Coffeehouse deemed a success

The second-annual “Coffee, Tea, and Melody” event held at Knox United Church in Emo on Saturday evening was deemed a success by organizers.
“We had an excellent turnout,” said Joyce Meyers. “There was an excellent donation of items and good music.”
“People from across the district came out to support us,” echoed Rev. Frances Flook. “It was great.”
The coffeehouse featured close to 120 silent auction items donated by residents, refreshments, and music provided by members of the congregation.
The choir welcomed guests—after they had a chance to begin bidding on the items—with the hymn “Come in, Come in and Sit Down.” It also offered two other anthems and a medley over the course of the evening.
Two youngsters, Gareth Dunn and Emily Loney, performed two piano pieces each while Cody Bodnar played two Christmas carols on the violin.
Rev. Flook, Lincoln Dunn, Liz Donaldson, and Maverick Judson also participated in the entertainment portion.
“I received positive feedback about the music,” Meyers noted.
“This year I think we recognized it was enhancing, as opposed to the auction and music being equal,” added Rev. Flook. “The main attraction was the silent auction part, and the music was enhancing and creating a fun atmosphere.”
The auction items raised about $3,000, which will go towards the church as well as a portion to the CT Scan fundraiser.
Last year, the total funds raised didn’t reach $2,000, so Rev. Flook stressed she was thrilled with the outcome.
“And we learned from last year and were more organized with the auction,” she remarked.
Due to the success of the event, Meyers and Flook expect the coffeehouse to run again next year.
“I’d like to spread things out a little more and create more room for the items if we get that many again next year,” said Meyers. “It got a little congested at times.
“And to modify the program a bit—try to keep the time down,” she added.
“We’ll have to evaluate as a committee,” she added. “But sometimes it can get too long and that’s what I’d like to focus on—tighten up the time.”
Rev. Flook noted they will look at things and make adjustments in order to keep the interest up and improve it in coming years.
“We’d just really like to thank the community for their support,” Meyers remarked. “So many people offered donations and the whole event was quite successful.”