CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — The Friends of the Clarion Free Library held their first annual Chili Cook-Off on Thursday, March 22, at the Clarion Free Library.

Clarion County’s seasoned chili makers, both professional and amateur, battled for the title of Best Chili in Clarion County at the well-attended event.

Guests at the event were asked to pay a $10.00 “Judging Fee” (donation) and were provided with samples of each chili contest entry. Judges were also provided with up to two beers, donated by Clarion River Brewing Company, for those 21 and over. The beers provided were CRBC’s Winter Warmer Spiced Amber Ale and their Clarionator Doppelbock. Desserts were also available.

Space for contestants was limited, so sign-up was required in advance. The contestants were:

Seth Snyder
Tanya Brooks
Obyn Ray (aka Robyn Holz)
Braxton White
John Miller
Dana Troese of Daddy’s Main Street
Angelo Anderson
BJ Wrhen
Kristine Lewis
Debbie Burford
Brian Luton
Casey O’Toole
Shane Risher
Kevin Ortz
Marilouise Mel Michel
Seth Robertson
Doug Bauer of DB’s Smokin’ BBQ — The Shack
Clarion University College Democrats

Dana Troese of Daddy’s Main Street won First Place with a pork Verdi chili.

Debbie Burford won Second Place with a traditional ground beef chili.

Tanya Brooks won Third Place with a chili featuring beef tips.

According to organizer Kris Cosby, the event was a great success, and the Friends of the Clarion Free Library are looking forward to holding it again next year.