SATURDAY AUCTION PROMISES BIG BOOST TO CIVIC CENTER

One lucky bidder could take home Detroit Piston Joe Dumars' basketball shoes at the "Go for the Goals" auction to be held Saturday at the Cape Girardeau Civic Center.

The shoes are just one of the many unique items that will be auctioned off at the 8 p.m. auction. The auction will help raise immediately needed funds for the center's operational expenses.

Evelyn Boardman, coordinator for the event, said total funds raised at the auction will be matched by the United Way.

"This event is the second phase of a three phase fund-raising project," she said.

The center will need to raise approximately $37,000 from combined fund-raising activities to qualify for a like amount from the United Way.

The center requested the funds from the United Way earlier this year. A series of fund-raisers and grants were set to help raise the matching revenue.

Last month, a wine and cheese fund-raiser earned the center $4,000. A $10,000 goal is set for Saturday's auction.

A final phase of the fund-raising project will request corporate donations through personal visits and fund-raising letters.

Proceeds from fund raising and matching funds will allow the center to begin to realize its goals.

"We will be able to get started on youth programs," Boardman said. She said those programs would give youths self-esteem, educate them and instill teamwork.

Future goals of the center include establishing academic and cultural programs for youth and adults, reading workshops and fitness programs.

Boardman said she has always been interested in the Civic Center and its programs.

"I am interested in the youth and believe we should give them the best possible opportunities available to them."

Among the other items to be auctioned off are: a baseball autographed by Ozzie Smith; a landscape print; a pair of Chippendale end tables; wine; car detailing; savings bonds; an antique quilt; and numerous merchant gift certificates.

The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with hors d'oeuvres and a silent auction. A $10 donation will be taken at the door.