Champl returns to reclaim chili title

Judges for Saturday’s 19th annual Dick Driml Chili Cook-off at McCook Community College go to work sampling the soups of eight contestants who braved the winter weather. Judges included (from left): Rachel Bashor, Ross Stewart, Jesse Stevens, Josh and Darcie Keenportz. The event helps raise funds for the MCC Music Department. For the second year in a row, Chis Smith’s chili received the top prize.

MCC Photo

McCOOK, Neb. — For the second year in a row, Chris Smith brought home the top prize at McCook Community College’s 19th annual Dick Driml Chili Cook-off, to benefit the MCC Music Department. Despite the weather, fans of basketball and chili finished off all eight roasters of chili, with nearly 400 people served.

For the first time ever, the chili cook-off was combined with Veteran’s Appreciation Day and MCC officials were pleased that 16 Veterans and their families were guests in the VIP suite and recognized for their service to our country. They were also treated to free chili as part of Saturday’s events, held in conjunction with the women’s and men’s basketball games. Both teams picked up wins over Lamar Community College.

It was the fourth time in four years Smith has brought home a trophied ladle for his chili creations. The second place award went to Bill and Jade Lesko (Citta Deli), third place to Brian Obert and Team Obert. Bill Sailors won the People’s Choice Award.

Veterans were the honored guests Saturday at McCook Community College and wave to the crowd from the VIP suites after being acknowledged at the MCC basketball games. Sixteen veterans gathered in the VIP room for coffee, cake, camaraderie and a free bowl of chili.

MCC Photo

Judges for the competition included: Rachel Bashor, Ross Stewart, Jesse Stevens, Josh and Darcie Keenportz.

In addition, Phi Beta Lambda supplied several tables full of desserts for purchase and for auction.