55 teams set for chili cook-off Wednesday

Fifty-five teams have registered for the United Way Chili Cook-off set to begin at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Westgate Mall.

In this year's fall fund drive, the goal is to raise $350,000. Funds support 34 Crow Wing County agencies.

The three chili divisions of competition are restaurant/celebrity, non-profit and corporate. First, second and third places are awarded in each division and a taster's choice award, based on community votes, also will be presented.

Musical entertainment will be provided by WJJY. A booth and costume contest and jalapeno-eating contest will be held, in addition to the chili challenge where the first 25 people to try all different varieties of chili will receive a prize.

The public is invited to start sampling the chili at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday and winners will be announced at 1 p.m.