A community chili cook-off takes place Wednesday, Feb. 20,  from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Bluffton Middle School Cafetorium. 

This is the second year for the event that supports Bluffton Community Assistance, Corp., the local food pantry, with money and collected food donations.

The cook-off features 10 local chili entries to taste, plus sandwiches and desserts. In addition, free entertainment will be provided by Dancers Elite Dance Studio and Krysti’s Music Studio, both of Bluffton.

The $5 fee includes a sample of each chili and the chance to vote for the best one. Concession items, such as sandwiches, chips, and desserts will also be available for an additional cost.  Anyone who donates a canned or boxed food item will receive a chance to win a gift basket donated by Village Cut & Curl.

Last year’s People’s Choice vote went to Tony Pinks, who says he is planning an entry in this year’s event, as well. 

Other chili entries are being prepared by members of English Lutheran Church, Emmanuel United Church of Christ, First Mennonite Church, Ebenezer Mennonite Church, St. John’s United Church of Christ, Bluffton Presbyterian Church and community members. 

Concession items and volunteers will be supplied by First United Methodist Church, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and others.

The Bluffton Community Chili Cook-off is a mission project of Bluffton Presbyterian Church. The congregation regularly supports the local food pantry through a monthly collection. Bluffton Community Assistance, Corp. is a non-profit organization that provides food and assistance to qualifying community members in the Bluffton school district. It also operates the Bluffton Food Pantry, located at St. John’s United Church of Christ.

For additional information about the cook-off, contact Lynda Best 419-296-2790 or Bluffton Presbyterian Church 419-358-5806.