Annual United Way chili cook-off plans are under way

Nevada Daily Mail

With the Vernon County United Way campaign set to kick off this week, local groups are already making plans for a wide variety of fund-raising, some of which will take place during the United Way's annual Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest is a community event in which participating groups offer fun and food to the public to raise awareness of the campaign and to raise money for local charities that are funded by the United Way.

Plans for one of these events, the annual chili cook-off are in place and organizers are now accepting teams for the competition.

On Oct. 14, teams will compete for cash prizes for first- second- and third-place winners.

In keeping with true chili cook-off rules, no electricity will be available at the cook site, and several other rules apply to the event, which is sponsored by Missouri Eagle, LLC.

The cook-off is to take place on the vacant lot north of the TeamBank building. Check-in will be at 7:30 a.m. with their own supplies and ingredients, including a minimum of five pounds of uncooked meat.

All cooking takes place on the site, and chili must reach and maintain a temperature of 140 degrees before judging, which is set for 11 a.m.

Judges will evaluate the entries on aroma, appearance, taste and aftertaste.

Chili connoisseurs traditionally also enjoy this event. The chili's available for purchase, with prices starting at $2 for a 12 ounce bowl. Serving begins at 11:30 a.m.

For more information or to enter the chili cook-off, contact Angie Nichols, (417) 667-8444, or Carrie Mason at (417) 448-8155.