Putting the jingle in the festive frolic
Once again, St Martha’s Hospital Auxiliary is putting on the Jingle Bell Frolic, Nov. 30 at the Clare Marie Gathering Place in Antigonish.
As always, the lure of the delicious chowder and the amazing tables of goodies at the frolic will be enticing people from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, this takes organization and, this year, that is in the capable hands of Marius Langley and Angela Bowles.
They chair the committee from the auxiliary who runs the Frolic which puts all into the Christmas Spirit.
Langley, a member of the auxiliary for more than 30 years, brings her experience in previously running the Frolic to the task. On the day, she covers the Oldies and Goodies table, where you can guarantee to find that perfect, unusual gift for someone special.
She is quick to acknowledge the work done by all the members of the auxiliary in making this a special day.
“It is not only on the day,” Langley said, “but in the sorting out of the items that are donated and ensuring the community knows where to bring their donations of baked goods, fudge and everything else.
“The hospital staff are also wonderful helpers. They not only donate items but are there helping us clear up and clean the different places. Everywhere is always so clean and welcoming and that is due, in a large part, to the help they give us.”
Bowles is a newer member and, as such, brings that fresh approach to this event. She watches over the event with an eagle eye, making sure only the best and finest delights are on the tables.
“I am always amazed by the wonderful displays the table leaders manage to make,”
Bowles said.
This year, the silent auction contain not only a beautiful stone carving donated by Joe Arsenault, and a cross-stitch by Marie Cormier - framed by Lyghtsome Gallery and donated by Mary Veinot, but also two rare items which should prove great attractions.
The first is a large Lyncharm Bowl in the deep blue for which the pottery was famous.
“Now that the pottery is no longer producing pots, this item is extremely rare, and we hope it will be sold for its true worth,” Langley said. “Our thanks go to Mary Foshay for this item.”
The second rarity is a combined item of the book The House of Wooden Santas, complete with the two CDS, and a Santa carved by Imelda George.
“No longer available in stores, they are a ‘wish come true’ item for many people,” Bowles said, “and should generate much interest at the silent auction tables.”
Langley and Nancy Booth are to be thanked for this donation.
With all this effort and activity, it is no wonder the Jingle
Bell Frolic has become a fixture on the Christmas calendar. It is a major contributor to the auxiliary funds, which go towards equipment for St Martha’s Regional Hospital.