Larry Klement, along with Paul and Marty Black, were the big money winners in the Shawano Rotary Club Reverse Raffle.

Pastor Fred Zimmerman had been a finalist, but chose to have another name picked, increasing the winning amount. Since his name was chosen, he settled for consolation prizes - a chocolate candy bar, a miracle cup that changes colors and tickets to the Boston Pops Christmas concert.

The club uses funds raised at the event for local projects including park improvements and scholarships, along with international projects such as medical equipment and polio eradication.

In addition to conventional prizes like money, gift certificates and autographed Green Bay Packers items, emcee J.R. Habeck always distributes prizes not ordinarily seen at fundraisers.

Judy Judd won an allegedly autographed picture of former congressman Anthony Weiner. As part of her package deal, she also received a pack of wieners, made from real turkey.

“The picture inscription says I hope you relish my buns,” Judd noted. “At least it has a Certificate of Authenticity.”

The most comprehensive prize went to a wedding anniversary couple, Todd and Micki Carlson. Since their original honeymoon was a trip to Green Bay, Habeck took pity on them and provided a second honeymoon to Door County. The Carlsons now have reservations at a mini storage warehouse. Since those units tend to be rather basic, the Carlsons were fully supplied with items including soap, a romantic candle and a matching set of luggage (two brown paper bags).

Many people that attend the event are not Rotary Club members. For those interested in attending a future raffle or in joining the club, contact Rob Mickelson, Dr. Katie Mead or Aaron Wallrich.

Top, from left: Micki and Todd Carlson accepted a series of anniversary prizes from emcee J.R. Habeck at the recent Shawano Rotary Club raffle. Micki is shown holding a main course - canned gourmet possum lite, while her husband proudly displays the personal shower (sprinkler can) and marshmallows.

Below, from left: Paul Black and Larry Klement were the big money winners at the recent Shawano Rotary raffle. (missing: Pastor Marty Black)