WINCHESTER — The Winchester Exchange Club plans to host the 12th annual Chili Challenge and Motorcycle Show on Oct. 4.

The roster includes newcomers and return champions from around the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Many of the 17 contestants appeared at a press conference held Tuesday at Chili's restaurant in Winchester.

The club hosts the competition to raise funds for the Child-Parent Center whose executive director, William "Billy" Germelman, noted this year's roster is the event's largest.

"This event ... is absolutely crucial to the continued survival of the Child-Parent Center," Germelman said.

Contestants in the individual division are: Wayne Miller with "Miller's Road Kill II"; Mary Fisher with "Bad Water Bill's Chili"; Ken Aubbey with the "Pull My Finger Gourmet"; Scott Wilfong with "Toad Chili"; Patrick Rodgers with the "I'm Just Say'in Chili"; Billy Zydelis with "Billy's AAA," which he said stands for Authentic Appalachian American; Rusty Holland with "Phil's Rusty-Dick's Chili"; Jennifer Zalewski promoting "Outhouse Chili"; and Jessica Neff with "Jessy's Messy Chili," which earned her last year's Judges' Choice award.

Restaurant division contestants are Chili's, Piccadilly Brew Pub, Sweet Caroline's, Rock Harbour Grill, Cork Street Tavern, The Virginia Brewing Company, Glory Days Grill and last year's champion, Greenwood Grocery and Deli.

The event will be held at the Frederick County Fairgrounds from noon to 6 p.m. The Jokers will provide live music. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the gate. Call 536-1640 or (800) 567-7954 for information.

Daily Staff Report