Attention amateur chefs: the deadline for entry in the 2007 National Beef Cook-Off is almost here.

The National Beef Cook-Off, the country's premier amateur beef-cooking contest, (not like those underground, back-alley amateur beef-cooking contests you read about), is focusing on a 'Seize Life' theme, showcasing the role that beef plays in an active lifestyle. (No, I did not make that up.) According to their press release this year's Cook-Off will "demonstrate how beef satisfies consumers' appetites, enabling them to enjoy the food they're eating and also feel good about the choices they've made." (I've read that three times and still have no idea what it means.)

If people are always raving about how incredible your beef is, send in your recipe by March 31, 2007 for a chance to win the "Best of Beef" $50,000 grand prize. (Sorry no championship belt.) You'll find entry info, rules and previous winning recipes at www.beefcookoff.org.