The Duncanville Chamber of Commerce is launching a new community tradition with the inaugural Steve Martin Memorial CASI Chili Cook‑off, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, and Sunday, Sept. 13. The two‑day event will take place at American Legion Post 424, 3940 South Ledbetter Drive in Dallas, and is designed to bring families, neighbors and local businesses together while supporting the men and women of the Duncanville Police Department and Duncanville Fire Department.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
Steve Martin, the beloved former President/CEO of the Duncanville Chamber, was known for his unwavering dedication to first responders. Chamber Co‑chair Jennifer Pennebaker said, “There was nothing Steve loved more than supporting the first responders who lay everything on the line for us. He lived his life with a deep sense of duty, warmth, and community spirit.” The cook‑off is intended as a “love letter” to Martin, channeling his passion into a fundraiser that directly benefits the heroes he championed.
Event Details
Doors open at 10 a.m. on both days. Saturday’s schedule runs until 8 p.m., while Sunday concludes at 4 p.m. Attendees can sample a variety of chili entries, enjoy live musical entertainment, and purchase tasting wristbands. Registration for competing cooks is $30, and all proceeds will be split between the Duncanville Police and Fire Departments.
Live Entertainment
Local favorites Cro‑Tex, the Outlaw Country‑Texas Proud band that won the 2026 Duncanville Bloomfest Battle of the Bands, will provide the soundtrack. Their first set begins at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, followed by a second set from 6:30‑8 p.m., delivering classic hits and original, rowdy tunes that reflect the community’s spirit.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Four sponsorship levels are available, each offering visibility and a direct impact on first‑responder support:
- The Five‑Alarm Chief – $2,000 title sponsor (already secured by Republic Services) will present the People’s Choice and Best First Responder trophies.
- The Captain’s Table – Two slots at $1,000 each include a prime tent location, a seat on the judges panel, a reserved table for six, logo placement on T‑shirts and banners, and a free team entry.
- The Siren & Spice – Fifteen slots at $500 each provide a reserved table for six, logo on marketing materials, and six tasting wristbands.
- Bucket Brigade – $250 community supporter spots grant name placement on the Wall of Heroes banner, marketing materials, and two wristbands.
Additional sponsorships of $200 are available for specific needs such as the sour‑cream/cheese station (the “Extinguisher”), meals for on‑duty first responders unable to attend, trophy funding, and music coverage.
How to Get Involved
Interested chefs, sponsors or volunteers can obtain registration forms and sponsorship packages through the Duncanville Chamber website (duncanvillechamber.org) or by contacting Hilda at [email protected]. For further information, reach out to Kyle Pennebaker at 214‑929‑4969 ([email protected]) or Jennifer Pennebaker at 214‑642‑0549 ([email protected]).
This inaugural event not only honors Steve Martin’s memory but also reinforces the community’s commitment to those who protect us daily. By gathering around hearty bowls of chili, Duncanville residents celebrate faith, family and freedom while supporting the vital work of their police and fire departments.
Original reporting: Focus Daily News — read the source article.
