Local nonprofit Blow Wishes for Emily awarded $750 city sponsorship

Kevin Stratton and Pearl Cook, representing Blow Wishes for Emily, asked Vernal City for $750 in sponsorship to offset facility rental for the nonprofit’s annual Cornhole Tournament, the organization’s primary fundraiser. The presenters said proceeds support burial assistance for roughly 50 families in the Uintah Basin and that the group has helped provide more than 5,200 meals to local schools through a school lunch fund. "Blow Wishes requested $750 in funding assistance from Vernal City to help offset event-related costs, specifically the facility rental," Stratton said.

City Manager Quinn Bennion explained that Transient Room Tax funds are generated through hotel stays and must follow state guidelines; he noted that charity fundraisers are a lower priority for city sponsorships than events that primarily attract visitors. Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the organization’s service and asked for additional financial documentation; Stratton said the application’s profit-and-loss reflected only event-level budgets and that leftover funds support the organization’s general fund. On a motion by Councilmember Robin O'Driscoll, seconded by Councilmember Randel Mills, the council approved $750 in sponsorship funding; the roll call vote was unanimous.