First Universalist Church

Annual Report 2005–2006

Report from the Holiday Fair, 2005

The Holiday Fair exceeded all expectations this year, in large part due to the reinstatement of the silent auction. Long-time members may recall that the auction was dropped from the Holiday Fair several years ago because at the time we had two auctions and were draining ourselves. After a few years’ hiatus, however (and the lack of a spring auction) the timing was right for it to become part of the Holiday Fair scene once again. Marge and Peter Titcomb, along with Sarah Marshall, did a fabulous job, bringing in $7,000. How nice that it doesn’t necessarily come from our members, but from the larger community who visits our church for the Fair.

The “regular part” of the Holiday Fair did better than usual, too. While we usually bring in about $5,000, this year we brought in $7,000 – thanks to an all-around good effort on the part of all contributors. The quilt raffle did better, thanks to advanced sales, the bake sale table had more offerings, and we had a few new craft ideas that did well. Many small things contributed to the greater take. We need to keep up the good momentum!

As always, the Holiday Fair is a team effort that requires the help of the entire congregation. With everyone pitching in, no one has to work too hard, and it can be a chance to get to know others in our congregation. We hope for a repeat effort this year, with an even more successful auction, and continued growth in the traditional parts of the Fair. This can happen if everyone pitches in as usual. We know from experience that we need to start early with workshops, and we welcome anyone’s ideas for new crafts that we can sell at the Fair.

Submitted in Faith,
Eva P. Thompson,
On behalf of the Holiday Fair Team