Editorials For nearly 80 years, the Washougal volunteer firefighters have been making sure an annual hometown tradition remains in-tact. That tradition continues once again this weekend, as local residents and their families will gather at the Washougal Fire Department on A Street to take part in the Turkey Carnival.
There are few things that illustrate the unique aspects of small town more than these kinds of long-standing community events that bring people together, with the added benefit that it also supports a variety of efforts that helps friends and neighbors in need.
The carnival will be held Friday and Saturday, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Turkeys will be awarded to winners of bingo, dice and wheel games. There will also be games, face painting and prizes for children.
Admission is free. Canned goods will be accepted for the Inter-Faith Treasure House, Washougal Social Services and the Christmas Activities Relief Organization Limited program. All three of these programs provide services to members of the local community who are in real need. It is a group that has unfortunately grown in significant numbers as the economy has struggled.
Last year’s Turkey Carnival raised more than $5,000. Proceeds from the event have allowed the volunteers to donate to charities and programs throughout the community – including the C.A.R.O.L. program food drive, local sports teams, car seat inspections and smoke detectors.
