humane society auction brings in the money for animals

By Kim Steele
SEVIERVILLE – Dogs and cats at the Sevier County Humane Society got a big helping hand recently from the organization’s Champagne Auction at the Sevierville Civic Center.
The annual event, which drew several hundred people, raised $21,671 to provide shelter, food and care to about 5,000 animals a year. It included a silent and regular auction, hosted by auctioneer Tim Milks of Smokies Investors Real Estate and Auction in Sevierville.
The auction featured 110 items donated by local businesses, from the “Birds & More Basket” that included a gift certificate to Red Lobster and handcrafted mugs, candles and floral arrangements, to the “Christmas Grapes & Leaves” wall hanging.
“We go out into the community each year and ask for donations for the auction,” said Sally Worden, president of the board of the humane society. “Even though the economy is bad, everyone has offered to help and our selection is just as good this year. They’re all giving.”
Worden said the money raised from the auction, which is the humane society’s largest fundraiser of the year, goes directly to the day-to-day operations of the organization.
Other items auctioned included the “Dog Gone Basket,” featuring two tickets to the Comedy Barn, dog picture frames, a University of Tennessee leash, a 10-piece meal at KFC and doggie yearly vaccinations.
Also, there was the “Adventure in the Mountains” basket, with a night stay at the Summit, a $25 gift certificate to Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts and a guided Llama trek excursion.
We were aiming for $20,000, and we were very concerned because of the economic situation,” said Jayne Vaughn, executive director of the humane society, after the event. “We are just thrilled. Everyone was having fun and in a generous spirit.”