Things got hot in the kitchen when RCMP claimed first place over the Strathcona County Fire Department during the 5th Annual Chili Cook-off.
Hosted by The Pan Tree in Sherwood Park, the event was founded as a means to raise funds for the Kids With Cancer Society. The Pan Tree co-owner, Natalie Nelson, says her connection with childhood cancer lead to her wanting to give back to an organization that helped her family through a very trying time. “We got to see first hand what Kids With Cancer Society can do for sick children, and I thought it was really amazing and I was like yup, that’s the charity we want to do,” said Nelson.
When asked about the choice to include firefighters and RCMP in the competition, Nelson said it was a no-brainer.
Firemen, in particular, have a lot of experience in the kitchen, preparing meals for each other, so I just knew they’d be the perfect contenders. – Nelson
This year’s event, like each year before it, saw an outpour of support from the community with nearly 200 visitors stopping by to sample the chilis, take in live music, and even hop aboard a firetruck.
While firefighters put a unique cajun spin on their chili, RCMP stole the show with their very traditional, hearty version.
Between ticket sales and auction items, over $4000 was raised, surpassing The Pan Tree’s goals.
