AURELIUS - Among the many talents of members of the Order of the Eastern Star, Auburn Chapter # 169, their skills at baking may be one of the most popular with the public.

The group decided to use that talent by holding a bake sale to raise funds for their organization Saturday morning at the front entrance to Bass Pro Shops in Aurelius.

“This is our first bake sale and we just weren't sure how it would go,” said Karen Allen, treasurer for the Order of the Eastern Star.

“If it turns out well we will probably be making it a yearly fundraiser.”

Success seemed to be forthcoming as the members restocked the baked-goods table before the first hour of the sale was complete.

Proceeds from the sale will be put into the club's general account to be used to support the many charitable organizations that members donate to.

“We are holding the bake sale so that we can do good elsewhere within the community,” Allen said.

Lorraine Parker, the club's secretary, said that there is not a specific organization that is supported by the group but that members find different ways to help.

“We see where there is a need for assistance,” she said. “And then we help in whatever way that we can.”

In fact, the common theme, as well as a requirement for membership, is a desire to help with community charity and a common belief in a supreme being.

Although the organization does not have as many members as it would like, its size does not stop them from trying to be the best neighbors they can be.

“As with most social clubs there is a decline in membership,” Parker said. “Our club is no different. People just don't seem to be able to find the time, with families and full-time careers.”

Club members said that they would like to see the younger generations become involved and help to make a difference in their community.

“One thing we can promise to our members is that we always have delicious refreshment and desserts,” Parker said laughlingly.