Car raffle fundraiser coming to West Bonner

Thanks to a donation from a North Idaho dealership, supporters of Priest River Lamanna High School athletics have a chance to win the prize of a lifetime. 

Parker Subaru of Couer d’Alene has gifted a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium for a raffle to support high school athletics in the Panhandle. 

Over the next several months, West Bonner County, Lakeland, and Post Falls school districts will sell $10 tickets for a chance to win the car. The lucky ticket will be drawn Feb. 20, 2025, at a boys varsity basketball game at Timberlake High School in Spirit Lake — the winner won’t need to be present to receive the vehicle. 

According to Alex Zepeda, PRLHS athletic director, head football coach and PE teacher, the idea for a car raffle came after a Priest River resident won a car in a similar fundraiser supporting Sandpoint High School last year. 

“That’s kind of what got the ball rolling,” Zepeda said. 

Spartan Booster Club President Kendra Salesky then reached out and led the charge on this year’s fundraiser. 

“They were all for it,” said Zepeda of Parker Subaru’s response. 

All money raised from the purchase of raffle tickets will go toward athletic costs, including replacing critical equipment that has outlived its lifespan. Last year, PRLHS was forced to buy a new scoreboard after its 40-year-old predecessor kicked the bucket. 

“This year, we need shot clocks for basketball,” said Zepeda. 

As the district faces funding shortages, Zepeda offered thanks to all community members who donate to give Spartan athletes the opportunity to compete. 

“Our sports fully depend on fundraising.” said Zepeda. “It means a lot to us.”