By Bob Wagner, AAP Columnist

I’ve grown complacent the last few years, wallowing in my lazy retirement lifestyle. I know this, because my recently retired significant other, the bride, has told me so. And as much as it pains me to admit, she is usually right.

Back when I had a real job, I was pretty much a master at dodging work around the house. Now that I have no job, I am even better. But the one area I have ignored in recent years that should never have been put on the back burner is fundraising. Darn, but I was good at that. Even the good wife agrees on that point. So, when Ritchie and Heather Fontano told me about plans to do a fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) as a way of saying thanks for saving their little Lincoln’s life, I woke up. But more on that later.

Lincoln Fontano was born with a full head of hair, a beautiful smile, all 10 fingers and toes, and a hidden heart problem that could have ended his very young life. But CHOP found the problem, laid out a plan of attack, and fixed it. Over the next few years, as his growth continues, young Lincoln will revisit CHOP, and put the doctor’s skills to use with follow up surgery.

So now we have family, friends, and folks who hear the feel good story wanting to say thanks. Raising the much needed cashola for the continuing good work is always a great way to show appreciation. Maybe it will help save some more little kids’ lives. It could be even one of your kids or grandkids.

I’m trying to keep this light and cheerful and avoid going for that whack right between the eyes that fundraising sometimes requires. But we all are surrounded by kids who we adore, and want to see grow up. And when the wee ones are threatened by stuff we just can’t fix, we look for any help there is. That last hope is often CHOP.

So, the famous Pinsetter Bar and Bowl, located on Maple Ave. in Pennsauken, is where we shall meet. The date is Saturday, Feb. 7, from 3:00 until at least 9:00 p.m. There will be eating, drinking, music, bowling, and friends. Stop in to participate in some or all of the aforementioned activities. My old buddy Neal Arot will be on hand with his guys from the Collins/Flynn band. I’ll play a song or three with the boys throughout the day. The bride will be there alongside, to make sure we exercise proper decorum, and buy lots of tickets to put in the bags for really interesting prizes.

Now, I’m off to drum up some fantastic prizes. Trips, ball games, golf clubs, golf trips, fishing rods are already in place. I’m looking for a motorcycle, old car, or any musical instruments donated that we can put up for auction or drawings. If you want to donate a prize, new or used, call me at (856) 662-8546. We’ll pick it up at your convenience. Or just plan on stopping by and check out the festivities at Pinsetter’s.

Tickets, which include bowling, food, music, and door prizes, are $25 per head. Tickets for the Chinese Auction are available on site the day of.

A happy and healthy New Year to all the folks who come here month in and out to catch up on the latest foolishness. The bride says “Hi” also.