The Indianola Police Department is honored to host a "Public Safety Chili Cookoff" fundraiser featuring numerous local and Warren County law enforcement and public safety agencies aimed to rally community support for Officer Jayson Spurr of the Norwalk Police Department and his battle with pancreatic cancer.
The event is scheduled for 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at the Indianola Middle School Cafeteria, located at 403 S 15th Street, Indianola, IA 50125.
"In law enforcement, our partnerships extend beyond jurisdictional lines that are bound by a shared commitment to serve and protect," said Indianola Police Chief Brian Sher. "Launching this fundraiser is a heartfelt endeavor born from camaraderie and unity, ensuring that Officer Spurr knows he has a robust support system behind him across badges and throughout communities."
Set to be a delightful display of community spirit and culinary excellence, various teams from esteemed area departments and organizations will compete in a friendly chili-making competition. Attendees will have the pleasure of tasting a diverse array of chili recipes, with an opportunity to cast their votes through monetary donations in designated team bowls. The team that accumulates the highest donation total will be touted as the champion.
Additionally, the Indianola Police Department will be selling their respective uniform patches, as well as the Norwalk Police Department's patch that recognizes Officer Spurr and his cancer bout. All proceeds generated from the patch sales, as well as the chili cookoff voting donations, will go directly to Officer Spurr and his family.
Representing departments include:
- Carlisle Police Department
- Hartford Fire Department
- Indianola Fire Department
- Indianola Police Department
- Marion County Sheriff's Office
- Norwalk Fire Department
- Norwalk Police Department
- Warren County Attorney's Office
- Warren County Emergency Management
As the event draws closer, more departments and agencies may be participating.
"Chief Sher and the Indianola Police Department's initiative, paired with the outpouring encouragement from our neighboring departments, is a powerful testament to the strength and bond of our law enforcement family," said Norwalk Police Chief Greg Staples. "We are deeply appreciative of this compassionate gesture toward Officer Spurr, his family and our Norwalk community."
Mark your calendars for January 27, and bring your appetites for an uplifting day filled with solidarity.