SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The 44th annual Chili Cook‑Off returned to Springfield on Saturday, and organizers say this year’s turnout may be one of the largest in the event’s history.
The long‑running fundraiser brings thousands of people together each year to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, a partnership organizers say stretches back more than eight decades.
“We’re having our annual kickoff to raise money for the Boys and Girls Club,” said Eric Braun, president of Springfield Sertoma. “We actually started with the Boys and Girls Club back in 1941. This is our 44th annual kickoff to raise money, and we give money to support the kids in our community.”…