Thursday, Oct. 9 is the last day to register for the Washington Food Industry's annual "Best Bagger Contest," taking place on Thursday, Oct. 16 at the Airport Doubletree Inn.

The competition is open to courtesy clerks at grocery stores, who will be judged on speed, technique and weight distribution. The winner will receive $500, as well as an all-expense paid trip to the National Grocers Association convention in Las Vegas to compete for the national title next February. The second-place winner will receive $250 and the third place winner will get $100.

Lieutenant Governor Brad Owen, a former grocery store owner, will be on hand as master of ceremonies, and participants are encouraged to bring friends and family members to act as their cheering section.

So if there's a bagger at your local grocery store who masterfully fills your bags with care and flair, tell them to go to the Washington Food Industry's Web site for more information.

Hit me with your best shop: alisonbrownrigg@gmail.com

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