(Atlantic, Iowa) – It’s that time once again for you to cast aside the “Bah-humbug” spirit and vote on who will become this year’s official “Scrooge,” in Atlantic. The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce has held their Annual Scrooge Contest since it was created in 2002 by Eleanor Hoover. Jackie Sampson and Karen Miller took over the reins in 2019 following Hoover’s passing. Over the past decade, officials say the contest has generated substantial monetary and canned goods donations for the Atlantic Food Pantry.

The 2023 “Scrooge” candidates include: Sheryl Dusenberry, Atlantic Golf & Country Club; Ed Hamilton, Ed’s Lawn Equipment; Dean Junker, Atlantic Pizza Ranch; and Chet Meneely, Family Dental Center. Donations to a contestant can be made by delivering food or funds to their drop-off locations.

The contest runs now through November 21st, at noon. The contestant with the most points will be named “Scrooge,” and have the honor of serving as the “Grand Marshal” in the Lighted Parade at 6-p.m. on December 2nd, in downtown Atlantic. And, all proceeds received in the form cash or non-perishable food items will benefit the Atlantic Food Pantry. Cash donations are worth 5 points on the dollar, and one non-perishable item earns the contestants one point.

The Atlantic Food Pantry is asking for a specific list of food items, focusing on monetary donations to help purchase other food items that are needed, including meat and refrigerated items. (Food Pantry Donation List- 2023)

Last year, contestants raised a record $29,560. Their efforts resulted in a collection of 813 food items for the Atlantic Food Pantry, which benefits individuals and families in the community. The biggest food item total combined by all four candidates, was 6,383 items in 2019.

Past Scrooge titles have been awarded to: Mary Ann Moorman 2007, Dana Halder 2008, Tammy Wise; Janet Huey 2009, Ritchie Anderson 2010, Janet Cappel 2011, Melanie Petty 2012, David Miller 2013, Mark McNees 2014, Ted Robinson 2015, Jon Johnson 2016, Rob Stamp 2017, Sonya Clausen 2018, Billie Hoover, Jackie Sampson; Lori Christianson 2019, Brain Ruge 2020, Ray Paulin 2021 and Dr. Matt Weresh, 2022.

For more information, please call the Chamber at 712.243.3017 or email chamber@atlanticiowa.com.