To the Editor:

The Potsdam Food Co-op held its 20th Holiday Baking Fest and Silent Auction on Sunday, December 3rd to benefit the Potsdam Neighborhood Center. This annual community event was held again in the Potsdam Town Hall Community Room at 18 Elm Street, just down the street from the Co-op.

Eager guests gathered in the Community Room that was dressed in holiday attire. Comfortable seating allowed guest to relax and enjoy the samples of the 18 mouthwatering entries donated by community bakers. Those who attended silently voted for their favorites and many placed bids on the creations in the Silent Auction for a chance to bring home a special treat. Kristal Hayes of the Potsdam Neighborhood Center helped to serve and was available to talk with visitors about the essential work the Neighborhood Center does for those in the community.

This annual Baking Fest has become a tradition for many individuals and families over the years. It is a wonderful way to begin the holiday season where bakers show their community spirit of giving by entering, and others contribute their dollars by submitting bids, and many also contribute to the donation jar. This collective effort is what makes the Baking Fest and Silent Auction a success and an integral part of the holiday season that helps to make a difference in the lives of others.

We wish to sincerely thank everyone for their significant part in helping to raise $809 for the Potsdam Neighborhood Center! We very much appreciate everyone who participated; the bakers, bidders, and those who contributed monetary donations. Thank you also to the Co-op staff, working-owners, and members of the Co-op’s Board of Directors, who assisted in all aspects necessary for the success of this important community event.

The bakers with the most votes in each category of our friendly baking contest, and winners of a $25 Co-op Gift Certificate are:

• Cookies: Candy Cane Chip Cookies by Sandy McCloy

• Desserts: Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting by Dawn Parham

• Special Diet: Vegan Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache and Peanut Butter Cream Cheese by Rachel Topf

• Savory: Shakshuka Buns by Fatima Mustafa

Whether you can bake or bid, individuals and businesses alike are invited to join us next year for this annual tradition. This event is a great way to begin the holiday season while supporting a worthwhile organization!

Lynn Clark

Potsdam Food Co-op & Carriage House Bakery marketing/outreach coordinator