BY MELANIE BUCK –
The Polk County Fair and Rodeo Association (PCFRA) continues to raise money to make repairs, particularly the old, worn out bleachers in the Andy Risenhoover Arena, at the fairgrounds by selling chances in the Hunter’s Draw. The Hunter’s Draw is a weekly drawing for big tickets items such as guns and Yeti ice chests.
The fairgrounds are ‘community owned’ therefore does not receive assistance from the city or county via tax dollars. It is recognized by the IRS as a 501c3 so any donations received are tax deductible to the donor.
An estimated $25,000 is needed to replace the bleachers. Fair Board Member John Puckett said last year’s fundraising repaired only one half of the bleachers. The board hopes this year’s Hunter’s Draw will repair the remaining half.
The PCFRA is already juggling $250,000 in total debt that was used to acquire the additional land to extend the parking, RV hook-ups, commercial building and concession stand that requires them to pay $45,000 annually. There are also monthly utilities it is also responsible for but said the annual operations “barely” make enough to cover those responsibilities.
There will also be sponsorship/advertising opportunities for sections of the bleachers. “The bleacher advertising is a 5-year plan that ranges from $1,000 to $2,500. It can be paid in full or paid out over the 5-year period,” said Board Secretary Tina Lehmann.
A little more than half of this year’s tickets have been sold, which means those interested still have plenty of opportunity to win.
If you are interested in purchasing a ticket or an advertising opportunity, contact any Fair Board Member or call Tina Lehmann at 479-234-8590 or John Puckett at 479-243-8104.
About Author
Jeri Pearson
Jeri is the News Director for Pulse Multi-Media and Editor of The Polk County Pulse. She has 10 years of experience in community focused journalism and has won multiple press association awards.
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