The annual American Red Cross Chili Supper/Cook-off is set for Saturday at the Putnam County Fairgrounds Community Building, with competition for the coveted "golden ladle" or "wooden spoon."

Thursday, March 8, 2007
March has been proclaimed American Red Cross Month by Putnam County Commissioners (seated, from left) Jim Baird, Gene Beck and Kristina Warren, while March 15 has been declared Hometown Heroes Day in recognition of the everyday heroes who donate time, talent or money, help others overcome disasters, teach lifesaving skills, assist military families and serve the community. Red Cross chapter members Ken Heeke (back left) and Ginger Scott witnessed the proclamation Monday.

Meanwhile, entries are also being accepted for the "My Red Cross Hero" recognition program.

Chili entries will be accepted starting at 4 p.m. Saturday with an entry fee of $20. The chili supper begins at 5 p.m., and the judging of entries starts at 6 p.m.

The chili supper is sponsored by The Waters of Greencastle, and donations for the meal are accepted. Entertainment will be provided by the Fret Set.

The chili competition will raise funds for the Putnam County Unit of the Red Cross. The "at work" chef winner will receive the traveling Golden Ladle Award to display at their place of business for a year. The at-home chef winner will receive the Wooden Spoon Award to keep. There will also be cash and gift card prices for first, second and third places.

The event is open to the public.

The Putnam Count Unit is also offering local citizens an opportunity to recognize hometown heroes by filling out a "My Red Cross Hero" application and submitting it with a donation of either $10 or $25 or more.

Nominators who submit their hero with a $10 contribution will see their nominee listed in the BannerGraphic in early April. For $25 or more, the nominator will receive a Red Cross window decal and the nominated hero will receive notice in the form of a card as well as having their name in the BannerGraphic in early April.

Forms should reach the Red Cross office by March 31, with checks made out the the Wabash Valley Chapter American Red Cross with Putnam County Unit in the memo. For more information, call the local Red Cross at 653-4614.

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