Templeton Arts & Crafts

4/25/2013 7:05:00 AM In need of volunteers The Gardner News The end could be near for the long-running Templeton Arts and Crafts Festival. Without the help of more volunteers, an organizer recently announced the 39th annual event this summer could mark the end of a festival that regularly attracts thousands of visitors and more than 100 vendors to the Templeton Common. It’s an unfortunate set of circumstances facing those who have donated countless hours to make the event memorable on a yearly basis. “We would need another half dozen core volunteers to get it up and going again,” organizer Robert Sabolefski said in a recent interview with The Gardner News. The festival provides support for local students through college scholarships awarded to high school graduates. On average, the event generates between $12,000 to $14,000. “(Students) could get money for all four years or more if they continue their education and continue working for the craft show,” Mr. Sabolefski said. “I feel that it’s a worthwhile project, and it’s a shame that other people can’t get into the program.” The two-day festival is scheduled for Aug. 17-18 on the Templeton Common. We’re hopeful more volunteers will step forward to help keep the tradition started by Gladys Salame alive. Cities and towns need more community events similar to the festival — not less. The Gardner News