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Sunflower Charity Gala offers wide range of auction items
sunflower gala promo
This is the view when walking into Lakeview Lodge at Table Rock. A stay at this new location is one of the live-auction items at the upcoming Sunflower Charity Gala.

           The live and silent auctions at the upcoming Sunflower Diversified Services Charity Gala will appeal to many interests, tastes and budgets, said Connie Oetken, director of development.

            “We have collected a wide variety of items for our auctions and are accepting more,” Oetken said. “It is not too late to donate an item or become a sponsor in support of people in central Kansas with special needs.”

            Live-auction items include: a new Hustler Raptor riding lawnmower and trailer; EWheels scooter; stay at the new Lakeview Lodge, with eight beds and eight baths at Table Rock; deluxe golf package for StoneRidge, Smoky Hill and Colbert Hills; two sets of tires; prime rib dinner for 10 at RePerks; Traeger cooker; security system; Winchester Model 1890 rifle; 2018-19 autographed University of Kansas basketball; money wreath; stay at a mountain home; firepit; well-traveled bike; KU paver; heavy-duty pull wagon; EPPI gift card; metal art; and more.

            Categories of items in the silent auction include: jewelry; wall hangings; kitchen accessories; sports blankets; jackets; outdoor games; barbecue accessories; and gift certificates.

            The Charity Gala begins with a social hour at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th in Great Bend. Participants can expect a catered meal from Ellsworth Steak House and open bar. The wait staff will serve wine at the tables.

            “This is our 15th annual Gala and we hope for a great turnout,” Oetken commented. “It is a popular annual event because we support our neighbors with disabilities and delays, while having fun at the same time.

            “All donors and volunteers can be assured that every penny we raise stays in our local communities,” she continued. “The Gala and our other fundraisers are crucial to the people we serve because there is so much need for early education, independent-living options and employment opportunities. Tax dollars cannot come close to doing it all.”

            Auctioneer Mike Niedens and Emcee Scott Donovan will keep the crowd entertained again this year.

            A seat at the Gala is $100. For more information, contact Oetken by calling 620-792-1325.

            Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 54th year.