The Tryon Youth Centers 22nd annual car raffle will not likely take place as scheduled, July 31st. The raffle has been postponed in the past, so ticket sales could continue long enough to make the fundraiser profitable.

But this year, sales have yet to come close. Only 200 tickets have been sold. Youth Center director Franklin McKaig says at least 500 must be sold to hold the raffle.

The prize this year, as in the past, is a new BMW worth up to $40,000. The winner can choose to take $25,000 in&bsp; cash instead. At the most, 800 tickets will be sold. One in 800 on a $100 ticket is pretty good odds compared to the millions entered in national promotional sweepstakes.

Not only that, but this is the single fundraiser for the Tryon Youth Center each year and is vital to the centers annual budget. The center, located on Hwy. 176 in the Pacolet Valley, is home to athletic team fundraisers, Boy Scouts meetings, church youth groups, high school dances, and school and community fundraisers. Rehearsals for summer youth and Tryon Little Theater shows have taken place there, PTA meetings, civic organizations meetings and socials. In addition, the facility is rented out for Foothills Duplicate Bridge, as well as private parties, weddings and receptions.

The Youth Center purchased its building in 1984 and used to hold all Tryon High School dances there. Over the years, with the proceeds from the raffle, the building has been improved with energy efficient windows, a new parking area, heating system, roof, a deck overlooking the river and much more.

If you want to try your luck, and support one of our community institutions, tickets are sold at TJs Cafe, Tryon Pharmacy, the Bulletin, Frog & Swan, Natures Storehouse, Town & Country Realtors, Caro-Mi, Tryon Federal, and The Book Shelf as well as from Franklin McKaig. Good luck you may have. Goodwill is assured. JB