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Magnolia United Methodist Church hopes local chili fans will help them determine the best in Suffolk.

The church holds its Chili Cook Off from 4-7 p.m. Friday, March 24 at the church, 1764 Wilroy Road. Tickets are $10 each and the event will be eat-in only, with no take outs allowed. 

“They will get to sample each of the different types of chili that we have, get to pick their favorite chili that will be served along with cornbread, beverage and a dessert,” Administrative Council Chairperson and Evangelism Team Coordinator Judi Delpiero said.

The chili that sells the most will receive a cash prize, she said.

“We’re hoping that people will see that Magnolia still exists, we’ve been quiet for several years,” Delpiero said. “But we’re hoping now that the community will see that ‘Hey, we’re still here.’ We are still serving the Lord, we’re doing everything we can to be His hands and feet and to share the good news of Jesus with the public, with the community. And that Magnolia loves our community. We love the community of Suffolk and we want folks who do not have a church or folks who are looking or folks who are just not sure to come and be a part of our fellowship.” 

Delpiero also noted the church’s upcoming Magnolia Spring Vendor event set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20. There is a $25 vendor participation fee.

“We need vendors to come out and set up, sell their wares and do their thing. We’re looking for vendors, plus we want people to know there’s going to be a lot of vendors here. It’s going to be indoors and outdoors,” Delpiero said. “If they want to be [in a] outside setup, they will have to provide their own pop-up tent covering and tables. We’ll be setting up at 7:30 a.m. in the morning, but actually that won’t start until 8:00 a.m. in the morning.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, call Magnolia United Methodist Church at 757-538-8552 or 757-651-3447.