While most visitors and contestants at this year’s 38th annual Texas Lady Bird Johnson Ladies Chili Cook Off for the Susan G. Komen Caner Cure were enjoying the smell of hot spicy chili, Army officer Reuben Rangel and wife Rshae Taylor held each other tightly. The wedded couple of nine years came to Blanco to celebrate the cook off fund raiser with family members. A special honor was presented to them during the awards announcements. Officer Rangel and Rshae were asked to join the master of ceremonies on stage as the Star Spangle Banner was played by trumpet and the audience sang. It was a very emotional moment for the celebration.

Rangel will be leaving his nine year old son and wife in Clovis, New Mexico for a six to nine month term in Iraq. “My husband is very honored to serve our country,” tearfully stated Rshae. “We will miss him dearly and pray every day for his safe return. We are so lucky we got this chance to come to Blanco and spend our last weekend together with our family and the friendly folks from Blanco and the surrounding area. Everyone has been so nice. I’m so honored and amazed.”

Chili Board Member Jack Potter was very proud to announce a special effort that the community can share in making Rangel’s service term as close to home as possible. Potter announced a special program that anyone can participate. “You can go to any United States Post Office and register for a small fee of $10.00 to $14.00 for a goodie care package to be sent directly to Rangel”, Potter announced. Or you can send your own care package directly to TSST Rangel, JLTF28, 70MTD/USAF APO AE 09366. The package can include any items, however some suggestions are, items that Rangel can share with his troops or children and family members in camps during his mission. These can be toothbrushes and toothpaste, oral and personal hygiene products, snacks that are individually wrapped and reading materials, books, magazines, etc. (or see list below):