Local sells 1957 classic for fundraiser

Jim Craun and his wife, Virginia, found a restored classic 1957 Chevrolet in 2009 in Lawton.

The Crauns were contacted by the Oklahoma Square Dancers Federation of Oklahoma City (OSDF) about the possibility of selling their classic automobile. Last week, the Craun’s sold their vehicle to the group. OSDF President Gene Morton picked up the vehicle.

“The car will be in storage until May. That’s when Federation members begin selling tickets at $1 apiece. Ticket sales will continue through October. In November, the OSDF will host a big festival in Oklahoma City where the winning ticket will be drawn.” Craun said, noting that additional prizes are awarded during the fete.

Last year the OSDF sold 121,000 chances for another 1957 Chevy.

“Monies are split 50 percent between the participating clubs or districts and the Federation,” continued Craun. “If they had a club in Pawhuska, for example, and that club sold 1,000 tickets, they would get $500 back for club activities.”

This is the twentieth year the Federation has been having fundraising activities. Craun said initially OSDF gave away a cash prize totaling $20,000. Then, they started selling chances for a new car. When that got too expensive, someone came up with the idea of selling tickets for classic automobiles.

The OSDF is comprised of members in a five-state area. These include Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, and Texas. For more information about the Oklahoma Square Dance Federation, including their “Sashay” newsletter, visit www.oklahoma-square-dancers-federation.org.