Odessa, Texas/January 18, 2026-The Black Chamber of Commerce of the Permian Basin held their Inaugural MLK Chili Cookoff this past Saturday hosted by the Woodson Boys and Girls Club. Competitors created their homemade chili from recipes handed down from one generation to the next. The money raised from the cookoff will benefit community organizations that are part of the BCCPB.
(Chris E. Walker, President/CEO-Black Chamber of Commerce of the Permian Basin/Odessa, Texas)
“The money raised from the event is intended to benefit different organizations. Specifically, they will be able to help organizations that have joined their chamber and are “lacking in funds” with a donation.”
Several candidates running for local political office took advantage of the MLK Chili Cookoff by sponsoring the event, setting up informational tables, and connecting directly with visitors throughout the day.
(Crystal Zorano Rios, Candidate for Ector County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4)
“I’m just here just to get my name out there. And because I am running for justice of the peace number four, and I’m just here for the to help the people.”
Judges had a hard time deciding which was the best Chili. After the tally, the MLK Chili Cookoff awarded trophies and plaques for 1st Place to 6th Place.
(Chris Harris, Judge-1st Annual MLK Chili Cookoff)
The MLK Chili Cookoff is one of many events scheduled by the Black Chamber of Commerce of the Permian Basin.
(Chris E. Walker, President/CEO-Black Chamber of Commerce of the Permian Basin/Odessa, Texas)
“The next event mentioned is the Black History Month billboard display, where a different individual will be featured each day for the entire month of February.”
The Black Chamber of Commerce of the Permian Basin was overwhelmed by the success of the Chili Cookoff, which drew a large crowd and strong community support. For DRB Media Communications Digital News, Danny Barrera.
