20th annual Hutson auction set for Saturday

~ Proceeds from the auction go to fund Old Town Cape.

The 20th annual Charles L. Hutson Auction is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Saturday and will have a Tuscan theme.

Proceeds from the auction go to fund Old Town Cape. Last year the money raised from silent and live auctions topped $20,000.

"It's really important for us. Most of the events we do, we get sponsorships and they often just cover the cost of the event, so the money we raise in that manner goes to provide an event. ... This is our largest fund-raiser of the year," Mills said.

Last year, the auction was held at Buckner Brewing Co., ending a string of engagements at Port Cape. For the first time in 2007, the auction will be held in the seventh floor penthouse of the Marquette building at 338 Broadway. The location will allow attendees to take in a panoramic view of Cape Girardeau from up high.

"It's a great view. There are balconies facing two directions so from the front you look out onto Broadway and from the side you actually look out toward Fountain Street," Mills said.

And there are other attractions.

Auction items include original art from local artists and historical artifacts like tiles from the Marquette building and bricks from the old Saint Francis hospital. There will also be sought-after gifts like a surround sound system, wine cabinet, leather love seat and numerous gift certificates to local eateries.

Jerra Hutson, who helped organize the event, said it is meant to be down-to-earth and fun in keeping with the spirit of her father-in-law, Charles, who founded it and loved it until his death three years ago.

"It's almost like a family event," she said.

"You can come and spend $25 or a couple thousand and you'll still take home a wonderful gift."

Tickets to the event are $20 per person or $35 for a couple. Tickets will be available at the door with limited tables of 8 also available.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at Old Town Cape offices at 334-8085.

"For somebody that doesn't have a business in the district or has never been affiliated with Old Town Cape, this is a chance to come and it's just a really fun evening. All the items sold are donated and there are some really cool items," Mills said.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245