Special Olympics fundraisers top last year

by Peter Jakey, Managing Editor

When the Wertz Warriors arrive at Stoney Creek Restaurant and Lounge as part of their annual ride for the Special Olympic athletes, owners Rod and Judy Crawford will be proud to present a check that exceeds last year?s total.

With some of the worst economic conditions in several generations, people of the community rallied to make the events hosted at their business one of their best fundraising efforts ever.

The Crawfords hosted a Texas Hold?em Tournament last Saturday, an auction Jan. 16, and a golf tournament back in September.

Judy Crawford said the total as of Thursday morning was $15,507. Last year they handed a $12,800 check to the late Mark ?The Bird? Fidrych. This year?s Warrior ride and state winter games is being dedicated to Fidrych, who died in an accident on

his farm in Northborough, Massachusetts. A couple of Fidrych?s family members are expected to ride this year.

JUDY CRAWFORD said there were a lot of auction items, and attributed the event?s success to ?everybody?s willingness to give to the cause and help the kids out.? A new rocker recliner donated by Brewbaker?s brought the highest bid of the day at $400. Wertz Warrior welcome signs from ?08 and ?09 fetched between $250 and $275 each. Homemade items and baked goods were extremely popular as well. The final four in Saturday?s poker tournament decided to split the winnings from the final four places.

The Warriors are expected to visit the Onaway area business next Friday at 11 a.m.