CMHS craft 'shows' successful turnout

By Kameron Casper

Editor-in-Chief

CMHS has allowed the community to buy and sell all types of artistic crafts for the last 28 years. It does not matter whether they are a large or independent company, it is equal opportunity.

This year’s 28th Annual CMHS Craft Fair was a success, as vendors of all sorts of crafts came out to sell their unique products. Some products included blankets, wreaths, dolls, salsa, corn hole, and much more.

Vendors were greeted by students who helped carry in and set up the supplies for numerous booths. Vendors were appreciative of the loyalty and courtesy that students had for them, along with the fair’s overall environment.

“We do 10 to 12 shows a year and this is the only school that provides students to help. Thank you,” said Richard Lebester, who vendors with his wife.

On Saturday, vendors came in as early as as 6 a.m. to finish setting up and had a fantastic day of talking to people and selling their beautiful craft for six hours.

Vendors were given food coupons and other things to make their experience better. Many vendors went shopping themselves, because of all of the intriguing items at the fair.

“I will be back. This is awesome. My expectations were definitely, definitely, definitely met beyond expected,” said Rhonda Dixon, a vendor who loves what she does.

Customers were allowed in the fair to start purchasing products at 9 a.m., leading to a long line leading out of the school doors, and were willing to wait in a long line to see the amazing set-up. People spent hours viewing crafts of all sorts, while also entering raffles for various items that supported CMHS. There was also a raffle for small Christmas trees that supported local schools and businesses.

The booster team raised a lot of money for all types of teams and groups around the school, with the support of the community, who came to the craft fair. These profits go toward many things for the school, including: jerseys for sports, uniforms, and instruments for the band, and coaches and leaders for many school groups, which better the school’s environment.

Customers also had opportunities to buy food, participate in fun games, and kids could go sit on Santa’s lap and take pictures. These activities provided rest and comfort for more shopping.

“It has always been good. I’m not sure it can get better. There are so many good crafts, and the people are always so friendly,” said Lori Russell, whose been to the craft fair every year since it opened.

Some vendors had crafts such as jewelry, clothing, blankets and clothes that were sewn or customized by hand. These products featured unique styles for all types of people.

Other vendors had personalized decorations and products that were unique to each customer, whether it be ornaments, wine glasses, lipstick, or even bras.

Speaking of ornaments, there were plenty of opportunities to purchase Christmas decorations, including trees, wreaths, ornaments, lights, plants, and outdoor decor. What goes better with Christmas decorations then a great assortment of food for the holidays?

Food items such as salsa, pasta sauce, cookies, bread, and spices were simply to die for.

Beauty products such as perfume, natural soaps, and even bath bombs/salts to relax their customer’s bodies were also on display. Items covered every category, except that little sliver of very unique items. These vendors spend hours working on products such as egg sculptures, seashell flowers, and folded book pages to take pictures.

“We use what we make on vacations. We do not use it to pay bills, but strictly on vacations,” said Richard Lebeter, who is retired and makes crafts with his wife.

Another factor about buying vendors’ products is giving them the fulfillment to do their amazing crafts. Some of the vendors can even use the money for extra projects and fun.

Some vendors just do it, as a way to relax and spend time with their spouse. We love crafts and to do things together. It’s just fun for us,” said Audra Brown, who vendors with her husband.

The fair was a huge success this year with so many vendors, new and returning. The fair is a great event that betters CMHS, the community, and businesses of ambitious owners that thrive on the opportunity to grow and share their businesses with the CMHS community.