Getting to judge last year’s Wilderness Trail Distillery’s Charity Chili Cook Off with former UK All-American punter Max Duffy, left, was a real treat. (Lacy Robinson Photo)
I have to admit that Saturday is one of my favorite days of the year. No, it’s not because Kentucky is playing Vanderbilt in Nashville. It’s because once again I get to help judge the Wilderness Trail Distillery’s Charity Chili Cook Off.
Proceeds benefit the Danville Kiwanis’ programs not only for youth but also for senior citizens and that makes it a bit unique. The Kiwanis use the proceeds for year-round projects such as back to school supplies, gifts of new clothing, coats, shoes and small toys for children during the holidays. They also treat several local senior citizens with a luncheon and small gifts during the holidays.
Individuals supported by the Kiwanis during this time are not served by any other groups and proceeds from this event help the Kiwanis Club in Danville share joy during the holiday season and throughout the year.
This year’s event has 24 entries and it’s always fun to taste the variety of entries and how different cooks approach fixing chili.
The panel of judges this year includes three local school superintendents — Elmer Thomas of Danville Schools, Mark Wade of Boyle County and Will Begley of Burgin Schools. The other judge will be Boyle County soccer/softball coach Brian Deem.
We have specific criteria — color, aroma, meat texture and consistency, blend of spices and taste to rate the entries and come up with the top three chilis.
Tickets for the event — where you can sample all the chili entries — are $10. Our judging starts at 11:20 a.m. and winners should be announced by 2:30 p.m.
There will be horse and wagon rides available along with music by DJ Jay.
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Wilderness Trail Distillery is located at 4095 Lebanon Rd., Danville. For more information go to wildnernesstrailky.com.
