Students find bargains at HES shopping event

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — Students at Houlton Elementary School went Christmas shopping last week in the school’s music room and found bargain prices on new merchandise. Second-grade teacher Katie Fitzpatrick said she didn’t think any item was over $3 and it could not have happened without the help of the PTO.  The child- and budget-friendly event came off without a hitch thanks to donations from a local business, parents and community residents. Principal Candy Crane, who helped wrap the gifts, said: “It’s the most fun I’ve had all year.”
    When Fitzpatrick’s class took their turn shopping, several children were buying gifts for their siblings. Dominic Sabattis Webber, 8, spent his money for characters based on a Cartoon Network show. “It’s for my brother and I think he would love it.” Classmate Jordan Policano, 7, picked up a couple of kissing bears which she had wrapped for her brother and sister.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
PITCHING IN — Principal Candy Crane helped wrap gifts for students who purchased gifts last week.
    Renee Grant, worked with the PTO, and assisted students at the door. She commented: “The best part is when they walk in and say ‘Oooh!’ and they are so excited. It’s fun to see their expressions and it has been more successful than we had imagined.”
    Crane said many of the household items were donated to the school when Bob and Helen Cadigan recently closed their Home Accent store in Houlton. Although most children bought something for parents or siblings, Crane said with a wide, warm smile, there were a couple of children who had other ideas. “When I asked them who it was for, they said ‘It’s for me. But, please wrap it anyway.’”

Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
WRAPPING IT UP — Jordan Policano, 7, watches intently as Darcy Lorom wraps the gift she purchased at Houlton Elementary School’s shopping event.