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Forward with fun
By RITA FARLOW, Times Staff Writer
Published October 10, 2007
It all began in 1967 during the month of November. At the suggestion of the principal, Sister Mary Mercedes, the staff of St. Patrick Catholic School decided to hold a fundraising carnival because of the great success of a similar event in Worcester, Mass. It was to be called St. Patrick's Fun Day, and the top raffle prize was a savings bond. The bond was worth about $500, which was considered a real triumph for this first venture. The aroma from the grilled barbecued chicken dinner, cooked where the Fun Fair entrance is now located, wafted through the air and drew a big crowd. Two years later, booths were set up by the lower-floor classrooms and a ham dinner was added in the cafeteria. A theme was given to the fair in 1972 and has continued to this day. Wheel games, a Christmas boutique, plant booth and other attractions were later added. In 1974, we had the last six-hour Fun Day on a Sunday, netting $5,850. The following year, a two-day affair was introduced, now called Fun Fair, with lights at the booths situated on the field. It was expanded into a three-day event in 1978 with a bit of fear and trepidation. We wondered if we would draw a large enough crowd. Bingo, sponsored by the Holy Name Society, became very popular, along with the Women's Guild Christmas Boutique. Pizza prepared by our parents and the sausage, peppers and onions on a large roll made every hungry person satisfied. The flea market drew customers from everywhere, as did the rides. We continue to enjoy great success with each year. Our priests, faculty and generous donors and friends are to be commended for donating their time, talent and treasure during this, our 50th jubilee of St. Patrick Church. The real reason we have succeeded is the prayers that have been answered for good weather and lasting friendships. See you at the fair! - by Janet Friederich, a St. Patrick's parishioner since 1963. IF YOU GO Four days of fun St. Patrick Catholic School will host its Fabulous Fifties Fun Fair from Thursday through Sunday at the school, 1501 Trotter Road, Largo. The event includes rides, food, games, live entertainment and a flea market. The fair begins with a preview night from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday Hours for the weekend: 6 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Entrance and parking are free. Ticket prices for food and games start at four for $1. All-you-can-ride wristbands are also being sold. For information, call 581-4865 or visit www.stpatrick-largo.org.
[Last modified October 9, 2007, 21:20:42]
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