Putnamville hosts cupcake war, sweet diversion for healthy hearts

Winners of the recent Cupcake War to benefit the American Heart Association at the Putnamville Correctional Facility are (from left) Officer Juanita Price, originality; Shirley Hughes, best decorated; and Sarah LaRoache, judges' choice.

PUTNAMVILLE -- The Putnamville Correctional Facility recently hosted a Cupcake War to raise money for the American Heart Association.

The event was sponsored by the Promoting Positive Correctional Culture (PPCC) committee and featured 15 varieties of cupcakes.

Assistant Superintendent Beckie Bennett, Major Harley Crabb and caseworker Howard Lewis sampled culinary delights such as chocolate jalapeno, bacon and ladybug cupcakes.

"It's a difficult job, but somebody has to do it," Crabb remarked as he took another bite.

Finally, after a lot of mmmm's and finger licking, the judges unanimously announced Shirley Hughes as the winner of the "Best Decorated" category with "Strawberry Carnations"; officer Juanita Price as the winner of the "Originality" category with "Calendar Jubilee"; and Sarah LaRoache as the winner of the "Judges Choice" category with "Goblin Red Velvet" cupcakes.

"It was good to see the creative side of co-workers," Lewis said, "I look forward to other events that will display their versatility."

After the judging, the casualties of war (cupcakes) were a sweet diversion for staff as participants sold their savory concoctions raising $95.65 for the American Heart Association.

"Everyone had a good time and the cupcakes were delicious," Bennett said. "But more importantly, we were able to assist the American Heart Association in its efforts to reduce deaths caused by heart disease and stroke. Thank you to everyone who participated."

PPCC is a facility-based program comprised of correctional employees who sponsor events that promote a positive cultural environment for the PCF staff and offenders.