One of the hidden jewels of Huntsville is the Josey Scout Lodge, which serves as a home to the Huntsville units of the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of the USA. The structure was built in 1934, and for almost nine decades it has graced the Huntsville community.
But for the last two years, it has also served as home to “Chilly at the Lodge,” a fundraiser and fun-raiser for the community.
The core aspect of Chilly at the Lodge is a national chili contest, with contestants from across the country bringing their best chili-game to Huntsville, TX.
It’s a competitive group, too: seven of this year’s applicants are national chili champions.
Karla Christian is the logistical manager and all-around workhorse behind this event, but it receives much help from others as well: Gene Roberts, Tom Rogers, Leanne Woodward, and numerous volunteer judges.
The presence of familiar faces reinforces the community nature of the event.
The presence of entertainment, some local, some more distal, adds variety and fun. And the presence of the world’s best chili-makers adds–literally and figuratively–adds spice to the event.
Speaking of which, the winners for Saturday’s event were:
For People’s Choice, the Saturday finishers were: (3) Mac Walker, (2) David Gray, and (1) Scott Williams.
For Community Youth, the Saturday finishers were: (3, tie) Michelle Rush, (3, tie) Carson’s Mill, (2, tie) Spice Men, (2, tie), Chili Dogs, and (1) East meets West.
For Community Adult, the Saturday’s finishers were: (3) Glenn Frey, (2) Wesley Campus Ministry, and (1) David Gray.
For the International Chili Society official contests:
Salsa: (3) Mary Parker, (2) Scott Williams, and (1) Mac Walker.
Chili Verde: (3) Chuck McCory (who generously donated his winnings back to the Josey Lodge), (2) Louis Gonzales, and (1) Mary Parker.
Homestyle: (3) Kelly Walker, (2) Roger Folks, and (1) Barbara Herron
Red Chili: (3) Brandon Marshall, (2) David Lazarus, and (1) Roger Foltz.
The event brought some great entertainment to Huntsville, gave some chili cooks a chance to show off their skills, allowed the community to come together for a good cause, and, of course, raised some funds for the non-profit Josey Scout Lodge, making it a winner of a weekend!
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 