BLOOMINGTON - The Bloomington Normal Sunrise Rotary is planning a Sept. 18 fundraiser in downtown Bloomington to benefit Midwest Food Bank.

The fundraiser, called Brats & Bags, will begin with lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Withers Park. A bratwurst, chips, drink and cookie costs $6 in advance or $7 the day of the event. Any person purchasing 10 or more tickets can get free delivery of the order to a single address.

Bloomington-based Midwest Food Bank collects large food donations from businesses nationwide and distributes them to social service organizations throughout Central Illinois and other parts of the country. It also responds to national disasters.

"As Rotarians involved in community service, we often see first-hand the positive impact that Midwest Food Bank is having. I think I speak for everyone involved when I say we are grateful to give something back to them," said Ryan O'Connell, co-chairman of the club's Community Service Committee.

This is the first year for Brats & Bags, which the club expects to be its signature fundraising event.

The bags tournament begins at 3:30 p.m., with teams competing for a share of $600 in prize money (first, $400; second, $150; third, $50) in a bags-throwing competition. The cost to register a team is $50 with payment due when the entry is submitted.

Beer will be sold during the tournament, which will continue until dark. Brat lunches also will be sold while supplies last.

Tickets/registration

To download a bags tournament registration form, visit www.BNSunriseRotary.org.

One can be e-mailed by contacting club member Rhonda Massie at RMassie@hotmail.com. The registration deadline is Sept. 10.

Tickets for the lunch can be purchased from any club member or at the following businesses: Specs Around Town; Fox & Hounds Hair Studio

& Day Spa; Kelly's Bakery & Café; Jack Lewis

Fine Jewelry; and PIP Printing.