The 18th annual North Okanagan Horsey Ladies Banquet and Charity Auction is coming up on Nov. 20 and this group of “horsey ladies” is ready to add to the more than $65,600 they have donated to local charities over the years.
“The event is the highlight of the pre-Christmas shopping season, with usually over 100 items on the auction blocks (silent and ticket),” said committee member Nancy Roman. “Items such as clothing, jewelry, weekends away, horsey stuff of course, gift certificates for products and services, and so much more.
“It is only through the generosity of the community-minded businesses that we have been able to do this fundraiser year after year. All proceeds from the evening are donated to a local charity that the gals vote on that evening. We never know in advance who will get the money. And if we raise many thousands of dollars, we usually give to the top two vote-getters.”
The event takes place at Spallumcheen Golf and Country Club and features a traditional Christmas turkey buffet, including vegetarian lasagna, salads and desserts, with a cash bar. There is also an ATM machine on site. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 7 p.m. Over dinner there is open mic, where any lady is welcome to get up and “pitch” for her favourite charity – or just introduce themselves and their business.
“The golf course is once again offering a toy drive, as last year’s was so successful, and they have asked if the Horsey Ladies would like to participate,” said Roman.
If anyone would like to donate a toy, bring it to the banquet, put your name on it, and you will be entered into their prize draw. Toys will go to a local youth group.
Tickets for the banquet are $30 and available at Country West Supply in Armstrong, The Paddock Tack & Togs in Vernon and Touch A Texas in Salmon Arm. For more information, or to donate, please call Roman at 250-546-9922 or see the “Horsey Ladies Okanagan” Facebook page.
