Chili cook-off proceeds will help less fortunate children

The purchase of a spicy lunch Thursday at the Columbia County Amphitheater will help a county committee do something sweet for underprivileged children.

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The Columbia County Employees for Excellence Committee is holding a Chili Cook-off from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help raise money to buy Christmas presents for children selected by the Columbia County Foundation for Children.

Five contestants will face off and be judged by Chef Jeff Freehof, the owner of Cutie Pies and the new Garlic Clove restaurant, and Cindy Greenwell, the former owner of BG's Deli and Fine Catering in Harlem.

"Each competitor is going to have a table set up where they will provide 4-ounce samples of their chili along with any topping that they wish to provide, like cheese, sour cream, etc.," said Kristen Price, a board member of the committee.

The price to sample chili is $5. Hot dogs will also be available for purchase.

Chairwoman Hope Marshall said the group has raised about $3,000 through hot dog, barbecue and bake sales and a Yankee Candle sale. Proceeds will go toward purchasing Christmas gifts for children.

The group is also planning a toy drive later in November.