Help control Warren County’s animal population and show your cooking talents with a chili competition organized by Helping Animals of Warren County. Proceeds from the event help with spay and neuter efforts.

“We are hosting out fifth annual chili cook-off on Feb. 22, from 5 to 8 p.m.,” said Helping Animals of Warren County president Hollie Cox, who offered the following stats generated by treasurer Jan Saylors. “In 2019, HAWC assisted in 498 animals being spayed or neutered – an increase of 238 from 2018. That’s 60 male dogs, 94 female dogs, 157 male cats and 187 female cats who will not be contributing to the pet overpopulation here in Warren County.”

That effort could not have been achieved without community support. 

“We could not do this without the support of our loyal donors and supporters,” said Cox. “Thank you for helping us help the animals. We would like to see that number increase again in 2020. Let’s keep the momentum going.”

Cooks wishing to participate can find registration forms on HAWC’s Facebook page or website. Admission is $10. There are prizes for first, second and third places, and a People’s Choice Award. Deadline to enter is Feb. 15. 

“Registration forms can be filled out and turned into one of our members,” said Cox.

If cooking is not your forte, there will be a silent auction with a variety of items available and delicious chili with all the fixings. All-you-can-eat tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Desserts and drinks will also be available. 

The HAWC fifth annual chili cook-off will be held at Moose Lodge, located at 2851 Smithville Highway.