Carol Stream Scout to troop to host sale

Lots of laughs, bargains galore and an opportunity to contribute to Carol Stream Boy Scout Troop 32's fundraising efforts are a few good reasons to attend its 26th annual Scout Auction.

Invite your friends and neighbors and head out to American Legion Post 76, 570 S. Gary Ave., Carol Stream, on Saturday, Jan. 31 for a guaranteed good time.

Doors open at 7 p.m., with bidding led by auctioneer Deldon Miller beginning promptly at 7:30 p.m. And when Miller needs a break, legion members Sanford Lykins III and Stan Luboff will take over.

Admission is free for this adults-only evening where you can bid on a variety of items. Golf packages, hotel packages, restaurant certificates, oil changes, household items and even an opportunity to be a firefighter for a day with Carol Stream's Fire District can be had. Also, Carol Stream lawyer Bob McNees has donated his services to write a will for the highest bidder. There will be complimentary snacks, a cash bar and bake sale, too.

I have attended the auction for nearly all the 26 years and always look forward to the surprise bargains and sometimes surprise entertainment. You just never know what the evening will bring.

For example, many treasures have made it to the auction block, such as a pair of lamps found to be worth much more than the winning bid. Or the vase I purchased that is worth at least three times what I paid. And then there was the beautiful china that is at least 42 years old and the cute train that found its place under our Christmas tree.

Through the years bidders even have purchased items for others, and these items found their way back to the auction the following year. What a fun way to help a worthy cause!

And I hope this year's co-auctioneer, Lykins, will forgive me for sharing the following information, but I just can't resist: Several years ago Lykins and other courageous male legion members put on quite a fashion show that had everyone laughing. I won't share any more, but a repeat performance would be greatly appreciated.

"It's a fun evening, with good deals and a way to support the scouts in the process," auction Chairwoman Mary Finnstrom said.

Donations still are being accepted and can be made by calling Finnstrom, (630) 885-5457, or Co-Chairwoman Cindy Knapp, (630) 668-1365.

• Jenny Casale writes about Carol Stream. If you have tidbits to share, call her at (630) 890-6142 or e-mail takemetours@hotmail.com.