Community Corner
More than $11,000 Raised as St. Michael-Albertville Remembers Joey
The day was filled with highs (and some lows) as the community remembered the young man who loved to spend hours at River Lanes, the site of this year's event.
It was an event designed to put a smile on people's faces, despite the sad circumstances surrounding Joey Bongaart's tragic death. And by any measure, it was a resounding success.
More than $11,000 was raised at the third annual Bowling for Joey event last Saturday. About 160 bowlers participated throughout the day in addition to those who just came to eat and participate in the raffle.
River Lanes' parking lot was at capacity and everywhere you turned Saturday, and there were people bowling, eating, talking, and raffling.
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“It was a great day!” said Sandy, Joey's mother.
Because most everything for the event is donated, any donations made or raffle tickets purchased, is all profit. Holiday Gas Station donated hot dogs and Geez Sports Bar and Grill donated chili this year in addition to other donations from families.
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“Al (Larson) and River Lanes are a great help and support all year,” Sandy said.
Karen Olson, a friend and former neighbor of the Bongaarts said she was “amazed by the donations that have come in.” This was her third year helping the family with the event and is “inspired by all that has transpired by one young man who taught bowling."
