While I commend the Texas Society of the VI for holding this wonderful event, annually, that benefits a number of great causes, I do have to question the irresponsibility of the decision to continue to hold the event on the same day that TS Irene was due to impact the VI.

Yes, I know the date had been chosen well in advance and that all those people fly into the VI to participate. However, the safety issue to the participants, volunteers, musicians, cooks, supporters and attendees of this event could have been disasterous had Irene been a bit stronger and blasted thru a bit earlier. As it was, it sent people scrambling to make it home in time.

Many years ago, Foxy's Wooden Boat Regatta was held in September and had to be canceled often due to impending storms. They moved the date of this event to May.

Maybe, the date of the Chili Cook-off needs to be moved to prevent a similar situation occurring in the future. Our storms seems to have ramped up in August. Safety needs to come first. Or, you'd better have great insurance!

It takes allot to put this event on. It should be allowed to have the opportunity to make a maximum profit.

Congrats to all the winners and participants for braving the elements for a good cause.