15th annual ‘Livable Fair’ draws a crowd and needed funds

Posted

Steve Whitford

Betty Foster, from the Lakebay Fuscia Society, was spotted selling plants during the Livable Community Fair, May 9. Photo by Ed Johnson, KP News

If you ever plan to attend one of the Key Peninsula’s Livable Fairs, there are a few things you need to do: Wear a comfortable pair of shoes and allow plenty of time, because there’s much to see and learn.

Upon arrival at this year’s event, many noticed volunteers Clarence Allmendinger and Mitchell Nelson helping to secure parking for all. Allmendinger works for Key Pen Parks and Nelson is a Boy Scout from Troop 220.

The ground just outside the civic center was festooned with floral arrangements, care of the Lakebay Fuchsia Club, celebrating its 20th annual plant sale.

Robin Reason, master gardner and fuchsia club member since 2005, was present to answer anyone’s botany questions.

Adjacent to the floral display, the museum was open and celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Tim Kezele, who is on the Key Pen Community Council, and has been a founding member of the Key Peninsula Historical society since 1972. That spot has historical significance too, having once been a Pierce County Library and schoolroom.

Bruce Macdonald of the Key Pen Civic Center board said there were some 50 different vendors participating “and there’s a good turnout.”

Karen Jorgenson represented the Food Backpack 4 Kids program, which she started in 2009. She said the program’s goal is to provide sustenance as well as stability to families in need.

The Key Peninsula Community Council was represented by Carol Opalinski, who said, “We are the liaison between the citizen and government agencies.”

The Pierce County Library Association was represented by Rosina Vertz, librarian, who was promoting the Get Smart Online program –– which offers 23 free programs including computing for the beginner and how to get a job, just to name a few.

The Olalla Recovery Center was represented by Christine Lynch, executive director. The center serves the Key with violence prevention programs and drug awareness, abuse and treatment programs.

Erin Ewald from Harbor WildWatch was there to educate patrons on the importance of local ecology. Citizens Against Crime was also represented by Mike Fay and Dolores Starr.

Entertainment was by The Bluegrass Minstrels, who provide music at many different gatherings on the Key.

Food services were provided by Sherri Lagood, civic center kitchen staff, who was assisted by Ryan Messinger, and Cassidy and Colleen Young –– all volunteers.


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