Around Indy: Pins & Putts – Star Wars Bowling for Charity

Pins & Putts event posterThis weekend is Pins & Putts, a fundraiser that combines Star Wars, bowling, and Putt-Putt, That’s like throwing awesome in a blender. And it’s all for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  I spoke with Chuck Rohlfing, the organizer of this Pins & Putts, to learn more about it and how he started it.

Chuck became involved with St. Jude through his workplace. St. Jude is the major national charity for them, and when he saw the videos from St. Jude he had to help. “I had to do everything that I could to help out those children. I looked at my three beautiful young daughters and knew that if anything ever happened to them I wanted to know that I was already doing something,” said Chuck.  “My passion for St. Jude has just grown day by day, year by year. I know that eventually a cure for cancer will be supported through St. Jude and the groundbreaking research that they do at that hospital on a day by day basis.”

Though this is the sixth year for the Pins & Putts event, this is only the second year for the Star Wars theme. Originally, the event focused around flowers, hot air balloons and things of that nature. Last year was going to be butterflies. “I told the girls that it would probably be our last event because, to be honest, it’s hard to get kids excited about balloons and butterflies. This is when my friend, Chad Brown, emailed me and asked if I needed help at last year’s event…he and about 15-20 of his friends,” said Chuck.  “My first reaction was ‘No!’ We had enough people helping, we needed people attending. But then as I read the rest of his email, I realized what he was asking. I couldn’t type in ‘Yes!’ fast enough. He’s part of the 501st Legion which is a group of great people devoted to Star Wars and helping out at events for non-profit groups. His offer really resurrected our dream of making Pins & Putts a great avenue to raise money for St. Jude.”

The event was a success, as can be seen from the photos.  In addition to the bowling and mini-golf, there will be face painting done by Chuck’s sister and her daughter. Plus, you can get a family photo with your favorite Star Wars character.  This is all included in the ticket price.

There are a few additional things at the event that are not covered in the ticket cost. Chuck’s daughter Megan will have an “Out of this Galaxy Cupcake Stand.” There will also be a silent auction with gift baskets for kids, and a get-a-way package for 2 adults. You can also order an event t-shirt for $15. All the proceeds from these extras will go to St. Jude as well. Cash is the preferred payment, so come prepared.

I asked Chuck if there were any non-monetary donations that were needed. They always need art supplies and coloring books for the kids to play with in the hospital.

Alright Indy geeks, let’s get out there and help make this event a success.

Event Details:

When: Sunday June 23rd 1:oopm-4:00pm
Where: Stardust Bowling in Noblesville
Cost: $16
See their Facebook Page for more details

What a Ticket Gets You:

1 Game of bowling and shoes
1 9-Hole Round of Putt Putt golf
15 Arcade Tokens
1 Medium Soft drink
Face painting
Family Photo with Star Wars character

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