BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio (WTRF) -- Folks throughout Barnesville had the chance to try an array of delicious home-cooked dishes and raise funds for the local theater during the 3 annual Chili Cook Off.

Several stands, each with their own theme, competed head-to-head for the top tasting meal - but the real winners were those who've been helping mend the State Theater.

State Theater President and participant Roger Johnson says with the help of the community they've raised more than $540,000 over the past three years.

"Barnesville is beyond belief. I was raised here; it's just incredible what the people in the surrounding community can do when it comes to fundraising. The amount of money we've raised so far - 80 to 85 percent of that has come from this community."

Roger Johnson, participant, Barnesville State Theater President

With the help of local businesses, sponsors, and families throughout the area, this year's Chili Cook Off raised $25,000for the Barnesville State Theater Group.

Johnson says he can't thank everyone enough for their efforts in helping restore this historic part of town.