A longtime tradition in Butler County is about to come to an end. The 21^st annual John D. Murphy Memorial Dinner for Butler County Foster Parents and Children is slated for this Friday night, August 12 at Walnut St. Church of Christ, and organizer Susan Murphy says this will be the final such event.

“I am sad to say this will be the last one I will hold, but I will continue to support our foster families in this county,” said Murphy, herself a former foster child.

“Our Jaycees and Department of Human Resources will continue to provide help to our foster parents, and I plan to help with events like the Jaycees Annual Christmas Party for these children. So I will be around.”

In the meantime, Murphy is planning to go out with a bang.

“Our theme this year is ‘Thanks for the Memories,’ with the colors of orange and blue,” said Murphy, a staunch Auburn Tigers fan.

“Our speaker is the man who has also been our designated fill-in through the years if our keynote speaker proved a no-show. This year, Chief Lonzo Ingram is the bride, and not the bridesmaid.”

Normally held during the week, the final dinner is slated for a Friday night to allow some of Murphy’s family who have never been able to attend to be part of the event.

The foster parents, children and sponsors will enjoy a buffet meal together prior to Chief Ingram’s address. Gift certificates for the parents and new backpacks and school supplies for the children will be presented during the evening.

“It’s been wonderful to have the opportunity to be part of something that gives back to our foster parents who open their hearts and homes to these children for an uncertain amount of time. We appreciate everyone who has made this event a success each year.”