It’s estimated that about 7,000 people from Bothell, Kenmore, Kirkland, Mill Creek and Woodinville visit the Northshore Senior Center.
On April 26, that number will get a little larger when the center hosts its “Spicing Up Life” auction and dinner. At $50 a person, along with money raised during the live and silent auctions, the center should walk away with a tidy sum to keep things happening over at 10201 E. Riverside Drive in Bothell.
Director Lee Harper said they are hoping to raise between $40,000-$50,000 at the event. Money will go toward scholarships for low-income seniors to attend classes, its caregivers program and more.
“If we can pack the house, that would be great. I think we’re on track to sell every seat (200 of them),” said Harper, who noted that local businesses and clubs are sponsoring tables.
“We’re so lucky to have one of the largest senior centers in the country right here in Bothell,” auction procurement volunteer Ginger Gold wrote in an e-mail. “It’s been such a privilege to help in my little way, and I hold hopes for a great turnout for the event.”
Donated auction items include a Native American-style flute, which was designed and made by Tom Duke; an embroidered flute bag from MoonDog Embroidery; an original watercolor from Art Studio D that was framed by FrameWright; an Oregon Shakespeare Festival package; Disneyland tickets; fine wines and more.
Greater Bothell Chamber of Commerce Chairman Dale Amundsen will be the evening’s emcee and auctioneer.
Keeping with the local theme, MoonDog and Art Studio D are located at Bothell’s Country Village and FrameWright is housed on Main Street.
MoonDog owner Pamela Hanes met Duke at the Country Village Flute Festival, and the two paired up for their auction donations.
“We donate to a lot of different schools and charities. I think it’s really important to be involved in your community. I’ve done that my entire life,” said Hanes, who also donated a Red Hat basket that features a tote bag, apron, mugs and more.
Hanes also got involved because her mother is a big senior-center supporter and works with the auction procurement team, Pamela said. Additionally, it gives her a chance to connect with the senior set, like the age-50-plus women of the Red Hat Society.
“I try to make something special and fun for whatever their theme is,” she said. “Do something that actually speaks to people’s needs.”
Harper said putting the auction together has been a learning experience.
“I started here Aug. 20 (of 2007), and the first week, we had an auction meeting,” she said. “It’s good for me, for someone relatively new, to be able to really see this come together.”
The event will take place from 6-10 p.m. For information, call (425) 286-1024.
