The annual Arts & Flowers luncheon was held on Thursday, November 5, 2009. Even during these challenging economic times, we had a very successful event, selling about 460 seats and raising almost $23,000. The proceeds will be used in 2010 to support volunteer events and recognition, sponsor A Survey of Gee’s Bend Quilts Exhibition, and purchase art for the museum’s permanent collection.

Lucy Walker, with the help of Nancy Kelly, did an outstanding job of coordinating silent auction and raffle donations from more than 60 donors, which raised almost $5,000.

Barbara Marsh outdid herself by securing 14 new artists! These new artists were joined by 11 artists who have displayed and sold their work at previous Arts & Flowers luncheons. Some of the featured artwork ranged from several types of jewelry, to unique handbags and fused glass. And of course, Marge Russell was back with her wonderful Santas.

The success of the event is made possible by many volunteers who set up for the event, sell raffle tickets, and take phone reservations, among many other things. Special thanks to Lynda Buhlig, Lucy Walker, Nancy Kelly, Bob Anderson, Judy Mayhew, and Barbara Marsh for all of their extra 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.

And finally, a special thanks to our corporate sponsors: Southwest Airlines, Digiprint, YOUmicrospa, and Harrah’s Hotel & Casino and the following volunteers: Bob Anderson, Loretta Baughman, Ellen Beckman, Lynda Buhlig, Heather DeAngeli, Ragna Delong, JoAnn Elston,

Dianna Filkin, Carole Fischer, Carolyn Fricke, Ross Heppe, Val Hylin, Molly Ivans, Nancy Kelly, Judy Mayhew, Debbie McMahon, Helga Miller, Lynn Newhall, Helen O’Brien, Sandra Raas, Lucy Walker and Susan Fountain for their generous support.