The Virginia chapter of the American Gourd Society continues a tradition of public outreach by crafting gourds for a Silent Auction to benefit young gourd enthusiasts. Monies are used to support three student gourd crafters/growers as vendors at the Virginia Gourd Festival, fund a children's gourd Try 'N Take craft booth, and ensure members get promotional supplies as they do statewide school lectures and demonstrations.   

FFA programs in the state are encouraged to have members apply for the three open slots. Contact Angela Mohr for applications. Participants in the youthful vendor booths learn pre-planning, leadership, and business strategies--all vital skills for any agricultural product. Once the participants have been chosen, they are contacted, given a mentor, and kept up-to-date along with other vendors. 

The Silent Auction runs all day Saturday with bidding closing at 1:00 pm on Sunday. Pick up of gourd items can be made immediately upon payment at the end of the auction until closing at 4pm. Long distance bidders will have shipping expenses added to their bid. 

These were the Auction items from 2009. This year's Silent Auction times will be uploaded by the end of the summer.
 

Combined effort: the Gourd 'n Plenty Rock Singers