Dozens of local residents came out to the Fox & Hound pub during the evening of June 4 to show their support for the residents of Fort McMurray whose lives were turned upside down during last month's devastating wildfire.
Kristen Spatz, manager at the Fox & Hound, organized a silent auction fundraiser with donations from Innisfail businesses, organizations, the town and several individuals.
“It's great to see people out. The community of Innisfail is always very helpful,” said Spatz, noting the $2,000 raised will go to the Canadian Red Cross to help fire victims. “There's close to 40 items in the silent auction.”
In addition to the silent auction, there was a card fundraiser for two items – a giant, handmade Jenga game and a liquor basket.
“The eight of hearts and jack of diamonds were picked for the (card) boards,” said Spatz. “People have to pick a card and guess where the eight of hearts and the jack of diamonds is. Each card is $20 for the liquor basket and the Jenga game is $10.”
Gord Thompson of Innisfail has worked in Fort McMurray for the past four years.
“I return to work on Wednesday. I've been off for three weeks because of the fire,” he said. “I'm looking forward to going back to work and getting our plant started up.
“I think it really shows support for Fort Mac. It's a huge part of Alberta's economy,” added Thompson. “This fundraiser is going to go a long way to show that everyone is behind the locals (of Fort Mac).”
Other people like Matthew Granlund came out Saturday to throw his support behind his friend Spatz and the fundraiser she created.
“I'm here to support Kristen's efforts. She's an excellent fundraiser and she always chooses worthy causes. I think this fundraiser is great and I want to support that,” said Granlund.
Gord Thompson
"I think it really shows support for Fort Mac. It's a huge part of Alberta's economy. This fundraiser is going to go a long way to show that everyone is behind the locals (of Fort Mac)."
