The CHN seems to have become a little stagnant. It’s time to make things a little more dynamic and I think I’ve progressed far enough to begin some discussion on this website. At a recent cookoff, someone said to me, ‘you must feel like you’re in heaven because you were in hell.’ Well, that’s not entirely true, but as ED, I often had to communicate BOD positions or defend rules technicalities that I did not completely agree with. As a BOD member, I was obligated to stand as part of a united front and be part of the consensus view. I had to ignore the petty sniping amongst those on the Board with personal agendas and egos that influenced their actions.

I often said that I hated the chili politics, and that was 100% true. Nevertheless, I do believe that every person who benefits from and participates in CASI cookoffs has an obligation to give back and serve the collective effort with whatever talents they have. I did my part, though I continue to serve as a Great Pepper and promoter of cookoffs.

I tease about studying at the halfway house for retired Directors, but it does take some time to decompress, to learn to enjoy going to cookoffs, and to be exposed to the political discussions without running away screaming. I’m making progress and I think we’re ready for some constructive discussion. I look forward to be able to finally express my personal opinion instead of keeping quiet or always stating the party line.

CASI is going through a bit of an upheaval right now with retirements and resignations. There are a lot of changes going on that we might examine. There are quite a few ongoing issues that have never been discussed. CASI can benefit from shining our light on these topics in a fair, positive way. Therefore, I plan to start writing a series of editorials. Some will be sincere and some may be playing the role of devil’s advocate. I’ll entertain “letters to the editor” and print all those that have merit. Having merit does not mean just those that agree with me. We won’t have a gripe session. CASI needs our constructive input and direction.

I have a number of topics already in mind to write about. If you have something you wish to be discussed, please send suggestions.

Stay tuned. The first editorial should be here in couple of days.

NEWS

“ATTN: Chili Cooks, I have been getting phone calls and emails about the H-E-B Ground Beef for Chili ( 75/25 ) telling me that they are not able to get it at their H-E-B. The Market Managers are telling them they no longer carry it or can't get it. This statement is not true. If you need the meat and your store is telling you they no longer carry it, please give me a call or email me with the store location and who you spoke with. I'm working on getting this corrected. In the mean time I will be coming to SOTPOD cook off next week end and I will be happy to take your order and bring it to you. The cost is $2.88 per pack or $34.56 per case. BUT PLEASE, have your order to me by next Tuesday. After that I can't promise you will get your meat. I know some of you don't use the 75/25, so if you want the 80/20 I can and would be happy to bring it to you.The 80/20 is $2.79 per pack or $33.48 per case. I'm sorry for the inconvenience and I will get this corrected soon.My cell 254-855-4733 email Dangergail@aol.com or call Dianne @ 254-855-2767.Thank you.” Donna Conrad

“Please welcome a new spoon to the mix. I am referring to the Dale Reinecker announcement on his intention to seek election to the BOD.

Doris and I had approached Dale in the past concerning our desire to see him
seek election to the BOD.

It is refreshing to see a candidate that has this commitment to CASI. Being willing to go against the grain and question the status quo. To openly question the direction the BOD has taken in its’ organization is something that has not taken in the past. New candidates have normally taken the position of being non-specific as to what they have in mind for CASI.

Dale is very well qualified and would be an asset to the Board of Directors.” Bob and Doris Coats

RESULTS and UPCOMINGS

“The City of Commerce has scheduled the 7th Annual Cowhill Chili Fest and BBQ Cook-Off for 2010 on April 17, 2010.” Marty Cunningham

POTPOURRI

Happy Birthday to Nancy Spinks and Marty Wells.

“When I was born I was so surprised I didn't talk for a year and a half.” - Gracie Allen

News items and pictures for the CHN can be emailed to pepperdean@ctesc.net