For the Reporter • February 20, 2009 The Fond du Lac Boys and Girls Club’s first annual Reach for the Stars Celebrity Auction and
Dinner held Feb. 13 drew more than 130 attendees and raised $7,800. The event auctioned items from 50 nationally and internationally known celebrities, as well as donations from local businesses and artisans, according to a press release. “We were very pleased with the results,” reported Dan Hebel, director of operations for the Boys and Girls Club of Fond du Lac. “This was our first year, and with the economy, a very difficult year to be raising money.” The wide variety of donated items included original drawings from celebrities such as James Earl Jones, Jeff Bridges, Barbra Streisand, Roy Clark and Martin Sheen. Sports figures, including Bo Ryan, Ruvell Martin, Mario Andretti, Michael Waltrip and Barry Alvarez, also donated original autographed drawings and photos. Local favorites, including Jim Gantner and Travis Diener, donated memorabilia for the auction, as well. Area businesses, including Hoppers Silk Screening, Whispering Springs Golf Club and Partners by Design, also donated auction items. Local artisans were represented with donations by Dawn Colwin, Pat Reiher, Cassie Colwin and Jim Roeder. Brian Carter, of Fond du Lac Seafood Company, donated his profits for the meal, totaling $2,400.
Plans are under way at the Boys and Girls Club for additional fundraising events throughout the year.