EXCELSIOR SPRINGS – A shopping spree to raise scholarship funds also helps a family in need.

Rotary President Melinda Mehaffy says the charitable organization sold 322 raffle tickets worth $3,220 to fund two $750 scholarships and pay expenses.

“They did a phenomenal job,” she says.

The club has only 20 members.

In the Excelsior Springs Price Chopper flower shop, Mehaffy stands with store Manager Jason Curtis. She spins a drum; and he draws names while surrounded by contestants, Rotarians and onlookers, all masked because of the pandemic.

The drawing produces six prize-winners, with Kenny Manley winning the big prize – a five-minute shopping spree.

Manley has a family; however, in the holiday spirit, decides what he collects during the spree should go to a family in need recommended by the Excelsior Springs School District. Helping others is a responsibility he takes seriously.

“I’m shaking,” he says while preparing to shop. “It’s a family of six.”

The starting buzzer sends Manley racing throug…