Gourmets for God Silent Auction Event Details
May Events
“ABRACADABRA: WANDS, MAGIC & MANI-FEAST-ATION” (PREMIUM)
Saturday, May 30, 2026; 3:00 PM – Until the Frogs Get Quiet!
Atascadero, CA 93422 HOST(S): Frank Ricceri, Sue Christian & Kat Alessi
Step into a world where intention, props, and pure magic create real change in your life. For decades, Kat has walked the path of magic in complete and beautiful harmony with Science of Mind teachings. As Ernest Holmes said: “Whatever you can imagine, you can bring into being.” This enchanted afternoon begins with a private pre-magic tour of 5 breathtaking acres of charming land, generously offered by Frank and Sue. Next, awaken your inner creator as we craft our own powerful magic wands to help us focus our intention when creating with our word. All basic supplies are provided and feel free to bring special sticks, stones, beads, crystals, or amulets to make yours even more personal and potent. Once your wands are complete, enjoy a spellbinding dinner magically prepared by your hosts for Wizards, Elves, and Fairies alike. The whimsical Fantasy Cookbook menu includes noodles a la dragon, golden eggplant soufflé, a colorful array of vegetable delights, a garden-fresh salad. Dessert is a sweet surprise from the same enchanted cookbook. Enjoy refreshing beverages of pure water, sparkling bubbles, and ice-cold beer. Come ready to play, create, and remember the magic that’s always been yours. Abracadabra!
What you should know: Adults only, please. Wear outdoor shoes suitable for a walk to the creek or barn. A sunhat and “evening cloak” may be handy. Cat on site.
No. of Guests: 8 Opening Bid: $35
“PASTA Y VINO” (PREMIUM)
Sunday, May 31, 2026; 1-3:30 PM
Paso Robles (Tin City), CA 93446
HOST(S): Gina & BJ DeGirolamo
Step behind the scenes for an exclusive, one-hour guided tour of the renowned Etto Pasta Factory, personally led by our own beloved Practitioner, Gina DeGirolamo, Tour Guide and passionate Pasta Specialist. Discover the artistry and secrets behind
what makes Etto pasta so exceptionally special and delicious. From the finest ingredients to the traditional techniques that set it apart, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for every perfect strand. Immediately following the tour, BJ and Gina
warmly invite you to an intimate lunch featuring the star of the show: fresh, handmade Etto Pasta, paired with a crisp, vibrant salad and a delightful dessert. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be flowing to complete this unforgettable
culinary experience. Come hungry for both knowledge and flavor, this is pasta
paradise you won’t want to miss!
What you should know: Adults only, please.
No. of Guests: 8 Opening Bid: $50
June Events
“LAUGHTER YOGA & LUNCH”
Saturday, June 6, 2026; 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Templeton, CA 93465
HOST(S): Diana Willis & Joy Kent
Come light up your day and flood your body with feel-good hormones in a joyful 30-minute Laughter Yoga session, lovingly guided by Joy. After laughing your way to pure bliss, stay and savor a delicious lunch that continues the happiness high: A fresh, crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad, warm slices of heavenly organic sourdough whole wheat bread (it’s seriously addictive), and to send your dopamine soaring — a rich, gooey chocolate chip cookie for dessert that tastes like pure bliss in every bite. Come ready to giggle, glow, and nourish both body and spirit. Your happiness upgrade starts here!
What you should know: Adults Only, please, No Alcohol.
No. of guests: 20 Opening bid: $20
“GAME ON & PICNIC”
Saturday, June 27, 2026; 5-9:00 PM
Paso Robles, CA 93447
HOST(S): Laurie Meininger
Giant Yahtzee? Tiki Toss? Corn Hole? Jigsaw Puzzles? Bocce Ball? Get Your Game On! Yes, all of these and more will be available as we gather for a super casual summer evening, where backyard games are the main event. What’s a summer’s eve of fun without a good ole backyard picnic? Laurie is serving up fried chicken, smoked ham, summer salads like potato and caprese, corn on the cob, homemade bread, baked beans and for dessert, pie and ice cream! Oh, and did we mention iced tea, sparkling water, lemonade, and some adult beverages, too? Bring your playful
spirit and be ready to make unforgettable summer memories! I’m ready, are you?
