Photo: Jackson Elks Lodge

JACKSON, Wyo. — A local fundraiser has raised $40,000 for former Teton County Sheriff Supervisor Gaylen Merrell.

Merrell fell through his attic roof and is now confined to a wheelchair. The fundraiser was held at the Jackson Elks Lodge on May 29 with over 150 people in attendance.

Last night, Merrell was presented with a check for $40,000 to help with medical costs and other unforeseen expenses.

Former Teton County Sheriff, Bob Zimmer and Georgia Ligori organized the fundraiser.

The event included dinner by Bubba’s BBQ and live music by the Hog Island Ramblers. An auction was conducted by Leland and Hunter Christensen and the silent auction was set up and managed by Claudia and Michael Schrotz. The cake auction was coordinated by Linda Benson.

Lindsay is a contributing reporter covering a little bit of everything; with an interest in local policies and politics, the environment and amplifying community voices. She's curious about uncovering the "whys" of our region and aims to inform the community about the issues that matter. In her free time, you can find her snowboarding, cooking or planning the next surf trip.