36th Annual Don Weems Memorial Chili Cook-Off

 
Everyone thinks they have the best chili recipe, but who really does? 
 
It's time for chili chefs to stir the pot and set the table for judging and tasting on Saturday, Nov. 13, when the ULM Alumni Association hosts the 36th Annual Don Weems Memorial Chili Cook-Off, sponsored by 31 Ambassadors. 
 
Since 1984, 31 Ambassadors and the Alumni Association have hosted the chili cook-off, started by Tom Deal, Frank Elkin III, and Don Weems. 
 
The competition will be in the Pecan Grove at the chefs' personal tailgating location or in tailgate spots 70 and 71. Chili entries must be turned in at 1:15 p.m. at the Alumni Association tailgating area for sampling by the judges and tasters. 
 
2021 Chili Cook-Off judges include ULM Homecoming King Jay Parker, Homecoming Queen Natalie LaBas, Chris Williams, Clay and Amy Weems, Allison Lofton, DJ Davis, and Sen. Katrina Jackson. Showmanship judges will secretly check out the teams to choose the best costumes and decorations. 
 
For $5, chili-lovers can sample each entry and cast one vote for the People's Choice Award. Additional votes are $1. Votes must be turned in at the Alumni Association tailgate by 2 p.m. 
 
Winners will be announced at the Student Grove at 2:15 p.m. 
 
For registration and information, visit alumni.ulm.edu/events or call Laird Weems Center, 318-342-5420. 
 
Saturday, Nov. 13 Chili Cook-Off Schedule 

• 9-10 a.m. – Check-in 
• 10 a.m. – Head cooks meeting 
• 10:30 a.m. – Chili cooking commences 
• 12:30 p.m. – Showmanship judging 
• 11:15 p.m. ­–  Chili turn-in, tasting and judging 
• 2:15 p.m. – Winners announced at Student Grove 
• 4 p.m. – ULM v. Arkansas State