Cookin’ in the House: Chili Challenge at FIRE 2014 Benefits the NFFF

Nine teams competed in NYSAFC’s Cookin’ in the House: Chili Challenge on June 13, 2014, during the 108th Annual Conference and FIRE 2014 Expo at Turning Stone. All proceeds raised from the event, which totaled $1,425, were donated to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF).

This year’s competitors included: Chautauqua Monroe County Hospitality Committee, Highland Fire District, Lyncourt Volunteer Fire Department, New York Mills Fire Department, Ridge Road Fire District Honor Guard, Sylvan Beach Fire Department, Verona Fire Department, West Sand Lake Fire Department, and Williamson Fire Company #1.

Nationally renowned fire house chefs Robert Painter (FDNY Engine 63 and NYSAFC Hands-On Training instructor) and John Sierp (FDNY Ladder 169) served as special guest judges for the event. Both have participated in cooking competitions on TV shows including "Chopped" and "The Rachael Ray Show."

New York Mills Fire Department was named this year’s "Chili Challenge Champion" for Best Overall Chili. The Ridge Road Fire District Honor Guard team took home both the Most Creative Chili and People’s Choice Chili awards. West Sand Lake Fire Department claimed the Best Station Display award.

During the Chili Challenge, representatives from the NFFF Rochester Area Golf Tournament and Cathy Hedrick of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation presented NYSAFC with a certificate of appreciation for the association's continued support of the foundation's activities.

Thank you to all of our fierce competitors for taking part in this event and sharing their delicious chili recipes with the many attendees that turned out to lend their support. Special thanks to our friends from the NFFF. We look forward to next year’s cook-off at FIRE 2015!