Firemen’s Carnival was a huge success
The Rec Center was packed last Saturday night with Nomeites and visitors from surrounding villages gathering for a lively evening at the Firemen’s Carnival. Hundreds passed through the gym throughout the night to play Bingo, try their luck in the raffle, stroll the cake walk and munch on good food supporting good causes.
The carnival is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Nome Volunteer Fire Department. This year over 40,000 raffle tickets were sold leading up to and during the carnival, according to NVFD Chief Jim West Jr.
“It’s a good community event, I’m very thankful that people came out and supported the cause” West Jr. said.
On top of raising money for the
NVFD’s gear, the carnival is the host to other local groups fundraising. Nome-Beltz and Anvil City Science Academy 8th graders were selling fry bread and putting on a cake walk respectively to earn money for their Washington D.C. trips later this school year. Bering Sea Lions Club served a New York steak dinner in the bowling alley during the event. The Rotary Club held a mini duck race. Nome’s Girl Scouts’ table was a hit for kids and adults alike, with the line for their snow cones snaking around the gym.
Volunteers have been working to plan the even since the summer, it’s a large task setting up and taking down all the booths, tables and decorations that transform the Rec. West Jr. said he’s thankful for volunteers and all the retired firemen who stepped up to participate in the event.
The big raffle took place after midnight, winners didn’t have to be present to claim their prize. Names were drawn from a large clear case with the first drawing for the grand prize, a 2024 Skidoo which sat in the center of the Rec all night. Many walked past eyeing it wistfully but only one can win, lucky Marty Ruud. Gina Appolini took the second prize of two round trip Alaska Airlines tickets. Larry Eggart’s name was drawn next for a $1,000 shopping spree in town. Ken Hughes won 100 gallons of heating fuel. John Washington won 100 gallons of unleaded gas. Tanya Geld won the 65-inch flat screen. Louie Stang’s name was drawn for a $500 in town shopping spree. Betsy Brennan won two round trip Bering Air tickets. The Readers won a 14-inch chainsaw. The final prize was a DeWalt five-piece tool set, awarded to the Wests.
Win or lose, it’s all in good fun and for a good cause. The Firemen’s carnival is a great example of Nomeites doing what they do best, gathering to support the community.