St. Francis of Assisi Church has successful Fall Festival
By CHRISTIAN LEHMAN Sentinel Writer

Saint Francis of Assisi parish held their annual Fall Festival over the weekend. This year's festival was expanded to two days instead of one day of years past and was able to raise thousands of dollars for the church building fund and the selected charities that St. Francis supports.

The festival had a little bit of everything, ensuring that there was something for everyone. From clothes to books to furniture to plants to white elephant (random stuff) and a silent auction that had many wonderful pieces of art, antiques and plenty of other sundries. There was also a variety of food representing the ethnic background of the parish's families as well as a bake sale offering homemade treats. There were also, raffles for various cash prizes and the coveted "Basket of Cheer." Live entertainment was provided on both days and there was a children's game and play area.

According to Father Wise, "this is a good community builder" as 65 volunteers helped make the festival go smoothly while raising nearly $40,000 for the church. Festival chairman, Sam Ross says St. Francis is getting ready to embark on a "major building program" that will include a new "meeting hall beginning in November" and "increased parking" as they "project up to 50 percent growth in the next five years."

Various charities will also see some of this money. These include the Woman's Enrichment Center, Safe House and the Knights of Columbus' food distribution program.

By the end of Saturday afternoon the crowds had thinned out but that was all right since they were out of nearly everything.