On October 18, the Northwoods Wildlife Center celebrated the official end of summer with what has become an annual tradition. The winner of the handcrafted wooden canoe was drawn.

The beautiful piece of craftsmanship has been spotted all summer at various events around the Northwoods. The winning ticket was purchased by Chuck Gross of Rhinelander. Gross, a craftsman himself and owner of “Chuck’n Stones Construction” purchased his winning ticket at St. Germain’s “Pig in the Pines RibFest”.

The Northwoods Wildlife Center has raffled numerous handcrafted gems over the years as a fundraiser to help offset the growing costs associated with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, and the environmental education programs it delivers year ’round.

“The canoe raffle is always a nice fundraiser for us. The canoes are always so incredibly beautiful that folks can’t help but take an interest!” said Diane Chart, Executive Director at the Center. “We make some money from the raffle proceeds, but more importantly, we get the opportunity to tell our story to lots of people!”

“It’s a lot of fun! I love the center, and I love telling people what we do here,” said Sue Jones, a volunteer at the center. Everyone gets involved in the fun. Chart said at most events you would likely find two to four people per shift, from staff, to interns, to volunteers and board members. “I think it’s a great way to get the word out that we’re right here and we’re ready to help,” said Whitney Wilcox, a fall intern from Anaheim, Calif. “And, oh my gosh, we’re giving away this amazing canoe!”

According to Chart, the most frequently heard comment among viewers of the canoe was “It’s too pretty to put in the water!’ I assure everyone that the canoe is water-worthy, and that some past winners are using the canoe; however, there are others displaying it as a work -of-art.” So what are Gross’s plans for his canoe? Functional canoe or work-of-art? “Mr. Gross took home an incredible work-of-art that he will display proudly in his home,” said Chart.

For more information, call (715) 356-7400.