Big items up for grabs at live auction during Concert Under the Stars benefit

Part of the fun each year at Concert Under the Stars, A benefit for The Greenhouse Project, is the live auction. The generosity of the community by and through the donations of ever-changing and diverse packages, means there is something for everyone. And of course, the community’s willingness to bid and support the ongoing work of The Greenhouse Project, completes the circle.

This year’s line-up is more diverse than ever and includes more than a few Bucket List opportunities. Payment must be made at the time of purchase. The auction takes place between sets, when Ambrosia and Pablo Cruise perform, July 8. Doors open at 5 p.m., allowing time to peruse the items being offered.
Chef Charlie Abowd will be donating a surprise item, a tradition which has grown through the years to be one of the most anticipated auction items.

“You just never know what he’s going to come up with, which is part of the fun,” said Karen Abowd, GHP president “We have some awesome offerings again this year, thanks to everyone’s generosity and know these items will be enjoyed by the person or persons lucky enough to place the highest bid.”

Here’s what’s on tap this year:
Dinner for four with the band. Join Charlie and Karen Abowd, Pablo Cruise and Ambrosia for dinner following the concert in the private dining room at Cafe at Adele’s. Value: Priceless. Donated by Charlie and Karen Abowd.
Private wine tasting for up to 20 people in the classroom of Total Wine & More’s store in Reno. Taste eight of their premium, hand-selected wines and discover hidden treasures from the wine region of your choice. Value: $500 Donated by Brenda and Fred Schmidt.

Chive Cooking presents a three-hour, in-home cooking class for six, and includes six bottles of wine, groceries, a personal guide through your chosen culinary adventure and clean up after class. Dine in the comfort of your home, be entertained, have fun with friends, enjoy great food and learn a few cooking skills. Value is $550. Donated by Renee Plain, courtesy of Amanda Long.

Nevada Legacy Law/Caren Jenkins Esq. Family Estate Plan and Trust includes an array of legal services to put personal business in order, including general advice about avoiding probate and leaving clear instructions for those who survive you. Value is $3500. Donated by Amy Clemens, courtesy of Caren Jenkins.

If you didn’t get your ticket yet to Burning Man, now’s your chance with this Burning Man Survival Kit, which includes one call ticket, a Health and Safety Kit, multiple costume items and more all in a baby blue steamer trunk for travel to “The Burn.” Value is $700 minimum; donated by Mark Korinek.

A gourmet, multi-course dinner for eight hosted by Pam Graber and Jim Smoklenski and prepared by Chef Mauricio of Capital Eats, includes cocktails and ambiance by Rowan Colgan at the Westside Pour House. Enjoy wine pairings provided by Dr. Jim and Elaine Colgan. This is a great opportunity for a good time with family and friend. Value is $1000; donated by Pam Graber and Jim Smolenski, courtesy of Capital Eats and The Westside Pour House.

Artist Bryce Chisolm, known for the public art he’s created for Reno, including electric light boxes and murals, will be creating in real time, a painting of the evening’s event. The 24 x 26-inch canvas, guaranteed to be a visual delight is valued at $1000; donated by Charlie Abowd.

Music lovers will want to take home the black Fender Squier Mini Electric Guitar signed by all members of the Doobie Brothers, including original members Par Simmons, Tom Johnston and John McFee. Value is $1000; donated by John Procaccini and Kitty McKay.

Join the other best party of the year, with the VIP Concert Package for Two at the Sonoma Music Festival. The event is two days, Friday, Oct. 2 and Saturday, Oct. 3 and features Chicago, America, Ringo Starr with his All-Starr Band and Pablo Cruise. The package includes a front area special, assigned VIP table seating, access to the VIP Pavilion with a Wine Country buffet and two complimentary wine/beer tickets and more. Value is $1,400; donated by BR Cohn Charity Events.

There is also a fishing package in the line-up for the sportsman.

Remember, the last two guaranteed seating tickets are being offered in a silent auction for the final time, Saturday, July 4 at Third and Curry Street Farmer’s Market. Bid sheet will be in the main booth. The value is $90.