The Kissell Building in West Unity was jumping on the evening of March 4, as the Gorham Fayette Fire Department teamed up with the Fayette Sons of the American Legion to host their annual reverse raffle fundraiser.
Deputy Fayette Fire Chief, Josh Rodriguez, explained the purpose behind the dual hosting of the event. “We’ve been doing this for, I think, eight years. This helps the fire department with the purchase of apparatus and equipment. With the Sons of the American Legion, it goes for upkeep of the building, and other things that they do.”
After a sumptuous meal prepared by the Fire Belles and the American Legion Ladies Auxillary, attention was turned to the front where Chief Robert Stillion took his place behind the microphone to call the reverse raffle. 250 numbers were drawn, of which 30 were left blank, and 220 belonging to those who purchased a $40 raffle ticket. The drawing paused with the drawing of every 40th ticket, awarding that person the opportunity to choose from a selection of door prizes. The final three tickets on the board were guaranteed winners. Third place out paid $500, with second place paying $1,000, and the top prize, won by Joe Sly, carried a $1,500 payout.
Side raffles of donated items also generated funds, as did pull tabs and a 50-50 drawing. Chief Stillion auctioned off several of the blank tickets, and three tickets that were held in reserve, were raffled off near the end of the drawing. Significant funds were raised for both causes. Considering all that they do for their community, the support that they received on this night was more than welcome.
Timothy Kays can be reached at tim@thevillagereporter.com