Gazette staff
The 101 Squadron is looking for a little help so they can help others.
“We do the memorials to fallen each year and that costs money,” said Russ Hellberg, the vice president of the 101.
“Along with the cairns, we also raise money for air cadets and the family assistance program for the fellows who were in Vietnam,” he said.
The 101 also offers a pair of a $200 scholarships for both high schools.
“We used to have a chip wagon to raise money, but it had structural problems and we had to get rid of it last year, so we had to come up with something else for a fundraiser,” said Hellberg.
Knowing it would take about $12,000 to $15,000 to replace the chip wagon, the former airmen came up with a silent auction as a way to raise the much needed funds.
That takes place April 28 in the Thunderbird Mall, across from the lotto booth.
Folks can see the items Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and Saturdays between noon and 2 p.m.
Items can also be viewed from the comfort of one’s home, simply by logging in to www.101NIsquadron.org.
“You can go in and see the items and make a bid,” said Hellberg.
“So far we’ve had very good support from the merchants and the people, but we’re still looking for more donations to help us raise the $2,500 we need.”
Call Hellberg at 250-902-1234 if you can help.