Cash raffle puts $45K on the line for Derwent Hall roof

Derwent Ag Society (DAS) is hosting a cash raffle, raising funds to resurface the hall’s roof.

“Our hall is the hub of the community,” said DAS member Connie Mackney.

“It holds everything from dances to public speaking, craft sales, as well as weddings and funerals.”

She said the dances are a way to break up the winter by enjoying a fun/social time, and they draw people from the whole region including Vegreville, Lloydminster, Vermilion, Mannville, and Elk Point.

DAS President, Kevin Onysyk, said the flat roof–approximately 80’ X 100’–needs to be completely re-tarred.

Built in 1967, the roof had a patch repair in 2005, providing a temporary fix but not long term.

They have had the roof inspected each year but now it needs replacing rather than waiting until water begins seeping in.

“The project will cost an estimated $50,000-$80,000 because the two-story building will have to have all of the equipment man-lifted up before layering the tar and gravel,” said Onysyk.

Derwent Hall

Located on main street with an occupancy for 525 people, the hall is built into a bank and they also just installed new steel stairs to bring them up to code.

Last week they were stationed at the Cornerstone Co-op’s Vermilion Food Store, selling tickets. The $45,000 raffle includes a $30,000 1^st prize, $10,000 2^nd prize, and $5,000 3^rd prize.

The raffle will have a draw date of December 31, 2020.

Mackney said there were 1,999 tickets printed, and there is a one in 666 chance of winning.

For more information or to purchase a ticket, you can call 780-977-4714 or 780-581-5258.