The still-new Kilgore Agricultural Support Hometeam has a new fundraiser in the works for local students come September, serving up catfish at Kilgore Feed Co and hosting a live and silent auction to KISD participants.
The developing nonprofit is a grassroots effort organized by parents of students involved in Kilgore ISD’s Ag activities. They’re getting all the pieces in place for the inaugural ‘Fish from the Dock’ event Sept. 27 for 4-H and FFA.
“I don’t want to use the word ‘gala,’ but it’s that kind of event,” says co-organizer Carey Murphy. “We’re raising money so we can buy their projects.
“We’re collecting items for the silent auction. We’re seeking sponsorships.”
Longview’s mobile ‘Catfish on Wheels’ operation will be handling the night’s food, while Kilgore Feed Co’s Eddie Holly, a licensed auctioneer, and will be handling bids for the evening’s live items.
“We’re looking for people to sponsor the auction and to donate auction items,” Murphy said.
The feed store’s loading dock will serve as the stage for the night’s entertainment, Harvest Moon Countrygrass band.
“It’ll be set up like an outdoor dinner,” Murphy said. Tickets will go on sale beginning Sept. 1. Only a limited number will be available at the door that night; pre-sale’s the plan: “There will be locations you can purchase them around town.”
The auction item list is in the works. For example, one donor has already offered some hay.
“I thought that was pretty cool,” Murphy added. “We’re looking for some larger items for that.”
Downtown Kilgore’s monthly Cruise Night is the same evening, so it’ll be a nice crowd.
“We’re hoping they’ll come over to listen to the music,” Murphy said. “Our meal will be over at 8 but the concert will just be starting.”
Stay tuned for a Facebook event tied to the upcoming fundraiser.
