Chili Cook-off scheduled Saturday

OK, chili-lovers, your taste buds are beckoning.

This Saturday, Oct. 6, is the Heritage Museum’s 7th Annual Chili Cook-off.

Gates will open at 7:30 a.m. for chili cooks who will then have until noon to come up with their best blend of special ingredients to hopefully win a prize in the Cook-Off at The Heritage Museum. 

This year’s panel of judges includes Lynn Zimmerman, Lincoln County Circulation Librarian; Alan Gerstenecker, Editor of The Western News; and Shanda Jennings, Executive Director of the Libby Chamber of Commerce.

Judging begins at noon and is based on presentation, aroma, consistency, flavor and aftertaste in two categories: Texas Style — no beans (meat with tomato base, chilies and seasonings) and All Other Types.

Prizes of $100 cash for first place; $50 Rosauers gift card for second place and $25 cash for third place will be awarded in each category. 

Prize sponsors are Edward Jones, Frontier Communications, Rosauers, Loveless Realty and DeShazer-Ryan Realty.

Sampling by the public will begin immediately following the judging. 

For $4 chili-lovers, and those who just like a little  spice in their lives, can purchase a sampling “kit” with enough sampling cups for each chili, cornbread, and a ballot for voting for your favorite. 

The “People’s Choice” winner will receive a special award in addition to bragging rights.

Desserts also will be for sale in the cookhouse, so people can top off their chili with a piece of pie or cake. 

“Beyond Help” will be playing music, so come on down, enjoy the aromas and music, then sample all the contenders and vote for your favorite.

Call Chairperson Susan Castaneda, 293-2171, for more information.

While at the Cook-off, take a little extra time and browse the Heritage Museum, a place where, despite the number of times visited, there always seems to be something new or not seen before.

Help support the museum as a Member or Partner.  Membership funds are put into our General Fund and are used for the operational costs of the museum.

For more information, just ask anyone at the front desk on Saturday.