Political 'hacks' end the season on a hungry note

Transcript Staff Writer

OKLAHOMA CITY -- For the vast majority of Oklahomans, the 2006 campaign season ended at 7:01 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7. Sure, a handful of recounts dragged the cycle out a few days longer for a handful; but most of us went back to our normal lives come Nov. 8.

Most, but not everybody.

For a select few -- namely Democratic candidates, consultants and contributors -- the 2006 campaign season ended Saturday at Macklanburg-Duncan Park in Oklahoma City at the 29th annual Political Hacks Chili Cook-off.

A tradition which spans decades, the Hack's Chili Cook-off gives political junkies one last chance to get together and "cuss and discuss" the election season, celebrate or commiserate their wins (or losses), drink some ice cold beer, and eat lots and lots of chili.

Chili that's made outdoors.

Chili that's cleverly named.

Chili that's cooked by people who aren't chefs, but political professionals.

"The original cook-off was actually at my house," says founder Hershel Lamirand.

"There were six of us and my stove only had four burners. We had to cook, talk and share -- in that order."

This year's cook-off drew several hundred attendees, a dozen or so cooks, and even had its own band.

"We've grown a little since then," Lamirand, the executive director of the Oklahoma Health Center Foundation, said.

Composed of mostly Democratic campaign staff, consultants and supporters, the cookoff has, on occasion, been visited by the stray Republican or two and, over the years, has developed a unique history.

There have been speeches.

And beer.

A fist fight between consultants.

And beer.

Long running political debates.

And beer.

And, of course, the chili.

Housed under the park's pavilion, the chili chefs are the main feature of the afternoon. Usually staffed by crews of consultants or, occasionally a candidate, the recipes may be similar but it's the chili's name which is truly unique.

About midway down the pavilion, next to the open fireplace, the Oklahoma Super Team Chili booth featured a huge, color banner -- complete with signatures -- of the state's Democratic state-wide candidates.

Across from the Super Team, Dr. Tom was cooking his Nebula Chili and next to him, stood the Friends of State Rep. Al Lindley Chili booth.

For those wanting a more ethnic flavor, a Mediterranean booth dished out bowls of It's all Greek to Me chili. And, near the exit, newly re-elected Governor Brad Henry's booth proudly displays it's name: Hot, Hot Henry's Chili -- It's turning the state blue.

"Yeah, it is silly and fun," Lamirand said. "But it also gives people a chance to come, eat and decompress after the election."

The invitation list has grown.

From that original crew of about six or eight, this year's cook-off had more than 300, and it wasn't even in full swing at 2 p.m.

It was also the place to be seen.

By 1:30, the rapidly growing crowd had been visited by former Governor George Nigh and his wife, Donna; newly-elected Lt. Governor Jari Askins; Attorney General Drew Edmondson; new Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater and Fourth District congressional candidate Hal Spake.

There were also lobbyists, consultants, staff, some kids and even a couple of dogs.

"It's just the chance for a good time," Lamirand said. "We've been doing this for years."

With official T-shirts, a live band and sponsors, the cook-off has gone beyond a small social gathering to a major political event.

In fact, Lamirand said, for the past few years the event has actually made enough money to make a donation to the Donna Nigh Foundation.

"We wanted to be able to share. Everyone has such a good time, that it (the donation) just happened naturally."

And while the cook-off has, many times in its past, been one where the Democrats came together to console each other, this year's event was feisty and upbeat.

"This year we get the chance to celebrate," Lamirand said. "You don't always get that."

Still, win or lose, the cook-off -- like phone banking and fundraising letters -- is an established part of the Oklahoma political landscape.

"We'll be back after the next election," Lamirand said. "Heck, if politics keep going this way, we might have to move to the fairgrounds.

M. Scott Carter 366-3545 scarter@mooreamerican.com