’Tis the season to buy

Hundreds of people came to Central High School for the Central/Memorial PTSA’s annual holiday craft fair on Dec. 11. Though there may not have been chestnuts roasting on an open fire, there were vendors and gifts galore in the school’s gymnasium.

Just ask Annette Gray, the event chairperson. “You see lots of people buying,” she said. “I really love doing it. It’s a bit of a task, but it is all worth it.”

This year, there were 75 vendors selling an assortment of items including jewelry, glassware, ornaments, movies and collectibles, and the list goes on. Visitors also got to see African art, smell Avon products, and taste baked goods among other delights. Shoppers were able to buy sand art, and get their face painted or a temporary tattoo as an added treat. “We had a great flow with little funding for advertising,” Gray said.

To spread the word, a Memorial Junior High art teacher made posters and volunteers handled out flyers at the local train station. Gray also went out to several craft fairs to find and invite different vendors, who had to give a small donation to the PTSA. Nathaniel Johnson, a vendor selling various items including wallets and watches, was happy to be there. “Last year, I did this and the funds are used for a worthwhile cause,” he said.

Money earned will go toward supporting many of the PTSA programs, Gray said.

Members of Central’s Streamers Dance-Kick-Pom team were there to bring in some Christmas cheer. “We are selling baked goods to fund raise for our competition,” said their coach, Michelle Maci.

Local Girl Scout Troop 2321 members were even offering a $2 babysitting service for parents who brought children. And with such diverse items and services, Gladys Passaro, a local resident was excited to shop. “I think the fair is a great thing for the community and vendors,” she said. “I like to look and find something special.”