Mapp Addresses 32nd Annual Texas Society Chili Cook-Off

ST. THOMAS — Addressing a Brewer’s Beach crowd attending the 32nd Annual Texas Society Chili Cook-Off, Governor Kenneth Mapp expressed his appreciation for the benefits the community has derived from this popular event, Government House said this afternoon. Mr. Mapp noted that over the years, many charitable and community service organizations have benefited directly from the cook-off, beginning with the Queen Louis Home for the Aged to which the Texas Society donated recreational furniture for outdoor social activities. Since then, many community organizations supporting a variety of needs have received the proceeds from this annual competition, the release says.

The chili cook-off is a competition among local restaurants, community organizations, individuals and others for the right to represent the Virgin Islands at the International Chili Cook-Off competition held in Texas each year. Governor Mapp was informed by organizers that the Virgin Islands has done well in the competition over the years. Mr. Mapp suggested that the advantage may be attributable to the unique seasonings available in the Virgin Islands, which distinguish local cuisine. Texas Society officials and local competitors readily admit that a key element in the competition is the combination of secret ingredients in the chili sauce, many of which are not known internationally. Especially important are the types of peppers used, according to the release.

Mr. Mapp visited the many booths serving the chili recipes prepared for this year’s competition, including those sponsored by members of the Legislature. Senators Jean Forde, Janette Millin-Young, and Marvin Blyden were among those wooing judges with their entries. The Governor sampled many of the recipes, greeted and posed for photos with many as he moved through the impressively large and diverse crowd which attends each year’s event. The chili varieties, he concluded, were excellent, and the people among the best of the Virgin Islands.