Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Last Saturday's chili cook-off sponsored jointly by American Legion and Navy League attracted an overflow crowd of more than 400 happy patrons who consumed in excess of 60 gallons of chili, ranging from mild to spicy hot.

The setting at El Rio Bar and Grill on the banks of the beautiful Cuale River, combined with a typical Puerto Vallarta sunny day and toe-tapping music made this a charity event that can only grow in popularity in coming years. Net proceeds this year will be split among three children's charities - Busca Un Amigo, Corazon de Nino, and Toys for Tots.

Seventeen entries in a "Best Chili Contest" came from local restaurants and individuals. Voting by the 400 patrons produced a 1st place "Popular Choice" trophy for Piratas MC. 2nd place went to the American Legion, and 3rd place to the Navy League.

In addition three top local chefs, Nacho Cadena of La Leche Restaurant; Fred Ruiz, Executive Chef of Marriott CasaMagna Resort and Spa; and Gary Beck, food critic presented their "Best Chili Award" to Captain Don's. Truth told, all seventeen entries were worthy of trophies.

Musical entertainment was provided throughout the day. A wonderful mariachi band got the crowd off to a festive mood, followed by the Nacho Daddy band playing a broad range of swinging sounds. To cap off the day, there was a surprise appearance by Patsy Cline (aka Mikki Prost) who sang many of Patsy's top hits from the 50's.

Special thanks are in order for Dennis Rike and his team from American Legion, and Jorge and Cynthia McManus and their team from Navy League. They tell us to look for a repeat of this extremely successful event next year.