BLOOMINGTON, November 8, 2006

On Thursday, November the 2nd, around 2 pm in the afternoon, a woman (who police claim tested a .24 blood alcohol level at the scene) ran a red light on Curry Pike and T-Boned an Upland van being driven by Associate Chef Fred Newell.

Fred sustained two skull fractures and two broken knees, a broken collarbone, hemorrhaging of the brain, as well as contusions and a broken nose. Fred was rushed to Bloomington Hospital Emergency Room, and although his condition is stable as of this writing, he remains in the BHS Critical Care Ward. (The woman driver had an infant with her in her vehicle that also suffered severe, though not life-threatening injuries.)

An excellent cook, and a consummate professional, Fred is a long time Bloomington resident and has been active in the restaurant community for more than 30 years. Some of the premium restaurants in which he has worked include The American Legion, The Limestone Grill, U-Club, Puccini's and of course, Upland. If you are a person who dines out with any regularity in Bloomington, you may very well have enjoyed a meal prepared in part by Fred Newell.

Yes, insurance will cover many of Fred's medical expenses, but not all expenses. We all know how this works! So, to assist Fred on his road to recovery, Upland Brewing Company and Irwin National Bank have created a charitable fund in Fred's name.

Our Pledge: Upland will match 100% of any donation, no matter how large or small to the Fred Newell Fund.

Donations to The Fred Newell Fund can be made using cash, check, or credit card. Any amount you can spare will be warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated!

MEANWHILE, Every Thursday Night from 6pm-8pm a portion of all restaurant proceeds will be donated to The Fred Newell Fund.

Special Note: On December 8th, Upland held a benefit auction for Fred. It was a huge success, and everyone at Upland wants to express our heartfelt thanks to the wonderful outpouring of support from all our friends and colleagues.