48-Year Tradition Raises Crime Tips Funds in Pennsylvania
A small Pennsylvania county just held its 48th annual Steer Dump fundraiser, where farm animals pick lottery winners by doing what comes naturally. Over 200 people packed the fairground arena to support crime prevention while celebrating rural community spirit.
More than 200 people gathered at the Warren County Fair in Pennsylvania to watch steers wander an arena and unwittingly pick cash prize winners, all while supporting a program that keeps their community safe.
The Warren County Crimestoppers held its 48th annual Steer Dump fundraiser Friday evening, continuing a tradition that started in 1978 after a local lumber company was burglarized. Participants buy squares on a grid covering the show arena floor, and whichever square the steer "marks" first determines the winner.
This year's event featured live music and door prizes donated by local businesses including Whirley Industries and United Refinery Company. Event chairman Todd Lake brought out three different steers before finding success.
The first steer, a massive 1,961-pound animal named Jim, walked every inch of the arena with his young handler, 4-H member Charles Jones. Jim couldn't pick a winner, and neither could the second steer, Buck.
Finally, a steer named Bright delivered the goods, selecting the winning square for grand prize winner Tammie Sherrard, who took home $1,000. Seven additional "splatter prizes" ranging from $50 to $100 went to other lucky participants.
Special guest Willie Devore attended the event and shared how he co-founded Warren County Crimestoppers 46 years ago. After his lumber company was robbed in 1978, Devore partnered with State Trooper Jack Barnes to bring the Crimestoppers model to their county, inspired by a similar program in nearby Crawford County.
The Ripple Effect
That first Steer Dump fundraiser in 1978 launched what would become nearly five decades of community support for crime prevention. The funds raised help Warren County Crimestoppers offer rewards for tips that solve local crimes, creating a safer environment for everyone.
The event shows how rural communities blend their agricultural heritage with civic purpose, turning a county fair tradition into meaningful support for law enforcement. Local businesses continue sponsoring the event year after year, demonstrating sustained commitment to neighborhood safety.
Small town ingenuity keeps making big things happen, one steer at a time.
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Based on reporting by Google: fundraiser success
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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