PORT ORCHARD — A little thing called a pandemic hasn’t kept the Fathoms O’ Fun Festival’s Royalty Court from having their own fun and raising some money for their cause.

The latest example took place Oct. 6 outside of That One Place restaurant in Port Orchard, where an estimated 200 to 300 customers ordered both takeout and dine-in meals to raise money during the dinner hours from 5 to 8 p.m.

Outside the restaurant, the Fathoms royalty hopped aboard their float stationed out front and danced to music they’d usually perform to while taking part in parades during the summer. Unfortunately, the girls weren’t able to enjoy that bit of pageantry this summer — they’ll get that chance next year — but regardless, they were able to sell tickets for a drawing for movie baskets and a package of author Debbie Macomber items, and dinner-to-go prizes.

The royals also displayed their handmade craft items and featured a photo booth sponsored by Irene’s Photo Studio of Port Orchard.

Royalty Court Director Helene Jensen said one of the event’s highlights was the purchase of 100 drawing tickets by a Mr. Durham from John Sedgwick Middle School.

Fathoms O’ Fun Royalty Court members gather in the photo booth for a photo with a generous benefactor, Mr. Durham, in front of That One Place restaurant last week in Port Orchard. (Courtesy photo)

“He’s a great supporter of kids in our community,” Jensen said. “He came to me and asked, ‘How many tickets do you think I should purchase?’ I jokingly said 100 tickets, not thinking that would actually happen. Then to my surprise, he pulled out a $100 bill!

“That kept us busy for a while filling out 100 tickets for him to possibly win a chance at the movie basket drawing.”

No word on if Mr. Durham won.

On Saturday, the Fathoms Royalty Court will visit the Port Orchard Farmers Market for one last round of ticket sales and basket drawing. The princesses will also host their final “Color with a Princess” event at the market that day.