SOUTH STORMONT, Ontario – About 750 locals attended the third annual St. Andrews West Community Fest on Saturday, Aug. 17, with even more attending to watch a movie during the evening of Friday, Aug. 16.
Earle DePass of the St. Andrews Knights of Columbus, the organization that hosted the weekend festivities, wasn’t surprised by the turnout exceeding last year’s numbers.
“It has expanded,” said DePass with pride. “We (had) several activities in the works. First of all, we showed a movie (Friday) night. We had 30 children, popcorn and a magician. (Saturday) morning, we started with a pancake breakfast around 8 p.m., we have about 30 vendors…there are several food activities…in the field we have bouncy castles, water slides and a train,” said DePass.
Live music was also being played by talented locals, including none other than South Stormont Mayor Bryan McGillis. Attendees were also set to return during the evening to watch fireworks.
“We are certainly grateful for the support the Township has given us…we hope it spawns other events like this. The intent of the event is strictly for fun,” said DePass.
DePass said that the Catholic men’s organization was voted the best in the province two years ago out of 515 similar groups.
“The reason its voted the best is because we have members that are very active. We host a monthly breakfast (in the spring and fall),” said DePass, who elaborated that the organization raises funds and donates wheelchairs, distributes scholarships, hosts educational presentations and a number of contests.
Continued support of the donation based festival is appreciated by the organization, comprised of 14 members, who are looking forward to next year’s event already.
