Everything from artwork and antiques to chrysanthemums and handmade quilts will be on the auction block at the annual Chester County 4-H benefit auction, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 2, at the Romano 4-H Center, located at 1841 Horseshoe Pike (Route 322), Honey Brook. The auction did not take place in 2020 due to the pandemic, so organizers are excited to be able to offer it again this year.

The event will include a silent auction that will be held from 4 to 6 p.m., followed by a live auction at 6 p.m. Admission is free, and all are invited to attend.

The silent auction will feature many products and services donated by local residents and businesses.

Fresh produce will be offered in the live auction, as well as wheat straw, fine art, pet food and more. "Everyone loves the mushrooms. We grow great mushrooms in Chester County," noted Extension educator Audrey Reith, one of the event organizers.

Youth members from local 4-H clubs also contribute to the auction. "Our clubs put together themed baskets using items they gathered or donated items from their families," said Reith, who is also the leader of the SPARKS 4-H Ag Club in West Grove. She added that the themed baskets are among the more popular auction items.

Additionally, 4-H youths will provide assistance during the auction, serving as runners and helping display items for auctioneer Bill McCauley.

The Dairy Cart will also be on-site throughout the auction to offer refreshments, including milkshakes and ice cream. "We will have pulled pork and side dishes," Reith said, noting that there will also be a baked goods table and beverages, including soda, water and coffee.

Organizers are seeking donations for the auction, including handmade items, farm products, antiques, gift certificates, collectibles and artwork. Especially needed are larger items for the live auction. People may drop off items at the 4-H Center on Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 29 and 30, from 4 to 8 p.m.; on Friday, Oct. 1, from 4 to 8 p.m.; and on Oct. 2 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"There may be a featured piece of art or an antique cabinet. There were handmade quilts that were gorgeous that were donated," said Reith. "I have been a volunteer (before being named an Extension educator) and I always am amazed at the support you see from (people) around the county."

Volunteers are also needed to provide assistance on the day of the auction. Those interested in volunteering are asked to contact Amy Pippin at amygracepippin@gmail.com or Reith at alr5762@psu.edu.

Proceeds from the auction will be used to help support the cost of maintaining the 4-H Romano Center, which is free to use for all the 4-H clubs in Chester County. The Romano Center contains restroom facilities and meeting rooms, as well as a large exhibition and activity area. It is used during the annual 4-H Fair, along with the livestock building that houses the swine, dairy and goat exhibits.

For more information about the auction, call the Chester County Extension Office at 610-696-3500 or visit http://www.facebook.com/TheRomano4HCenterofChesterCounty.