More than $50k was grossed under the skillful organization of event planner, and Rotarian, Jackie Wood, masterful auctioneering by Rotarian Clint Boxman, and dozens of Club members who donated and gathered an impressive array of auction items. Trips to Mexico and Coeur d’Alene, weeklong stays at Suncadia, overnights at the Westin Seattle, the always- popular North Kitsap Firehouse party, Mike Lambro’s $7500 roof, the overflowing Rotary wine fridge, and dozens of other items brought home the bacon on Easter eve. Originally set for February, due to Covid the auction was re-scheduled. Its date so close to Easter no doubt limited attendance. Nonetheless, about 80 stars came out to raise paddles and bid cards, dash for dessert, and pledge a record amount to support Rotary’s work in the Kingston North Kitsap community.
The Club has two committees - International and Community Service - that will invest the auction proceeds. They do so based on current needs, and in response to grant requests from local and international organizations. Boys and Girls Club. Stillwaters Environmental Center. Scouts. Affordable housing organizations. Coffee Oasis. Food4kids. Kingston Cares. North Kitsap Schools. And Rotary’s Ukraine relief fund. A lengthy list of groups doing good in our community, where a little Rotary “seed money” goes a long ways.
Special thanks to the White Horse staff for their exceptional service, delicious meal, and superb venue. And to the stars who were out in Kingston Saturday night, Apr 16.