Cape & Islands News

Cape firefighters supply the heat at the 4th Annual Chili Challenge

Firefighters brought the heat to help Muscular Dystrophy at the 4th Annual Chili Challenge

   ^{The winners, the Wareham Fire Department, Local 2810, l-r: MDA director Erin Fernandes, Wareham firefighters Brian Crocker, David Wahlstrom, Captain Matthew Rowley, Andrew Rowley; back row: Chip DeBlois.} 

HYANNIS - Over 23 Fire Departments in Southeastern, MA raised over $14,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association as they competed in the 4th Annual Firefighters Chili Challenge on Sunday, March 2nd.  

"The event was an awesome time for a great cause.  Firefighters came from across the region to help in every way for this event -it was definitely a party with a purpose!"  -Erin FernandesThe variety of chili was bountiful and delicious!  Our celebrity chefs were wowed by the Wareham Fire Department  and chose them as the recipient of the coveted Chef’s Cup!   The people spoke and voted for the Yarmouth Fire Department as the People’s Choice with the Barnstable Fire Department coming in second. 

The booths/displays were simply amazing!  Who can forget Eastham’s flames with fire hats holding chili toppings and Taunton’s Silver City Chili team's masterly crafted fire truck with a mural of the town!  The Orleans Fire Department brought the heat with their chili and took home the award for Hottest Chili with Taunton's 2 Mardi Gras Krewe coming in a close second. 

This successful event was held at the Resort & Conference Center in Hyannis and the public was invited to vote for their favorite chili.  Melanie Black sang the National Anthem and Opening Ceremonies were conducted by the Brockton Bag & Pipes and the Hyannis Honor Guard.

According to MDA District Director, Erin Fernandes, “the event was an awesome time for a great cause.  Firefighters came from across the region to help in every way for this event –it was definitely a party with a purpose!”  This year marked the 54th anniversary of a partnership between the International Association of Firefighters and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  During this time, firefighters have raised over $200 million in their effort to treat and cure neuromuscular disease. 

All proceeds of the event benefited residents of Southeastern Massachusetts affected by any of 43 neuromuscular diseases by supporting an extensive patient service program, research programs and clinics at nearby hospitals, organizing area support groups, and by sending children ages 6-21 to summer camp.

Visit the Muscular Dystrophy Association's site here. 

Release courtesy of Erin Fernandes. Photo submitted by Patricia McGarry, taken by Marilyn Wright.