37th annual corn roast fundraiser draws big crowd

SPRINGSTEAD, Wis - The Sherman-Springstead Volunteer Fire Department held its annual corn roast fundraiser Saturday.

Department Chief Ron King said turnout at the event was a little better than average for the event, which serves as the department's biggest fundraiser.

Now in its 37th year, the corn roast provides the department's operating budget. Major purchases in recent years, using funds generated by the event, included the purchase of extrication equipment and turnout gear for the department's 11 members.

Oxygen tanks for the department's self-contained breathing apparatus are the next big purchase in the budget, King said.

Firefighter Peter Hatch credited King with ensuring the money gets where it's needed most.

"This event pays for a lot of stuff, and we've got a really good chief that cares about making sure we have good equipment," Hatch said. "He puts a lot of time into it."

In addition to the popular sweet corn - those roasting the corn estimated 90 to 95 dozen ears of corn were sold - the event featured other food, free kids games, face painting and music by the Hurley Banjo Boys.

The games included a tractor pull, using pedal tractors.

Four kids bikes were raffled off, as were other prizes.

All supplies for the event were bought as locally as possible.

"Local businesses are supporting us, the money stays here," said Hatch.

King thanked the area businesses for their donations.

"That helps me keep the price of (the day) down ... that's where we make our money," King said. "A family can come here and eat for a reasonable price and have a good time."