Reno Raffle winner gives back to ‘Old Bags’

The "Old Bags" of Arlington wound up benefitting from their own charity recently, in a way that will help the community in turn.

ARLINGTON — The “Old Bags” of Arlington wound up benefitting from their own charity recently, in a way that will help the community in turn.

Judi Martin, press secretary for the Old Bags, explained that the group sponsors an annual trip to Reno, Nev., lasting three days and two nights, which includes air fare and hotel, and can be taken at any time on weekdays. The winner is drawn and awarded the prize July 4, after the Grand Parade in downtown Arlington, and the winner can choose to accept $400 in cash instead of the trip as the prize.

Eileen Floch, 79, won this year’s Reno Raffle. Martin described Floch as a mother of six who lived on and worked a 1,500-acre cattle, grain and hay ranch with her first husband, before he passed on. She married her second husband, an attorney, 21 years ago, but remained active in the County Fair and 4-H.

“Eileen is kind and welcoming to everyone, whether you have known her all your life or have just met her,” Martin said.

Floch demonstrated that generosity by giving the prize money back to the Old Bags, for them to use in support of local children and families in need.

“This is a most community-spirited and loving lady,” Martin said. “Thank you Eileen, and God bless you!”