Auburn Interfaith Food Closet thanks community for food drive support

Auburn Interfaith Food Closet (AIFC) would like to thank the community for its generous support and donations from the recent "Hunger Action Month" Food Drive. Volunteers dropped off empty bags on Sept. 17 with a request to set the bags back outside on the 24th. On Saturday, when volunteers picked up the bags, they were amazed with the generosity of the community. As a result, more than 15,000 food items were donated. "These items will go a long way in feeding those in need and helping to relieve their food insecurity. We want to thank the community from the bottom of our hearts for their generous and very much appreciated donations," states Andy Hayes, AIFC president. "Living in this community is wonderful, especially with all the warm, giving people that have supported this food drive. We sincerely appreciate all the generosity that was shown," commented Pam Murray, AIFC board member. "We are so appreciative of the outpouring of support from the community. The donated items will go a long way to help those in need – especially those affected by the recent fire," states Judie Whitman, AIFC board member and vice president. In need of food? The Auburn Interfaith Food Closet serves individuals and families living in central Placer County, from Loomis to Emigrant Gap and Lake of the Pines to Foresthill. For more information, call 530-885- 1921 or visit www.auburnfoodcloset.org. Since 1998, Auburn Interfaith Food Closet has been providing nutritious food to those in need, preserving their dignity and encouraging self-reliance. The nonprofit organization is supported by 17 local faith communities, more than 200 volunteers and no paid staff. AIFC has distributed more than 4.6 million meals worth of food to their guests since inception, including homebound guests. Board volunteers and guests of AIFC Harvest Festival not the place for political signs The Harvest Festival is a wonderful family event; bounce houses, swings, inflated slides, children's costume parade and much more. However, the very first booth anyone would see when entering from the Aub Folsom parking lot was covered in political signs, very large signs and manned by an individual running for re-election. This booth seemed way out of place for a family event, and the man defended it by saying it wasn't political. I can only hope the people who are in charge of this great fun day prohibit ANY political booths or similar promotions next year. If they don't, other candidates will understandably want equal space – totally ruining the visual atmosphere and intent of this event. There are enough more appropriate venues for candidates to reach out to voters. Karen Wyatt Auburn Congratulations to Paris on State of the Community award Congratulations to you, Shirley Paris!! In my opinion, there could be no one more deserving of this award than you. You are in fact always the friend of the veterans and anything connected with veterans. I thank you so much for working with me on the FRA (Fleet Reserve Association) essay contests. You made it possible for Branch & Unit 296 to reward students who had written at your request. May God bless you always. Mary Ann Frank Auburn