Deputy Etheridge Fundraiser Brings in $14,000

October 06, 2009

Latest Update:

Papa John's and Ghengis fundraiser will bring in approx. $14,000 for the family of Deputy Brian Etheridge's. The Sedgwick County Deputy was killed in the line of duty two weeks ago.

Dawson Grimsley of Davis Moore says he will match the money raised.

Update:

Because of overwhelming response, Papa John's has extended its fundraising campaign for the Brian Etheridge Memorial Fund through Sunday, October 11th.

The company says restaurants were overwhelmed with contributors and many customers could not get served.

Stores will also be accepting donations for the family.

By Denise Hnytka (WICHITA, Kan)

There's something about food that brings people together, around the grill, around a table, around a cause.

"It's excellent," said Seth Lenker, Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department. "This is an awesome turnout. The family should be very pleased."

Seth Lenker came for a meal at Genghis Grill on South Rock Rd. Tuesday, where all the day's profits benefit the family of Deputy Brian Etheridge.

'We're all in law enforcement, we're one big happy family, and we've all lost a brother," said Lenker.

It's a loss many in the community felt, and some say they can relate.

"I remember how we experienced the same thing when my cousin's son was killed," said Demetria Montgomery Wilson. "I really felt compelled to show my support. We've been there before."

A crowd of people was waiting outside the restaurant before it opened, and once the lunch hour hit, the line stretched around the restaurant.

"I wasn't expecting this," said Terry Newman, Owner.

Newman is pitching in behind the grill, bogged down in orders.

"This is truly amazing," he said. "We had 70 orders called in from McConnell."

On Wednesday, Papa John's restaurants will donate their day's profits to the Etheridge Memorial Fund. The fund will go towards funeral costs and the future needs of Etheridge's wife and daughter.

A golf tournament will also benefit the fund. It will be held Saturday, October 17^th at 11:00 a.m. at WSU Braeburn Golf Course, 4201 E. 21^st N., Wichita, Ks.

All proceeds will be given directly to the Brian Etheridge Memorial Fund.

Tournament Information:

Place: Braeburn Gold Course

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Date: 10/17/2009

Type: Shotgun Style

Price: $75.00 per player

$300.00 per team

Carts provided

If you would like to be a part of this event, or sign -up a team to participate, please contact Braeburn Golf Course (316) 978-4673 or Ben Sauceda (316) 640-2065. All fees are due upon arrival. Any questions or comments, please contact Ben Sauceda (316) 640-2065.

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