Chili Super Bowl helps Ben Richey Boys Ranch

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Kevin Johnson
  • 7th Communications Squadron first sergeant
DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  This Labor Day weekend, Aug.31 through Sept. 2, people from the Big Country will flock to tiny Buffalo Gap to sample chili and brisket and provide needed help to the boys of the Ben Richey Boys Ranch. 

This is the 26th year for the Chili Super Bowl, which is now responsible for raising almost 12 percent of the Ranch's annual operating budget. 

"I enjoyed the experience," said Tech. Sgt. David Fitzgerald, 7th Communications Squadron, who volunteered at the Super Bowl last year. "It's not only a great event that supports the boy's ranch, which is first and foremost, but it's also a great opportunity to taste the many flavors of Texas-style chili and brisket." 

All events take place at the Old Settlers Grounds in Buffalo Gap, Texas, (10 miles south of Abilene) under the oaks. Some of the activities include dancing under the stars Friday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 8:30 p.m. Food booths, including the world's largest chili pot, games for young and old (including a kid's place) and a midway of food booths and other concessions. Auctions will take place on Saturday and Sunday late in the afternoon. The annual drawing for a new truck is also exciting. Tickets cost $100 each, and only 400 tickets are sold. 

The Ben Richey Boys Ranch is designed to provide a warm, loving family-like atmosphere, with the goal of nurturing and providing spiritual guidance. The intent of the ranch is to ensure that each boy will develop to their full potential and lead a productive life as a contributing responsible member of society. Ben Richey Boys Ranch is a non-profit, tax exempt organization that is operated entirely with contributions from community friends, foundations, corporations, clubs, organizations, and the United Way and does not use any state or federal funding. Those who give to the Ranch are extending a helping hand to boys when they need it the most. The ranch has grown to house 34 young men who attend local schools, churches, and are active in the community.
Of course, with the Boy's Ranch expanding, the need increases each year. The ranch has been able to expand and build a house in Albany with help from a lot of folks through many of the fund raising events. 

"The experience of sharing a cultural event was surely pleasing," said Master Sgt. Antonio Forty, 7th Mission Support Squadron first sergeant. "People from all over the U.S., especially Abilene and surrounding community, come out to have a good time mingling with folks who have the same interests: barbecuing, eating, dancing and just having a great time." 

Anyone can celebrate the last big holiday of the summer under the oaks and have a uniquely-Texas party weekend with food, fun and competition by attending the Chili Super Bowl. 

To volunteer, call Master Sgt. Kevin Johnson at 696-4782.