Village of Palos Park Crowns Winners Of 'It's Chili In The Park'

PALOS PARK, IL — Palos Park was the hottest place to be in the south suburbs last weekend as cooks throughout the Midwest competed in the village's annual CASI-certified “It’s Chili in the Park.”

Twenty-two cooks hailing from the south suburbs, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Iowa vied for awards and ultimate bragging rights in the red chili and traditional-style categories. Residents were also invited to a tasting of the entries and to cast their votes for the people’s choice winner.

Taking first place was CASI member Tracy Hoffman, of Adams, Wisconsin.

Winning first place for showmanship was Debra Hunt, of Dolton, whose table was decorated with various chef heads and other chili memorabilia.

Taking people’s choice honors was Palos Park-resident Jay Vincent, who serves on the village’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

The Chili Appreciation Society International, or CASI, is a global community of chili cooks, fans and volunteers who believe in friendship, fun and giving back. The organization strives to promote chili as America's “official” dish while raising money for local charities and scholarships.

Hopefully, people picked up a few ideas for their Super Bowl chili.