![Watching a small group scrimmage, Ben Lundt, St. Louis City SC goalkeeper and founder of Lundt Pro Soccer Training, shouts words of encouragement to players on Sunday, April 26 n the Lafayette grass soccer field. “The idea behind [the event] was to bring the professional soccer players closer to the community because usually people only get to see us on TV or in the stadium. [Families] actually having the opportunity to have their kids on the field with us is the most important aspect,” Ben Lundt said.](https://lancerfeed.press/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/IMG_6823-1200x800.jpg)
![In celebration of winning his second straight state title in the 215 weight class, junior Carter Brown backflips before leaving the mat. Brown won his bout against junior Kobe Rhymes of North Kansas City High School by fall in just 41 seconds. "Carter does what Carter does. We expect [success] out of him and his goals are bigger than the state championship," coach Sam Ritchie said.](https://lancerfeed.press/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_2784-1200x800.jpg)
On Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lafayette hosted its annual Marketplace Craft Fair to raise money for the LHS band programs and show support for local businesses. This year, more than 160 vendors filled the Main Gym and Commons, selling everything from handmade jewelry to crafts. In addition to shopping, visitors were encouraged to stop by the raffle station, where attendees could purchase a ticket for a chance to win a vendor’s donated item.
Last year, the LHS band program raised $17,000, helping fund instrument maintenance, new instruments and marching band props. Funds were raised through vendor booth fees.
Senior Ruby Willis said she looks forward to the event every year.
“I like meeting everyone and helping vendors set up. It is nice to see everyone’s specialized crafts and see the time each person puts into their craft,” Willis said. “I got a gift for my mom, and I got a crochet keychain for myself.”
One of this year’s vendors, Emily Specker, owns Crafting for a Cause, a small business that makes handmade bracelets and key chains.
“I actually donate at least half of my proceeds to charity,” Specker said. “I always choose a different one and this month Sweet Celebrations, they do birthday parties year-round for kids who are homeless.”
Specker said she started crafting as a way to relax before turning it into a small business.
“I have anxiety, so it’s hard to sit still, so I just do this to relieve my anxiety. It’s really calming and fun and relaxing for me,” Specker said.
The event concluded at 4 p.m. as vendors, band members and volunteers helped pack up booths and cleared the Commons and Main Gym, marking another successful year and setting the stage for its return next December.
