November 3, 2014 at 3:44 p.m.
'Haunted' Hodag Howl supports DRI
'Haunted' Hodag Howl supports DRI
The event featured refreshments, raffles, games, music and dancing, but it was the Hodag sculptures that were up for auction that garnered the most attention.
This is the second year DRI has put on the howl and the third year a party has been a part of the auction. DRI has auctioned off the sculptures for the last six or seven years, according to Maggie Steffen, executive director of DRI.
While DRI hosts the event, Steffen said it wouldn't be possible without the support of its sponsors, Ripco Credit Union, Trig's, CoVantage Credit Union, Rhinelander GM, Wiplfli, People's State Bank, Buckethead's Bar and Grill and Rhinelander Honda.
The event is the only true fundraiser for DRI, she said. The organization uses the funds to support its work in the community.
"This is our only true fundraiser, so the money goes toward things like partnering with businesses to get the billboard out on Highway 51, keeping the green spaces around downtown nice - and now that the streetscape project is happening, there's going to be added costs there - so it allows us to do things to help support and promote downtown Rhinelander," Steffen said.
"We have a revolving loan program to help support our businesses. All of this helps us support our businesses and our community."
Steffen said the support DRI receives from the community is humbling.
"I get very humble about it because none of this stuff could happen without our sponsors and our volunteers and all of that. Every time we need something, people are always ready to help out and help us make it happen," she said.
"And then there's everyone that shows up to the events. I mean the list just goes on and on, and it really shows you that it does take a community to keep a community strong. I think it's really cool that Rhinelander gets that. We're very fortunate."
Those who attended the party shared similar feelings.
"I think it's us that should be fortunate," Greg Stimpke said. "I think it's great to have something like DRI around to help us keep our beautiful downtown alive and a focus in the community. For those of us that have lived here all our lives, the downtown is a big part of this city. It's the heart of this city. And the fact that we can come here and have a good time while supporting that, well, it just doesn't get any better than that."
Marcus Nesemann may be reached at [email protected].
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