The third annual Homer Mariner Softball Raffle for the Arctic Cat Wildcat was recently won by Kenny Farren and Beachy Construction. The second place prize of a two-day bear viewing trip to Hallo Bay Lodge was won by Justin Wickstrom.  

Much time is dedicated to fundraising for high school sports in Homer. It’s not just about studies and playing your sport, but also raising money to do it. Travel and lodging is the biggest expense, running into thousands of dollars. Some costs are often passed onto players. Even after paying a $165 player fee, an athlete’s family can incur up to $1,000 in expenses during a sport’s season.  

Thanks to the generosity of approximately 300 Homer residents who chose to purchase a $100 chance of winning a prize, 26 girls and their families had minimal expenses.

Coach Bill Bell sets high standards for his players and it shows on the field as well as in the classroom. While assisting their teammates with this raffle during the last three seasons, the players have brought home a third place and two runner-up finishes at the State Softball Championship, as well as the Academic Award for two of those years. Community support has certainly made that possible.

For their support and generosity, the Mariners would like to thank Mike and Kari Arno of Lower Peninsula Power Sports and Clint Hlebchuk of Hallo Bay Lodge. Nice prizes definitely help to sell tickets. It takes a lot of dedication and patience to organize this event, and Allen Jantzi makes this all look effortless. We thank you for all you do.

Cathy Davis

For Homer Mariner Softball