Judith Hunt Judith Hunt, center, wins the Red Cross teddy bear raffle.Brenda Scherer, left, and Liz Hall, right, gladly accept it back to be auctioned at the annual ball.

The board members, volunteers, and staff of the Mid Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross wish to thank those who purchased a Red Cross stuffed animal at one of many local businesses that participated in our "Critter Sales" this past November and December to support Red Cross services for residents of mid-coast Maine.

This year's drive was a fantastic success due to the participation of area banks and businesses including Androscoggin Savings Bank, Atlantic Regional Federal Credit Union, Bank of America, Bath Savings Institution, Border Trust, Camden National Bank, First Federal Savings, Five County Credit Union, The Highlands and Highland Green, Norway Savings Bank, Saint Andrews Retirement Village, Sunnybrook Village, and Thornton Oaks, all of which hosted critter sales.

The chapter held a drawing January 9 for a giant teddy bear at Bath Savings Bank in Brunswick and the winner was Judith Hunt of Newcastle, who graciously decided to donate the bear back to the Mid Coast Chapter. The bear will be auctioned off at our 20 th annual ball to support the many critical services the Mid Coast chapter provides in the surrounding communities. Critters are still for sale for $10 each at the chapter house in Topsham and make great gifts for birthdays, get-well wishes, and other occasions that could use the addition of a furry friend.

There are many ways to support the Mid Coast Chapter's service to the community, including attendance at our upcoming 20th Annual Ball on March 8 at 5:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport. This fantastic, black-tie optional event features opportunities to dance to the music of Brian Catell and the Jump City Jazz Band,

donate through a silent and a live auction, partake of a delicious dinner and generally enjoy the festivities while supporting a great cause! We are currently finalizing sponsorship, so if you or your business would like to sponsor a table, or if you would like to receive an invitation, please contact Carol Mc-Allister at: