Raise the Roof

Habitat for Humanity has a wonderful new facility with plenty of space for their offices, store floor space and  receiving of goods called Habitat ReStore. 


In fact, this past week there was plenty of floor space for a Gala and Auction fundraiser which one of the organizers told me will become an annual event...  

Admission was free and guests even received goody bags with coupons, magnets and a head massager upon arrival.  In addition, guest book signatures came with a bidding number to be written on the back of raffle tickets.  (BTW a great time and energy saver.)

Once again as in any community event, it takes a village. Countless hours were spent in pre-planning to make the evening run smoothly.  Numerous merchants, both large and small, donated appetizers, drinks, and items to be auctioned/raffled. 

Tickets purchased for $1/ ticket could be used towards beverages,

small and large Chinese raffle items and games. Yes games, there was black jack, ring toss for bottles of wine and Plinko for merchant coupons. 

Tables were set up for a variety of silent auction items in addition to the raffle tables.

My fingers are still crossed to be the recipient of one of the many bid on items...  

Patrons were treated to musical entertainment by the Belfany/ Leithold/Quinn Jazz Trio and  Under Paris Skies. I bet this is a first for these musicians to play in the 'paint section'. 



Their music was indeed 'colorful' and appreciated adding to the evening's ambience.

This year's Raise the Roof fundraiser had 2 events with a Concert also being held on Saturday in downtown La Crosse at the Cavalier Theatre. Performing were the Smoking Bandits, Tugg, Greg Hall and the Wrecking Ball, Pick 6 and Neill Young Tribute.  

As always 'Raise the Roof' wasn't the only show in town on either night but organizers were appreciative for those who turned out/ helped sponsor this good cause.

As soon as I know numbers I will definitely post them... 
 It's terrific Habitat for Humanity has such a supportive community. As long as there is a need for housing and caring citizens, we can work together towards eradicating homelessness.

* The new Habitat ReStore has a La Crosse address, 3181 Berlin Dr. is actually one mile east of Valley View Mile on Hwy 16. It will be on your right.