GVSU students organize Traverse City Katrina Benefit

Grand Valley State University's Liberal Studies program is sponsoring an event to raise money to help Hurricane Katrina evacuees in northern Michigan have a better Christmas. The "Grapevine Gala" event will be held Saturday, December 3, at the Timberlee Banquet Center from 7-11 p.m.

The event is a class project of Grand Valley's Creative Team Building class in Traverse City. The evening will feature a live auction, raffle and silent auction. Auction items include an autographed Darth Vader helmet by actor James Earl Jones, a wide variety of area gifts, goods and services, as well as lodging and dinner packages.

All proceeds will go to the families through the Northwest Human Services Association. The silent auction bids end at 9:30 p.m., while the live auction begins at 10 p.m. Cash bar and appetizers will be provided.

Tickets are $25 per person and $45 per couple. Raffle tickets are $5 per ticket or $25 for 6. Tickets are also available at the door, at the GVSU University Center Suite 101, and at the Liberal Studies office in Allendale. For more information, contact Susan Odgers at (231) 995-1808 or visit www.grapevinegala.myevent.com or www.timberleeresort.com.