LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — Members of the Lima Rotary Club are getting into the holiday spirit with their annual Christmas auction, a long-standing tradition that raises money for the Rotary Foundation through both silent and live bidding.
Proceeds from the auction support a variety of causes, including donations to local nonprofit organizations and scholarships for non-traditional students. Club leaders say the event blends philanthropy with fun, helping keep members engaged while supporting the foundation’s mission.
One of the most anticipated parts of the auction is a recurring novelty item: an Elvis Presley bust that has become a centerpiece of the day. The bust is auctioned off with special “immunity” rules, making it both a fundraiser and a lighthearted competition among members.
Michael Sarno, the Christmas Auction chair, explained the tradition, "We have our fun one where we have Elvis immunity. We have a big Elvis statue that we pass around that you have to store in your office for a year if you if you lose. So that's a good fundraiser for us."
This year, Rotarian Tim Sielschott ended up housing the “King” for the next year but did not view it as a loss. Instead, he embraced the moment by taking the Elvis bust from table to table for photos with fellow Rotarians.
The bust itself carries a unique history. It has been signed by each Rotarian who has kept it in their office, with signatures dating back to 2009, making it both a fundraising tool and a symbol of the club’s camaraderie and commitment to service.
