Cook-off stirs awareness
by Stephanie Guerrero
UHCLIDIAN STAFF

University of Houston-Clear Lake and community safety departments are teaming up to host the 15th Annual Chili Cook-Off in conjunction with Public Health-Safety Day April 5, noon to 4 p.m. behind the Delta Building.

"The overall goal for the cook-off is to help build camaraderie between faculty, staff and students," said David Rachita, assistant dean of student life. "The program creates a fun and social atmosphere, while promoting a welcoming academic environment."

Students, faculty and staff can enter the cook-off as teams. Each team must pay a $15 entrance fee and will need to supply all cooking supplies. Cook-off teams can begin setting up at 8 a.m. and must be completed by 11 a.m. for safety inspections.

The chili is judged by a panel of UH-Clear Lake judges and the public. Judges award first, second and third place winners. Participants vote for best overall chili, best decorated booth and the spirit award. All winning teams receive trophies. The Student Government Association will judge only the student teams; the student team winners receive $50.

After purchasing a tasting kit for $3, visitors can sample chili from every team. Ingredients will be listed for people with allergies.

"I think one reason for [the chili cook-off] being a longstanding tradition is that it is simple fun," Rachita said. "It's a program that puts more emphasis on teamwork and fellowship, and the competition is informal and fun-loving. It's simply a great way to spend a relaxing day, while socializing outside of the classroom environment."

The cook-off will host a live band and a moonwalk. Aramark, campus dining, will be selling picnic-style food. Games and activities will also be offered.

Community safety departments will be on-site offering safety tips and crime prevention information.

"This event will give the community an idea of what each unit can do for you," said Debbie McFadden, executive secretary of the School of Science and Computer Engineering.

McFadden decided to coordinate a public health and safety day in conjunction with the cook-off to help raise health and safety awareness among students and the community.

"We want the public to join us," McFadden said. "We want to reinforce awareness and address health issues, so we are offering all types of health screenings."

Debra "D.S." Hoffman, sergeant in the UH-Clear Lake Police Department, coordinated all volunteers in the public safety arena.

"We wanted to inform the community about what your police departments have to offer and what they can do for you," Hoffman said. "We wanted to involve local agencies from our students' communities. We really hope everyone comes out and enjoys the cook-off and all the different safety volunteers."

Several local safety departments will be in attendance. In addition, the Houston Police Department chopper, Houston fire truck, Houston SWAT Team, League City drop and roll fire trailer, and the League City Canine Unit will be on hand.

"With everyone working together, the day should be an exciting one to faculty, staff and students, and now we can include the public," McFadden said.

For more information visit the Student Life Office in the Bayou Building, Room 1602 or call (281) 283-2557.

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