WEST PLAINS, Mo. – You could attend the social event of the summer season if you’re the highest bidder on an elegant croquet party hosted by Drew and Elizabeth Bennett at Missouri State University-West Plains’ “Red, White and True Blue” annual auction April 7 at the Student Recreation Center.
The lucky winner will be guaranteed a memorable afternoon of fun, food and drinks at the Bennett’s home, auction organizers said. “Even if you’ve never played croquet, all you have to do is dress in casual khaki or white and choose either the afternoon of Saturday, June 17, or Sunday, June 25,” organizers said. The party, which is for a total of 10 participants including the Bennetts, will be from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., they added. It also will include dinner.
Participants at last year’s party, Tom and Shawn Marhefka, West Plains, and T.C. and Beth Carter, Mountain Home, Arkansas, said they enjoyed the event immensely. “The 2016 first annual Bennett croquet party turned out the be the event of our summer,” the Carters said. “We didn’t know what to expect and hadn’t played croquet since we were kids. That’s what made it so much fun. The fun, food and fellowship were the best. We would love to win the bid this year, too!”
“What a great way to spend the afternoon,” the Marhefkas added. “The Bennetts’ hospitality and lovely back yard made for a most entertaining time with friends. We had a wonderful meal afterward. None of us knew how to play croquet, and it didn’t matter, as we made up some of our own rules.”
The party is one of many items that will be up for bid at the event, which celebrates its 23rd year this year with a patriotic theme. Everyone is asked to wear their favorite blue, and veterans who attend are encouraged to wear their dress uniform, organizers said.
Tickets are $50 each or $400 for a reserved table of six. Proceeds will go toward the university’s Veterans Center, which will be housed in Hass-Darr Hall once renovations are complete.
Those wishing to purchase tickets or tables can call the Missouri State-West Plains development office at 417-255-7240, e-mail WPDevelopment@MissouriState.edu or visit the registration website.
To take a sneak peek at more auction items, visit the Missouri State-West Plains Alumni and Friends Facebook page.