The Cave-Applesauce Chili Cook Off began in 2007 and was the brain child of Mason Cave and his friend & sister-in-law Denise Landers (aka Applesauce). It was (and still is) a fund raising event to help “Team Cave” in their Breast Cancer fund raising endeavors.

Back in 2007 Roberta Landers (Denise’s mom & Mason’s mother-in-law) was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. And it delights us all to say “Roberta kicked Cancers ASS!” She’s also a hell of a Chili Chef. . . and THAT is how this whole thing got started. Pretty much a word-of-mouth event that gathers friends and family together for a good time and a great cause. Mason tells me “Next year will be bigger and better!” (I have no doubt!)

And yes, yours truly is a big fan and fellow Chili Chef. I’ve participated in all four so far. The best I ever did was 2^nd place. The best Team Cave-Applesauce ever did was . . . win the damn thing each and every time!

Each year (and this year it was ALL the talk) whispers and rumors could be heard throughout the gathered crowd of chili swilling connoisseurs “what the hell is up with Mason and Denise winning each year?!?” Knowing them both, I can assure you all that there is no fixing going on. It’s all on the level, straight up voting and counting…. And that’s the part that really stings it seems.

This year, we have a new sheriff in town! Mr. Burl Seaton is this years Champion Chili Chef <and the crowd goes wild!> It did our hearts good to witness Mason and Denise hand over their prized trophy to him. (It’s like the Stanley Cup, gets passed from champion to champion) Once you win, you MUST return next year to defend your title…. Burl, I’m gunnin’ for ya next year pal – And you’re goin’ DOWN!

I never asked (and he never told) what made his chili so damn good. Here is my take on it: It had a very unique flavor to it. There was a spice used that gave it a Greek quality. I’m suspecting either lamb or venison was used as the meat. So, if the Greeks made chili, this is what it would taste like. (did you use beer in it Burl? <you don’t have to tell>)

Second Place: Mr. Dan Ersery

Third Place: It was a tie between Ms. Missy Larson and yours truly Harry Conlon.

And our dear friend Roberta Landers would like to add the following:

“Harry, thank you so much for the great job reporting on the cook off.  We had a final total of $1,150.00 raised this year.  The funds will be turned in to the “Peoria Relay for Life” at next weeks team captain meeting.  We will be adding the funds we raise at this weekends garage sale at Gloria’s house, 17024 N 42nd Ave (Just North of Bell Rd) I hope we don’t get rained out.

Love you,

Thanks to everyone for their support!!!!!”

Next year, hopefully the Tums people would like to come on board as sponsors! (I hope – Geez-Louise)

To those who attended: Got any good pics from the cook off? Send em’. I’ll post em!

baconfrying@gmail.com