GREENVILLE, SC:  The City of Anderson is proud to announce that the 9th Annual Downtown Anderson Chili Cook-off will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2007 on Main Street.  Up to 25 competitors will be on hand to share their secret recipes to test the limits of even the most sensitive pallets.  The event will run from 5:30-8:30PM, and will be located on Main Street from Earle Street to Market Street in downtown Anderson.

Main Street Events, Inc. (owners and producers of B&B Development Downtown Sounds in Anderson) have been contracted by the City of Anderson to manage the event.  “Main Street Events is looking forward to expanding our relationship with the folks in Anderson,” stated Byron K. Rucker, Executive Director of MSE.  “The City of Anderson has been a great partner over the last few months and we feel that this is a natural progression for our company in a new market.  The Chili Cook-off is a unique opportunity for the citizens of Anderson to spend time in the growing downtown area, and a fun way for families to spend some quality time together.”  

A new event website (www.andersonchilicookoff) has been established to provide information on all of the aspects of the event.  A full list of entertainment and supporting details will be announced over the next few weeks.  Those who are interested in competing in the event can visit the website for entry rules and application.

“Main Street Events did such a great job with the premiere season of B&B Development Downtown Sounds”, stated Debra Credeur, Anderson Downtown Manager.  “It was a natural move for the City to partner with them in meeting the challenges of expanding the annual Chili Cook-off in a developing Downtown. We look forward to one of our biggest and best cook-offs.”

Competitors will be competing for a $500 first place prize, $400 for second place, $300 for third place based on votes gathered by judges during the event.  Two additional awards will be made with $200 going to the winner of the Tasters Choice category, and a newly created $200 award for the competitors with the Tent Appearance and Team Spirit.  The public will be able to purchase a Taste Ticket for $3.00, giving them a chance to taste a 4-oz. sample of every competing cook.  Live music will be heard throughout the event, with plenty of activities for all ages.

Main Street Events, Inc. owns and operates Countybank Main Street Jazz, AT&T Red, White and Blue, B&B Development Downtown Sounds (Anderson, SC), as well as The Greenville News Shaggin on Augusta. MSE has management contracts with St. Francis Fall for Greenville, Artisphere International Arts Festival, TLC Laser Eye Centers Downtown Alive, USA Professional Cycling Championships, Wheels for Meals Cycling Fundraiser.  MSE is also engaged in consulting roles with other markets throughout the eastern part of the U.S.