What is Chilifest? It’s an annual “after hours” social held by the Greater Bothell Chamber of Commerce and hosted by yours truly at the Evergreen Washelli at Bothell funeral home. Now in our third year, Chilifest will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 15.

Fifteen self-styled chili chefs from among the chamber’s membership will bring crock pots brimming with their proud concoctions! The event is free to attend, although we encourage donations to the local Hopelink program. We’ll be delighted to welcome you and your guests. Come see what a fun event this is and feel good about helping out our neighbors.

Our first Chilifest was a success with more than 100 attendees. Last year saw nearly 200 come through our doors. We’re looking forward to lots of our Bothell neighbors enjoying the festivities this year. Our chefs compete for recognition by our panel of local dignitaries, including the Bothell Fire Department, Bothell-Kenmore Reporter editor Andy Nystrom and at least one Bothell City Councilmember. The juried award categories are Mr. Meaty, Green Bean (vegetarian award), Judges’ Favorite and the Burnt Spoon.

Perhaps the most coveted prize, though, is the People’s Choice Award. Each person attending who brings a canned or packaged food donation gets to vote for their favorite chef. For those who would prefer to make a cash donation, each dollar gets you one vote. Last year, we raised about $600 in donations for Hopelink. The competition was fierce!

Evergreen Washelli is located a block north of Main Street at 18224 103rd Ave. N.E., between the Lutheran church and the post office. No reservations are necessary; please bring a donation and an appetite.

Oh, and we’ll supply the Rolaids, Alka-Seltzer and Beano!