Third annual Vancouver Fire Fighter's Fund-raiser to benefit Share | Community Spirit

VANCOUVER, Wash. -- The Vancouver Fire Fighters Union will take over Esther Short Park July 23 to raise money for Share and the hungry and homeless in Clark County.

Fire in the Park, 12 noon to 9 p.m., is free and open to the public. (Note: Chili Cook-off: $1 per tasting cup.)

"We are very excited to be partnering once again with the Vancouver Fire Fighters Union for Fire in the Park," said Diane McWithey, Executive Director of Share. "It's going to be a fantastic, community event with activities for the whole family. Plus, money raised by the event will help the hungry and homeless in our community -- it's a win-win event."

This year's activities include the Fire Fighter's Competition (12:15, 1:45, 3:15), Chili Cook-off (12 noon to 9 p.m.), Fun Zone for Kids (12 noon to 4 p.m.), Beer & Wine Garden (12 noon to 8:30 p.m.) and Firefighter's Pipe and Drum Bands (12 noon, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 8:00) from all over the Northwest, plus an evening concert featuring Patrick Lamb (6 to 8 p.m.). For complete event details, visit fireinthepark.com.

Taste some chili and you'll be eligible to vote for the Peoples Choice Best Fire House Chili & Booth and the Peoples Choice Best Restaurant Chili & Booth ($1 per tasting cup). Current contestants include: Restaurants Category: Philly Bilmos, Lapellah, O'Shansky's, Red Lion Inn at the Quay and Foody Blues BBQ; Fire Station Category: Engine 5, Engine 8, Brigade Chiefs and Camas Fire Department.