The 35th Annual Auction & Dinner on November 11th at the Carroll C. Kendall Club was out of this world. The Club transformed from an active after school clubhouse to galaxy filled with nods to the iconic Star Wars Saga. Familiar ships, characters and droids were among the decor and guests. Over 350 guests attended, and bidding was abundant. There were nearly two hundred silent auction items from our generous community of individuals, small businesses, and corporations in and around the surrounding area. Bidding was online and started the Monday before the big night garnering interest early and increased bidding. Guests were greeted at the door by CEO, Mary Budke and a young Padewan, a passionate Club members. Guests checked in and browsed the auction items, enjoyed delicious appetizers and charcuterie, and visited "Mos Eisley's Cantina" for beverages before moving on to dinner catered by The Cedars at Dungeness. Attendees were thrilled to gather together and to enjoy the fun evening supporting the Club. Todd Ortloff was our returning Master of Ceremonies and after a warm welcome from our Vice Board Chair, Norma Turner he and the auctioneer took over and opened with a “Best of Live” drawing won by Nate Adkisson who selected the coveted Head Table for next year's auction. The Adkissions and their guests have been seated at the head table for more than five years running. We dashed for dessert this year, with 36 donated desserts, a majority of them home-baked raising $13,000. Mark Matthews won the Galactic Bounty, $1,000 and turned around and gave it right back to support the Club. The live Auction items included several vacation destinations, meals every month at popular restaurants, private home dining experiences, and some concert and Seahawks game tickets offered entertainment options. Taking top bid was a stay in Hood River at the home of board member, Josh Jones and his wife. Guests were be given the opportunity to “Bid for Kids” and make a gift to the Club to support our after-school programming after hearing from Sequim member and Boys & girls Club National Talent, Pearle Peterson. She sang “The Impossible Dream” receiving a standing ovation. Her powerful performance and moving remarks by Mary Budke motivated attendees to give $258,500 to support programs during the fourth quarter fundraiser. The big night raised a much needed $464,000 for the organization topping years past. 

The auction is the largest of the four main fundraising events that support the Clubs, including the annual breakfast in March, held in the Port Angeles Club. Keep an ear out for information on the Great Futures Breakfast, featuring the 2024 Youth of the Year.