One day each September, Delta State University’s Sillers Coliseum overflows with Deltans attending the annual Rice Tasting Luncheon sponsored by Delta Rice Promotions.

This year’s event on Sept. 18 marks the 25^th National Rice Month and the 25^th Annual Rice Tasting Luncheon.

To celebrate the special anniversaries, a Think Rice Cook Off has been added with four categories: Appetizer, Side Dish, Main Dish and Dessert. A person can enter one dish in more than one category.

Cash prizes will be awarded in each of the four categories. First place winners will receive $100, second place winners will receive $75, and third place winners will receive $50. The grand prize winner will walk away with $300.

Prepared dishes must be dropped off for judging the morning of the Rice Tasting Luncheon, Sept. 18, between 9 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. at the Delta State University Walter Sillers Coliseum in Cleveland, Miss. Winners will be announced during the Rice Tasting Luncheon.

Contestants must be residents of Mississippi and be 18 years old or older.

Official entry forms can be obtained by calling the Bolivar County Extension Service at (662) 843-8371 or by going online to http://msucares.com/counties/bolivar_6/info.html. The deadline to submit an official entry form to the Bolivar County Extension Service is Aug. 28.