Joined by a crew that wore matching light-green shirts reading “Smitherman’s Brigade,” Justin Smitherman eagerly greeted all who showed up for his inaugural fundraiser Sunday afternoon at Schmidt’s Towne Tap in downtown Elburn.

The event featured raffles and items for auction. It also served as a viewing party for the Bears’ season-opening victory against the Indianapolis Colts, as crowds gathered on the outside deck at Schmidt’s. Smitherman, an Elburn resident, and his crew were selling the raffle tickets, with many winners announced at halftime.

Smitherman aimed high, with a goal of raising $10,000 to benefit Operation Support Our Troops, which provides postage for soldiers’ care packages. He said he raised about $6,500, but he wasn’t disappointed. He was encouraged by the enthusiasm of those who attended, and he was optimistic the event will grow.