What you should know: Adults and children are welcome to this fun outdoor
event in a lovely, shaded yard where there are brick paved spaces as well as
synthetic lawn. Jax, the resident 8-year-old Golden Doodle, will also be part of the
crew. He is soft, sweet & fun-loving. No. of guests: 15 Opening bid: $20
“VIVA LA BAJA” [REVISITED!]
Sunday, June 28, 2026; 5-9:00 PM
Atascadero, CA 93422
HOST(S): Julie Cena Rutledge
Join Julie and Bob for North County’s most famous fish tacos and mouthwatering barbacoa tacos, piled high with all the fresh Baja flavors you crave, including crunchy slaw, a variety of tangy salsa, and a lineup of irresistible side dishes. They’re serving it all in their festive backyard palapa, where the vibes are relaxed and the laughter flows freely. Come hungry and ready for a fantastic evening filled with great food, good company, and plenty of laughs at the Cena-Rutledges! Expect icy Cowboy Margaritas, casual dress, and a night that might just include a round of Left- Right-Center, delicious cupcakes, and for those who linger, warm s’mores by the fire pit with cozy conversation.
Bring your appetite and your best summer spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!
What you should know: Adults only, please.
No. of guests: 24 Opening bid : $20
July Events
“SUGAR, SPRINKLES, LUNCH & GIGGLES” (PREMIUM)
Friday, July 10, 2026; 5-9:00 PM
Atascadero, CA 93422
HOST(S): Julie Cena Rutledge
Have you always dreamed of creating beautiful, professional-looking decorated sugar cookies? Now’s your chance! Join Julie for a fun, hands-on cookie decorating workshop where she’ll share her fail-proof recipes, provide all the basic supplies (which you get to keep!), and teach you all the essential techniques and pro tips. Spend the afternoon in good company, icing and decorating while enjoying a delicious lunch together and plenty of laughter. It’s the perfect creative outing — and grandkids are warmly welcome! Come make sweet memories, learn something new and delightful, and leave with beautiful cookies (and the skills) to show off at home.
What you should know: All ages are welcome to attend.
No. of guests: 12 Opening Bid: $25
“FLAVORS OF AFRICA: A CROSS CONTINENTAL JOURNEY” (PREMIUM)
Saturday, July 11, 2026; 6-10:00 PM
Paso Robles, CA 93447
HOST(S): Laurie Meininger
From Cape Town to the Horn of Africa and a few delicious stops in between, come explore the fantastic cuisine of Africa, and its regional specialties. This lavish four course meal will feature opening dishes from North Africa and complex flavors from the “Spice Island” of Zanzibar, as well as salads and small plates from East Africa, using traditional African ingredients like mango, minced beef, roasted peppers and tomatoes. This will be followed by main course dishes from West Africa where velvety-rich peanut stew, jollof rice, braised vegetables and chapati take the stage. Not to be missed will be the Finale, an array of desserts from both north and south of the equator where fresh tropical fruits, pastries and other traditional sweets and drinks composed of quintessentially African flavors will be served to bring a sweet
ending to the evening. This extraordinary menu features dishes for all diets. Meat eaters and vegans alike will be delighted with this menu. This feast will truly be a continental gourmet dinner experience, lovingly prepared by your host, Laurie, and will feature wine and non-alcoholic beverage pairings.
Laurie has plenty of experience with the cuisine and culture, having spent nearly 13 years living, working and traveling on the continent. This dinner party will include lots of great music and guests may also be treated to an insider’s tour of her
extensive African art collection. BONUS: You will receive a recipe book as a memento of this one-of-a-kind evening so you can try this at home!
What you should know: Adults only, please.
No. of Guests: 20 Opening Bid: $50
“NATE’S ON MARSH WITH REV. ELIZABETH” (PREMIUM)
Saturday, July 18, 2026; 4:30-7:00 PM
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
HOST(S): Rev. Elizabeth Rowley Hogue
Indulge in a truly unforgettable Michelin-recognized dining experience with Rev. Elizabeth at Nate’s on Marsh in the heart of San Luis Obispo County. Experience elevated fine dining at its finest and enjoy deep conversation with the Rev!
This affable spot is just outside of downtown San Luis Obispo. It’s no surprise that Nate’s on Marsh feels very welcoming—it’s set within a converted residence. Inside is just as darling with palm-printed wallpaper and a Western/equestrian theme. Nate Long is the consummate host, and the service is exceptionally warm, though it certainly doesn’t hurt that the menu is loaded with classics and riffs on favorites that will have you coming back for more. Try the La Scala salad, a blend of shredded iceberg, salami, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and crispy chickpeas, all tossed in a red wine vinaigrette, before tucking into hearty mains. Hand-cut pappardelle with Tablas Creek lamb ragu and walnut gremolata isn’t fussy but it’s fantastic.
