By FAYE CLEMENTS

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LA CYGNE - Women in their snazziest, dressed to the nines, and men in their best bib and tucker were in attendance as wine flowed, cheese and crackers were nibbled and the bids flew in competition for beautiful works of art. In addition to local residents and surrounding towns and cities, folks came in from several states including Missouri, Iowa, Washington and Colorado.

La Cygne's Crystal Shed was the place to be last Saturday night where the Second Annual Grady's Kids Art Auction and Wine Tasting were held.

Volunteers manned the sign-in table, helped with the wine and cheese offerings and donated

equipment to beautifully display the artworks. Marty Read served as auctioneer to a packed house.

It was fun filled cutthroat tactics for chosen favorites between those competing for the highest bid!

Laughter dominated the festivities as Grady would have loved. The donated works of art included original oil and water paintings, prints, pottery, ceramic pieces, metal sculptures, photography, custom-made jewelry and afghans.

Artists from around the state, patrons who donated art and those who came as hopeful bidders all enjoyed the gathering, knowing they had contributed from the heart to a very worthwhile local charity.

An autographed self-portrait caricature Grady had penned brought eager competition from several interested bidders. Winning the bid was Debbie and Tom Bayless from Parsons, Kan.

Grady's mother, Jean Elder-Ethridge, submitted the high bid for the last and grand prize, an original piece done by Grady prior to his death. Marty's black cowboy hats off salute to her was the highest symbol of respect and brought tears to all who cherished the man and his mother.

Following the auction, Linda Elder exclaimed, "I just can't stop smiling and rejoicing in the generosity of the community in its support. A very special thank you needs to be expressed to all those who donated time and talents."

Shirley Chambers donated the use of the facility. Joe Summers, Beverly Read and Esther Shields provided the display easels. Linda Meisel and DeVona Herrin again greeted guests at the door and clerked the auction

Grady's Kids fund helps youngsters in need during time of illness or injury. The proceeds go to the fund established by the late Grady Elder and his wife, Linda, of La Cygne. In addition to assisting families in challenging times, the mission is being expanded to educating middle school children about how to overcome or avoid bullying. Donations continue to arrive through individual's generosity for a charity used locally. To donate, checks should be made out to Grady's Kids, c/o Linda Elder, 402 Park Ave., La Cygne, Kan., 66040.