Chelsea took on a decidedly pink hue Saturday, Sept. 29, during the city’s first Paint Chelsea Pink fundraising event that benefited Susan G. Komen of Mid-Michigan.
The joint effort of the Chelsea Area Fire Authority and the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce included the participation of more than 100 area businesses.
People bought passports for the event for $25 and received a goodie bag. Then they enjoyed beautiful fall weather for a day of shopping and dining. Once they visited 12 participating establishments and had their passports punched, they became eligible for drawings and prizes at an after party at Chelsea Lanes.
In fact, more than 60 businesses donated prizes for the drawing said Firefighter A.J. Ellwein.
Plus, participating businesses offered specials and giveaways. For instance, Gigi’s Flowers and Gifts gave participants pink carnations, while other businesses offered free chocolate, cupcakes and other snacks.
Lucie Smith said she decided to volunteer “to be part of the community and to honor her Aunt Myrtle who had breast cancer.”
In fact, 1 in 8 people are affected by cancer in some way. “This is a really great community event,” said State Rep. Mark Ouimet, whose mother twice survived breast cancer.
And, by all accounts, there was a great turnout for a first-time event.
“We’d like to thank the businesses for supporting the cause and giving back as well as the community who supported us,” said Fire Lt. Scott Basar, the chairmen of the event.
He also thanked all the firefighters who helped put the event together in a short amount of time.
“We’re proud to have served the community,” he said, adding, “For a first-time event, we were happy with the turnout, to see all the people come out and enjoy themselves. I’m sure it will grow from here.”
There was something for everyone — including a kid’s zone with bouncy houses, slides, tattoos and The Chelsea Rotary’s food wagon.
