Backpack program fundraiser, craft fair Saturday at TMS

The annual Backpack Program Fundraiser and the Beta Sigma Phi Annual Holiday Craft Fair will be held at the Thermopolis Middle School this Saturday, November 16.

The theme of the fundraiser is “Vintage Christmas.” It will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Event organizer Judy Carswell said participants can bring all Vintage Christmas items, antique, reinvented, home-made, etc. These items are for the silent auction, which will end at 3 p.m. and winning bidders will be notified after bidding closes. 

Carswell said, “Please come and support our program, help provide meals on the weekends for kids in our community or volunteer to bring an item.”

Proceeds go to the Backpack Program, which provides meals for students every weekend. 

The Beta Sigma Phi Annual Holiday Craft Fair will fill the gym with many different types of vendors and artisans. Beta Sigma Phi is an international non-collegiate sorority for social, cultural, and civic enrichment. 

Event Organizer Ranae Baldes added, “There are about 30 vendors and there is still room. If people want to have a booth, sign up before Friday November 15.”

Regarding how this event benefits the community, Baldes said, “The funding goes right back to the community. We sponsor families for Christmas. We do scholarships. It’s a resource for the community. We have a lot of good vendors and so come support them. They work hard.”

The craft fair will include home-baked goods, raffles, crafts such as wreaths and Christmas items, leather goods, crocheted goods. There will be door prizes as well that are vendor donated. Winners must be present to receive their prizes. 

Beta Sigma Phil will also sell cinnamon rolls, sloppy joes, nachos, hot dogs and chili dogs. 

For more information on the craft fair or to reserve a booth, contact Renae Baldes at 307-921-1837 or email her at r.baldes@bresnan.net.

For more information on the fundraiser, contact Judy Carswell at 921-8264.