Event Coverage
Los Gatos/Saratoga District Pumpkin Auction Raises $4,900 for Operation Reindeer
At Willow Street Wood-Fired Pizza restaurant on Wednesday, Los Gatos/Saratoga District Chair Mary Kay Groth, donned in a black wig and eyeglasses, welcomed about 60 members to the District's annual pumpkin auction. Groth conveyed special thanks to event organizers Jo Preston and Diane Chandler who have contributed numerous auction items through the years, many made by them. It was also Chandler's birthday, so members sang and surprised her with a birthday cake.
Former California Association of REALTORS® president Jim Hamilton was back as this year's auctioneer. Hamilton and reminded everyone that proceeds from the auction would go to Operation Reindeer, a program that distributes gifts, including food certificates, to needy families and seniors in the community during the holiday season. REALTORS® and affiliates of the Los Gatos/Saratoga District have supported the program for more than 20 years.
Hamilton said he is always surprised to learn that the children who benefit from Operation Reindeer never ask for anything flashy; instead, their list includes a pair of shoes, a shirt, and other clothing essentials.
"This is for the kids, so please open you hearts, open your wallets," said Hamilton.
Members did and were able to raise $4,900 for Operation Reindeer.
The 24 auction items included Halloween and fall centerpieces and decorations, some of which included big prizes, like Apple gift cards, expensive wine and gift certificates to upscale restaurants and spas. The beautiful tall fresh floral arrangement donated by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Los Gatos received the highest bid of $500, followed by the "Pumpkin Succulent" from Sereno Group Los Gatos, which received a bid of $400.
The District thanks the following donors: Diane Chandler with Alain Pinel Realtors, Alain Pinel Realtors, Jo Preston with Montalvo Realty, Sereno Group Los Gatos and Saratoga, Keller Williams Bay Area Estates, Intero Real Estate Services Los Gatos, Coldwell Banker Los Gatos and Saratoga and Private Mortgage Advisors. Special thanks, too, to Jim Hamilton for serving as auctioneer.
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