Nikole Babb
nbabb@cherryroad.com
Local Andover eatery and bar Spaulding’s Food & Drink, presented a large check of $11,000 to the Andover Police & Fire Foundation on April 2. The amount was raised during their annual .27k fundraiser, which was held in October.
The .27k fundraiser is known for the fun participants have each year. This year there were over 15 stops on the walk as well as numerous silent auction items. Racers receive a t-shirt with registration and access to vendors on the walk which range from drink stops and beyond.
Over the seven years Spaulding’s has hosted the fundraiser, they’ve raised over $37,000 in donations for the Andover Police & Fire Foundation.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Andover community for their generous support during our .27K Fundraiser,” said Ray Tharman, Co-Owner at Spaulding’s Food & Drink in a press release. “The Andover Police & Fire Foundation plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our first responders, and we are proud to contribute to their important mission.”
The Foundation provides support to the Andover Police Department and Andover Fire Department while funding essential equipment, training, and community outreach programs. Established in 2010 by retired Police Chief Michael Keller and retired Fire Chief Jim Shaver, the Foundation serves to encourage citizen participation in supporting law enforcement and fire rescue services while also promoting and supporting several things such as budgetary needs and projects, and assistance to families of officers and fire fighters who die or are seriously injured while in service.
“Over the past seven years, Spaulding’s Food & Drink and the Andover Community have raised over $48,000 through their annual .27k Walk for the Andover Police & Fire Foundation,” said Thomas Nieuwhof, President of the Andover Police & Fire Foundation. “Managed by Ray Tharman, these efforts have helped fund various initiatives including a Line of Duty Death Fund, installation of Flock Cameras, new bikes for patrol, scholarships, Active Shooter Kits, and other resources. Ray Tharman, his entire team at Spaulding’s Food & Drink and their patrons go above and beyond in support of our community, we are deeply appreciative of their continued support of Andover’s First Responders and the Foundations mission These funds will enhance funding of special projects for Andover first responders’ as they serve and protect Andover residents.”
Spaulding’s Food & Drink is a busy and well-loved by the Andover community and known as a place to go for delicious American-style food and adult beverages in Andover. The locally owned bar and grill offers daily food and drink specials, happy hour, 12 beers on tap, outdoor seating with a patio, free Wi-Fi, and live entertainment.