What you should know: Adults only, please.
No. of guests: 1 Opening bid price: $150
August Events
“BARN-B-QUE & SQUARE DANCE BASH’ (PREMIUM)
Saturday, August 15, 2026; 4-8:00 PM
Templeton, CA 93465
HOST(S): Mary Bishop, Paula & Fred Motlo & Sheila Gehani
An Event not to be missed! Hosted by four talented members of the Hearts & Hands team, with big hearts and culinary skills, who will prepare a mouth-watering selection of hors d’oeuvres. This will be followed by delectable fall off the bone ribs and lots of accompaniments, such as beans, pasta salad, green and potato salads, and possibly even another barbecued meat. All in a setting that allows plenty of interaction. Mary’s arm might be twisted to make her amazing lemon cake and there could be a few more desserts. Wash it down with a selection of beverages. To make this scrumptious meal a guilt free experience, get a workout prior to the main course. We are offering you a chance to experience an old-fashioned but not out-of-style barn dance experience, led by a square dance caller well known to Paul
and Fred.
Square dancing is a lively, community-driven folk dance where 8 people work together in a square formation, moving through a series of calls that blend rhythm, teamwork, and joyful energy. Dancers weave patterns like swings, promenades, and do-si-dos, creating a flowing, social experience that’s as much about connection as
choreography. Even if you have never square danced before, we’ll teach you. It is all about having fun, moving to the music, and enjoying the classic country barn-dancing magic. If a workout on the dancefloor is not your thing, we will have a ping pong table set up just outside the barn and a corn hole game on the grass. If you prefer, you can just chill and chat, eat and mingle, all for a good cause. Now who’s ready to do-si-do and swing your partner round and round, I know I am!
What you should know: Adults only, please. Community Barn with doors open and
high ceilings/great air flow, no air conditioning. Park in visitor parking. Dress for
comfort in your summer clothes.
No. of guests: 30 Opening bid price: $30
“FAR OUT, FUNKY FONDUE PARTY” (PREMIUM)
Friday, August 28, 2026; 6-9:00 PM
Paso Robles, CA 93447
HOST(S): Nancy Harris & Al Neas
Come dressed in your favorite 70s attire: bell bottoms, platform shoes, disco, hippie, whatever makes you happy. You will be greeted with sherbet punch, either made with champagne or ginger ale. An array of ’70s-style appetizers like meatballs, ‘lil smokies, stuffed celery, and shrimp cocktail will be waiting for you. For dinner, we will start with a chilled artichoke with melted butter and aioli for dipping. Next will come the Swiss Fondue with the dippers, think bread cubes, apple chunks. For dessert, we will have a good old-fashioned pineapple upside-down cake. Beverages will include Wine, Beer, Iced Tea, and Water. There will be plenty of Groovy 70’s
music to add to the vibe. We will be in the Quail Run Club House, which has Ping-Pong and Pool Tables, along with a dance floor if you want to shake your groove thang!
What you should know: Adults only, please.
No. of guests: 16 Opening bid price: $30
September Events
“OUTTA SIGHT 70s DISCO POOL PARTY”
Saturday, September 12, 2026; 12:30-4:30 PM
Paso Robles, CA 93447
HOST(S): Rev. Susan Jones & Nancy Stein
Turn up the volume and boogie the afternoon away to the greatest 70s disco hits! We’re bringing all the retro flavor with classic retro appetizers: crispy Loaded Potato Skins, spicy Buffalo Wings, creamy Deviled Eggs, and juicy Sliders.
Sip on nostalgic mocktails like Fuzzy Navels, Long Island Iced Teas, and vibrant Tequila Sunrises, then finish with creamy, fizzy Root Beer Floats. The best part? Everything happens while you splash, dance, and laugh in the cool, sparkling
swimming pool! You will probably want to change into your bathing suit at some point, or just jump right in with your bell-bottoms, we don’t mind. 70s attire is strongly encouraged, think bell bottoms, platform shoes, tie-dye, disco shirts, and
groovy vibes. Come dressed to impress and ready for non-stop fun, fun, fun!
What you should know: Adults only, please. Carpooling is a must as parking is
limited and may be challenging. That’s not our affirmation, though.
