Elks Chillin' with Chili Cookoff

A spicy hot time can be had at The 18th Annual Harrisburg Elks Club 2014 Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Oct. 4.

The event will be by the lake at 220 Missouri St., behind the hospital.

Event Director Genny Craig said, "The Cookoff attracted 11 teams last year but suffered from rain problems. In spite of the weather, the Elks raised $4,000. This year should be even bigger but we need teams to register soon, not at the last minute. The entry fee is $85 per team."

The cooking starts early and crowd gathers at lunch time.

"The teams may start setting up at 7:30 a.m. but the crowd really gathers around noon and remains until 5 p.m.," said Craig.

Prizes will be awarded follows: First Place-$300; Second Place-$200; Third Place-$100.

"There will be an award for best support group and a Mr. or Ms. Chilli Pepper will be named. Entrants up to 15 years of age are allowed, infants are eligible also," she said.

Of course all that chili generates powerful thirsts. Beer and soft drinks will be available, she said. Sandwiches will be sold and vendors will offer their wares as well. Soft drinks will be sold.

Koerner Distributing of Carterville is sponsoring the event.