Preparations under way for Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair

The Carson Valley Sertoma Chili Cook-Off and Craft Fair is not far off; the dates for the event this year are April 22 and 23, at the Carson Valley Inn.

This will be the 14th year of chasing away the winter chill. Over the years the event has been growing, attracting competitors, crafters, and visitors from a wide area. In fact, the Carson Valley Sertoma Cookoff is one of the two most popular competitions in Northern California and Nevada.

Red chili, green chili, and salsa are the competitive events. The International Chili Society sanctions this competition and cooks are coming from all across the U.S., including former world champions. It's a regional competition, so the winners from this year's event at the Carson Valley Inn will have earned entry into the World Championship Cookoff.

Another highlight of this event is the craft fair, with 70 crafters and vendors participating. There will be a variety of crafts displayed, from homemade goodies, crafts and art. There's a lot to see for the shoppers and browsers.

Besides the craft booths and the chili cooks, there will be 10 raffles on both days. For entertainment there is live music by Janet and Corky and contests to select "Miss Chili Pepper" and "Mr. Hot Sauce." Other folks can try the "Shoot and Holler" competition. The event will feature the "soon-to-be-famous Sertoma chili."

The event will be in the parking lot behind the Carson Valley Inn RV Park. A parking lot shuttle and dust control has been added this year.

The Carson Valley Sertoma sponsors the Topaz Carson-Valley Chili Cook-Off. As in the past, the money raised by this event is for the benefit of our community. We provide assistance to organizations like the Carson Valley Community Food Closet and the Family Support Council of Douglas County, and to individuals who need help.

You can find information at www.chilicookoff.com or call Fritz Rubins at 266-3468. If you are a cook, a crafter or vendor and you want a space, you can call Suzy Finnigan at 267-4938.