FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAINT ALBANS, VERMONT – September 7th, 2024 – The St. Albans Rotary Club’s Fifth Annual Lucky Duck Drawing, held at the Historic Fountain in Taylor Park, was a resounding success, filled with festive activities, community spirit, and plenty of lucky ducks!
The event kicked off with the first-ever Duck Waddle around the park, featuring the Rotary’s own mascot, Lucky the Duck, leading a vibrant parade. Participants donned whimsical duck attire and showcased duck-themed inflatables, adding to the festive atmosphere. Awards were given for the cutest duck and best overall costume, celebrating the creativity of our community.
Leon Berthiaume, President of the Rotary Club, expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “The Lucky Duck raffle has swiftly become a cherished tradition in St. Albans. It’s more than just a raffle; it’s an opportunity for us to come together and make a meaningful impact on our community.”
Joe Halko, who emceed the event, extended heartfelt thanks to the City of St. Albans for the use of the Historic Fountain, noting its significance as the venue where the Rotary Club gifted the ladies in the Fountain nine years ago following restoration. He also acknowledged the dedication of the committee members, including co-chairs Keith and Cheryl Underwood, Karyn Rocheleau, and Janet Bailey.
Special gratitude was given to the St. Albans City Mayor and Rotarian Tim Smith, who added a touch of humor and charm by drawing the winning ducks while dressed in a festive costume.
This year’s event saw 15 cash prizes awarded, with the top prize of $1,000, a second prize of $500, third and fourth prizes of $250 each, and additional $100 prizes. Over the past five summers, the Lucky Duck raffle has raised more than $75,000, all of which is reinvested in local charities and community initiatives.
We are grateful for this year’s sponsors who helped us make this event a success.
- Darling Duck Level Sponsors - A.N. Deringer, Inc., Maplefields, and the VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region.
- Doting Duck Level Sponsors– Amcare Group, Boat Headquarters, Brady & Leveque Funeral Home, City of St. Albans, Heald Funeral Home, Jolley, Med Associates, Peoples Trust Company, and SB Collins, Inc.
- Donor Duck Level Sponsors– Ace Hardware, Dairy Farmers of America, Dominion & Grim, Eaton’s Fine Jewelry, Franklin County Industrial Development Corporation, Lawerence Bruce, Lenny’s Shoe & Apparel, Northwestern Counseling & Support Services, One Digital, Richard Fox – Fox Law, Suncrest Healthcare Communities, The Town of St. Albans, The Village Frame Shoppe & Gallery, and Vermont Tent Company.
Joe Halko also thanked all those who supported the event by purchasing ducks, Quack Packs, or decorative ducks from the Rotary booth at the local Farmer’s Market. “We are incredibly grateful for your participation and look forward to seeing everyone again next year,” said Halko.
For photos from the Lucky Duck event and more information about the St. Albans Rotary Club, please visit our Facebook page or our website at stalbansrotary.com.
Contact:
St. Albans Rotary Club