Volunteers for Friday’s Open House included Dorothy Milea, Evy Wenino and Marsha Parsley, above standing beside a tree, which is decorated with ornaments made by area children. Pilot Photo/Carol Anders

By Carol Anders Staff Writer
PLYMOUTH — The first day of voting for the “People’s Choice Award” for a charity auction of donated Christmas trees, centerpieces and fall decorations began Friday with an Open House at the Marshall County Historical Museum.
This is the second year that the museum has hosted the fundraiser that is sponsored by the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce.
According to Director Linda Rippy, there are 10 decorated Christmas trees and 30 limited additions of centerpieces and wreaths that the public at-large can vote on to determine the winner. Those voting are asked to donate $1 for each vote.
Last year the display raised more than $3,000.
This year’s event is actually a fundraiser for three different not-for-profit organizations. The donations will be divided among Rebuilding Together, Mar-shall County Single Parent Program, and The Marshall County Historical Museum.
Rippy said they decided to have the contest earlier this year since many families may want to use centerpieces for Thanksgiving or holiday decorating.
Those donating were given an option of choosing Christmas, autumn, Thanks-giving or a general holiday for their theme.
All of the items will be auctioned off on November 15. The auction, coordinated by Sam Goebel of RE/MAX Oak Crest, will begin at 6 p.m..