I would to express my appreciation for all who participated in last weekend’s Chili Chowder Challenge at the Augusta Armory.

We at the Children’s Center had our biggest and best event ever, with the support of many people.

The sponsorships and donations made by local businesses and individuals points out that people know the value of investing early in young children, and the impact that effective early intervention can have.

This event is critical for us, to help close the gap between our fees for service and what quality services actually cost.

The day of the event reflected the character of our community: Businesses, restaurants, private individuals all came together to support kids and had fun in the process. The auctions did better, we had more people attend, and we had more local businesses sponsor the event than ever before.

My appreciation for the 16 local restaurants that donated staff and their excellent food (and my congratulations to the winners!).

I am grateful to Gary Crocker for being our auctioneer, and to Terrie Kee and Jeff Noel for their great performance. Special thanks to the event chairwoman, Judy Griffin, for her tireless efforts each year to make this event successful, and to all of the committee members.

Thanks also to all who came to join us, who enjoyed tasting and voting on the products of our local restaurants, and who brought their families. The reading area sponsored by Lithgow Library was a big hit, as were the kids’ crafts.

The best part for me was the feeling of support for the Center, which has been a part of this community for 45 years.

Jonathan Leach, executive director

Children’s Center

Augusta

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