Sparks will fly for a good cause at Red Heat Blue Steel competition

FEATURED BY THE LEE'S SUMMIT JOURNAL AND LEE'S SUMMIT TRIBUNE

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Third annual CONTEST to benefit Lee’s Summit Social Services

On Sept. 29, Lee’s Summit police and firefighters will gather for a friendly competition. But no matter who dominates on the field, the winner will be Lee’s Summit Social Services.
 
The Red Heat Blue Steel competition, in its third year, pits police and firefighters in games of strength and endurance. Last year’s activities included tug of war, a tractor tire toss, and a race with mannequins across the track and stadium at Lee’s Summit North High School. 
 
In addition to supporting Lee’s Summit Social Services (LSSS), the event highlights the contributions of Lee’s Summit’s police and firefighters to the community.
 
Several hundred spectators turned out for the event last year, and organizers are hoping to boost the size of the crowd. The only ticket required for admission is a non-perishable food item or monetary contribution for LSSS, which serves people in need in the Lee’s Summit area. 
 
The event takes place from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Lee’s Summit North High School stadium.
 
“We feel that it is a great way to build a relationship with the community that we serve and at the same time raise money for a great charity,” said Sgt. Chris Depue, police public information officer. “The proceeds go directly to Lee’s Summit Social Services to help people living right here in Lee’s Summit. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the event.”
 
Kristopher Presnell, secretary of the IAFF local firefighters union, said the Fire Department and union have made it a priority to give back to the community, including collecting donations for LSSS’s Needy Family Fund each year before Christmas.
 
“Seeing firsthand how the collections have affected our community has helped cement a strong partnership with Lee’s Summit Social Services,” he said. “We are passionate about helping them any way we can. It is our hope that the Red Heat Blue Steel competition continues to garner attention and benefit both the organization and families within our community.”
 
Geneva High, executive director of Lee’s Summit Social Services, said she was pleased with last year’s attendance and hopes to see even greater participation this year.
 
“Those attending had an enjoyable time watching the competition, but this event does more,” she said. “It brings community awareness of the men and women who are ready to put their lives on the line every day to help all of us. We depend on the police and firefighters to come when we call for help. They do so much more than most people realize. It is a joy to see the camaraderie between the two groups and to have them introduced to the community.”