Duane Hicks
Who will earn a star on the “Chiliwood” Walk of Fame?
The competition is shaping up for the Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce’s annual chili cook-off here this coming Wednesday (Sept. 21).
As of late yesterday, a total of eight teams have stepped forward to deliver what they hope will be award-winning chili performances—and earn them the applause of their “fans” (the public) and “critics” (chili judges) alike.
But the Chamber would love to see a full cast of 12 teams and has extended the registration deadline until the end of the day tomorrow (Friday), executive director Jennifer Soderholm said.
She added anyone interested can contact her at 274-5773 or via e-mail at thefort@fortfranceschamber.com, or fill out an entry form found at fortfranceschamber.com
Confirmed participants so far include:
•Community Living Fort Frances and District;
•Fort Frances Tribal Area Health Services;
•Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre;
•TD Canada Trust;
•Green’s Brand Source Home Furnishings;
•M&M Food Market;
•New Gold; and
•Flint House
Soderholm said the lineup of teams so far is an even blend of chili veterans and those looking for their big break—and organizers are thrilled by that.
She admitted that up until this week, the Chamber was getting a bit worried it wouldn’t have enough participants.
For instance, the number of teams jumped from two on Tuesday morning to eight yesterday.
“The last couple of days, things have finally started to really work out,” Soderholm remarked.
“We’re starting to get really excited about it now.”
The chili cook-off is slated from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Legion, which is later in the day than usual to make it easier for teams to participate and for more people, especially families, to attend.
The cost is $7 for a sample platter or $5 for a bowl of chili (includes bun and a drink).
As in past years, those who purchase the sample platter will get a ballot to vote for which chili they think is best.
A panel of judges, meanwhile, will taste the chili and score their favourites.
As well, the Robert Moore School breakfast program will hold a cake roulette from 4:30-6:30 p.m. so chili-lovers can take a chance and perhaps win dessert to take home.
