LIHU‘E — It looked a lot like the flying saucers served up at the bon dances, but that’s where the resemblance ended. “The chili is inside,” one of the Outta Dis World Chili servers explained. From behind a screen painted
LIHU‘E — It looked a lot like the flying saucers served up at the bon dances, but that’s where the resemblance ended.
“The chili is inside,” one of the Outta Dis World Chili servers explained.
From behind a screen painted up with scenes from the “Star Wars” movie series, costumed characters served up their platters (complete with blinking, flashing lights) to patrons at the Second Annual Ono Chili Cook-off hosted by members of the County of Kaua‘i Employees Council, recently.
Each of 10 stations was fully decorated, with staff members donning costumes ranging from highly-visible safety vests to more-elaborate dresses to compete for the Team Spirit Award while trying to entice chili aficionados to cast their vote for their creations for the coveted People’s Choice Award.
Arnold Kaneshiro, celebrating his birthday by manning the grill concealed behind the elaborate outer-space motif screen of Outta Dis World Chili, was joined by other members of the Offices of Community Assistance Housing Agency, as they captured the hearts and tastebuds of patrons to secure the People’s Choice Award.
The Team Spirit Award was presented to team captains Carmen Wong and Owen Tango of the Office of the County Attorney, their “The Beverly Chil-Billies” setting complete with JR the team dog (on loan from Deputy County Attorney Laurel Loo).
Gary Heu, Mayor Bryan J. Baptiste’s administrative assistant, wanted to know if anyone got a picture of new County Engineer Donald Fujimoto grinding the chili at “Chili Work,” a table hosted by his office staff in the Department of Public Works administration section.
Nearby, a Japanese magazine editorial team was snared by the beauty at “Sweet 200,” a table hosted by the Office of Economic Development and captained by Film Commissioner Art Umezu.
That booth featured Cindy Jackson, Miss Garden Isle 2005, and Veronica Pablo, the recently crowned 2005 Miss Kauai Filipina, who helped distribute the trophies and prizes.
When the smoke from all the chili had settled, the tastebuds were satisfied, and thirst quenched from the assortment of cold drinks being dispensed by Bev Pang under the watchful eye of her mother 100-year-old mom Violet Ching, “Chili Work” with captain Faith Shiramizu was awarded first place, “Sweet 200” took second place, and “Outta Dis World Chili,” with team captain Kaneshiro, being awarded third place.
According to county Public Information Officer Mary Daubert, members of each of the 10 participating teams also were presented participation prizes.
Judging was headed up by John Ferguson, owner of Kalaheo Coffee Company, and Mark Oyama, owner of Mark’s Place and Contemporary Flavors catering, and Baptiste, who was obviously pleased with both the participation as well as the turnout.
Co-chairs for the event were Soncy Tamashiro and Theresa Koki, with Tim Mira, minus his tuxedo, served as the event emcee.
- Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 253) or dfujimoto@pulitzer.net.
