Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
By P.J. GLISSON
Wakefield — A Saturday spaghetti fundraiser at the Wakefield municipal building took in about $3,000 for the local initiative called “4 the Kids.”
Mayor pro tempore Amy Tarro, who co-chairs “4 the Kids” with Peter Koruga, reported the success Sunday, saying they now have about $9,000 total toward their $20,000 ultimate goal. The money will be used to install a multipurpose gym floor in the municipal building’s community room, where the spaghetti feed was held.
According to “4 the Kids” committee member Paula Koruga, Saturday’s meal was only the second fundraiser held toward their goal. The first was the Matt Ahonen Memorial Softball Tournament, held as part of recent Fourth of July activities.
Tarro estimated 150 to 175 people enjoyed the Saturday meal, with many of them eating in the community room and some ordering takeout bags. The meal included spaghetti and sauce, salad, bread and a broad array of desserts. Julia Tarro and Kayla Zeckovich also sold beverages. “It’s delicious,” said Marcia Vestich, who is treasurer of the Wakefield-Marenisco Board of Education and a member of the Wakefield Planning Commission.
Nancy Krznarich sold meal tickets at the door, and planning commission member Marco Movrich sold 50/50 tickets at the event, which resulted in John Siira winning $243.
Dale White, who chairs the planning commission, is the fourth “4 the Kids” committee member, along with Amy Tarro and the Korugas. “We kind of share duties,” said Tarro.
White has said previously that a gym floor in the community room would give local coaches an additional option for practice time with students from the Wakefield-Marenisco K-12 School. Mark Lane, the school’s athletic director and guidance counselor, supports the initiative.
Peter Koruga said more fundraisers will occur, with a bike-a-thon now being planned. Paula Koruga added no deadline is set. They simply will continue raising money until they collect the full $20,000.
Tarro expressed thanks to everyone who has donated so far and who supported Saturday’s event. “We are still accepting donations,” she said, adding they can be made to “4 the Kids” at First National Bank in Wakefield or through a related Facebook page with a Gofundme option.
Questions may be directed to Tarro at 906-285-4309 or [email protected].