It was all about community and toppings when Bucher Technologies teamed up with the Kiwanis Club for the 73rd Annual Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast. Held at the Porter County Expo Center, over two thousand were expected to attend. With pancakes, sides, and a variety of toppings, no one is left hungry.
Bob Gallowitch is a first-year chair of the Kiwanis.
“This is our biggest fundraiser. 100% goes back to community organizations,” said Gallowitch. “I have been a member for three years and have seen where the proceeds go and how it positively impacts the community. Donations go to such places as the Special Olympics, the Caring Place here in Valparaiso, Hannah’s Hope, and other youth groups such as Key Club and Builder’s Club.”
Planning starts in November. With over 60 sponsors and seasoned volunteers, the event is always a success.
“Last year we served over 2,000. This year we are expecting even more,” said Gallowitch.
Tim Bucher of Bucher Tech has been a returning sponsor and member of the Kiwanis since 1985. The first year he was relegated to cleaning dishes at the event and by the second year he was the assistant chair. He has been involved ever since. Displaying the belief in the Golden Rule on the Bucher Tech webpage, it was important for Bucher to help support the Kiwanis event.
“Life is more than just about feeding ourselves," said Bucher. “We treat others as we would like to be treated. People trust us to take care of them so we in turn should do the best we can for them. Kiwanis volunteers are hard-working, have fun, and give back to the community.”
This year Bucher Tech was a sponsor of the topping station. Bucher could not decide which topping was his favorite. He was not alone.
John Berryman was in attendance with his family. It was a split vote between the chocolate chips and blueberry topping options at the Berryman table. Overall the family had a great time.
“It’s really quick. They are very efficient and you are not waiting in a line,” said Berryman, “The food has been very good. It was nice that there was a variety of beverages and kids were excited to attend the event."
Kelli Driscoll was in attendance with her husband and three kids.
“This has been great,” said Driscoll. “It is set up really nice and they had a lot of things set up for the kids.” They came in attendance to support one of the cooks but planned to return next year after having such a nice time.
Key Clubs from Washington Township, Boone Grove, Valparaiso, Morgan Township and Wheeler High School were in attendance to help the event run smoothly.
Jason Bunag, a junior at Washington Township High School, is the Governor of the Key Club, a branch of the Kiwanis. Dressed as a pancake complete with toppings, he and the team volunteered at the event.
“It is important for us to support our Valpo Kiwanis as they have supported us at our events over the past years,” said Bunag.
Dr. Scott Carlson, a Kiwanis member for 17 years and past chairperson, was manning the 50/50 raffle booth.
“This event is the community coming together as volunteers, patrons, and sponsors to raise money to put right back into helping the community,” said Dr. Carlson. “This IS the community helping the community.”
This was the first year the Kiwanis had a drive-through with takeout.
“This was a great option for those who want to support the event but maybe can’t come in and hang out,” said Dr. Carlson.
In addition to the delicious food, the event had raffles, a cotton candy station, face painting, and kids' games. There was something for all.
“The parking lot was so busy, we thought maybe there was something else going on,” said Frank and Mary Manfredo. They thought it important to attend the event in support of the community-focused organization. “The food was really delicious and we will definitely return next year."
