Chili cook-0ff draws large crowd

The 29th annual Big Lake Chili Cook-off, sponsored by the Manila Lions Club, drew a large crowd in on Saturday, Oct. 3. The cooler weather was perfect for the variety of chili prepared by the 15 teams.

In addition to chili teams, there were games, entertainment, booths, a mile/fun run, and tours of the new Manila Historic Museum.

Manila Business Women served breakfast at the Depot.

Best of Show went to 1812 Pizza for their Mario theme.

Entertainment included Judy Hampton, Tommy Morries and Gordon Britt. Also, Miss Mess FFA pageant was held with Garrett Jolliff taking top honors as 2015 Queen. He was crowned by reigning Mess Miss Chase Sharp.

Team winners were: Best of Show, 1812 Pizza with the Mario theme; People's Choice-Wilson Dental;

Senior division -- Wilson Dental,first Place; Pappy Chili, second place and American Legion, third place.

Junior Division -- Spice Girls, first place; Red Neck Paradise, second place; and Duck Pit, third place.

Maddie Willmuth and Molly Bunch won the pumpkin decorating contest at the Relay for Life booth. The booth raised $108.85 to be donated to the Buffalo Island Relay for Life.

Monte Middleton won the $100 drawing provided by Wilson Dental.

Paige Hitchcock won the 50/50 drawing sponsored by the Manila Business Women.

The $500 drawing was won by Denise Cates. The $500 drawing was sponsored by the Manila Business Women to benefit Tim Bennett.