Organizers said the raffle will be a little different this year, with bigger and more valuable prizes. They include a two-night stay at a bed and breakfast in Fredericksburg valued at $700, an ultimate spa day, a $300 gift certificate and a six-month gym membership.

The drawing will be held during The ticket drawings provide one of the highlights for the Altrusa Taste of the Holidays, this year featuring a holiday theme of "Tastes Fit for Santa" and winners do not need to be present.

Raffle tickets will be sold prior to the event by Altrusans, and may also be purchased on the reservation form. They cost $5 each or five for $20 and will also be available at the door.

Money raised for the Taste of the Holidays are used to support many community service projects under Altrusan leadership. The funds raised by the raffle are all dedicated to college scholarships for local students. Other projects sponsored this year by Altrusa include Temple Community Free Clinic, Helping Hands Ministry, Temple Literacy Council, Families in Crisis, Partners in Education, Camp Dreamcatcher, Ronald McDonald House.

Reservations for the Taste are still available, but the event usually sells out and spaces are limited.

Reservations are available by calling 534-1129 or by going to www.altrusatemple.com, clicking on the Taste of the Holidays link, and printing the reservation form.

Deadline for reservations is Friday, Oct. 23.