By Ruth SOWBY

Friday’s Big Strike Auction attracted dozens of supporters who generously bought high-end live auction items and lavish silent auction treats. With the addition of a pricey dinner fee, the Council added thousands of dollars to its coffers – all to benefit hundreds of Scouts, both boys and girls. To date, an estimated $1.8 million has been raised to support Scouting programs in the Verdugo Hills Council.   

Council President Peter Ciulla welcomed his audience at Pasadena’s University Club and announced this year’s theme, “Gather Around the Campfire.” 

“The theme is fitting for Scouting as an embodiment of the fun and fellowship Scouts experience, as well as our interaction with the natural world,” said Ciulla.   

Befitting the theme, several Scouts roasted marshmallows and added chocolate and graham crackers for that campfire favorite, s’mores. 

Parents and friends danced to the music of Dave Stuckey & the Hot House Gang. Scouts posted the colors just before dinner was served. The last silent auction bids, posted on cellphones, were placed just before auction closing. 

A favorite was a Merle Norman of Montrose makeup basket eyed by Kellie Bertain. Her husband, Richard Bertain, was a program sponsor. Another popular item was the opportunity to have lunch with newly voted Glendale school board member Ingrid Gunnell.    

A live auction, bringing in the big bucks, ended the evening. With auctioneer Shotgun Tom Kelly leading the charge, vacation getaways opened the bidding. Executive board member Bruce Hinckley and wife Debbie donated several days at their luxurious Big Bear vacation home. It went for $1,600 to the lucky bidder.   

For their hard work behind the scenes, kudos go to Scout Executive Andrew Sisolak, Assistant Scout Executive Amy Taylor and District Executive Brandon Mejia.