It was a first ever chili cook-off at Harcum for the Piankatank Community League and what a success it was. Nine chili cookers decided to enter the competition just to show the lucky diners how great their chili recipe could be.

According to league president Susan Malcolm, the heat level of the chili ranged from "blow the top of your head off" to a very mild and "kid friendly" entry. From Petsworth Elementary School Winona Pearson’s entry was considered by most customers as the hottest chili. A fellow competitor commented that Pearson’s chili was helping to serve more sodas. Shannon Ackley touted her chili as "child friendly" since it was very mild to suit her two children.

It was noted, too, that the guests had different approaches to their tasting. Most people began their evening of enjoying chili by starting at the table closest to the entrance door and then working their way around the room. "However," Susan said, "once...