Woman’s wish to help needy Harrison families

Pechter’s employees (from left) Tatiana Torres, Antonio Bachas, Talakshi Kenia, and Doris Revolorio with Cadets Mike and Lena Harrington from the Salvation Army help complete Raefski’s wish.

 

By Anthony Machcinski

Back in October, The Observer ran a contest in which the winner received $100 dollars to go towards any of the businesses with a pumpkin in their advertisement.
In a generous show of concern for her fellow residents, the winner, Cheryl Raefski, planned to donate the money to Pechter’s Bakery in Harrison for food distribution to needy families.
Unfortunately, we at the Observer are sad to report that Raefski passed away suddenly and wasn’t able to finalize her plan.
Keeping with her wishes, The Observer has taken that money and bought food from Pechter’s. Cadets from the Salvation Army personally went to Pechter’s on Friday morning to pick up the money. It will be donated to families in Harrison in time for the Christmas Holiday.
“I never had an opportunity to meet with her, but this was something she was very sincere about,” Observer publisher Lisa Pezzola said. “It’s a shame that we write about this after she has passed. She was a caring person and I think it’s very important to carry this out in her name.”
We, at the Observer, want to send our deepest condolences to the Raefski family and to show our heartfelt appreciation for her thoughtfulness.

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