Chili Day to kick off Red Cross month

Putnam County Commissioners (front) Kristina Warren, Gene Beck and Jim Baird met with Red Cross representatives (back) A. J. Hacker, Kathie Skeel, Ginger Scott, Tracy Maynard and Mike Welsh with Sounds Unlimited. They signed a proclamation declaring March as Red Cross Month in Putnam County.

The Putnam County unit of the Wabash Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold it's annual Chili Supper on Friday, Feb. 27 at the National Guard Armory in Greencastle. Chili will be ladled from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

This event is held annually, raising money to assist families affected by home fires here in Putnam County. Admission is by a freewill offering.

"Home fires are the disasters which the chapter responds to somewhere in the Wabash Valley almost every other day. And they change lives forever," said Chili Supper Coordinator Kathie Skeel.

"Day after day, it's a story of people helping people and being ready to help change a life. Home fires in Putnam County directly affected 73 people last fiscal year. Assistance given by the local Red Cross unit comes in the form of immediate shelter, food, clothing and medicine, at a price to our unit; and comfort during a time of devastation (is) priceless to the victim," she added.

As spring approaches with its wonders of newness, it is also the season with dangerous electrical storms and torrential wind twisters that sometimes spark disaster. The support of citizens helps the American Red Cross to be there offering aid. Victims are never asked for payment back to the Red Cross.

"We are excited to announce that this year the community has pulled together to help make this year's event an even bigger success. In addition to our signature sponsor, The Waters, providing the chili and cornbread for the evening, Delta Theta Tau will provide all deserts, and Putnam Inn will furnish drinks. Local DJ Mike Welsh of Sounds Unlimited has donated his time to make certain you are entertained throughout the event," said Skeel.

Greencastle firefighters and friend "Sparky" will also entertain while local police train people in the proper use of child vehicle safety seats. The National Guard, Operation Life, United Way and the Putnam County Sheriff's Department will all be on hand to give information. Special activities are also planned for children.

Local Restaurants are participating, helping to raise funds by serving their specialty chili on designated days with the proceeds going to this event. Donation places and times are:

* Treasures on the Square during regular hours, Wednesday, Feb. 25;

* The Cavern Club from 4 p.m. to closing on Wednesday, Feb. 25; and

* The BonTon during regular hours on Friday, Feb. 27.

Visit them all, pick your favorite and help support a wonderful cause.

If chili and entertainment isn't enough enticement to attend this annual event, the pot has been sweetened by adding a silent auction.

Items include sports memorabilia such as a Tony Dungy signature hat and Purdue autographed keepsakes; Hoosier Lottery $100.00 ticket basket; and family fun getaways, including passes to Holiday World, Caribbean Cove and Indiana Beach.

"Now more than ever, America is turning to friends and community for support during times of crisis. All money raised from this event is used to help Putnam County fire victims. Please help change a life that may adversely be changed forever," said Skeel.

Anyone who wants to contribute to this event or make a donation to the Red Cross may call Skeel at 653-6616.