Mokane Lions to host first chili challenge

MOKANE - The temperatures outside may be cold, but event organizers are hoping the competition will be hot for the first Mokane Lions Club Chili Cookoff on Feb. 22.

The Lions are inviting Callaway cooks who think their chilis are the best to come out noon to 3 p.m. at the Lions Club and help raise money to support the annual Mokane Fair.

"We just thought it would be something interesting and different," event coordinator Jody Ayers said. "We thought it would be nice to do hot chili in the cold of February."

Ayers said the $10 entry will go toward prizes, with half of the pot going to the first place entry, and the other half to be split between the second place and people's choice winners.

Ayers said the chili can be prepared ahead of time. Electricity will be provided, but contestants are responsible for all of their own supplies.

The chili chefs will face a panel of five judges, and will be judged on five different areas: color, aroma, texture, flavor and heat.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the community come together, and listening to the ones who are always bragging their chili is the best - now they can prove it," Ayers said.

For those wanting to test the chili for themselves, tickets to the event will be $7 for adults, $5 for children ages 12 and younger.

Ayers said she is hoping to draw a crowd of at least 25, and said she would encourage Mokane and Callaway residents to come out in support of the Mokane Fair, held every Labor Day weekend.

"Come help support the Lions Club, come together and have fun and eat some chili," Ayers said.

For more information or to enter, contact Ayers at (573) 642-1327, or [email protected].