"Next to music," said band leader and trumpet player Harry James, "there is nothing that lifts the spirits and strengthens the soul more than a good bowl of chili."

Bell Buckle Fire Department is preparing for its second annual Chili Cook-off, which will be held Jan. 26 at the James Elkins Fire Hall in Bell Buckle.

Organizers expect a good turnout, good music and lots of fun. The cook-off will begin at 6 p.m. and the judging soon after.

This is a free event, and anyone is welcome to attend and participate. Bell Buckle volunteer firefighters encourage participants to enter their favorite chili in the contest or bring a dessert to share.

All chili should be brought hot and ready to eat. The chili will be judged on taste, appearance, and originality. Prizes will be awarded to the top three contestants.

This year's judges are Volunteer Fire Services Inc. Chief Mark Thomas, Bedford County Sheriff Randall Boyce, VFSI Station 6 Chief Roy Ferguson of Wartrace and Cascade Elementary School Principal Martha Fisher.

Live music will be provided throughout the evening.

Contestants wishing to enter the cook-off are encouraged to register their chili with Matthew Joseph at (931) 224-5370 or Bell Buckle Town Hall at 389-9513.

"We want this event to grow every year and bring not only the community of Bell Buckle closer but the county as well. We hope everyone, families included, will come and enjoy the cook-off." said Joseph.