As soon as the Rochester Public Library closed on Saturday, January 10, 2009, staff and volunteers started getting the stage set for the 8th Annual Wit, Wisdom & Wine gala event. Only a mere hour later, the main lobby was transformed into a dance hall, the wine was chilled and ready to pour, and attendees were browsing the 90+ silent auction items.

Over 250 people attended their choices of ten different presentations. Tim Penny talked about the historic relevance of the presidential election. Ed Fischer had his audience laughing and posing for quick caricatures.  Denny Stotz discussed the plan to transform the gravel mining areas along Cascade Creek into a park area. Yuko Taniguchi demonstrated the Argentine Tango and had her audience up on the dance floor practicing some tango moves. Olive Oils were the topic of discussion by Justin Schovillle, Executive Chef from Sontes.  Proprietor/ Winemaker Dustin Ebert introduced cold, hardy grapes and the Minnesota wine industry. Victor Vieth enlightened his audience with his proposal to end child abuse within three generations.  Balancing attendance area student populations by race and socioeconomic status was discussed by Phil Wheeler.  Economist Paul Anton offered some insight about today’s economy.  Mascuud Xaaji shared some highlights of his Somali culture including language, geography, religious beliefs gender roles, etc...

Following the presentations, attendees browsed the silent auction items and enjoyed refreshments provided by Daube’s Bakery, including such delicacies as smoked goose, salmon, cranberry chicken skewers, cheeses, white asparagus with prosciuto, opera cakes, and lemon tarts. Andy’s Liquor provided many varieties of wine for tasting.

At 10:00 pm the silent auction was closed and the winning raffle ticket was drawn. Congratulations to John Brockman, the winner of the Romantic Evening package which included a two night’s stay at the Kahler Grand Hotel, a $50.00 gift certificate for Flowers by Jerry, two Waterford Crystal champagne flutes, a bottle of champagne, a Waterford Crystal vase, and chocolates from Chocolaterie Stam.

.

Thank you to our sponsors, attendees, volunteers, and everyone who donated items for the silent auction and raffle.  Your generous support helped us raise over $21,000.  Together we are helping to provide high quality library services now and in the future.  “This event really makes a difference in our ability to serve the community,” says Audrey Betcher, Library Director.

We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors for the event

In Kind Sponsors

Speaker Sponsors

For more information, contact us at 328-2343.

Comments to