BROWNSVILLE TN (August 28, 2017): Brunswick stew is a catalyst for family get-togethers and neighborhood parties. It’s also used as a fundraiser by churches, civic groups and other charities. With this in mind, the Delta Heritage Center in Brownsville invites stew teams and individuals from across the region to participate in its third annual Old Family Stew Cook-off Saturday, September 23. The winner will be named “West Tennessee StewMaster,” receives a trophy and earns bragging rights. Entry fee for the cook-off is $10 and all sales will benefit the stew team’s favorite charity.

“Fall in West Tennessee usually means someone is cooking stew,” says Sonia Outlaw-Clark, Center director. “Whether it’s for your family, church or favorite charity, stew cooking is a long time tradition in our region and we want to help recognize those who are keeping it alive.”

Teams will be required to make a minimum of 10 gallons of stew. Individual ingredients can be prepared off site but stews must be put together on site and ready at 11:30 am for judging. Set-up will begin at 6:30 a.m.

Judging criteria requires that you use chicken and/or beef as your meat ingredient. Wild game is not allowed. Potatoes, corn and tomatoes must also be used in some capacity. Judges will score based on ingredients, taste, texture and visual appeal.

“This is a fun and friendly competition and we want the teams to make money for their causes.”

This year’s event is held in conjunction with Tina Turner Heritage Days which also includes an antique tractor show, Nutbush tours and a Tina tribute concert Saturday evening.

The deadline for entry is September 8, 2017. Second and third place winners will also be recognized. A complete list of rules and regulations can be found online at www.tinaturnerheritagedays.com or by contacting the Delta Heritage Center at 731-779-9000.

About the Center: The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center offers a refreshing Southern experience showcasing the history and culture of rural West Tennessee. Inside visitors can learn about the history of cotton, explore the scenic and “wild” Hatchie River and get to know the legendary musicians who call West Tennessee home. Also located on the grounds are Flagg Grove School, the childhood school of Tina Turner, and the last home of Blues pioneer Sleepy John Estes. To learn more about the Center, visit www.westtnheritage.com or call 731-779-9000.