Circle K Gifts Holds Fundraiser Presentation

On Monday, Jan. 9, Circle K Gifts in Woodbury and Denny Shoemaker (shown left) held a joint fundraiser for the Over's Christmas tree in Woodbury. Refreshments followed the presentation.

This tree has been a tradition and an icon of Woodbury for many years. It has become very big, and the cost of electricity can be high especially since it is decorated with large bulb Christmas Lights. The tree is 97 years old now.

For weeks leading up to the fundraiser, Shoemaker made postcards of places in the Cove that he featured on his calendar. The cards were sold in the gift shop of Circle K Gifts. All proceeds from these cards and a collection taken on Jan. 9 amounted to $309. This money was donated to John Over to help keep this beautiful tree going for folks to enjoy.

Over was very appreciative of the gesture and thanks the folks who contributed.

Shoemaker presented pictures from some of his trips to Alaska. The presentation was free to the public and over 70 people attended this informative presentation.

Alaska was bought from Russia for 2 cents an acre in 1867, according to Shoemaker. Russia did not know the vast amount of land Alaska was. Alaska is the largest state by area.

The longest day of the year in Alaska is 24 hours. The long periods of light help to produce some large produce. A carrot weighed in at 181 pounds and a cabbage head weighed in at 133 pounds.

The capital of Alaska is Juneau and was established in 1906. The only way to get there is by ship or plane. It is the second largest city in the U.S.

The best fishing for salmon and halibut is Ketchikan, Alaska.

Shoemaker showed pictures of eagles, with as many as 100 in a picture at one time. He also shared photos of bears, moose, salmon, halibut and a photo of over 40 lakes shown in one shot.

He had a surprise for the audience as he told the story of being paired in a lodge with Donny Osmond and his sons.

He enjoyed eating meals and fishing with them.

More presentations such as this will be coming. March 20 another presentation will be done at the same location. This will be on his favorite pictures from 23 states. This is free to the public and starts at 7 p.m.