Food bingers gulp down creamed corn to benefit Literacy Coalition

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It was one part spectacle, one part fundraiser, and definitely not for the squeamish. Earlier this month, the Literacy Coalition of Howard County held its inaugural Creamed Corn Chug fundraiser at Beaver Creek Campground.

A modest crowd gathered at the campground in southeastern Howard County for the “Feast-ival,” which featured an array of portable cuisine from members of the Friends of Fred food truck association. Most of those in attendance enjoyed meals of the cajun, traditional, southwestern, and even mac-and-cheese varieties, along with a few dessert offerings.

But not the creamed corn competitors. Five ambitious contestants sought gastrointestinal immortality by signing up for the chug. Some might call it folly. Others might dismiss it self-abusing spectacle. But a crowd gathered, regardless, seeking the neurochemical rush that accompanies the sight of a train wreck or environmental disaster.

What they experienced was both impressive and a bit revolting as the five chuggers lifted 60 oz. pitchers of creamed corn to their lips, hoping to drink down the pureed vegetables, but finding the consistency far too viscous to swallow simply.

One competitor, dressed as an ear of corn as if his attire might offset his gag reflex, bowed to the pressure early and later released it well away from cameras and ogling eyes. Another resorted to first using a ladle and then his hands to shovel in the mashed-up maize, all to no avail.

One competitor, donning a corn-themed fishing cap, had professed his love for creamed corn before the event. His fidelity was tested and fell far short. The lone female in the competition favored a slow and steady pace, measuring her gulps and maintaining her composure. She, too, failed to finish the pitcher, but she continued to drink, even after the winner was announced — determined to secure a second-place result.

But it was Matt Kennedy of Kokomo who prevailed by consuming the creamed corn in less than five minutes; one half of the time allotted for the competition. He proudly displayed his trophy — a golden scepter topped with a pair of corn ears — as his daughter hugged him with humor and a bit of pride. Kennedy also took home the $250 top prize with his bragging rights.

Fortunately for the Literacy Coalition, it also took home a haul similar in value. According to Literacy Coalition executive director Bob Stephenson, the fundraiser was successful enough to warrant another go-round in 2026.

“It generated enough interest that ESPN ‘The Ocho’ even considered covering it,” said Stephenson. “Unfortunately, our event coincided with another competitive eating contest.”

Stephenson credited Literacy Coalition board member Tabitha Pelgen with the idea and most of the work required to make the Creamed Corn Chug a reality. He said Pelgen is committed to bringing the Chug back in 2026, and she is hoping for a higher-profile setting, perhaps bringing it to the Haynes-Apperson Festival.

Creamed corn and classic cars. It might be a match made in Americana Heaven.

For those who missed the Creamed Corn Chug, there’s no need to worry.  Below is a video of the competitors being introduced just before the action begins. The full video of the competition, from whistle to wire, can be found on the Kokomo Lantern's Substack page, where you can get a free or paid subscription to the Lantern and receive our content daily via email.  Also, see additional video from this event on the Kokomo Lantern’s Facebook page or group.