Chili cook-off raises record amount; to be renamed in 2011

RED OAK — Before a name change in 2011, the Red Oak Express’ sixth annual chili cook-off raised a record amount of money Friday, with funds going to the basketball cage replacement project.

Including donations, entry fees, drink and desert sales, the chili cook-off raised more than $2,300, which will be renamed next year in honor of one of its longtime organizers.
Express Advertising Representative Barb Gray, who helped organize the event the last several years, passed away Thursday afternoon while collecting entry fees for this year’s cook-off. General Manager/Editor Gregory Orear said future cook-offs will be renamed in her honor.
“During our meeting Friday morning, the staff agreed there were two events that were very important to Barb: the County fair and the chili cook-off,” Orear said. “So it seemed fitting that starting next year, to rename this event the ‘Barb Gray Memorial Chili Cook-off.”
A panel of three judges chose Red Oak Glass and Awnings’ entry as the top chili. The first-time competitor walked away with a plaque commemorating the win.
Fareway, a perennial top three finisher, won a second place ribbon for the second consecutive year, followed by Southwest Iowa Liquor Store in third.
In the race for the coveted “People’s Choice Award,” which is given to the entry that receives the most donations, five entries raised more than $100.
However, the Red Oak Rotary Club ran away with the award, raising $1,060.
All funds raised at the event will be donated to the Rotary Club for its basketball cage replacement project.
The local service club is trying to raise $190,000 to replace the cage, which is located across the street from the Red Oak Middle School.
Once completed, the three basketball courts, pavement and fencing will all be replaced. There will also be additional landscaping, and seating added, enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of the cage, which is used by the school and community alike.
 “As evident by the amount of money raised, this was a great event,” Orear said. “I truly appreciate the local businesses who participated, and the many people who came out and donated to the cause. Without all of your support, this event would not be possible.”
In addition to Red Oak Glass and Awning, Fareway, and SWILS, other businesses participating included Hy-Vee, Hawkeye Ford, Red Oak Rehab, Good Samaritan Society, and Brown Shoe. The Red Oak Fire Department and Rotary Club also submitted entries.