Cal Lanouette
Staff Writer
Chili Fest began over 15 years ago and has been stamped as a Turkey Day tradition, and it’s a great way for everyone to stay warm and get ready for the coming day’s football game.
Also the Chili Fest is a way for the aspiring chefs from around the Webster area to show off their chili at this annual event.
“It is a fun and festive celebration of friendship, tradition and community spirit,” said Chili Fest co-chair 2012 Diane Marie Key-Biggs.
The restaurants taking part in the Chili Fest this year are Weber’s Front Row, CJ Muggs, Dr. Jazz Ice Cream Parlor & Diner, The Block Restaurant & Butcher Shop, Milagro Modern Mexican, Llywellyn’s Pub, Highway 61, Big Sky Café and Southwest Diner.
“We have a new energetic chef at Big Sky and amazing chef from The Block restaurant ready to give Llewellyn’s a run for their money,” said Key-Biggs. “Llywellyn’s has won several years running with their delicious chicken chili.”
“I am excited to try the vegetarian chili but am happy with just a good bowl of old fashion spicy Texas chili,” said Sandy Stewart, Chili Fest coordinator.
The Chili Fest normally raises around $5,000-$10,000 each year.
“All of our fund raisers are fun and community oriented. However, Chili Fest does raise the most money for the school,” said Stewart.
“The Chili Fest goal this year is to make over $5,000,” said Key-Biggs.
The profit of the Chili Fest goes towards the Senior Lock-in party at the end of the year for the graduating seniors, money for scholarships for the graduating seniors, teacher grants for teacher appreciation days and miscellaneous projects or events for all the students.
The Chili Fest was the night before Turkey Day in the PV commons at the high school, from 5-7 p.m. tickets were $8, and this allowed visitors to taste all of the chili.
“It is an inviting celebration for all of the Webster alumni, neighbors and WGSD families,” said Key-Biggs. “It also gives moms a night off from cooking, especially fixing dinner the night before Thanksgiving!”
