Wareham Emblem Club's bazaar fosters 'family' atmosphere

Nov 13, 2016

The Wareham Emblem’s Club Holiday Bazaar, its longstanding pre-Christmas fair, continued Saturday with two people who haven’t missed one in 30 consecutive years.

Mike and Betty O’Brien of New Bedford returned to sell a variety of handmade items inside the Wareham-New Bedford Lodge of Elks No. 37, located on Cranberry Highway.

The couple was unaware of the milestone until bazaar coordinator Margaret Dupuis told them.

“We had no idea it’s been 30 years,” said Mike, adding that the event is a welcome tradition. “Everybody at the bazaar is like family for the four or five hours that we’re here.”

The couple shares the workload to prepare for the event as Betty knits and crafts all the items for sale, which includes dolls, decorations, decorative towels and other items, while Mike is in charge of transportation.

“I make everything and he carries it all in,” said Betty.

“I drive the car, too,” said Mike, chiming in.

This year, there were 25 total vendors for the show that serves as a fundraiser for the Emblem Club, said Dupuis.

Founded more than 65 years ago, the club is affiliated with the Elks Lodge and raises money for local charitable organizations such as Damien’s Pantry, the Salvation Army, the Women’s Shelter of New Bedford and various groups dedicated to veterans.

In addition to the O’Brien’s wares, the bazaar featured toys, jewelry, quilted items, Christmas decorations and more.