Vernon County United Way Oktoberfest celebration set for Saturday

Saturday's weather promises to be sunny and cool -- great weather for servin' up chili. Chefs at the Vernon County United Way Oktoberfest Chili Cook-Off will be working all morning to create recipes each hopes will be the one to take home first-place honors. This year, 13 teams were signed up as of Thursday afternoon.

The chili will be judged at 11, then at about 11:30, volunteers will be selling it by the bowl to the public. A 12-ounce bowl will be $2, and taster's bowls and take home bowls will be sold for $3.

The cook-off is one of the highlights of Oktoberfest, a fund-raising event benefitting the United Way, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Cherry and Washington Streets in Nevada. Booths, children's games and stage shows will round out the entertainment.

On the stage, at 10 a.m., Mike Willman, a top ranked radio disc jockey from the Kansas City area will begin his duties as master of ceremonies. Irene Holt will perform from 10:30 to 11. At 11, Vernon County People for Pets will conduct a pet costume contest. Ike Richmond will perform at 11:30, followed by a Praise Group from Crossroads Community Church at noon and The Wildflowers and friends at 12:30.

Local United Way Director Peggy Tedlock said all of the local agencies served by the United Way will have booths, and a few outside craft booths, food vendors and more can be found at the event. "It's really inexpensive, and a lot of fun. And you don't have to drive very far; you can have a great time right here at home,' Tedlock said.

All proceeds benefit Vernon County United Way.