It was good. The food was tasteful and enjoyable, and I’d be happy to back again (it’s a yearly event.)

But — and I hate to criticize — this was Minnesota chili. I was warned multiple times that “this one has a bit of a bite.” It did not. Flavorful, yes, but “bite”? I could have rubbed this stuff in eyes without a twinge. I could have brought some hot sauce and chili flakes, but I feared that might be seen as insulting. I shall be able to use the bathroom tonight without pain.

The problem may be that all the chili cooks were white people who looked like they attend the local Lutheran church every Sunday. Maybe they should invite a few representatives from our local Hispanic population, who aren’t timid about using a few peppers.

Maybe I should submit an entry next year. My chili is considerably more ferocious, and I’ve always toned it down for my wife’s benefit.