Port Morien fundraiser has great deals

Many community groups in Cape Breton are struggling with raising enough money to keep their organizations viable.

Churches are dealing with declining membership, schools have decreased enrolment, our volunteer fire departments need updated equipment and youth groups are constantly trying to raise enough money to provide activities for our youngsters.

Port Morien is no different. Our Branch 55 Legion/Community Centre is a beautiful facility and we are blessed with a dedicated group of volunteers for the various events.

Catering to weddings, anniversary celebrations and other events throughout the year is a major fundraiser. Myrna Murphy and Marlena Nicholson head up a group of Legion members and friends of the Legion to prepare a delicious meal each and every time.

Dinner Theatre in the spring brings together a group of thespians who are sure to get the audience in a good mood ... all under the direction of Paulette MacDougall.

Every month, the Legion sponsors the Port Morien Country Market. This event has become a destination for many Cape Bretoners who travel great distances to support the market. We even have regular customers who travel all the way from Fourchu ... rain or shine.

People who are downsizing drop off their treasures every month and we always have treasure hunters eager to see what is new at the flea market. Craft vendors sell their creations to raise a bit of extra money for their families.

Each month, a community group is given the bake table to raise money for their activities. This month, the bake table is sponsored by Branch 55 Legion. Donations of baked goods are always welcome.

The book table is a popular spot. Books are sold for 3/$1. People often ask me why the books are so cheap. The secret is that many of our regular customers pick out a bag of books one month for their reading pleasure and return them the next month. We seem to sell the same books many times. Recycling at its finest!

The East Cape Breton Community Health Board has a booth each month with informative information on health issues. Socialization is a big draw at the market. The Country Cafe serves delicious homemade treats and provides an opportunity to sit down to chat with old friends. Our flea market volunteers work hard each month to display the acquired treasures.

Come to Port Morien on Nov. 3, 2-4 p.m. to enjoy an afternoon of shopping to support Branch 55 Legion. Admission is free.