This handmade quilt by Alice Garcia will be raffled at the craft fair Saturday. Courtesy photo
COMMUNITY News:
After more than 30 years, the Xi Nu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi will continue its annual traditional craft fair to kick off the holiday season.
This Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., many members of the entire Beta Sigma Phi program come together to keep the tradition alive, at the Crossroads Bible Church.
“The five chapters of BSP in town get together for at least five events yearly,” Event Coordinator Judy Lovejoy said. “BSP has more than 60 members in Los Alamos and is a 75-year-old international woman’s (non-educational) service and cultural group.”
All of the local chapters financially support growing opportunities for young women including; Girl’s State, scouts, breast cancer research, youth programs and many more.
Saturday’s fair offers a friendly venue with more than 40 vendors, cocoa, baked goods, food and the best annual raffle in the community. Vendors all agree to donate at least one item for the Beta Sigma Phi raffle. The ladies sell raffle tickets for $1 each or six tickets for $5. The raffle is held throughput the day and winner do not need to be present to win.
The end of the day raffle is the highlight as a handmade quilt, provided by member Alice Garcia, is the final draw of the day. Garcia has handcrafted the quilt for many years and this year the quilt has a year-round design. The shades of red are woven into a geometric design.
“I love making quilts and making people happy,” Garcia said.
Raffle tickets also are available before Saturday from many Beta Sigma Phi members.
The Crossroads Bible Church will host a variety of vendors Saturday. As shoppers enter the lobby, they are greeted by vendors, the chance to purchase raffle tickets and of course purchase handmade treats and snacks donated by members. There are new vendors and originals on hand, to delight the senses and happy music, voices and laughter to fill the day.
Items for this year include hand carved wooden boxes by David Pelowitz and trivets and plaques. Vendor Mary Edgett brings ornaments and necklaces.
There also will be beautiful carved gourds, hand dyed yarns and knitted items, custom sewed pieces, handmade soaps, ceramics, scented heated pillows for relaxation and stained and blown glass.
There also are a number of jewelry vendors offering crystals, stone, wood, pearls, metals, fine jewelry, native, crafts, plus fun trinkets, baubles, bangles and beads.
Tables also have been donated to Self Help and the Los Alamos Museum of Art to distribute information, educate the community and spread the word about services programs and projects.
