For 20 years David Wells has been traveling from Hermann to bring his unique flavors to the Elks Chili Cookoff in Warrenton.He is one of just three participants who have competed since the inception of the event, and he was serving up spicy goodness again at the event held March 2, to raise funds for local first responders.“I like to give people the experience of all the different styles of chili, and most people don’t like hot chili,” said Wells, who cooked up 6 gallons, and dished out around 50 servings. “The hot chili I make has the flavor with the heat in it. A lot of people, when they make hot chili, it’s just hot.”Wells, who has gained the moniker “The Chili Man,” says he has made only minor changes over the past two decades.“I made one change this year, changing a tomato ingredient in my mild chili,” said Wells. “Other than that, it’s basically been the same thing for 20 years.”Wells, along with the Ole Town Bar and Grill team, and Darryl’s Dandies, have been consistent figures, drawing supportive crowds each year.“That is outstanding to see the comeback all of these years,” said Event Coordinator Kelly Pruitt.Darryl’s Dandies raked in a second-place finish this year.The winning team was the Marine Corps League, while the Jonesburg and High Hill Fire and Rescue Team took third place.“It was great to see the Marine Corps League hand their $300 back to the event,” said Pruitt. “It shows this community really appreciates our first responders. That was awesome.”This year’s cookoff featured 13 teams, with many familiar faces working the room.“We lost a couple of teams and gained a couple this year, but we tend to have many of the same ones that are faithful,” said Pruitt.Many people showed up for the washer tournament, which featured 32 teams. While the tournament had a 100 percent payback, those individuals patronize the chili booths and the auction, which also proved quite lucrative.“The auction items did great today,” said Pruitt. “It was a great turnout.”Proceeds raised through the sale were $1,785, including a lottery basket that went for $400.Pruitt says the total proceeds from the chili cookoff won’t be available for a few weeks, but she is optimistic.“It’s been a great day,” said Pruitt. “We had a generous turnout again.”

David Wells, left, known as the “Chili Man” from Hermann, is one of three exhibitors who has ventured back to the Elks Chili Cookoff in each of its 20 years. Pictured, from left, are Denny, Ellie and Joshua Schultz trying one of Wells’ two chili flavors. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe