Chief Vs. Chief Chili Challenge: Manhattan Chooses A Winner

MANHATTAN, IL — With the chance to raise money for two local charities and bragging rights over the other on the line, the chiefs of the Manhattan Police Department and the Manhattan Fire Protection District put on their aprons and brought their A-game Sunday to decide who makes the best chili in town.

The competition was fierce, and so was the chili. In the end, those in attendance at Roundhouse 52 declared a winner: It was Manhattan FPD Chief Steve Malone who triumphed over Manhattan PD Chief Jeff Wold for the title of chili champ.

"I am not saying it was rigged, but the Fire Chief delivered the samples to the judges," Wold joked after the votes were tallied.

Friendly kidding aside, the real winners Sunday were Special Olympics Illinois and the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance Camp I Am Me. The Chili Challenge raised approximately $1,000 for the charities, according to Malone.

“It was great to see all of the support for the Manhattan Police Department and the Manhattan Fire Protection District," Malone said. "We had a great turnout with about 100 people throughout the event. Even though the Fire District won, the real winners are the two great charities we did this for."

But it wasn't just the chiefs who got to have all the fun. There was also an open competition, which saw Lucinda Neighbors crowned champion. Manhattan Mayor Mike Adrieansen took second place, and Kristen Reinke came in third.

"It was great event," Wold said. "Thanks to everybody that helped make the event a success. Congratulations to all the winners."

This year's competition may be over, but the chiefs are already looking forward to next year.

"The Fire Department better be ready for us next year," Wold told Patch. "Our chili is going to be blazing and amazing."

But Malone seems like he's more than up for the challenge.

"I think some people may be tired of chili now," he said, "but we hope to continue this cook-off event in the future so we can keep the winning streak going."