The 9th annual Chili Cook-off to benefit Harvey County United Way will be Saturday, Sept. 26, 2015, at the corner of 6th & Main streets, Newton, Ks  from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 pm. 

Advance tickets for the event are on sale for $5 in Newton at Prairie Harvest, the United Way office and at the Newton Convention & Visitors Bureau inside City Hall. Tickets will also be available at the gate on the day of the cook-off for $6 each. All proceeds benefit the United Way.

Chili makers will compete against each other for two awards: The Pride of the Prairie, determined by cook-off judges, and The People’s Choice, a tally of cash votes at each competitor which are donated to United Way.

While some competitors enter just to win a coveted award, others enter for the opportunity to engage the public about their organization or business.  More than 1,200 people attend the event each year.

“The Chili Cook-off is compelling,” said Tina Payne, Harvey County United Way Executive Director.  “A thousand plus people, coming together in two hours in a couple of blocks on a Saturday morning.  People bump into each other and say, ‘Hey, I didn’t know you were involved in this organization, church, business, etc.'” She explained, “We have a very caring, involved community.  The relationships are there.  The Chili Cook-Off gives people the chance network, engage, and learn in a fun-filled way.” 

Have a great recipe for chili? New competitors are welcome to register for the event. The cost to enter is $125.00 which, along with all proceeds at the event, is a donation to United Way.  Competitors are asked to bring nine gallons of chili for the event.  Registration deadline is Sept. 11, 2015.

To enter or for more information, go to http://tonewton.com/harvey-county-chili-cook-off.html or contact Payne, 316-283-7101; or event sponsors Mike Petitjean, Ameriprise Financial Services, 316-284-2445, or Marti Nellans, Prairie Harvest Market & Deli, 316-283-6623.

Competitor information and registration forms are also available to download on their website.

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