2005 United Way Kickoff Cookoff

The City of Lawrence’s 2005 Employee United Way Kickoff Cookoff was held on Wednesday, October 9^th, and included a fierce chili contest, make n’ bake sale, cholesterol screenings, CHAMP health display, door prizes, and a raffle for two refurbished computers.  Due to inclement weather, the Kickoff was moved to the community center on 11^th and Vermont; however, rain was no obstacle for city employees who came out to show their support for the United Way cause.  Provided at the Kickoff was a lunch consisting of grilled hamburgers, hotdogs, and sausages in appreciation for employees’ contributions to United Way. 

Bill Ahrens, the City’s Transportation Planner, defended his title as Chili Champion by winning first place in the chili contest for a second consecutive year.  Cooking his way into second place was Kyle Gonterwitz with his “Mercado de los granjeros chile especial.”  Paul Patterson took home the People’s Choice Award for his “Melting Pot” chili, and the best named chili went to Bill Musick with his “Mild” chili.  Judging this year’s chili entries were Mayor Mike Rundle, Asst. City Manager Debbie Van Saun, Deputy Fire Chief Mark Bradford, and police Captain Ed Brunt.

The make n’ bake sale was a great addition to the Kickoff, raising $435.  Among the items donated by city employees were deliciously made cookies and beautiful homemade crafts.  Winners of the drawing for two refurbished computers were Irma Tesar and Walter Ward; the drawing raised $582.    

Overall, the 2005 United Way Kickoff Cookoff proved to be a fun and successful event, raising over $34,000.  Every employee’s support and contribution to the United Way, whether in monetary form, donating items to the make n’ bake sale, or simply helping to bring this event together, was very much appreciated.