Mary Pence and Andrew Pence, Elegant Auction 2016 (file photo, credit Virginia StrausDesire decadent dining and uplifting libations?
OAKHURST – The Oakhurst Park Committee invites the community to the roaring 20s at their 33rd Annual Elegant Auction.
In a departure from recent years, the popular event will be held at the “GC Speakeasy” on Saturday, Apr. 28 from 5 – 11:45 p.m. On the menu this year are gourmet bites, and on the dance floor — live music following the auctions. Tickets for the fundraising event are $50 in advance and available online. Tix are $60 each at the door.
“We thought the Golden Chain Theatre was the perfect venue to create a fun roaring twenties speakeasy vibe,” says Oakhurst Park Committee Chairman Andrew Pence. “My mother, Mary Pence, was one of the founding members of the Elegant Auction and said they used to have it there, back in the beginning.”
The Park committee decided it would be great to circle back around and also a fine way to celebrate the Golden Chain Theatre’s 50th anniversary. The Golden Chain troupe will be performing an homage to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, which takes the stage in May.
During the evening of the Elegant Auction, Gatsby cast members will mingle freely with guests, as the Yosemite Jazz Band performs hits from the time period, complete with sultry songs by Jennifer Janine throughout the evening.
Doors open at 5 p.m. so guests may begin to peruse the abundant silent auction, while the live auction starts at 8 p.m. — events that will be lubricated with complimentary champagne and a no host bar.
“Delicious gourmet bites will be catered by Wild Fig Kitchen, and specialty-themed cocktails will available for purchase, while the complimentary champagne flows,” tempts committee member Gina Mims, with a reminder to “dress to impress and be sure to wear your dancing shoes.”
Live Auction Chair Christine Smith explains that the silent and live auction items are how the committee raises money, thanks to the generosity of those who make donations and contributions.
“The silent and live auction items are how we raise money thanks to the local generosity of our community.” Christine says. “Without them this event would not be possible.”
Elegant Auction 2016 (file photo, credit Virginia Strauss)
Top-notch items up for bid include a cruise to Catalina and Ensenada, trips to Hawaii and Cancun, and fun local excursions.
“Treat yourself or someone you love with beautiful diamond earrings, a summer patio package, a Nascar experience, game room package, artwork, a kayak and much more,” say organizers. “There’s also a chance to Bust the Bank, if you dare.”
For those wanting to stay in town, the committee has arranged discounts at Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn and Hounds Tooth Inn. A shuttle bus will be provided by Discover Yosemite to transport guests to and from the event throughout the night. When booking the reservation, mention “Elegant Auction” for special rates.
Tickets are available online at EventBrite.com or at Nations Lending, 40879 Hwy 41 Suite 1a.
Oakhurst Community Park: The property, on loan from Sierra Telephone, receives no government funds and is therefore improved and maintained solely by the generous donations of businesses and individuals in our community. From new playground equipment to covered patios, Oakhurst Community Park continues to delight both residents and visitors alike. The Elegant Auction is the major fundraising gala held to keep the park funded for the year.
Learn more about the Oakhurst Community Park.
