The final figures aren’t in yet, but organizers are chalking up a successful Souper Supper held this past weekend at Fairview United Methodist Church.

A good crowd of local citizens showed up to enjoy the different soups and also to participate in the silent and live auction.

For the event, board members sold 250 tickets. Betsy Hollis, chapter manager, Cherokee County Chapter of the American Red Cross, said all tickets were sold and that she had some extras printed up for those people who showed up at the door.

The JFK Homemakers Club was this year’s recipient of the Best Soup In the County Award.

“We’ve had so many entries, the judges really had a hard time picking the best soup, but they were all so good,” said Delsie Yother, local volunteer and former chapter manager for the Cherokee County Chapter.

Mrs. Yother introduced the judges for the soup contest, who were Celeste Martin, Dianne Steward and Beth Slaton, all from Etowah County.

Shelby Bruce, another former chapter manager, presented a special award to Al Shumaker, local attorney.

“We wouldn’t have a Red Cross in Cherokee County if it wasn’t for this person,” said Mrs. Bruce. “He was instrumental in getting the first chapter started. In fact, we worked the chapter out of his office for a year. We present to Al Shumaker the Outstanding Lifetime Service Award from American Red Cross, Cherokee County Chapter.”

A singing group from Pine Grove Baptist Church provided the entertainment for the evening.

Red Cross gave out a number of door prizes and two big prizes, including a DVD player and a big screen television. Lowell Hamilton was the recipient of the DVD player and Lonnie Sallee received the big screen television.

Mrs. Hollis recognized Judy Sallis, Souper Supper coordinator and Mrs. Yother, who coordinated all the food and kitchen arrangements. They, in turn, thanked the many volunteers who assisted them.

“That’s what Red Cross is all about, volunteers, and we appreciate you so much,” said Mrs. Yother.

“I want to say thank you to all of you for being here, for all of you that donated items, for all of you that helped us set things up,” said Mrs. Hollis. “For all of you who volunteered your time, donating money, whatever you did to make this evening a big success for Cherokee County Chapter American Red Cross.