No. of guests: 12 Opening bid price: $25
“MORRO BAY BEACH WALK & LUNCH”
Week of September 17-23, 2026; Between 9 AM – 8 PM
Morro Bay, CA 93442
HOST(S): Kat Alessi
Imagine a beautiful, unhurried stroll along the shore with Kat Alessi, breathing in the fresh ocean air, feeling the sand between your toes, spotting playful sea creatures, and diving into meaningful conversations about life. Whether you catch a magical sunrise or a breathtaking sunset, this relaxed beach walk is the perfect way
to slow down, connect, and delight in the beauty of Morro Bay. After our meander, Kat will treat you to a delicious meal at the restaurant of your choice: Tagnazzini’s Dockside Too Fish Market & Patio, Frankie and Lola’s Front Street Café, or Thai Elephant. You’ll happily coordinate the perfect time and date together. Kat’s picking up the tab – how cool is that? Come for the walk, the wonder, and the wonderful conversation.
What you should know: Remember, you’ll happily coordinate the best day and
time with Kat that works for both of you.
No. of Guests: 1 Opening bid price: $50
“SIPS, SUCCULENTS & SOCIAL” (PREMIUM)
Saturday, September 19, 2026; 4-7:00 PM
Paso Robles, CA 93447
HOST(S): Mary Bishop & Paula Motlo
Come to Mary’s Garden to enjoy an afternoon “Happy Hour” creating your own 6 – 8” mini succulent garden, while sipping on refreshing mocktails and wine. We will munch on a hearty farm-to-table charcuterie spread, enjoying the garden’s shade.
What you should know: Adults only, please. Zoey, the dog, lives here, too.
No. of Guests: 10 Opening Bid: $25
“SING FOR YOUR S(O)UPPER”
Saturday, September 26, 2026; 5-9:00 PM
Cambria, CA 93428
HOST(S): Karen Leary & Mark Finney + Dorene Garvin & Rev. Wayne Edmiston
Join us for a cozy, unforgettable evening in Cambria!
We’ll begin with light bites and beverages: a beautiful charcuterie board, flowing wine, and sparkling water, perfect for mingling and setting a relaxed mood. If the weather cooperates, we’ll take a short, scenic beach walk up a narrow trail to a stunning ocean overlook, then down to the beach for some fresh air and beauty. Then it’s time for the main event: a soup tasting featuring 4–5 delicious varieties! Sample them all, then fill your bowl with your favorite(s). You’ll find hearty options alongside flavorful vegetarian choices, paired with Karen’s soon-to-be-famous fresh green salad and warm, buttery garlic bread. As evening falls, gather around the glowing fire pit for a fun sing-along under the stars (weather permitting). If it’s chilly or damp, everything moves cozily inside. Come hungry, ready to sing, enjoy good food, great company, and the ocean magic of Cambria.
What you should know: Adults only, please. There is a flight of stairs to the main
level. Our house is also home to our sweet dog Macie, a 70lb Poodle/German
Shepherd mix. She will be happily joining the party, too.
No. of Guests: 6 Opening Bid: $25
October Events
“GO GREEN WITH PLANT BASED POWER” (COOKING LESSON & LUNCH) (PREMIUM)
Saturday, October 10, 2026; 4-7:00 PM
Atascadero, CA 93422
HOST(S): Laureen & David Clark
Put on your chef apron, provided for you, and roll up your sleeves for a fun, hands on plant-based cooking adventure! Together we’ll create 6 delicious plant-based dishes, including chia pudding, zesty Mexican chop salad, hearty enchiladas (vegetarian option available), and rich, creamy refried beans. All are vegan and the
enchiladas can be made vegetarian as well. You’ll make each recipe from scratch, and take home your beautiful creations. After cooking, we’ll sit down together for a satisfying plant-based dinner featuring appetizers, the dishes we made, and a decadent pumpkin pie for dessert. Beverages include wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. You’ll take home containers, recipes and chef aprons.
What you should know: Adults only, please. There are stairs to the kitchen. Living
room. There is a cat in the house.
No. of guests: 8 Opening Bid: $30
“NO TRICKS HERE! FIND THE TREAT WITHIN!”
