Saturday, April 11th, the Historic Crown King Saloon hosted the 10th Annual Spring Chili Cook-Off. It was no surprise that lots of chili lovers braved the dusty trail to sample fine chili and cold beers. There were 13 entries this year, all of which were delicious! The judges complained that they had difficulty choosing the winners. The weather was perfect, the town was bustling and the chili lovers were not disappointed. After the dust settled, there were four winners. The coveted, Peoples Choice award and $140 went to Scott Streich’s FAT HEAD CHILI #1. Scott’s chili was made with cut tri-tip and had no beans. Third Place Award and $100 went to Sonja Streich’s TWISTED CHILI #6. Sonja made her chili with ground tri-tip and beans. Second Place Award and $125 went to M.M.B. CHILI #8 entered by Dennis Fraker & Barbara Vasquez. Their chili was made with ground beef and applewood smoked bacon. His girlfriend, Barbara, had no idea what M.M.B meant. After accepting their award, Dennis pulled out a diamond ring and proposed to Barbara. Seems that M.M.B. stood for Marry Me Barbara! There is more on this story below. Finally, 1st Place Award and $165 went to BEARDS & MEAT #9 entered by Ivan Brnilovich and Justin Miller. Their secret ingredient was “Unicorn?, and smoked meat excellence.” Congratulations to all the winners! Thanks to all the contestants as well. You helped make this year’s Spring Chili Cook-off the best ever!
The town was brimming with vehicles & pedestrians all day. While there was plenty of action at the Saloon, the other businesses remained steady as well. The Mill kept the chili lovers happy with their signature Pork Verde Chili & yummy burgers. Others found a delicious lunch at Doozy’s at Prospector Mall under the shade of the pine trees. The General Store’s Jalapeno Fudge & T-Shirts were popular items this weekend with the chili lovers. The CK Fire Dept crew continued their training at the Fire Station along with the 20 Americorp volunteers. While they would have enjoyed the cook-off, the CKFD and Americorp had a busy afternoon learning fire prevention & training.
Please enjoy the slideshow of a wonderful day in the pines. The story of our newly engaged couple is below.
The rest of the story ..
Dennis and Barbara dated when they were in their 20’s. They first dated when Dennis arrived home from the Marines and they were together for 3 1/2 years. Then they each went their separate ways for 17 years. Neither one ever got married in all those years. Five years ago Dennis searched out Barbara on Facebook. They have been a couple ever since. He says he knew at their first date that she was meant for him. Luckily, Barbara feels the same and they are now officially engaged! Congratulations to you both.