We don’t care who wins but we do go for the chili. And, this year, there was lots of chili from lots of contestants. Although crowds appeared to be down from last year (I’m sure the city exaggeators will dispute this), that just mean there was more chili to go around.

The Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cookoff has grown over the years from a meager crowd of 3,000 or so, to accommodate more than 37,000 last year (this years figures aren’t in yet). This is the largest one day chili cookoff in the nation and Tustinites are justifiably proud.

There’s not just chili and beer here, either. A few years ago, they instituted a car show that has brought some of the finest classic and exotic vehicles to Main Street. We saw 57 Chevys alongside classic Karman Ghias in pristine condition and everything in between. The monthly Enderle Car Show was well advertised and, if this is a prelude, must be a great one.

Although we looked for the inevitable poltician, we actually didn’t find any – OK, we didn’t look that hard. We did see OC Supervisor Todd Spitzer’s tent sans Todd, who must have been out shmoozing with the other politicos in a hidden tent somewhere. No doubt many of them found their way to the judging table for the cookoff. As we all know, it’s the people’s choice that really counts. What do politicians know about chili?

Even in Our Town Tustin, security remains a priority for visitors

B Street, was a respite for many from the Main Street crowds

And New Cars

Old Cars

Some dogs had to work a little harder than others

The usual suspects at the usual place

Long lines form at the best chili booths

A brief clearing

I coulda sworn it was the crooner himself.

Our foothill communities were well represented

Tyron made the best chili fritos and you didn’t need a ticket