October 28, 2000
Members of the CSTA staff, a family member, and one support person from Booz | Allen | Hamilton joined forces on Saturday, October 28, 2000 to concoct their "Light This Candle" chili at an Air Force Association (AFA) Chili Cook-Off held at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. This fundraiser benefited the AFA's Operation Kids' Christmas program.Dayna Castro, also a CSTA staffmember, was there as a member of AFA and an AFA Chili Cook-Off committee member. 
Members of the team (in alphabetical order): Jamie Foster, Trevor Foster (Jamie's son), Mike Gorbell, Laura Hopkins, Tanya Griffey (BA&H), Patti Ruiz, Andrea Seastrand, and Scott Young.Additionally, CSTA wishes to acknowledge the support of Astrotech Space Operations, supplier of the clean room garb for the team. Thanks also to the NCOA for the use of their cooking equipment! As the judges approached the CSTA booth, the theme to "Star Wars" blasted across the hushed crowd. Trevor lit the pan of Rum 151 as the countdown hit zero, and the judges dove into CSTA's "Light This Candle!" chili. It was a sight to behold! 
Here's the recipe for "Light This Candle!" chili:Pan #1: 12 medium yellow onions, chopped Carmelize onions in olive oil and brown sugar Pan #2: 10 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced 10 Tbsp minced garlic Saute in olive oil, then flame with Rum 151 Large pot (enough for 6 gallons): Brown 4 lbs Pork Chorizo Add 12 lbs cubed stewing beef, brown with Santa Maria Style Seasoning 
Add:#10 can tomato sauce #10 can pinto beans 4 bottles Dos Equis beer splash of Rum 151 1 Tbsp cayene pepper 9 Tbsp chili powder 4 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 2 Tsp nutmeg, fresh grated salt to taste (about 2/3 cup) ground fresh black pepper, to taste (about 2 Tsp) Juice of 1 lemon (to tame spices) Simmer at least 1.5 hours The more water evaporates, the spicier it gets; adjust to taste. Light This Candle! |