Recent History – 1999
Oct. 15, 1999
By Charity Wallace, Daily News Staff
In 1979, four women decided to sell crafts for Christmas and donate the proceeds to a charitable organization. In 1999, 20 years later the group has gotten larger but the goal is still the same.
This year the sale is being held at 1905-108th Ave. on Oct. 29 and 30. Contributors will work shifts at the sale on Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Myrna Gardner started the group in her living room and she says that the group always has had fun making things for the sale.
“Anyone is welcome to help out,” she says. “There is a great sense of fellowship.”
For the last two years the group has made Gardner’s daughter’s garage home to their craft sale.
The core group of crafters consists of Gardner, Evelyn Higens, Trudy Lord, Betty McCullough and Kay Berggren. This year some of the past members who have moved away are sending things they have made because of the 20 year anniversary.
The group has not decided on the charity it will donate to. Gardner says the decision will be made just before the sale itself starts.
“When we set up on the Thursday everyone comes with an idea on who to give the money to,” she says. “We try to give to someone different each year who has an immediate need for the money but if not we will give to Mizpah or the Salvation Army.”
Causes that the group has given to before are the Beautification Committee, burnout victims, the Dawson Creek and District Health Care Society Auxiliary and a car seat for a family who had just had twins.
Gardner says there will be a variety of woodworks, pottery, sewing, baking and specialty items such as jerky from a game farm.
“All the crafts are new and there are lots of new ideas, she says. “Come down for a visit, to have a cup of coffee or buy some Christmas gifts.”