The Celebration of Lights auction on Dec. 1 was an overwhelming success and the generosity of the bidders brought some emotion up for Angela Cole, one of the co-ordinators.
"People were so generous; I got a little teary eyed. There was a wonderful attendance of the regular and new supporters, and businesses were pooling their money together."
Local businesses sponsored a tree and/or pair of wreaths for $100; they decorated and set them up on display at Central GM from Nov. 15 to Dec. 1.
The third annual auction surpassed all expectations, Cole says, adding a total of $13,510 was raised to go towards various local charities this year.
Auctioneer Donna Nivison kept the laughter and the bids going during the evening, starting with the winning bid of $400 from the combined forces of Tom Bachynski and Carina Krahn for Nivison's famous homemade pie, with proceeds going towards the charity of her choice - the 100 Mile House Mural Society.
"Donna is such a delight, with such a sense of humour," Cole says. "The whole evening was filled with laughter."
The auction raised money for local organizations, including $375 towards 100 Mile District Hospice Palliative Care Society; $2,670 towards Kidsports; and more than $3,000 to the 100 Mile House & District Women's Centre.
"Vern Peever came up to me after the auction and gave me a cheque for $700 to go towards Kidsport. He didn't get his bid on the wreath, but still wanted to donate," says Cole.
Additional recipients of the funds raised included the 108 Mile Heritage Site, South Cariboo Health Foundation, Canadian Mental Health Association-South Cariboo Branch and others.
Representatives of the local charities were invited to say a few words about their organizations, which added a personal touch to the auction, Cole explains.
"We found out what CMHA-SC does here in 100 Mile House, from their winter coat drive to the delivery of warm soup.
"The Hospice [representatives] talked about their charity, too. It's nice to hear what these organizations are all about."
The Rotary Club of 100 Mile House purchased the Williams Lake & District Credit Union tree and it is now in the lobby of the Royal Bank, Cole says, where people can buy a ticket for a chance to win it.
"Even with these tough economic times, the people who live here are so generous. They came with open hearts and open wallets, and I can't thank them enough."