175 people sampled the entries at the St Luke Chili Cook-Off

The First Annual St Luke Knights of Columbus Chili Cook-Off was held on Saturday, October 23, at St Luke Parish, 322 N 175 in Shoreline, and judging by the enthusiasm of the crowd, St Luke has created a new tradition.

Enjoying the evening.  Photo by Debra Ricard

175 people attended the event, sponsored by the St Luke Chapter of Knights of Columbus. There were sixteen chili entries with flavors ranging from mild to hot, sweet to savory, red meat to chicken, beans or no beans, and red to green sauce base. 

St Luke Bluegrass Group entertains the crowd. Photo by Kristie Herbord

The St Luke Bluegrass Group entertained the crowd while everyone did their best to taste all sixteen entries. To round out the meal, organizers provided hot dogs, corn bread, and brownies, along with sodas and beers.

The contestants were: Steve Amos, Justin Bell, Rob Carver, Ingrid Falip, John Halvorson, Kristie Herbord, Anna Murphy, Jimmy Norton, Ed Pesik, Debra Ricard, Fernand Ricard, Ed Rogan, Michael Tita, Joe Wartinger, and brothers Hill Williams and Tom Williams.

Winners and judges.  Photo by Debra Ricard

The judges included St Luke principal, Christopher Sharp; Chef and Owner of de Boer Catering, LLC, Jan de Boer; St. Luke Preschool teacher, Cindy Lustovsky; Chef and Wine expert, Chris Mohn; and Caterer and Gourmet Cook, Lisa Drivenes.

Trophy and Medal winners.  Photo by Kristie Herbord

Three Trophies were awarded:

• 1st - Ed Rogan
• 2nd - Tom Williams
• 3rd - Hill Williams

A People's Choice award went to John Halvorson.

The Judges also awarded their own personal medal winners to Steve Amos, Anna Murphy, Michael Tita, and two to Ed Rogan.

The event was organized by Larry and Anna Murphy, Tom and Dawna Williams, and Paul and Kristie Herbord. 

They say, "Save the date: Saturday, October 22, 2011, for the Second Annual Chili Cook-Off!"