Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — Registration is under way for the Chuckwagon Chili Challenge on Sept. 15 at Little Toots Park in downtown Steamboat. The competition is part of the Downtown Hoedown. Everyone is encouraged to enter a chili in this year's competition. Chili will be judged and awards presented for the best Red, Green, Firehouse and People's Choice chilis. Taster kits will be $5. All who buy a taster kit will be eligible to vote for the coveted People's Choice Award for best overall chili.

The event also will include live music, square dancing, food and crafts vendors, the Boy Scouts Meadow Muffin Plop, a children's area and much more. For entry forms and more information, call 871-1371 or 846-3352. Entry deadline is Sept. 7.

Dental Coalition opens office in Steamboat

The Northwest Colorado Dental Coalition has opened a satellite office in Steamboat Springs. The Coalition provides services for children on CHP+ and Medicaid and children and adults who qualify for the sliding fee schedule. Call 824-8000 for more information, to schedule an appointment or to request an eligibility form.

Comunidad Integrada seeking volunteers

Comunidad Integrada needs volunteers to help plan and carry out this year's Mexican Independence Day/Festival of the Americas fundraiser from 3 to 8 p.m. Sept. 15 in Little Toots Park. Volunteers are needed in advance to assist with marketing and other coordination. Several people also are needed the day of the event for set up, greeting, face-painting, beer and T-shirt sales, fence moving and other duties. For more information, call or write Genah Burditt at (720) 394-0251 or snoweasel@hotmail.com.

Tobacco-free quit kits available at VNA offices

Tobacco-free quit kits for smokers and chewers are available at the Visiting Nurse Association offices in Steamboat, 940 Central Park Drive, Suite 101, and in Craig at 745 Russell St. The kits promote the Colorado QuitLine and free support from a trained coach who guides and supports individuals through the quitting process.

Research shows you are seven times more likely to end your tobacco habit with the QuitLine than if you try to quit on your own. Eight weeks of free nicotine patches are available, a $200 value. Call (800) QUIT-NOW (784-8669). Locally, call 871-7639 for more assistance.