after Chris Graue
donated the plaque.
Tom Ashley, second place and best presentation.
Dave Eyrse, third place.
Ritterbush said that next year, the money raised for the people’s
choice award will go to a charity of the winner’s choosing.
[Angela Reiners]
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