St. Matthew's House Annual Auction

St. Matthew's House club champion Paul Clifford and auctioneer Bruce Eccles entertained members and guests as they managed to loosen bidders' pockets to raise almost $3400. 

From holiday gift baskets and various refreshment packages, to pottery and jewellery, to singing lessons and tools, Bruce put everyone into a festive mood with his off the cuff remarks and good humour. Items sold were donated by club members and friends of the club and included gift certificates from East Side Marios, Picones, the Bangkok Spoon and Soccer World.

Part way through the auction, bruce took a break so that Ross Bannatyne, director of club Community Services could make two cheque presentations of $1000 each to Out of the Cold and the Salvation Army Food Bank.

Sister Nancy Sullivan from Out of the Cold accepted,

as did Shirley Molloy from the Salvation Army.

One item was auctioned with funds going to The Rotary Foundation. Shirley Molloy managed to have a new pair of lady's figure skates autographed by Catriona Le May Doan the Canadian gold medal Olympic champion in speed skating. Shirley also included a photo of Catriona as she signed the skates. Of course, Rotary Rink champion Carl Fraser was the successful purchaser.