Historic Valley Junction Hosts Chili-Cooking Contest Saturday

From a news release from Historic Valley Junction Foundation:

The Historic Valley Junction Foundation will host the second annual “Chillin’ in the Junction” chili cook-off on Saturday, Feb. 16, from 2-5 p.m.

Chili samples are available starting at 2 p.m. until the chili is gone, and Bingo goes from 3-5 p.m. Admission for all this hot fun is only $5 per person and there will also be a raffle.

Customers have the opportunity to sample 12  batches of chili from cookers around the area. Prizes will be given to first, second and third-place winners, and will be evaluated by a special group of judges.  

A “People’s Choice” prize will also be awarded to the contestant with the most votes from customers.  Each chili contestant has submitted a recipe name, and names include “Junction Style Chili,” “Losers Say ‘What’ Chili,” “Kostka’s Kickin’ Buck Chili!” and “Glory P, That’s Good Chili.”

Last year’s first place winner was Amanda Valin of Clive for her “Little Kicks” chili. The 2012 People’s Choice contest went to Kyle Barton of West Des Moines for his “Hog Call Chili.: He included a humorous display complete with chili peppers and a bottle of Malox.

Valley Junction is home to more than 150 distinctive stores, restaurants, and independent businesses, each with its own historical character. Known for its eclectic specialty stores, Valley Junction is one of central Iowa’s most unique attractions. Visit our web site, www.valleyjunction.com for more information and a complete calendar of events.