Heritage tailgate in West Chester

The West Chester Heritage Association hosted its annual tailgate Friday afternoon, raising money to restore the town’s former school building and bringing community members together for the game.

Association Director Dean Greiner said the event had a history of its own.

“Over 10 years ago, we started holding tailgates as a fundraiser for the building,” Greiner said. “It’s just a good way to get out and socialize with your neighbors.”

Unlike most tailgates, the event was hosted inside, with projectors and a TV set up in the 110-year-old Heritage Building gymnasium.

“We used to host it outside, and we often hit weather issues or harvest issues or just other games,” Greiner said. “What we ended up doing was we moved it to the last away Iowa game, and the last few years it’s worked really well for us … and we have it in the building to kind of showcase the building while we have the fundraiser.”

Greiner said the event raised around $600 from freewill donations at the door, with expenses covered by Black Hawk Cell Service, one of the association’s sponsors.

That money is likely to be spent on roof work for the structure.

“Right now our big project is our roof,” Greiner said. “We’re trying to raise money for matching funds to the casino so we can replace our roof. Our roof is 25 years old and the warranty is up on it, and we’ve had a few leaks that we want to get fixed and maintained.”

Fundraising needs aside, Greiner said the tailgate was great family fun.

“We have a lot of people that can’t get to any of our other events, so they like to come for the tailgater,” he said. “It’s just a good time to sit around and visit with neighbors, and who doesn’t love the Hawkeyes?”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com