‘Spirit of Christmas’ ready to shine Sunday

The eighth-annual “Spirit of Christmas” fundraiser is set to go this Sunday at La Place Rendez-Vous, starting at 6 p.m.
As one of those local events that signifies the start of the holiday season, this year’s edition is shaping up to be as good ever, said co-organizer Linda Hamilton of the local unit of the Canadian Cancer Society.
“I always panic about this time, but I’m okay,” she laughed yesterday afternoon, noting plenty of items have been donated for the silent auction that comprises the main attraction of the fundraiser.
Hamilton noted some last-minute arrangements will make the “Spirit of Christmas” a little more special this year.
“We’ve got students from Huffman School who made Christmas luminaries. Our theme [this year] is ‘I Believe . . .’ and they used that.
“We’re going to light up the parking lot, the tables. We’re going to light up the whole Rendez-Vous,” she remarked.
A group of children, directed by Katherine Williams, also will perform instrumental Christmas tunes in the lobby of the hotel starting at 5:30 p.m.
The list of items donated range from wooden crafts, floater jackets, and prints to Christmas knick-knacks and a book of poems by former Fort Frances resident Doreen Evans.
Also up for grabs is a doll house made by Arlene Rea as well as afghan-patterned hats and sweaters made by Jean Boileau.
Hamilton noted it’s likely at least 250 people will attend.
“I think people think it’s a kick-off to Christmas,” she remarked. “It’s one of those events that makes people think, ‘It’s Christmas time again.’”
Raffle tickets for a queen-size quilt, made by Dawn Lundy and Kim Roy, also will be sold prior to the silent auction and during the evening.
Admission is a toonie.
The Canadian Cancer Society and the “Community Chest” once again will be the two charities to benefit from the fundraiser. Last year’s “Spirit of Christmas” raised about $15,000.
If you have any questions about the event, or still want to donate an item, all Hamilton at 274-3221 or Elsie Cameron at 274-3518.