Chili-wise, some like it hot, some do not

Like the biblical story of the loaves and the fishes, there was no shortage of food Saturday at St. Thomas More Catholic School.

The Elgin Knights of Columbus held their 10th annual Chili for Charity cook-off competition, with 50 recipes vying for a $400 first prize.

Some recipes, like Scott Duffer's "Fire in the Hole" chili, sent tasters reaching for multiple glasses of water.

"That should have come with a warning," said judge Jim Hallock, an Elgin resident and longtime chili judge.

Others concoctions had a different sort of kick. Sean Morgan of Elgin said he added three Coronas and a cup of tequila to his "no name chili."

Judy LoBianco Nelson said her mild chili recipe has never won any awards in nine years of participation.

"I've never won anything, but I'm a good sport. I like to come back for the fun," she said.

Proceeds benefited St. Laurence, St. Joseph, St. Mary and St. Thomas More Catholic schools, the Elgin Soup Kitchen and Elgin youth sports programs.

"Over the past 10 years, we've raised about $40,000," said Marshall Spangler, a Knight and event organizer.

Between 500 and 600 people attended the cook-off, Spangler said.

State Rep. Ruth Munson and Elgin media personality Jeff Myers, who served as judges, presented awards to the top three recipes. Cathy Schuck took the $400 prize for her "Hot Rod Chili." Kathy Konishi and Patrick Brown placed second and third, respectively.

Awards also were given for best student chili recipe and best presentation.

"It's a real feel-good event that's just caught on," Spangler said.