Red Cross Chili Dinner sizzled with fun

Saturday, February 28, 2009
Evan Lazar was fascinated with Sparky, the Greencastle Fire Departments mascot robot. Sparky was entertaining kids of all ages at the Putnam County Red Cross Chili Dinner Friday night.

The Annual Putnam County Red Cross Chili Dinner was a blazing success Friday night with a packed room enjoying chili, corn muffins, dessert and plenty of fun and entertainment.

The event is held annually, raising money to assist families affected by home fires in Putnam County.

"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 event coordinator Kathie Skeel.

Several local organizations contributed to the success of the evening. The Waters provided the chili and cornbread, Delta Theta Tau provided all desserts, and Putnam Inn furnished drinks. Local disc jockey Mike Welsh of Sounds Unlimited donated his time and musical talents.

Greencastle Boy Scout Troop No. 99 presented the colors and Greencastle High School student Olivia Humphries sang the National Anthem.

Greencastle firefighters and friend "Sparky," a robotic dog, entertained while local police trained people in the proper use of child vehicle safety seats. The National Guard, Operation Life, United Way and the Putnam County Sheriff's Department were all on hand to give information.

Local restaurants participated earlier in the week, helping to raise funds by serving their specialty chili on designated days with the proceeds going to this event. They were Treasures on the Square, The Cavern Club, Mama Nunz and the Bon Ton.

A silent auction was also available and offered items such as sports memorabilia, a Tony Dungy signature hat and Purdue autographed keepsakes; Hoosier Lottery $100 ticket basket; and family fun getaways, including passes to Holiday World, Caribbean Cove and Indiana Beach.

Skeel was recognized with an Outstanding Service Award for all her work during the past year.

"We went a long time without a director and Kathie kept things together. She also made the chili dinner a success," said Ken Heeke, Red Cross board member.

Carolyn and Steve Shotwell were also recognized for support following the Hurricane Gustav in Texas. The two traveled to Texas to provide support and help to the victims of the disaster.

"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 wishing to contribute to the Red Cross may call Skeel at 653-6616.

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