A little more heat

The Republican Chili Cook-off on Friday night was a well attended event. Every Republican running in this year's election was there from Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite to Hernando County Commission, District 5 candidate, William "Billy" Healis. There were only two no-shows for this event. Sheriff Nugent's opponent did not attend and Ginny's opposition chose instead to have a stunt double to dish up chili.

It was nice to see a lot of old friends and talk to a few new ones, too. Every table had crock pots full of chili, hand made by the candidates, along with a long table of sweets for dessert. Flo Boles and Susan Wahl served as cashiers at the door while former county commissioner, Paul Sullivan was the master of ceremonies for the event. The beverage bar was manned by the state Republican committee people, Gail Samples and Tom Hogan. Frank Colletti was also serving soft drinks for anyone that bellied up to the bar.

John Druzbick, candidate for district 3 county commission was being assisted by several lovely ladies who included his wife Debbie, and his supporter, and friend Laurie Pizzo. Ginny shared a table with Shirley Anderson who is a candidate for supervisor of elections. Don't tell anyone but my husband thought Shirley's chili was the best in the place. He should know because he taste-tested just about every one's there. Billy Healis and Alvin Mazourek looked like they were having a great time visiting with their supporters, along with Jeff Stabins who had a crowd around his crock pot clamoring for more chili.

Some candidates had bowl of crackers and jalapenos for those daring to have a little more heat with their chili. From the satisfied look of the crowd, it appeared that they all had enough to eat at this affair. The only item missing was a bowl of Tums!