To the editor:

The Executive City Council of the five local chapters of Beta Sigma Phi would like to thank the community of Dowagiac and the surrounding area for once again making our annual Chili Supper a success.

Due to the generosity of so many individuals and area businesses, $1,600 was generated to benefit area charities including $800 to the Domestic and Sexual Assault Shelter.

Additionally, three Dowagiac-area community food banks — First Christian Church, St.Vincent DePaul and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, shared the remaining $800.

We would also like to thank Dowagiac Schools’ food service director, Jay Brackensick; our cook for the evening, Linda Gardner; Linda O’Keefe for use of her 90-cup coffee maker and carafes; and the Dowagiac Band for use of their cash box and large beverage cooler. In addition, thank you to Rich McCormick of Preferred Printing Inc. for donating the printing our tickets and placemats, Family Fare for donating bags for our carry-out line and Porky’s Party Place for donation of punch concentrate.

A big thank you also goes out to our placemat advertisers: J & E Lawncare Co., Sparkle U-Stor-It, Porky’s Party Place, John and Curt’s Brake and Alignment, The Marshall Shoppe, Caruso’s, Fashion Gurlz, Booth’s Country Florist, Williams A-1 Expert Tree Service, Sparkle Car Wash and Quik Lube, Sparkle Self-Serve Dog Wash, Jim D’s Body Shop Inc., Springsteen Realty, Dave Springsteen, Sand Lake Rentals, The Mane Attraction, Matthew V. Cripe, DDS, Krook Container Inc., Greater Niles Community Federal Credit Union, Matthews Real Estate, Ernestine Matthews, Wood Fire Italian Trattoria, 1st Choice Automotive, The Ridge Co., Cynthia L. Booth, SPA-TOE-PIA and Preferred Printing Inc.

Although most of the 2010 Chili Supper patrons left satisfied, feedback will allow us to make some positive adjustments for next fall’s event. Carrot and celery sticks will be on the menu once again and more hot dogs will be ordered.

Also, since the pies, cakes and brownies disappeared faster than anticipated, the number of desserts provided by each of the five participating chapters of Beta Sigma Phi will be increased.

Lastly, the size of the dine-in bowls will be larger.

Serving hours will remain the same as 2010 — from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. We hope these changes will keep our faithful community supporters returning for years to come.

Once again we would like to thank the community for support of Beta Sigma Phi’s only group-wide fundraising activity.

Leslyn Rose

2010 Chili Supper

Co-Chairperson