1977 - The chili manufacturers of the state of Texas, successfully lobbied the Texas legislature to have chili proclaimed the official "state food" of Texas "in recognition of the fact that the only real 'bowl of red' is that prepared by Texans."

Famous Quotes about Chili "Next to music there is nothing that lifts the spirits and strengthens the soul more than a good bowl of chili." Harry James (1916-1983) band leader and trumpeter

"Wish I had time for just one more bowl of chili." Alleged dying words of Kit Carson (1809-1868), Frontiers Man and Mountain Man "Chili is much improved by having had a day to contemplate its fate." John Steele Gordon

"Chili is not so much food as a state of mind. Addictions to it are formed early in life and the victims never recover. On blue days in October, I get this passionate yearning for a bowl of chili, and I nearly lose my mind." Margaret Cousins, novelist

"The aroma of good chili should generate rapture akin to a lover's kiss." Motto of the Chili Appreciation Society International

"Chili concocted outside of Texas is usually a weak, apologetic imitation of the real thing. One of the first things I do when I get home to Texas is to have a bowl of red. There is simply nothing better." Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President of the United States

"Whenever I meet someone who does not consider chili a favorite dish, then I've usually found someone who has never tasted good chili. Jan Butel, author of Chili Madness