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By J.R. TIDWELL / Editor

Temperatures may be cool outside during this time of year, but inside Senior Connection in Clanton things will soon be heating up.

Senior Connection will be hosting its sixth annual Chili Cook-off and Health Fair Feb. 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Admission is $5 and all those attending may sample the competing chili recipes while supplies last.

“We thought it would be something the community would enjoy and a good fundraiser for us. It was a hit, so we kept doing it,” said Senior Connection Director Vanessa McKinney.

The cost to enter a chili recipe in the competition or to set up a health fair booth is $25.

Registration forms may be found at Senior Connection, and for more information call 205-755-8227 or email chiltonseniorconnection@gmail.com.

Tables will be provided for chili recipe contestants, but health fair booths should bring their own.

The judging portion of the competition will be blind, meaning those doing the scoring will not know the identities of the preparers of each sample.

Each recipe will be scored based on six different characteristics: texture, flavor, consistency, spice and taste, aroma and color.

Contestants will be provided space, crackers and paper products but will need to bring any condiments they wish to accompany their recipe.

Participants are also required to bring a gallon of chili to cover both judging and attendee tasting.

Those participating should arrive an hour ahead of the cook-off start time in order to get everything set up for their dish.

McKinney said there are always different varieties of chili in the contest. No specific type of chili is required.

Pam Graham is the reigning Chili Cook-off winner. She took home top honors and a prize of $100 during last year’s installment.

There were 16 contestants during that event, but up to 20 may participate.