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The work has started, even though both events are more than a month away. In Kenbridge, the upcoming cash prize bingo and then the later Holiday Extravaganza come with a shared goal, to help fund renovations for the Rec Center gym.

First off, let’s go through the details of the big event, so you can go ahead and put it on your calendar. The Holiday Extravaganza will take place Nov. 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Kenbridge officials say more than 20 vendors will be showcasing a variety of products at the event, including handmade treats and gifts for the winter, fall, and Christmas seasons. Food trucks are expected to be on site for patrons who work up an appetite while perusing.

“We are desperately trying to keep the Kenbridge Rec Center gym a viable part of our community and would like to host community events there on a regular basis,” said Kenbridge Town Manager Tony Matthews. “We have totally renovated the inside and if you haven’t been inside to see, it’s a must on your to-do list. It is very nostalgic for those who utilized the gym during their school days here. We tried hard to keep the “Comets Spirit” alive and well.”

WHAT WILL MONEY GO TO?

Matthews said one emphasis of Kenbridge’s Holiday Extravaganza is to generate the money necessary to install a heating and cooling system for the building to make the space more comfortable and functional for its community uses like games, parties, and other live events. Funds raised will also help with the routine but sometimes costly repairs and upkeep that goes into maintaining a large facility like the Rec Center.

The Kenbridge Rec Center is one of the few mixed-use facilities with a gym in the area that is not attached to a school system. As such, the Holiday Extravaganza supports both the community and one of the few facilities of its kind available to the region.

“Without help from the community, this is a resource that may go away,” Matthews relayed. “Where else can you rent a venue for a sporting event, party, fundraiser or just a pick up basketball game?”

ONE EVENT COMING UP NEXT MONTH

But the Extravaganza isn’t the only project designed to help the Rec Center. Kenbridge will supplement their fundraising efforts Sept 14 as well. The town will be holding a cash prize bingo from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. boasting a top prize of $500. Tickets for this event can be purchased from any Kenbridge Rec board member or at the window of Town Hall. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

“We have had tremendous success in the past for the vendors and for the citizens,” Matthews shared. “The real benefit is the benefit to the community folks who sell their products and those who capitalize on getting the items they need and want.”