Thanks to a cadre of hardworking volunteers and staff, the 2008 Arts & Flowers luncheon on Nov. 6 at Harrah’s came off as a resounding success. We once again sold out all seats and even in a very poor economy, raised over $26,000. The money will be used in 2009 to support volunteer events and recognition, special staff needs and purchase of art for the museum’s permanent collection.

With Meg Watson’s leadership we had 95 donors provide gifts for the silent auction and raffle baskets which raised as much money as last year.

Barbara Marsh lined up another fantastic group of vendors for the artisan mall including five new ones. Although overall artisan sales were down, several artisans had success including Dennis Hoerauf who drove from Oregon and Diane Goldman who flew in from Colorado.

The success of the event is made possible by many volunteers. Special thanks to Judy Hartman, Sharon Smith, JoAnn Elston, Helga Miller, Lynda Buhlig, Lucy Walker , Marian Pettibone, Bob Anderson, Meg Watson, Dawn Lawrence, Carrie Young, Lynda Buhlig, Ross Heppe, Judy Kroger, Val Hylin, Pat Homeyer and Gayle Robinson, Julie Tausch (as a volunteer) and Jennifer Pincolini, Carole Fischer, Peggy Lowndes, Carol Pallesen, Sandra Kell, Cameron Welsh-Griffith, Loretta Baughman, Ragna DeLong, Judy Mayhew and Marian Pettibone for all their extra hard work.

Even more special thanks to all the staff who also work extra hard making the event a success, especially Amanda Rookey and Arlene Feola.

Special thanks to Southwest Airlines, Southern Wine and Spirits, YOUmicrospa and The Summit for the generous contributions and support.