Forest Grove Community Hall was literally humming with activity Sept. 22, as people came from far and wide for the annual Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department fundraiser.
It was the biggest event yet in what has become an annual affair to raise funds for the Halloween fireworks and the children’s Christmas party.
Inside, there was a garage sale, with 20 tables laden with “good stuff,” in addition to heavier items on the floor. There were the crafters, displaying knitted items, jewelry, and other handiwork, and a collection of no less than 1,800 DVDs.
Honey was available from the Community Garden - organic, unpasteurized, and as good as gold. There was a silent auction of items from gravel and OSB to small tools.
The Canim Lake women outdid themselves with their tables covered with baking of all kinds, including breads and sausage rolls. Certain items were snapped up sight unseen. Ask Ron Lister about Ann Johansen’s pies. He didn’t even ask the price!
Outside the building, it was the same. Neighbours stood talking, enjoying the coffee and food served by Brenda and Roseann Blackburn who run the Two Sisters Burgers And Other Great Stuff outfit. They were run off their feet serving breakfast sandwiches with a thick slice of garden tomato.
Nearby, woodworkers had displays of items, such as lawn chairs, log furniture, and birdhouses, which would please the most exacting ornithologist.
Also there amongst the hubbub, Len and Hero, the two great Percherons from Ruth Lake Lodge, were standing patiently, while the next load of hayriders climbed on.
Organizer Wendy Clarke wishes to thank all those who contributed to the event. She and her workers raised $4,216. Many expressed gratitude to her for not only creating an event that supported a good cause, but for boosting our sense of community at the same time.