It really didn’t matter how the 31 types of chili tasted at all, but the fact that most were delicious was just added bonus for a worthy cause.

That was how it went Saturday for the Lawrence County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ annual Chili Fest and Craft Show that uses spicy servings of that favorite dish to open the public’s eyes to what this agency actually does day in and day out.

Although March may be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, it is really only the public face of the year-long efforts the county board puts into serving the more than 500 men, women and children who may fall through the cracks of society without this focus.

With the theme “Just Like You,” the awareness efforts are designed show those who wouldn’t otherwise realize it that these words couldn’t be more true.

But it isn’t done with lectures or sad stories or cautionary tales. This awareness event is about celebrating life.

If you have missed the variety of activities this month, it isn’t too late.

The March Madness basketball games will be in the Dawson-Bryant High School Gym beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday.

While it may lack some of the drama of its college counterparts, these games between Open Door School and TSI Alumni and then the Alumni vs. the Media All-Stars shows many of the things that are great about sports: heart, perseverence, teamwork and joy.

That is a winning combination that rivals even the best recipe.