This year, Michael Vergara, director of development with Lighthouse Vocational Services (LVS), is looking forward to kicking off the organization's auction event with the annual candy drop. "We love to have the kiddos come out (for that)," said Vergara of the bring-your-own-bag event, which will feature hard candy and chocolate. Weather permitting, the candy will be dropped from an airplane into a field behind the LVS building.

The 2024 LVS Benefit Auction will be held on Saturday, June 8, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. All the activities will be held outdoors on the LVS grounds at 144 Orlan Road, New Holland. LVS provides vocational services for individuals with disabilities.

The event will open with a by-donation breakfast, including pancakes, eggs, and hash browns, beginning at 7 a.m. The candy drop will be held at 8 a.m. The new LVS CEO, Gary McMullen, will speak briefly at 8 a.m., and the live auction will begin at 8:15 a.m. with crafts, farm supplies, and groceries going over the block. Power tools will go up for auction at 9 a.m. Flowers and plants will be sold for cash from 7 to 9 a.m.

Pork barbecue sandwiches provided by Enck's Catering Services will be available for purchase beginning at 10 a.m.

At 11 a.m., indoor furniture will be sold. A second block will sell hunting and outdoor items. "Weaver's Store is donating hunting (items)," stated Vergara, who named hunting blinds and crossbows among the outdoor sporting items to be auctioned. Specialty items, such as have been sold at past auctions, will go over the block at 12:15 p.m., and quilts, wall hangings, and lawn furniture will be auctioned at 12:30 p.m. Beef quarters will also be sold at that time.

Last year, five sheds were sold at the auction, but this year Vergara reported that at least seven will go up for bids, along with gazebos. Frozen foods will be sold at 1 p.m.

Vergara noted that the Lighthouse presentation by participants will happen at noon again this year and that he will speak briefly during that event.

According to Vergara, LVS auction organizers hope to raise more than $100,000 to continue to provide services to local individuals. Readers who would like more information about the event or volunteering may visit http://www.lighthousevoc.org.