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Anita Harrand, a member of the St. Patrick's Women's group in Clifford, is helping coordinate the cook-off that raised around $300 for the community last year.

"The first year we had it in St. Patrick's basement," Harrand said. "Keenan Hall (at Sts. Peter and Paul) is handicap accessible."

Proceeds from the cook-off go to local food banks and North Branch Emergency Aid, a consortium of North Branch churches that operates a thrift shop and helps the community.

First prize in the chili contest is $75, second is $50, and third prize is a restaurant gift certificate. There will also be a People's Choice Award.

Entry fee is $10 by this Sunday (Nov. 30). Late entry fee is $15 up to the day of the contest.

Participants must bring one crockpot full of chili. "They will be judged on taste, color, presentation, and texture," she said. "December is a good time of the year to have it and people like warm food. It's a free will offering so it's affordable to everyone. I hope the community gets the fellowship from it...and we can feed the community. We hope to have some funds to share."

Mary Quinn of Imlay City has won the chili cook-off the last few years and isn't revealing her secret recipe.

"I call it 'Darn Good Chili,'" Quinn said. "My father was a good chili maker and passed it down to me. It's hardy and a little spicy with a lot of flavor."

The chili cook-off is open to the public. A free will offering will be taken to taste the treats which will include chili, salad, dessert, and beverages.

Father Richard Treml, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul and St. Patricks, will serve as a judge along with some other North Branch ministers.

"I take Pepto Bismal before I go," Treml joked. "Mary Quinn's making it hot. We opened it up to the community and hopefully we'll have a good turnout."

For more information call (810) 688-2771 or Donna Sherman at (989) 683-2218.

Jennifer Decker can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8125 or jennifer.decker@lapeergroup.com.