American Legion Reino Post 21 plans fourth annual meat raffle Saturday

American Legion Reino Post 21 will hold its fourth annual meat raffle Saturday, April 25, starting at 1 p.m. at 212 Washington Ave. in Iron River. The draw is built around a simple appeal that fits a small town well: meat people can actually use, along with a social afternoon at the post.

The event will feature 10 rounds of paddle-wheel raffles and 50/50 raffles, with multiple winners in each round. Participants will need to be present to win the paddle-wheel and 50/50 prizes, and refreshments and food will be available for purchase throughout the afternoon.

For those who want a shot at the larger prize package without staying for the live drawings, advanced tickets are $5 each and do not require the winner to be present. The package includes a large meat bundle, a Coleman 100-quart wheeled cooler, a Hamilton Beach 11-cubic-foot upright freezer, $250 cash and an 8-quart traveling slow cooker.

Proceeds will benefit American Legion Reino Post 21, which gives the fundraiser its local purpose. The American Legion, chartered by Congress in 1919, says it is the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization and that its community programs support veterans, families and communities through financial assistance, disaster relief and comfort for wounded warriors.

Reino Post 21 has been part of Iron River’s civic life for decades. State business records list it as an active Michigan nonprofit corporation registered Nov. 2, 1950, and Cause IQ describes the post as a clubhouse for social activities and support of veterans causes that benefits about 3,000 people. The Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance also lists the post as a regular gathering place, with Taco Tuesday, fish fry nights and a monthly rib dinner on its calendar.

That mix helps explain why a meat raffle draws repeat interest in a city of 3,007 people. The prize is not abstract, and the money stays close to home, supporting a longtime Iron River institution that remains active beyond ceremonial events.