After more than two decades as the coordinator behind the annual community garage sales in Hemmingford, volunteer organizer Elizabeth Thompson is ready to retire.
This year’s successful two-day bargain bonanza was her last, she says. “My hands are too full, and I just can’t do any more,” she adds, suggesting she and her family will continue to hold their own garage sale, but someone new will have to take over organizing the community-wide event.
Thompson says the garage sales initially lacked organization, so she decided to establish an annual event on the third weekend in September to attract a larger number of people – not only to the sales, but also to the municipality in general to enjoy peak apple season and the start of the fall colours on Covey Hill. “It is like a little excitement before the winter comes,” she explains, noting that people have travelled from other provinces and even as far away as England for the event.
Thompson says she worked year-round to promote the garage sales, organize booklets and maps, and find sponsors. Her work has been widely recognized, with interviews on various radio stations and networks, as well as a certificate of merit from the National Assembly – presented to her by then-MNA Stéphane Billette, who congratulated her on what was her fifteenth year at the time. She says she will fondly remember the appreciation she received from different residents and visitors over the years as well.
Thompson says she hopes that someone is willing to carry on with her work. In the meantime, she is already looking forward to next year’s garage sale.