Chili Cook-off deadline extended

The recent ice storm put a freeze on registrations for the Mason-Dixon Chili Society’s 17th Annual Chili Cook-Off, which will be held Feb. 25. The society wants to create a thaw by extending the registration deadline to Feb. 20 from Feb. 13.

“We do still need teams, sponsors and donors,” Sandy Wood of the Mason-Dixon Chili Society said. “Any donor over $300 gets their name on the T-shirt and honorable mention at the event. Of course, 100% of the money raised goes to the United Gospel Rescue Mission.”

Sponsorship levels include: The Big Chili, $5,000; Ghost Pepper, $2,000; Habanero Pepper, $1,000; Jalapeno Pepper, $500; and Poblano Pepper, $300.

“All sponsors get one free team and are listed on the back of the T-shirt,” Wood said.

Booth space will be $100 if registered by the deadline. Late registration will be $125 for booth space.

Categories include Judges’ Choice, which is the big award with bragging rights. People’s Choice is decided by the public. The Fundraising Award is given to the team who raises the most money in advance of the event.

“A lot of the teams go all out to have the best-decorated booth,” Wood said. “This year, Steve Whitworth and a group he puts together will be the booth judges.”

Winners in each division will receive $200 for first place, $100 for second place and $50 for third place.

The cook-off will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Black River Coliseum to benefit the mission. The public is invited to attend for free, but donations are appreciated.

For more information, contact Wood at swood@firstmissouristatebank.com or jtownsend@bgcpb.org.