I am thrilled to have been invited to help judge the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre's fourth annual Chili Cook-Off! I had the honor of doing this immensely difficult job last year, and am excited to be able to join the party again.

Everyone should come to the cook-off, because the Civic Theatre folks put on a great event that is so much fun, and much more than merely a cooking contest. Bring a pot of chili, and compete with some of Ann Arbor's most creative cooks. (Note: I received an email from Suzi Peterson of the Theatre, who says: "We actually are full up with chili contestants ... (So) come taste chili from some of Ann Arbor’s most creative cooks”!)

Or shop at the auction, with items having been donated by area restaurants and shops. Or come for the beer tasting - yes, chili and beer to keep you warm on a wintry day! Or take a chance on a raffle ticket — buy tickets here, and you do not need to be present to win (though you'll miss a great afternoon if you aren't there). There are so many ways to support the theater company and its fabulous talents.

Tickets are $20 for 10 chili tastings, five beer tastes, and a keepsake glass; you can also purchase $10 tickets just for chili samples. Children ages 5-10 can attend for $5, with kids younger than 5 welcome at no charge.  You can reserve a spot ahead of time (or get more information) by calling 971-2228; or, for spontaneous types, you can pay at the door.

I love being able to support a community organization, and having so much fun while doing so. Come on — join me!

Ann Arbor Civic Theatre's fourth annual Chili Cook-Off
Sunday, Feb. 10
2-5 p.m.
Wolverine State Brewing Co.
2019 W. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor

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Mary Bilyeu writes for AnnArbor.com on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, telling about her adventures in the kitchen - making dinner, celebrating holidays, entering cooking contests, meeting new friends ... whatever strikes her fancy. She is also on a mission to find great deals for her Frugal Floozie Friday posts, seeking fabulous food at restaurants on the limited budget of only $5 per person. Feel free to email her with questions, comments, or suggestions: yentamary@gmail.com.

Go visit Mary's blog — Food Floozie — where she enthuses and effuses over all things food-related; and look for her monthly articles in the Washtenaw Jewish News. "Like" her on Facebook, or send a tweet on Twitter, too.

The phrase "You Should Only Be Happy" (written in Hebrew on the stone pictured in this post) comes from Deuteronomy 16:15 and is a wish for all her readers - when you come to visit here, may you always be happy.