Saturday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Village Green

Giving Tree Committee Soliciting Entries

— from Jim Biddick —

Two happy chili tasters from last year's event. Photo: Cara Russell

Two happy chili tasters from last year’s event. Photo: Cara Russell

The Third Annual Chili Cook-off is planned to September 27, and the Giving Tree Committee is soliciting entries for the event. The cook-off will take place on the Eastsound Village Green on the last day of the outdoor Farmers Market.

All proceeds from the chili tasting and voting goes towards buying gifts for the Island Market Giving Tree to insure that no island child goes without a gift during the Christmas season.

Entries are limited to ten teams and the entry fee for the contest is $35.00. All entry fees returned to the three top winners with $150.00 for first place, $125.00 for second place and $75.00 for third place. The winning team also has their name added to the winner plaque which they get to retain for the next year. The event will run from 11:00am – 2:00pm with the winners announced at 2:30pm.

For an entry application and rules contact: Jim Biddick 376-2488 or Jennifer Pietsch 317-8342

During the past years the event has raised $2,500.00 from the chili tasting and beer garden. Can the island top $3,000 for this year’s tree? Come out and challenge last year’s teams to see if you can dethrone Island Skillet (word has it they have a new recipe for this year). Will the Kiwanis challenge the Lions to a side bet again this year? What other challenges will we see arise from this year’s event?  Maybe a challenge between two vegetarian chilis?  Most of all come out for a fun event and the last day of the Farmers Market.

Special thanks to the Orcas Community and our sponsors: Orcas Family Connections, Orcas Kiwanis Club, Orcas Island Lions Club, Orcas Island Farmers Market, Island Market and Island Hoppin’ Brewery.