Creativity takes flight at Goose Cook-off

Crystal R. Albers
Posted 3/16/18

Although many geese flew across the sky in jagged “V” formation or gathered at area ponds and lakes Saturday, some cooked slowly in crockpots or were – literally – sandwiched between two pieces of gourmet bread and on display for judges’ keen eyes.

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Creativity takes flight at Goose Cook-off

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HAWK SPRINGS – Although many geese flew across the sky in jagged “V” formation or gathered at area ponds and lakes Saturday, some cooked slowly in crockpots or were – literally – sandwiched between two pieces of gourmet bread and on display for judges’ keen eyes.

The 21st annual Hawk Springs Goose Cook-off took place last weekend at the Hawk Springs Community Center, where local chefs competed in soup/chili, jerky, appetizer and main dish categories.

Jamie Beightol, of LaGrange, earned first place this year for her corned Canadian cold cut sandwiches – a feat she’s managed to accomplish since 2016.

“I’ve always made my own corned beef at home, and I thought goose might taste good,” she said as she carefully arranged a plate of sandwiches Saturday.

“I really appreciate that this event is for the community,” Beightol added. “It benefits Hawk Springs.”

In fact, all funds raised from the event, which includes judging, public tasting, a live auction, gun raffle and entertainment, are used to improve Hawk Springs, according to the Goose Cook-off’s official website (goosecookoff.com).

“The money raised last year was used to purchase new street signs, new trees for the community, picnic tables and a basketball court,” the website reads. “Past money was used to help fund the sewer construction.”

“I like that it helps the community,” first-time competitor Tyler Werner of Yoder said of his decision to participate. Werner whipped up a batch of red goose chili over cheese enchiladas for his cook-off debut. “I’ve always been a hunter, so I thought, ‘Why not?’ It’s been a good (experience).”

Results of the 2018 Hawk Springs Goose Cook-off are as follows:

Soup/chili

First place: Chris Woodin

Second place: Kylie Llewellyn

Third place: Tim Toedter

Jerky

First place: Craig Feagler

Second place: Danny Sanchez

Third place: Craig Feagler

Appetizer

First place: Dillon Simmons

Second place: Ashley Shimic

Third place: Jo Smith

Main dish

First place: Jamie Beightol

Second place: Lori Hill and Val Grant

Third place: Bob Dietzler

Raffle winners

Savage Trophy Hunter-6.5 Creedmoor: Chet Howe

Deadwood trip: Larry Kaufman