Metro Detroit 10 Alarm Chili Challenge Kicks Off Saturday

Detroit is known nationally for having one of the most severely underfunded fire departments in the country. In a recent video, one Detroit fire station demonstrated the department's outdated technology in the form of a makeshift alarm system—a fax machine and a a screw-filled pop can.

As a result of the city bankruptcy "Detroit firefighters' healthcare benefits, that were promised to them, have nearly all been taken away," says renowned journalist, Charlie LeDuff.

LeDuff and restaurant owners Dean "Dino" Bach (M-Brew and Dino's Lounge) and Grace Keros (American Coney Island) have joined forces to host the Metro Detroit 10 Alarm Chili Challenge from noon to 6 p.m. on November 8 at the Corktown Tavern. Proceeds from the chili cook-off will benefit the Detroit Firemen's Benevolent Fund, a non-profit organization that serves injured firefighters, their families, retirees, and those with financial difficulties.

"We thought a group of us could band together and create a unique event to support those with no security and that sacrifice their lives and health everyday for our city," LeDuff says.

Teams representing fire departments across the Motor City will face off in a competition to see which group sports the best chili recipe. With a $10 donation, attendees can sample and vote for Detroit's Best Firehouse Chili Champion 2014.

In addition to the chili tasting, entertainment will be provided by Shine on Kentucky Moon and The Howling Diablos.