Winners in the chili category at the annual cook-off at the Good News Church in Tarkio are, left to right, Will Johnson and Robin Winger, tie for first place; Lacretia Livengood and James Mather, tie for second place; and Teresa Shaw, third place.

Winners in the dessert contest at the annual event at the Good News Church in Tarkio are, left to right, Briana Blackman and Barb Lee, tie for first place; Willow Wright and Titus Wright (team), second place; and Joy Johnson, third place.

Winners in the soup category at the annual cook-off at the Good News Church in Tarkio are, from left to right, Becky Jones, first place; Pastor Cathy Riggins and Markie Sundermann, tie for second place; and Darcy Vette, third place.

Nearly 60 people took part in the annual Chili/Soup Cook-Off and Dessert Contest at the Good News Church in Tarkio, Missouri, on Sunday evening, February 18. The fellowship hall at the church, located at 201 North 6th Street, was full of competitors and tasters. Many varieties of chilis, soups and desserts made the voting for winners very difficult this year.

First, second and third place prizes of chef hats were awarded in each of the three categories. Here are this year’s winners:

Chili: There was a tie for first place between Robin Winger and Will Johnson. There was also a tie for second place between Lacretia Livengood and James Mather.Teresa Shaw placed third.

Soup: Becky Jones, first place; Pastor Cathy Riggins and Markie Sundermann, tie for second place; and Darcy Vette, third place.

Dessert: Barb Lee and Briana Blackman, tie for first place; Willow and Titus Wright, second place; and Joy Johnson, third place.

Many of those attending this free and fun event brought donations for the local food pantry which will soon be delivered.