It takes a village to put on the Monte Vista Fire Department’s annual chili supper. Or more specifically, some 20 firefighters and a small army of additional volunteers. The firefighters arrived to the fire station early to cook up green and red chili, bake cornbread and cake and clean and organize the firehouse for the hundreds of guests who arrived later in the day.  

MONTE VISTA—Hundreds of Monte Vista residents attended the annual Monte Vista Fire Department Chili Supper on Saturday, Nov. 17. The evening’s menu included baked potatoes, the firehouse’s renowned red and green chili, fresh-baked cornbread, warm tortillas, popcorn and a variety of homemade cakes and beverages.  
The annual fall chili supper has been a tradition for nearly 30 years as a way of helping the all-volunteer fire department raise money for necessary equipment, said Fire Chief Patrick Sullivan. Past chili suppers have helped buy equipment lockers, training courses and equipment for the department’s brushfire truck. Donations also allow the department to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and to participate in school and community educational programs that teach fire safety techniques and disaster and emergency preparedness.
This year was a particularly tough year due to drought conditions, Sullivan said. The Monte Vista Fire Department responded to some 230 calls for situations involving structure fires, car accidents, wildland fires and other emergencies. The fire department also provided resources for the Spring, Weston Pass and 416 wildfires---including firefighters, equipment and other necessary supplies.
Money raised from the fall chili supper will help towards the fire department’s goal of purchasing battery-powered extrication tools for use in emergency situations such as car accidents.
The Monte Vista Fire Department depends on community support to serve residents living in the Monte Vista Fire Protection District and surrounding areas.