Canvases by high-profile artists are among auction items at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center's 50-year anniversary gala on Oct. 4. Guests will wine and dine in the center’s reserve. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Nature lovers will open hearts and wallets for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center gala on Oct. 4.

With a ‘Golden Jubilee’ theme, the event marks a 50-year milestone for the beloved Carmichael nonprofit.

Supporters will wine, dine and likely see wildlife within yards of their tables.  Staged beneath the center’s leafy canopy, the fundraiser last year drew hundreds of guests.

Rio Americana High School musicians will provide background jazz. Veteran center supporter Reesa Eliza Artz will emcee, and celebrity salesman Keith McLane will encourage raise the paddle donations. Fundraising supports the center’s educational programs and an on-site museum.

An art auction features work from VIP painters Pat Mahony, Tom Sellas, Deladier Almeida and David Peterson.

Experiences are also up for bids: guided hikes, a river cruise and a jazz-night dinner are among prizes. Vacations at Sea Ranch, Bodega Bay and Lake Tahoe will tempt travelers. Sport and theater performances are also on offer.

A cake auction is just desserts. One gateau includes a glamorous bijou, donated by Sharif Jewelers.

Administered by the American River Natural History Association, the Nature Center is a County and nonprofit partnership. An adjacent 100-acre preserve is a home for wildlife. Public generosity is essential for the center’s service to many thousands of visitors per year.

Gala admission ranges from $195 to $250 per person and includes catering by Bella Bru, plus beer and wine.

Sponsors include Betsy and Fred Weiland, the Loveall Foundation, Supervisor Rich Desmond, Deborah Moskovitz, Kip Skidmore, SMUD, Marcy Friedman, Pat Mahony and Randy Getz, Accounting Advisors for Nonprofits, Sanborn Real Estate, Jan and Bob Ahders, The Water Forum, Leo and Brenda Winternitz, River City Brewing Company, Joey and Kathy Johnson, Jim Hargrove, Paul Barth, Dick and Lisa Shanahan, Greg and Cindy Dewey, Dan and Heather Crosbie, Peggy and Bruce Kennedy