Lilting jingles resound from a bell, marking the beginnings of the holiday season. Joyous greetings follow enthusiastic waves from a figure dressed in red velvet. Peeking out beneath his matching red hat are soft wisps of green following the curves of his face. The figure reaches into a bucket full of candy canes, grabbing a few for those approaching the entrance to Kroger’s (Mt. Orab). His smile and his heart—three sizes larger—glow with passion, brighter than any Christmas lights. He rings the bell once more as people drop charity donations into another bucket. The Grinch has returned again this holiday season to encourage the greatest gift of all—the gift of giving.
The charity event was originally a Kiwanis Russellville project, a bell ringer standing in front of the Kroger’s.
Stan Purdy stepped in and expanded the event by connecting with people he knew to ring at various locations.
Current day, James Lucas now presides as the Brown County Kettle Coordinator. Lucas was bestowed the position by Stan Purdy who maintained the charity event for years. The event is no longer a part of the Kiwanis South West Region organization; however, members of the organization continue to help out. The Salvation Army in Cincinnati holds an account for Brown County where the money raised goes to. Screenings are performed by The Salvation Army to determine who most needs the funds to support themselves and their family. A small portion of funds goes to the larger kettle to help other areas.
“This is done as charity, which must be remembered. 95% of the funds go out to the people they serve, staying in the county itself.” Lucas emphasized.
Dressing as the Grinch had been an occasional occurrence in the charity event; however, Lucas made it a regular addition. Mike Phillips, the secretary of the Sixth Masonic District, is another big contributor. When schedules line up, Lucas and Phillips will work together at the entrance of Kroger’s, Kibbler’s, or IGA in Georgetown to spread holiday cheer and collect donations. Lucas began working with various companies, organizations, and the community.
The end of the year is a time of merriment, love, and giving. Lucas wanted to embrace the warmth and fun of the season by dressing up as the Grinch when collecting donations. At first thought, many think of the Grinch as the antagonist, which isn’t true. At the beginning of the movie, the Grinch is indeed the antagonist; however, over the course of the movie he changes and embraces the Christmas spirit. The Grinch is a very human character, learning and becoming inspired by those around him to improve his bleak perspective.
“The kids are flabbergasted over the Grinch. They say, ‘you’re the good Grinch with the big heart!’” Lucas smiled.
Not only do the kids get enjoyment out of Lucas’s spirit of the character and season, but adults do too. Furthermore, the enthusiasm the ringers bring when working for the charity event brightens the public’s days. Donations begin every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday the day after Thanksgiving up until the 24 of December.
Last year, the sheriff helped collect $500 over the course of four hours. Schools have also gotten involved with the charity event. Grant School in Georgetown and Eastern Brown High School’s 4-H Club each gave full days.
“It’s a learning lesson about what life is about. It’s a community effort in the county. It’s part of our life, our soul.” Lucas commented.
Volunteers generously donate their time to aid in such an important cause for those around. Many of those who are currently scheduled to volunteer are from other counties. All are encouraged to extend their hand to help collect donations for charity, even if just for a couple hours or a full day. It is a grand opportunity for families, friends, and all in the community to dedicate time to helping those around them. Anyone interested in volunteering can call Lucas at 740-262-4901.
Beyond the sole aspect of raising money, there are other ways that the event helps others. Witnessing the participation of the volunteers is inspirational in it of itself, inspiring others to help one another. Friendly smiles and greetings resonate warmth during the coldest times of the year. Such genuine joy is infectious, overturning the gloomiest of days. There is the potential to meet new friends and learn from the people met.
“What is the most important thing we can do? Be visible.” Lucas affirmed.