March 20, 2009 — The United Way of St. Croix hosts its 8th Annual Chili Cook-Off from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort.
The fund-raising event for the United Way gets bigger every year, with last year's event drawing 16 cooks dishing up savory samples of spices, meat and vegetarian alternatives.
All proceeds are donated to member agencies of the United Way of St. Croix.
Prizes will be awarded to the top 10 chili cooks and top three vegetarian chili cooks, Prizes for showmanship will also be awarded to three teams, and one winner will be chosen to represent St. Croix at the national cook-off in Terlingua, Texas, with airfare, RV rental and entrance fee included.
A $25 entrance fee is required for each cook. Each cook is allotted a 10-by-10-foot spot on the beach, a goody bag, serving products, a case of water, a case of Coors Light and an invitation for two to the cook’s dinner. Ten pounds of meat will be available free to each cook for use in the cook-off, when requested in advance.
All judged chili must be cooked on the beach and ingredients will be inspected before cooking. Chili to be served to the public may be cooked in advance.
Those who wish to participate, but do not want to cook can still help as a volunteer. Volunteers are needed throughout the day including judges, bar attendants, T-shirt and tickets sales, and more.
Anyone interested in volunteering or seeking further information can call 340-773-0582 or 340-513-8359, or e-mail unitedwayofstcroix@msn.com or aldavila44@msn.com.
