Goodness Gracious!

The day was beautiful, the crowd, large and enthusiastic, and as always, the offerings were diverse and delicious at the 11th Annual Jerry Adams Chili Cook-Off. 

With a tagline of “Great Bowls of Fire,” the Cook-Off was held recently at CJ’s on the Bay, in the Esplanade Shoppes. Competing are teams of individuals and representatives of the island’s businesses, schools, civic organizations and other nonprofits for the title of best chili maker. The winner is chosen by the attendees. 

All proceeds from the event benefit the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation. The organization is dedicated to providing financial relief and scholarships for Fire Rescue Department personnel and their families in times of injury and illness. 

The event honors the memory of Jerry Adams, a Marco Island firefighter for 23 years, who lost his life to cancer in 2012. He was renowned for the popularity of the firehouse chili that he prepared. 

Foundation President Dianna Dohm said all expenses must be tallied before the amount of money raised is known. The preliminary attendee count exceeded 1,000 people, setting a record for the event. Roughly 800 people attended last year, noted Dohm.

“The Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation is so appreciative of the support from our community, businesses, volunteers and of course, our chili chefs,” she added. “The Fire Rescue Foundation is proud to sponsor the kickoff event for the season. Our community’s support of our first responders is overwhelming. The net proceeds from our Chili Cook Off will go directly to support our responders in need. They are always here to support us. It’s our honor to support them when they are in need.”