By Darrell Halen

A raffle has been organized to raise money for Paddy Culbert, a longtime Planning Board member in Pelham undergoing rehabilitation after suffering a stroke in October.

“We really wish him a speedy recovery so he gets back in that chair (at meetings),” said Jeff Gowan, the town’s planning director.

Culbert has made making remarkable progress since he was stricken, Gowan said.

“He’s a tough little Irishman and it’s tough to keep him down.”

Gowan served with Culbert when he was on the Planning Board and considered him a mentor.

“He’s tenacious. He can be demanding but I think people respect him for his involvement and participation,” Gowan said.

He’s also likable and has taken new board members under his wing, Gowan added.

Tickets are available for $20 each. One $500 prize will be awarded for each 100 tickets sold, while 75 percent of ticket proceeds will go to the Patrick Culbert Benefit Fund.

The drawing will be held at 7 p.m. during the Tuesday, Jan. 22, Board of Selectmen meeting.

The money raised will help offset Culbert’s expenses while he concentrates on getting better.

Tickets are available at the planning office and at the selectmen’s office at Town Hall.