Meat Eat Manifesto

Vegetarians planning to attend this year’s Florida Keys Chili Cookoff should probably bring a picnic basket. According to the International Chili Society’s regulations, beans and pasta are not allowed in this spicy stew contest. For carnivores, today’s event will offer piquant gastronomic delights. Professional chefs will compete in a separate contest, which apparently is serious business. “Yeah, they’re weird about it. We put them in a separate tent,” laughs event coordinator Katrina Lavene. Visiting foodies can enjoy offerings from vying amateur chefs, as well as Texas hold’em poker, mechanical bull riding, live music, and a variety of games for the youngsters. The fun begins today at 10:00 at Rowell’s Marina, Mile Marker 104.5 bayside in Key Largo. Admission is $5. Call 786-423-4527, or visit www.chilicookoff.com.
Sun., Feb. 12