Crofton Kiwanis Holds Annual Auction

The troubled economy was not enough to keep away the crowds at the Crofton Kiwanis Annual Charity Auction this past weekend. Photos by Laura Tayman.

Crofton Kiwanis Sponsor Annual Auction

Even the terrible economy didn’t result in fewer donated items or attendees at the Crofton Kiwanis Annual Pat Wilson Charity Auction this past weekend.

This is the 12^th year the Kiwanians have sponsored this annual event, their biggest fundraiser of the year. Over 420 items were on display at the Bowie Knights of Columbus Hall, with over 120 local merchants and businesses providing donations.

Items included everything from restaurant gift certificates, to Redskins/Ravens tickets, to legal and construction services, and even an installed irrigation system from TLC.

Kiwanis member Dennis Clark chaired the auction committee, and Tom Fallon served as auctioneer in the live auction. Many of the familiar Kiwanis faces were once again supporting these efforts, including Marnie Fallon selling the Kiwanis holiday ornament, Sharon Drew at the sign in table, and Ginny Espie at the greeting/ticket table.

Funds raised from this event go to local charities, such as Sarah’s House, the Crofton Christian Caring Council, and the Wounded Service Members Care Project.

The auction is dedicated to the memory of Pat Wilson, a former member of the group who passed away suddenly in 2001 and who was a leader in the planning of the community auction idea.

“This has become a real signature event in the community,” said a proud Judy Wilson, Pat’s widow. “A lot of people set their schedule around it.”

Pat’s daughter Erin and son Brian were also in attendance. “I remember helping Dad with setting up the tables years ago,” said Brian. “I think he would be very happy to see how successful this has become.”

Judy Wilson, son Brian, and daughter Erin attended the event named in honor of the late Pat Wilson.	Sandy and Mike Robertson worked the 50/50 ticket table.
Tom Fallon served as auctioneer at the Live Auction.	Kiwanis President Cheryl Malone helped to sell the annual holiday ornament to guests.
Lovely dresses from Mary's Boutique of Annapolis were on display. The business provided a $500 gift certificate to a lucky bidder.	Marnie Fallon shows off one of the silent auction items to her mother Dorothy Reynolds.
Shopper Mary Lynn views some of the unique items on display.	Bob Duckworth packs up an auction item after the bidding process is shut down.