A chili cook-off that was set for Saturday, Jan. 20, at the Luminary-Frostbite Volunteer Fire Department has been delayed until Feb. 10.
Officials said, "Unfortunately, due to wide spread illness we must postpone this event until 10 February 2018. We would like to thank all of our registered entrants for their support. Those who may not be able to participate on the 10th, please contact us and we'll be more than happy to refund your registration fees. We'll also be personally contacting everyone."
The event is a fundraiser for members of the Rhea County High School Color Guard and the LFVFD. This is a challenge event, RCHS Color Guard girls challenging local emergency responders. However, anyone who believes their chili is better than a high school girls' team is eligible to join the fray.
Tonya Roberson, wife of 2018 Bledsoe County Road Commissioner candidate Robby Roberson and first paid entrant, said, "Mine will win. Hands down, there's no question about it." To which Olivia Harvey, challenge instigator, retorted, "Excuse me, Mrs. Roberson, but you'll have to prove that."
When asked why he's sending his champion, Mr. Roberson responded, "I'm a degreed civil engineer who's spent the past 35 years building and maintaining roads and bridges. I know my limitations and cooking is one of them, so our team's best will participate. I'll hold the salt and pepper shakers."
LFVFD's representatives, Michael Steadham and Chief John Hilliard, are being quiet. Really really quiet.
There will be chili, coffee/tea, cornbread, chips, condiments... all the fixin’s. Additional side challenges are rumored but these haven't been substantiated at the time of this submission. There will be trophies for best chili (two), prize for most distant challenger, and a door prize drawing.
There will also be a soup lunch for those desiring lighter fare.
The fire station is at the crossroads in the heart of downtown Luminary, Tn., in front of the pond, and is the only red and white building in town. Additional information may be obtained at the VFD website.