Crying out loud: Raw onion-eating set for Aug. 18

Pine Island - The winner of the raw onion-eating contest held during the Pine Island Summer Fest on Aug. 17-19 will receive a $100 gift certificate from Joe Donnelly, the new proprietor of Ye Jolly Onion Inn in Pine Island, to dine at his restaurant. The winner will also get a trophy and breath mints. The contest, sponsored by the Pine Island Chamber of Commerce, will be held at about 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18, at the pavilion of the Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV) off Pulaski Highway, Pine Island. The onions will be the hearty , distinctive Black Dirt variety renowned for their health benefits. They are good for the circulation and promoting heart health. Worldwide, serious cooks love the variety because of their full flavor. They are also known for their ability, when raw, to bring tears to the eyes. All contestants will be given a limited amount of onion to eat n speed will count more than quantity. All interested onion eaters should contact the Chamber at pineislandchamber@yahoo.com or call 845-321-3522.