Manteca’s first responders are going the extra mile in the Second Harvest Food Bank Chili Cook-off this Saturday by offering their department’s exciting challenges as part of a planned live auction.
It’s the third annual event to raise funds to put more foods in their Manteca warehouse and one where high bidders at the MRPS Hall, 133 N. Grant St., can be involved in a police SWAT team tactical training or be a firefighter for a day.
The fire department is offering the chance to observe or actually participate from riding up in the 100-foot ladder, using the Jaws of Life, fight a simulated structure fire or dine with firefighters in their station house.
There are currently 22 participants signed up for the cook-off with a chance for three more to register before Saturday. The fire department actually has three of its shifts that will be represented with their chili along with Wells Fargo Bank staffers.
The live and silent auctions include a winery tour for six at the Black Stallion Winery in Napa located on a picturesque stretch of the Silverado Trail and a signed photo of champion prize fighter Mohammad Ali standing in the ring over Sonny Liston. There is also a two night getaway package being offered as well as 30 raffle prizes.
Food bank staffer Kristen McMahan noted that there is currently an “extreme need” for breakfast items, especially cereals that have been in short supply in their warehouse.
Cash prizes for the best chili range from $75 to $300. The “People’s Choice” category brings with it a $100 prize.
Tickets are $8 and includes unlimited chili tasting and a non-alcoholic drink. Firefighters will also be tending bar for the event. Tickets will be available at the door.
For more information www.localfoodbank.org or call (209) 239-2091.
Five-alarm chili with three-alarm raffle excitement set for Saturday
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