Volunteers participating in the Ashdown Community Foundation's sixth annual auction brought the community together to raise $60,000, according to the group's treasurer.
Even a jar of pickles was auctioned off for $130 by Domtar General Manager Bob Grygotis, who served as a guest auctioneer. He assisted auctioneer John Nutt, owner of Nutt Auction Co., in raising money for the city of Ashdown, Ark.
"The community auction is the anticipated event of the area. Not only does it provide an avenue to raise a lot of money for the community, (but) more importantly, it brings the community together for a common cause," foundation Treasurer Tyler Davis said.
The event Feb. 4 included a live, silent and penny auctions and prize raffles. All items were donated by local businesses and community members and the Domtar paper mill.
"In the first year, the auction raised $19,000. Since that time, the event has continued to grow, raising more than $175,000 in the last five auctions. This year, the event surpassed everyone's expectations by raising just over $60,000-the largest amount raised at one auction to date," Davis said.
The $235,000 raised through the event has helped improve parts of the city.
"Over the last five years, monies raised have helped spruce up the downtown area and the city park. The team partnered with downtown business owners to paint downtown buildings, add murals, and create a pocket park, in addition to improving sidewalks and adding new street lights. Most recently, the community library received a much-needed makeover and a new pavilion was built at the city park," Davis said.
People attending the auction completed a survey to provide feedback where they wanted this year's funds to be spent. The committee will review the feedback and then decide what projects to focus on next.