Historical Society auction nets over $12,000

Grady County Historical Society officials say its fifth annual Silent Auction was another big success with approximately $12,000 raised from the event and the associated pilau dinner.
This year’s auction featured more items than ever before and the profits topped last year.
“This year’s auction was a success, thanks to the community’s participation and, most of all, because of the tremendous support from local merchants, businesses and individuals,” said Auction Chairman Celia Bass.
All of the proceeds from the annual auction are invested in the maintenance and operation of the Grady County Museum and History Center.
Over 300 auction items were featured in this year’s event ranging from weekend mountain cottage retreats to 32-inch color televisions to china to plants of all varieties and much more.
The top item once again was a “Country Vittles” dinner for eight hosted by Elwyn and Yvonne Childs. It was purchased for $800 and the dinner has traditionally been one of the top selling items during the five-year history of the event.
Another top grossing auction items was a Monrovia gift certificate and a John Deere miniature child’s four-wheeler.
According to Historical Society officials, the cooks prepared for 400 plates of pilau and the dinner was sold out Thursday night.
Plans are already being made for the 2013 edition of the auction and officials have booked the Grady County Agri-Center for the fundraiser next year.
“We could not host the auction without the support of the community and all of those who donate auction items. Fundraisers such as the Silent Auction are the only way the Historical Society can raise funds to maintain and operate our county museum. It takes a tremendous amount of work, but thanks to the overwhelming support of the community, we are able to raise the money to keep the museum open and viable,” said Auction Publicity Chairman Yvonne Childs.