'Tis the Season...Gila Winterfest 2014

Article and Photos by Dale Marcy

The warm weather on Saturday afternoon set the stage for the Gila Winterfest celebration at the Gila Community Center. A variety of area artisans, crafters, bakers, and community groups gathered to offer holiday and seasonal gift items.

There was something for everyone and every age including: hand-forged silver and copper; wood scroll-work ornaments; a large selection of handmade, beaded jewelry; soft and cuddly felted dolls; organic soaps and lotions; crocheted hats and scarves; custom knives; piano solo CDs by pianist Gretchen Van Auken; and tables filled with a wide assortment of baked goods. Also offered were gift items, toys, and games. As a special treat for the young ones, Willow Hood and Hawk Fugali offered handmade bendies and toy catapults.

Those needing a break from all the browsing and buying could enjoy a healing chair massage from September Opal. As people lingered, they were entertained by the upbeat dance music of Bayou Seco. Traditional posole was offered throughout the day thanks to Navadith and Horacio Casillas.

Community non-profits represented included the Gila Valley Library with gift books and baskets, the sale of which benefited library programs; the Upper Gila Watershed Alliance; and It Takes A Village, a community nonprofit store.

The event was well attended, and holiday shopping was in high gear. Vendors included: Cedar Smith, John O'Brien, Mary Yardley, Prairie Small, Mary Buonocore, Kim Muller, Barbara Fila, Eileen Berry, Phil Sands and Bev Logan, Samira Johnson, Carrie Haverly, and Orien MacDonald.

According to organizer Cedar Smith, "It's always a great time to make new friends, find unique gifts, and keep our dollars local."