The Monroe Township-Lucas Fire Department is hosting its first annual Chili Cook Off on Saturday, Oct. 25 to raise funds for volunteer fire departments. The department has been a volunteer based fire department since its establishment in 1885.
It got its first motorized apparatus in 1935, and over the years the department has added on to their equipment as funds become available. Chief Chris Niswander said that some of the equipment and tools are outdated and coming to the end of their life and that’s why the Monroe Township-Lucas Firefighters Association decided to sponsor a community chili cook-off.
“We welcome anybody from the community to come out. We’ll have a college football game going on on the T.V.,” said Niswander.
According to the department’s event flyer, “Winners will be announced at 4 p.m. or when the chili runs out. First, second, and third place winners for the best tasting will receive a plaque and bragging rights. One winner for the hottest tasting chili and one winner for best decorated table will receive a plaque.”
The Monroe Township Lucas Fire Department currently outfits 12 volunteer firefighters and they operate four engines. They serve Monroe Township and the village of Lucas. According to Niswander, when called in, the firefighters are able to show up to the station in approximately seven or eight minutes.
“If we didn’t exist, I don’t know who would respond,” said Niswander.
Chief Niswander took the volunteer position one-and-a-half years ago. Before this position he was a full time fire chief at Madison Township Fire Department for six and a half years. He said the equipment that needs replaced are 15-year-old air packs, which are self contained breathing apparatuses firefighters use in immediate danger to life and health (IDLH) atmospheres. Other equipment has been used for for 20 years.
The funds raised from the chili cook-off will be used to replace old and worn equipment.
“If I decide to participate in the chili cook-off, I’ll use a secret recipe,” said Niswander.
The Chili Cook Off on Saturday will be held from noon until 4 p.m., or until the chili runs out at the station at 43 S. Union St., Lucas.
If participating, the flyer advises taking the chili to the station by 11:45 a.m. For individuals interested in participating in the cook-off, call 419-892-2020 or send the group a private Facebook message by October 20 and include your full name and phone number.
