A Deladier Almeida riverscape is offered during the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s gala auction. The canvas sold for $3,500. Auctioneer is Keith McClane. Volunteer assistant is Greg Hutchison.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Gratitude and future growth were key themes at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s Oct. 4 Golden Jubilee fundraiser.

More than 260 supporters dined and donated at dusk in the facility’s Ancil Hoffman Park preserve.

Celebrations began with a solo by Native American flautist Al Striplen. The Carmichael resident noted that the nature center site had been home to Maidu Nisenan villagers for thousands of years. “We are here as the land’s current caretakers,” said the musician. “Let us be one in the breath that joins us all.”

The 50-year anniversary gala raised more than $70,000 to support the center’s educational programs.

Representing the Native American community that once occupied the American River bottomland site is flautist Al Striplen.

Fundraising included raise-the-paddle opportunities and an auction. Bids reached $4,000 for a springtime study by nationally esteemed Carmichael artist Pat Mahony. A riverscape by Brazilian-born Deladier Almeida painter fetched $3,500.

Among “experience” packages, a three-night stay in Sea Ranch tempted a bid of $3,500.  A five-night Lake Tahoe cabin stay fetched $2,100.

In the dessert auction, a gateau by Nothing Bundt Cakes bakery sold for $450. A diamond ring (donated by Sharif Jewelers) was a surprise bonus beneath the platter. The $1200 prize delighted winner Frank Wheeler, who promptly dropped to his knees and presented the jewel to Helen, his wife of 48 years.

Effie Yeaw supporters Betty Cooper (center) and Bill Spaller (second from left) were honored for leading the non-profit during a restructuring period. Gala emcee is National American Miss California Elite, Reesa Artz. ARNHA president (second from right) is Greg Dewey. Auctioneer is Keith McClane

Administered by the American River Natural History Association, the nature center survived a post-COVID crisis that required major internal reorganization. ARNHA president Greg Dewey honored volunteers Betty Cooper and Bill Spaller for leadership during this challenging transition.

“Betty and Bill demonstrated incredible endurance, “said Dewey. “We’re so grateful they stepped forward.”

Gala sponsors included Betsy and Fred Weiland, the Loveall Foundation, Supervisor Rich Desmond, Deborah and Bob Moskovitz, Sierra National Construction, Peggy and Bruce Kennedy, SMUD, Marcy Friedman, Pat Mahony and Randy Getz, Accounting Advisors for Nonprofits, Jan and Bob Ahders, Joey and Kathy Johnson, Alan Friedman, Paul Barth, The Water Forum, Leo and Brenda Winternitz, Joey and Kathy Johnson, Betty Cooper, Jim Hargrove, Paul Barth, Dick and Lisa Shanahan, Greg and Cyndy Dewey, Dan and Heidi Crosbie.

Learn about the Nature Center at www.effieyeawnature.org