Friends of Third Place Commons Board members worried the struggling economy would affect attendance at the fourth annual Friends of the Community Fundraising Breakfast Feb. 12, but they were pleasantly surprised.
Three hundred people — the largest crowd in the event’s history — packed the Lake Forest Park Commons beginning at 7 a.m. to support the shared community space.
“It’s really, really cool to see the energy in the room every year,” emcee Alan Schauffler said.
The Commons is where 1,200 events occur every year, said Karen True, co-chair of Friends of Third Place Commons Board.
“It’s an amazing place we used to think was a well-kept secret, but it’s not, as apparent by so many of you here today,” she said. “This is a place where people bring liveliness.”
Attendees were served a breakfast of eggs, bacon and fruit by members of the Shorecrest High School Interact Club while listening to the music of the Milner Family Fiddlers. They were asked to contribute financial support for the Commons during a live auction including five autographed copies from Third Place Books author readings in 2009 and a dinner for ten to the Lake Forest Park Grill, opening in the upper Towne Centre in May.
“Today is a great testimonial to the community we’ve been asked to be a part of,” John Schmidt, the owner of Lake Forest Park Grill said.
More space for computers and signs have been incorporated into the space since 80 people met to discuss the future of Third Place Commons in September, according to True.
Attendees also heard stories of how the space has been used and the programs the Board has supported. The Lake Forest Park Market Bucks program was discussed and the Play and Learn program sponsored by the Shoreline Family Support Center received an award during the event.
Last year, the Board received a $500 donation from a woman who used the Commons while she was unemployed and searching for work, according to Sarah Phillips, Lake Forest Park community and government-affairs manager.
“She decided to keep her promise and support the place that supported her,” Phillips said.
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