Non-profits benefit from cruise raffle

 PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – A cruise is usually thought of as an event for a couple or family to enjoy, but thanks to two local businessmen’s generosity, a cruise raffle before the holidays made not only the winners happy but two Presque Isle non-profit organizations as well.
     Jerry Tanner and Terry Greenier, owners of the Irish Setter Pub, in Presque Isle, and Cozy Corner II, in Fort Fairfield, donated the Carnival Cruise for two to Jamaica and the Grand Caymans, with all proceeds benefiting Homeless Services of Aroostook And Martha and Mary’s Soup Kitchen. The cruise included all expenses except airfare.
Tickets were sold for $5 each and were available at various locations.
“It’s a pleasure to help organizations like these. It’s our way of giving back to the community,” said Tanner.
The drawing for the cruise took place on Dec. 16 at the Pub, with Susan Mitchell, executive director of Homeless Services of Aroostook, on hand to pick the winning ticket. The lucky winner was Linda Senechal, of Fort Fairfield.
Homeless Services of Aroostook and Martha and Mary’s each received $2,000 to be used to help the organizations meet client needs this winter.
“This is such a wonderful thing Jerry and Terry have done for us. Such efforts don’t go unnoticed or unappreciated,” said Mitchell.
For the shelter, the funds come at a crucial time as the organization struggles with winter expenses.
“Operating costs are especially an issue in winter months, with fuel and electricity being used more daily than in warmer months. We can use any and all donations we receive,” said Mitchell.
In addition to the cruise, several other items were donated, with winners of those items also being announced on Dec. 16.
Matthew Pelletier, Bob McDougal, Anne Laplante and Jim Tanner received $50 savings bonds donated by TD BankNorth.
Dave McCrea and Karen Cairns were the recipients of leather jackets donated by Maine Distributors.
Heidi Marshall and Robin Davenport were presented with $250 gift certificates for Caron’s Lawn and Property Maintenance donated by Dave, Scott and Chad Caron – owners of the property maintenance business.
And Matthew Leavitt received a hand-made quilt.
Tanner and Greenier are grateful to all who donated items, sold and purchased raffle tickets.
“We would like to thank the businesses and people that sold tickets, those who donated items for the drawing, as well as those who purchased tickets for this fund-raiser,” said Greenier.