Good news for pets seeking forever homes in Lake County.

Fifteen individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities plan to deliver $300 Thursday to Lake Humane Society — the local charitable organization they chose to receive the proceeds from their second annual Chili Cook-Off.

The delegates serve on the Willoughby Workshop Consumer Advocacy Committee, some of about 80 people on five committees throughout the Lake County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities who meet regularly to address concerns about board services.

Ten chili recipes were entered, judged and served at this year’s cook-off, one of the numerous festivities for Mental Retardation Month in March.

As resident education reporter at The News-Herald, I've spent a good amount of time with hard-working, considerate and genuine board consumers. I'm proud to give the Willoughby Workshop Consumer Advocacy Committee a great big THUMBS UP and a THANK YOU for choosing Lake Humane Society as this year's recipient. You are a real inspiration to our community, and your contribution will make a difference.

-- Sandra M. Klepach, SKlepach@News-Herald.com