March 4th, 2007 was a stressful and trying day for the Cherry Hill community. At just after 6:00 AM, a fire was reported in the Chile’s Restaurant at Route 70 & Haddonfield Roads. The fire, which was caused by a carelessly discarded cigarette in the mulch next to the building, had extended into the building via a low window frame. Because of the particular construction of the building, the fire was able to advance across the open, unprotected ceiling for some time before firefighters arrived. As a result, the building, and the adjacent restaurant, suffered extensive damage and needed to be demolished, displacing about 150 employees.
But, 15 months later, the restaurant has been rebuilt and opened for business. Chile’s invited members of the Fire Department and community including: Cherry Hill Mayor Platt; Council Members; and representatives of the Cherry Hill Police, to join them at their “Grand Re-Opening” ceremony. At that ceremony, the Cherry Hill Fire Safety Alliance, represented by Fire Chief Robert Giorgio, was presented with a donation check for $2,500 by Chile’s corporate representatives. CEO Daniel Fitzpatrick of Quality Dining, Inc., parent company of Chile’s offered very heartfelt thanks to all the members for the Fire Department for their professionalism and compassion during the fire.
Courier Post - "Cherry Hill Chili's eatery rises from ashes of blaze"
