City announces fundraising event
By Laurel Callaway
Opelika Observer
Get ready to start shopping for the holidays! The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting a craft show Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Denson Drive Recreation Center.
The show will feature hand-crafted fiber arts, pottery, ceramics and jewelry perfect for Christmas, fall, Halloween and everyday gifts. There will also be demonstrations held throughout the day.
Ten percent of all proceeds from craft items sold will go to fund the full restoration of the 1955 G-16 model train, Rocky Brook Rocket. The project will be featured on the History Channel’s American Restorations.
The estimated total cost of the restoration is $100,000, a goal that the city would like to see raised by January 2015. This includes the complete train restoration in Las Vegas, the shipping of the train, upgrades to both the train depot and train shed and new loading and unloading platform with extended walkways.
While several corporations have gotten onboard with corporate contributions, the ‘Rocket’ restoration lies heavily in the hands of the community’s individuals, which is why the craft fair provides the perfect opportunity for the community to get on board with this effort.
Another significant way people can donate is by purchasing engraved brick pavers. These will be part of a walking path near the train depot to commemorate the undertaking. The pavers are available in three different sizes, and the price for a standard 4-inch by 8-inch brick is $50. The pavers will be available for purchase at the craft show.
Commemorative Rocky Brook Rocket T-shirts will also be for sale. The cost of the shirt is $20, and all these proceeds go towards the restoration.
Anyone with questions concerning the craft show contact Tammala Colquitt at the Denson Drive Rec Center at 705-5547.