Saturday, October 17, 2026; 5-8:00 PM
Atascadero, CA 93422
HOST(S): Laureen & David Clark
Join us for a fun and meaningful evening where we’ll play “Trick or Treat” with a twist! First, we’ll do a special activity to help you uncover the beautiful “treat” within. Then we’ll bring that discovery to life by creating a personal visual keepsake, all while enjoying light-hearted connection games. Dessert brings another sweet “treat” – a moment of fresh insight and inspiration. We’ll also indulge in a delicious Mexican-inspired feast: Appetizers, savory Vegetarian and Chicken Enchiladas, fresh Mexican salad, creamy refried beans, and a decadent dessert to finish.
Come ready to play, connect, reflect, and treat yourself to good food and great
company!
What you should know: Adults only, please. There are stairs to the kitchen. Living
room. There is a cat in the house.
No. of guests: 6 Opening Bid: $25
SILENT AUCTION RULES
This fundraiser for the Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living brings together members and friends of our community to meet, eat, have fun, and raise money.
We have gathered 18 hosts who are putting on wonderfully imaginative forms of culinary entertainment.
Now you have the opportunity to bid on seating at one or more of these fabulous events.
All the meals take place between June and December 2026. During the six Sundays of our silent auction,
you will be able to bid on as many meals as you like. The auction items will be open for bidding on Sundays from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
The bidding works like this:
Let’s say a host offers a chicken barbecue for ten people with a starting bid of $25. You bid by signing up
on the bidding sheet. After ten people have each bid $25, the eleventh person can still be on the guest list
by placing a higher bid of $27 or more on the next line of the bid sheet. This will bump the lowest bidder,
the last one that bid $25, off the guest list.
Keep checking the bidding sheet—if you were outbid and you want to ensure your seat at the barbecue,
you counter with an even higher bid. In the end, the highest ten bidders will have bought tickets to the
meal. All that’s left to do is show up at the appointed time and place for a great time and great food. In
the case of a tie, the first bid at that amount wins. As you’ve probably figured out, it’s a smart strategy to
put your bids in early for the events you want to attend!
The Fine print:
- Your bid is a contract. Please do not bid if you cannot attend. (Check your calendar as the dates are fixed.)
- You must register to receive a bidding number. Bidding without a number will void your bid. Volunteer(s) at the auction registration table will explain the payment processes (check or credit card) for participating in the auction.
- Each bidder must bid on a separate line – starting bids are PER PERSON. If you want to attend as a couple or family, please use a separate line for each person in your group and bracket all the names so we know to keep you together. Some hosts may agree to take one additional person to avoid splitting up a couple or a group if over-bidding occurs.
- When you are raising a bid, please raise it by the suggested increment or more for that event. Most events will ask for a minimum increment bid of $2; “PREMIUM” events will ask for a $5 minimum increment bid, or more.
- If you find you have been outbid and you would like to keep bidding, please put your name and bid number on a new line with your new, higher bid. If you have signed up as a group and there is one over-bidder that knocks out the last one in your group, you need to raise the bid by the appropriate amount and re-enter the last name in your group that was outbid. Do not erase or change your original bid (or bids).
- If you win an auction but then find you are unable to attend, you may gift or resell your spot to a friend or family member. No refunds will be given, all bids are final.
- All the winning bids will be charged after bidding closes: Sunday, May 10, 2026 at 12:00 PM. You and your host(s) will be notified via email, so that your hosts can contact you with all the details and arrangements.
- All proceeds from the Gourmets for God auction benefit the Awakening Ways Center for Spiritual Living Community.
That’s it! Have fun! Eat well! Bid early and bid often!
Thank you!
Bidding Example
Italian Dinner Event: 6 guests
Opening bid price: $25
- $25 Joey Fugheddaboudit
- $25 Mary Whoyakiddin
- $25 Carlo Gedouddahea
- $25 Sammy Capice
- $25 Emma Gonnasmackyou
- $25 Vinny Bagadonuts
Now the bidding must go higher in two-dollar increments or five-dollar
increments for PREMIUM Events. - $27 I. Lyca Meatball
- $27 Don J’outbidmi
- $60 Joey Fugheddaboudit: WINNER #1!
- $29 Heywood Jafeedme
- $45 Sammy Capice: WINNER #4!
- $50 Mary Whoyakiddin: WINNER #2!
- $31 Missy Saucywench
- $45 Emma Gonnasmackyou: WINNER #5!
- $50 Carlo Gedouddahea: WINNER #3!
- $40 Vinny Bagadonuts: WINNER #6! (first one to bid $40)
- $40 Manny Cotti
Only the top six bidders of this event will win since there are only six guest spots available.
The team handles this portion and notifies the hosts and bid winners.