CLEARFIELD– Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospice invites area residents to spend an evening enjoying their favorite games during the annual Chili Bowl, scheduled for Sept. 17 from 5-9 p.m. at the Clearfield Driving Park Expo II Building.
“Game On” is the theme for the 18th annual Chili Bowl. The planning committee is now accepting entries for the competition, as well as themed-basket donations that will be chanced off. Individuals, restaurants, churches, community organizations and businesses are invited to participate. Participants are encouraged to decorate their booth and/or dress in accordance with the theme.
All Chili Bowl proceeds benefit the hospice program by covering expenses that are not covered by insurance. Monies are used to help alleviate burdens from hospice patients and families in need who are facing end-of-life issues.
Money raised also supports the bereavement program, which is a free service to anyone in the community who has suffered a loss.
For those not familiar with the Chili Bowl, here’s how it works: Chili entries are accepted in three categories, which are Open, Restaurant, and Church. Entry fee is $30.
The deadline for the chili entries is Sept. 2.
The judges determine winners in each category based on flavor, aftertaste, consistency, aroma and visual appeal.
Another panel of judges walks around the event. These judges determine Spirit Award winners, based on participation and enthusiasm, while another panel of judges determines the Most Artistic, with judging based on presentation of the booths.
There is also a People’s Choice Award, which is determined by the patrons’ votes.
The Humanitarian Award is another chance for entrants to shine. Each entrant has a mason jar placed on the entrant’s table. Attendees may make a voluntary donation to help choose the chili entry that wins this award. Money may also be collected prior to the event for the Humanitarian Award.
In addition to the chili competition, themed-baskets are raffled off during the night. These baskets, containing a variety of items ranging from gift certificates, clothing, household wares, etc., are donated by individuals, businesses and Penn Highlands Clearfield departments. The deadline for baskets to be turned in is Aug. 7.
The baskets will be on display in the Penn Highlands Clearfield lobby from Aug. 10 through Sept. 15, and from Aug. 20-25 at the DuBois Mall.
People may purchase chances on the baskets during those exhibitions as well as the evening of the Chili Bowl.
Other activities will include music by the band Live Bait and children’s activities. Volunteers will be selling 50/50 chances and other raffle tickets as well as Chili Bowl t-shirts and cookbooks.
While chili tasting is the main feature, other food items will be sold, including hot dogs, chips and drinks. Dave and Amy Duke of Clearfield will have their ice cream truck at the event. Proceeds from food and ice cream sales benefit hospice.
Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospice provides personal care and support for terminally ill persons and their families. It serves residents of Clearfield County and portions of Centre and Cambria counties.
For registration information, please contact hospice at 768-2012. Hospice is also seeking event sponsors, donations and door prizes.
More information may also be obtained at the hospice booth inside the Expo I Building during the Clearfield County Fair.