Burned by weather, Fair Board to raffle off firewood

Hank Murphy      

      Last year’s miserable weather dealt the Florence County Fair a significant financial setback, and the fair hopes to recoup the loss with a raffle offering, among other prizes, piles of firewood.

      Already, the Florence Fire Department has pledged a face cord, as has VanPembrook Hunting Camp. The Florence firefighters are challenging their fellow departments across the county to also cut and donate a face cord, and the VanPembrook camp is hoping others in Florence County will contribute a load of wood for the sake of the county fair.

      Last year’s cold, damp weather dealt a punishing blow to attendance. Instead of breaking even, the fair lost a considerable amount of money, probably close to $4,000, said Fair Board president Jessica Klumpp. Had the fair not done other fund-raisers during the year, such as Baby Bison Fest in Fence, it would have been in an even deeper hole.

      We don’t have a big budget to begin with,” said Klumpp. The annual fair costs roughly $20,000 per year to produce. Right now, the money isn’t there.

      That’s where the firewood comes in.

      Beginning this month, the fair will be selling raffle tickets for $5, or three of $10. Folks will have the chance to win a face cord of wood, which is worth $65 to $75. Also, numerous other prizes will be awarded, such as a humidifier from Moroni Heating and Air Conditioning, a chainsaw from Florence Power Equipment, a Mining News subscription, deer corn from Kelley’s Corner Market and chimney cleaning from Jayco Construction. Other businesses also can come forward to donate a product or service for the raffle. And of course, contributions for firewood will always be welcome.

      Also welcome would be anyone interested in serving on the Fair Board or volunteering for the fair.

      To pledge donations or to volunteer, call Shelly Tripp or Jessica Klumpp at the Florence Town Hall, (715) 528-3595.