The Volunteer Transportation Center will mark the 25th anniversary of its Annual North Country Chili Cook-Off this week with a hybrid format that again promotes participation among local restaurants and its in-person event at the Dulles State Office Building.

This year, more than 30 locations are participating once again in an abbreviated format from Thursday, Feb. 1, through Wednesday, Feb. 21, leading up to the in-person event at the Dulles State Office Building on Saturday, Feb. 24.

The following St. Lawrence County restaurants have signed up to compete:

• Silver Leaf Diner, 3231 U.S. Route 11, DeKalb Junction
• L.E.A’S Diner, 90 State Street, Heuvelton
• Ella’s On The Bay, 209 Main Street, Morristown
• Smuggler’s Café, 54 East River Street, Ogdensburg
• Hoof & Horn Butcher and Eatery, 32 Market Street, Potsdam
• Saint Larry’s Bar and Grill, 6 Elm Street, Potsdam

Those wanting to cast votes will be able to do so in person by paper ballot or online through the VTC website beginning Feb. 1. The entry with the most votes will receive a plaque denoting them winner of the People’s Choice Award for the tri-county competition. In addition, participating locations will again be able to compete for the Top Fundraiser Award by collecting donations for the Volunteer Transportation Center Foundation. The participating team with the highest amount raised will receive this special recognition. Winners of both awards will be recognized at the in-person event at the Dulles State Office Building on Feb. 24.

Proceeds of the North Country Chili Cook-Off will benefit the Volunteer Transportation Center, which provides essential rides to health care appointments, grocery shopping, and other destinations for residents with no transportation alternatives. Funds raised through the cook-off are earmarked to provide transportation to veterans and their family members, which make up roughly one-third of those transported by volunteer drivers through the VTC.