Photo by Val Simon:At the Fourth Annual Jerry Adams Chili Cook-off, Fire Chief Mike Murphy, along with wife Barbara (top left) and Dianna Dohm, Marco IslandFire Rescue Foundation members and event organizers, took a moment to sit atop an antique fire engine. The engine was an ideal backdropfor that special photo op, which grabbed the attention of anyone interested in fire engines! The event was a resounding success due to themany chili chefs and Foundation members who volunteered to participate. Turn to page A24 for more photos.
About 600 hungry guests came out to conquer chili in all forms. Whether it was con carne or con pollo, hot or mild, with beans or without…each of the chili cooks provided plenty to sample. The weather dialed in at ‘island-perfect’ and the Ben Allen Band provided a great backdrop of music.
The Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation organized the event at the Esplanade with CJ’s on the Bay being co-sponsor along with Mutual of Omaha Bank, Coastal Breeze News, Island Kitchen and Baths, Marco Island Marriott, Raymond James Financial Services, Bill and Karen Young, 5th Avenue Coffee, MES Fire Equipment, Autocraft
Foundation President, Dianna Dohm, commented on the success of the event, “It gets better every year! It is a true community event. We want to thank everyone for coming out and voting for their favorite chili and a huge Thank You for all the chefs.”
The 50/50 winner, fireman and Chef, Ray Ladurini, donated the proceeds to aid Baby Cash Macchiorolo.
Golden Ladle Winners:
Restaurants: Kim and Tim Burke, Stonewalls Restaurant
Individual: Cheryl Stokes – Market Place Home Mortgage
Civic: Sunrise Rotary
Fire Related: Ray Ladurini, Marco Island Fire Rescue – IAFF Local 2887
Best Decorated Tent: Sunrise Rotary
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