Saturday, April 15, marks the 18th Annual Dinner and Auction to benefit the scholarship fund of the Morenci Education Foundation. Since the organization began, they have awarded over $141,250 in scholarships and grants to deserving graduates and teachers at Morenci Area Schools. The 2023 Distinguished Alumni are Linda Watters-Shadbolt ('61), Jerry VanHavel ('83), and Nathan L. Elarton ('83). This year's event theme is "Helping to make a difference for generations to come" and is dedicated to Larry and Joan Gould for their dedication to Lenawee County. Andrew Whitehead ('07), head chef at The Table on Fulton in Wauseon, OH, will be cooking dinner for the event. The popular and energetic auction of goods created and/or donated by local residents and Morenci alumni will follow. A sampling of items to be auctioned include a tablecloth by the late Carma Sutton, a breadbox by Maurice Simpkins, and a wreath by Patti Arquette.
The dinner buffet begins at 6:00 p.m. at the Morenci High School Cafeteria. Tickets cost $30 for an individual or $50 per couple and can be purchased online at www.morencieducationfoundation.org or by mail to MEF, P.O. Box 38, Morenci MI 49256. The last day to register is Saturday, April 8.