When hunters hunt, shoppers shop

Nov 12, 2014

It was a coup of sorts that took place at the Granite Education Centre in Sharbot Lake on November 7, and kudos to the members of the GREC parent council 's fundraising committee who birthed what might just continue as an annual tradition. The event was the first ever "Ladies Night - Christmas in the Country" shopping extravaganza. The parent council organized the fundraiser to help pay for the school's new $20,000 electronic sign, which advertises both school and community events and was in large part paid for by the parent council. Proceeds from the event will also pay for the recent painting of the school courtyard and help fund other programs and student-related expenses at the school. The $5 entry fee included delicious snacks courtesy of staff and parent council member Anne Howes, and fancy mock cocktails courtesy of senior students Brandi Armstrong, Josh Keefe, and Jake Watson, who served them up with flair. Over 25 vendors lined the halls, offering up a wide array of gift giving options that included tole painted gifts, jewelry, fine arts and crafts, clothing, kitchen accessories, body products, native crafts plus many other holiday treats. Guests could purchase 50 cent tickets to win one or more of the over 45 themed Christmas gift baskets and prizes that were donated by vendors, artisans, local businesses and students and staff from the school.

Cheryl Allen, vice chair of the GREC parent council, said they had hoped to attract “especially the ladies in the local community whose husbands were away hunting”, but the night was well attended by both men and women, who all enjoyed a fun evening of socializing, snacking and holiday shopping.