Lions Club Launches 2016 Mustang Raffle Season

By JOHN SHADE (Open Post)

The Newtown Lions kicked off another Mustang raffle season at Elephant’s Trunk Flea Market in New Milford on Sunday, April 17. Sunday’s clear sky and mild temperatures provided a perfect backdrop as enthusiastic patrons shared Mustang memories with Lions Jim Guattery and Oscar De Los Santos.

This year, the group is offering the chance to win a 50-year old electric blue, 8-cylinder model with white convertible roof.

Finding classic Mustangs in sound condition is growing increasingly difficult, but Lions Paul Krueger (founder of the Mustang raffle almost 25 years ago) and Gary Fillion located the latest vehicle months ago.

Lion Guattery, assisted by Fillion, accentuated the auto by replacing its carpet, much of its chrome and its steering wheel with vintage parts.

A team of Lions car custodians will ensure that the Mustang is washed, waxed, and showroom-detailed before being showcased at various events around the state. The Mustang raffle will continue through October 22.

“Each year, the people in our region come through for each other,” said Lion Guattery. “Folks know that whether they win the Mustang or not, they’re making valuable contributions to worthy causes.”

“As always, all proceeds from our Lions fundraisers like the Mustang Raffle and Duck Race go to Lions-supported charities,” added Lion De Los Santos. “These include the Sandy Hook Elementary Fund (SHEF), juvenile diabetes, drug awareness programs, eye research, Meals on Wheels, and more.”