University of St. Thomas Chaplain Fr. Mike Buentello, CSB, is once again gathering together his Holy Smoke Team to challenge the UST community at the 2nd Annual Chili Cook-off from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 11 on the Academic Mall. Proceeds from the Chili Cook-off will go toward the Campus Ministry-sponsored World Youth Day pilgrimage to Spain next summer.

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to start forming teams and dusting off their favorite chili recipes in preparation. Contestants must prepare a minimum of four quarts of homemade chili, made with either beef or pork.

“No beans, no canned chili, and no road kill will be allowed,” Fr. Mike said.

Two categories of awards will be given to the winning chili teams. The first is the People’s Choice award. Non-participating UST community members can pay $2 for 10 tickets to sample all of the chilis and vote for their favorites. The second is being given by a judging panel. First, second, and third place trophies will be given for each category.

Set up and cooking will begin at 9 a.m. and must be completed by noon when the judging and tasting begins. The award ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m.

The entry fee for the competition is $20. The deadline for team registration is November 10. Interested teams should contact Campus Ministry at http://campusministry@stthom.edu for more information and to register.

Photo illustration by Sister Mary Roberta Connors.