MRW Hosts Spring Festival

By BOBBIE GREEN

The Progress

The west field of the Mesquite Recreation Center was bustling with busy people on Saturday morning, April 22. They were setting up vendor booths, stage, sound systems, and kids’ jump houses for the annual Spring Festival held by the Mesquite Republican Women (MRW)

By 10 am people were flowing into the park to take advantage of the beautiful day and a variety of offerings brought together for the public in this MRW fundraiser for local charities.

“Monies raised by the MRW from booth rentals to bake sales, raffle, and silent auction are pledged to benefit community charitable organizations,” said MRW President Sue Smith. “These include Mesquite Safenest, the Mesquite Community Education Foundation and The Exchange Club.”

Approximately sixty vendors were there. There were also two food trucks including Corn Dog Company and Great Basin Food Company.

There was quite an agenda planned beginning with an opening ceremony that included an Honor Guard led by Bagpiper Dennis Hangey. Dr. Thomas Kindell gave an inspirational and meaningful invocation. Tammy Dachtyl sang the National Anthem and Mike Young was the emcee.

Councilperson Patti Gallo gave a short Q & A session, answering Young’s questions about city happenings. Gallo gave her thoughts on the friendly town of Mesquite, which she said is so different than a big city.

Nevada State Senator Jeff Stone delivered a great informational speech on what it is like in Carson City while the state legislature is in session.
“Even though the Republicans are few in number in the state administration we have been able to stop a few bad bills from passing,” Stone said. “Like the one that would have raised your property taxes by three percent.”

Stone made it clear that if the people oppose a bill being considered they must call or write their opposition, otherwise a bill with no record of opposition gets passed. Stone said that his office staff can keep constituents informed on bills that are up for consideration. Constituents can call 775-684-6800 to learn about these bills.

Enjoyable music throughout the day was provided by Runaway Fire. There was a line dance demonstration by Mesquite Recreation Center instructor Suzie Fehseke and a Kick Boxing demonstration by Rosemary Ennis.

The bake sale booth, with homemade sweets sold out of all its goodies.
Vendor Verna Carnesella of Soapendipity, said, “Our sales are doing well. We are happy to be here.”
Seven-year-old Kalli Weede was shopping at the festival, looking to buying her mother Nikki Weede a pretty hair clip for upcoming Mother’s Day.

Attendee’s Pat Michalko and Raili Kedzior said they were here to shop. They both had bags with purchased items. They were clearly having a good time.
The Second Annual Mesquite Spring Festival proved to be a win-win for all.