NORTH WEBSTER – The Dixie Sternwheeler and Sterling Contracting announced the success of their recent fundraising campaign, which far exceeded expectations.
The original goal was to raise $30,000 -including a matching gift from Sterling Contracting - to support much-needed updates and repairs to the historic Dixie Sternwheeler.
In early April, Sterling Contracting, a concrete and industrial commercial contractor in North Webster, partnered with The Dixie Sternwheeler, pledging to match all donations up to $15,000 throughout the month. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the community and supporters from across the country, $24,041 was donated, according to a provided news release. With Sterling Contracting’s matching contribution, the grand total soared to $39,041.
Bob Dailey, president of the Dixie Sternwheeler, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, “The Dixie board has been wonderfully surprised by the generosity of all the people, organizations and businesses that have contributed to our renovation funds. The generous response emphasizes how much people love The Dixie and how it is an integral part of North Webster and the surrounding community.”
More than 100 donations were received, with contributions ranging from $15 to $5,000. While most gifts came from the local community, support also poured in from as far away as California, Colorado, Texas and Florida, demonstrating the deep and lasting connection so many have to The Dixie and Webster Lake, the release states.
Dailey also aid, “I am overwhelmed by the number of donors. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your support and words of encouragement. And the $15,000 matching donation from Jeremy and Tiffany Makinson of Sterling Contracting is a powerful investment in our cause. We thank them for believing in our mission of the restoration and preservation of the historic tour boat known as The Dixie.”
The campaign’s success was a community effort, bolstered by local media coverage and countless individuals sharing the challenge online. The Dixie Sternwheeler and Sterling Contracting extend their sincere thanks to every donor and advocate who made this achievement possible.
For more information about The Dixie Sternwheeler, go to ridethedixie.com. To contact the Dixie, email [email protected]
The Dixie Sternwheeler is a historic paddleboat, offering cruises on Webster Lake since 1929. It is a symbol of North Webster’s community spirit and heritage, the release states. They offer regularly scheduled cruises as well as private parties for weddings, anniversaries, class reunions, family reunions, etc.