Cook-off to help car wreck victim

COEUR d'ALENE - A fundraising event to benefit a Coeur d'Alene woman who was severely injured in a Dec. 27 car wreck is taking place at the Lake City Center from 5-7 p.m. Saturday.

Dawn Connerley, 44, was driving home from Moscow when her car rolled and ejected her from the vehicle, even though she was wearing a seat belt. Her daughter was in the vehicle in front of her and called 911.

Connerley sustained a fractured skull, a broken arm requiring plates for healing, a severely dislocated hip, damage to her right eye and multiple bruises, aches and pains.

Connerley has been a pet groomer in the area for 10 years and worked at Northwest Resort Grooming. She is in recovery from the injuries and unable to work.

The "Best Chili this Side of Heaven" charity event will include all-you-can-eat chili, corn bread, banana bread and dessert for $6 with an opportunity to vote for the best-tasting chili. The winner of the cook-off will receive a night's stay at a motel and dinner for two. Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and win prizes. The money raised at the event will offset Connerley's living costs while she recuperates.

A donation account has been created at the Ironwood Wells Fargo in Connerley's name.

Info: 625-1490