The inaugural Community Garage Sale organized by the United Way in Central Plains brought over 1,600 attendees together this past Saturday. Megan Romphf, United Way's Community Engagement Coordinator, shares her feelings on the day.

"We opened the doors at 9:00 a.m. and we had quite the lineup," Romphf explains. "We appreciate the community support for the Garage Sale. It's the first one, you never know how the first year out is going to go. It's just going to get bigger and better."

The coordinator also thanked the management at Canad-Inns for allowing them to host the event in their space.

She also admitted to snagging some great finds herself, echoing the sentiment of many attendees who left with treasures in hand. The event was brought to the public with the help of Maxine Carels, owner of The Studio on Sask, who embraced the opportunity to support the community and showcase her business.

"We've donated to a couple of community events that have happened since we've opened," Carels noted. "But this is our first real public exposure we've gotten. I've worked here for many years, and I know that this community is hugely supportive of small businesses. It's been special to be welcomed into the community, and to be given the opportunity to bring something new and still have Portage trust us and support us. We just want to thank those who stopped by our bike and our booth. I am thankful for the support that we've had so far." 

Both Romphf and Carels extended heartfelt thanks to the volunteers whose dedication was crucial in making the event a success.