Over 600 attend Maude fire benefit

When they heard about the fire that had left their friends Marvin and Mae Maude without a home, Tif Robertson and Elizabeth Maude joined forces to set a date and find a location to host a benefit. A committee of friends and neighbors rolled up their sleeves to help make the event a success. The committee consisted of: Jackie Maude, Kris Lyons, Denise Baker, Marlene Maude, Nancy Baker, Pennie Fuhrman, Carrie Grable and Wendy Clark. The entire committee helped with the fundraising efforts. They gathered donations, made soups and pies and helped promote the event. It didn’t take long for the word to get out and more friends, neighbors and local businesses voluntarily made donations and offered to contribute to the meal. The committee and many volunteers split the duties and produced out a successful event. They served over 600 people and while the final tally isn’t known, the total income as substantial. There was approximately 300 items donated to the live and silent auctions. Bradeen Auction Company volunteered their time and staff for the Live Auction. Items that were sold for above retail value included three loads of round baled hay, trucking services, wire, antique spurs, custom wood products, original art pieces, and so many more. The support for the benefit was a true testament of what an impact the Maudes have made on the community throughout their lives. This event was a chance for folks to gather and pay it forward to help lift the spirits of their friends. All in attendance hoped to show their support for the Maudes as they forge ahead. The benefit committee greatly appreciates the Central States Fair for allowing them to host this event at their facility and providing the manpower behind the scenes to help make it happen.

–Committee Report