NEWPORT-The lucky winner of Saturday's second annual Chili Cook-off will later appear on television as the guest of one of the judges, Chef Walter.

"We are thrilled to announce that Walter Lambert, better known to local television viewers as Chef Walter, will be one of our judges this coming Saturday," said Steve Tweed, who chairs the local event. "His interest in the success of our fundraiser and his enthusiasm for our project are tremendous boosts to our efforts.

Lambert, who worked for 35 years at the University of Tennessee in a number of positions, ending as Associate Vice-President for State and Federal Affairs, maintained his interest in cooking during that time.

After his marriage to the former Anne Wayland "about 40 years ago," he continued his work in the kitchen. She brought with her a number of cookbooks she had begun at age 12, a collection that has now grown to over 2000.

Both Chef Walter and "Miss Anne" are now retired. They had co-chaired the Gourmet Gala for the March of Dimes and served on various other committees in the Knoxville area.

Chef Walter says, "In the old days I worried about getting a bill through the Legislature. Now I worry about burning the biscuits! Now is more fun!"

He has published seven cookbooks, the first being Kinfolks and Custard Pie and the latest, Chef Walter: Another Helping.

He and Miss Anne have one son and one granddaughter, as well as a dog named Peyton.

"Last year's initial chili cook-off was a tremendous success," said Tweed, a member of the Cocke County Leadership Class of 2008, which founded the event as a fundraiser for their Leadership Scholarship.

"This year we funded two $1,000 scholarships for the non-traditional student," explained Tweed, "those who are returning to school as older students."

Saturday's cook-off will be held at Newport City Park from 1:00-4:00 p.m. "Taster's tickets are $10 each, or two for $15," said Tweed.

Musical guests at the event will be Steve Brown and Hurricane Ridge.

Tickets are available from Leadership Class members and will be available at the gate.