Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The American Legion and Navy League are joining forces to sponsor a charity chili cook-off featuring more than 15 recipes from a broad range of sponsors, including restaurants and individuals. This always popular event will be held on Saturday, March 30 from 1 pm to 6 pm at El Rio Bar and Grill alongside the Cuale River in Paso Ancho.

It's an "all you can eat" chili and riblet feast costing just $200 pesos per person. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance from any of the event's sponsors, including Carol's Boutique on Basilio Badillo. You won't want to miss this one!

Charities benefiting from the cook off include Busca Un Amigo, Corazon de Nina, Toys for Tots and the Navy League's "Adopt a School" program.

• Busca Un Amigo is a Pitillal based non-profit child care and rehabilitation facility for underprivileged children.

• Corazón de Nina provides a safe home for abused and neglected girls aged 12 and older, with counseling, education and long term support.

• Toys for Tots distributes more than 8,000 toys and joy each Christmas season to less advantaged kids throughout the Bahía.

• The Navy League's newest program to assist under funded kinder and primary schools will provide school supplies and other support to the neediest schools as identified when distributing toys during the holiday season.

Doors will open at 1 pm, with Mariachis performing from 2 to 4 pm. Judging by you, the attendees, will determine 1st, 2nd and 3rd place trophies. Three of Vallarta's top chefs will award a "Grand Chef's Prize."

To become a sponsor and a participant in the cook-off, you must agree to provide at least 4 gallons of your special chili recipe and preferably bring your own heating unit. Call Dennis Rike at 322-138-8891 or dennisrike(at)hotmail.com to sign up as a participant or to get additional information regarding the event.

El Rio Bar and Grill is conveniently located alongside the beautiful Cuale River in Paso Ancho. If coming from the south or El Centro, turn right off the Libramiento just past the bridge and before the new large tunnel. If coming from the north, turn left at the river road past the large tunnel and before the bridge. If traveling by bus, you should take the 04 Blue bus from Old Town (Lazaro Cardenas) to Paso Ancho.

Great food, fun and music promise a good time to be had by all. See you there!