Sheri Rosenblum of Plainfield, MA writes:

2nd ANNUAL COMMUNITY HOLIDAY POTLATCH

(Potlatch: A word of Chinook origin that means GIVING)

• Saturday, 6 December 2008
  
• Cummington Village Congregational Church in Cummington, MA
  
• 10AM-3PM

Join us at the Second Community Potlatch for a new (but very OLD!) concept in gift giving! This is holiday fun with your neighbors, with more sharing and less consumption. It will even clean out your closet and save you money!

The Potlatch idea is based on a tradition of native tribal chiefs competing to see who could be the most generous. It’s an odd idea (to us!) but the “winner” was whoever gave away the most stuff. Here is our version:

Come to the Potlatch with as many GIFT QUALITY (this part is important!) items that you either already have but do not need, are not using or even plain just don’t like. Especially popular are:

• books
• toys and games
• clothing (new quality only)
• gadgets.

They don’t have to be perfect or in a box, you just have to believe they would make a good gift for someone else. We will display them at the Potlatch for others to choose as a gift they would like to give for the holidays. And of course, while you are there, pick out anything you see that you might like to give. All items are given and taken freely. No money is involved.

AND…while you are there, start your own gift bag collection to package your gift items. Choose a fabric and ribbon and sew a bag. Voila…(almost) instant reusable packaging! You can bring your own fabric and/or ribbon, too; someone will be on hand to help you make bags! It’s easy, fun and only takes a few minutes.

• Hot drinks will be offered. Last year, food for sharing spontaneously appeared. So if you are wondering, “Would it be appropriate to bring a plate of cookies?” YES!

Although we would love to see you, if you would just like to contribute “re-gifting” items but can’t be there on Sat., we will accept drop-offs. Please e-mail Barbara (email) so a time can be arranged.

Sponsored by: You and Your Neighbors

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