March 17, 2009 – The United Way of St. Croix will host its 8th annual Chili Cook-Off from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday, March 22, at the Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort. Prizes will be awarded to the top 10 chili cooks and top three vegetarian chili cooks; and prizes for "showmanship" will also be awarded to three teams. One winner will be chosen to represent St. Croix at the national cook-off in Terlingua, Texas, with airfare, RV rental and the entrance fee included.
A $25 entrance fee is required for each cook. Each contestant is allotted a 10' x 10' spot on the beach, a goodie-bag, serving products, a case of water, a case of Coor's 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 if requested in advance. All chili that is to be judged 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 sellers, and more. Anyone interested in volunteering, is welcomed to become a member of the planning committee.
Major sponsors for the event are: Coor's Light and Evian Water distributed by Bellows International Ltd.; Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort; the Virgin Islands Department of Tourism; The West Indian Company (WICO); Certified Angus Beef®Brand; and JKC Communications.
All proceeds are donated to United Way member agencies. For more information on entering or volunteering, call 773-0582 or 513-8359, or e-mail unitedwayofstcroix@msn.com or aldavila44@msn.com.
