Oh What a Night! CORE’s 2026 Live and Silent Auctions
CORE’s annual dinner auction has always been an evening to look forward to, but this year felt dramatically different from the very beginning. From the moment guests began arriving, there was an unmistakable sense that something special was building inside our Branson auditorium. The room filled quickly, and before dinner was even served, the atmosphere was already alive with excitement and anticipation.
By the end of the evening, CORE’s 2026 Live and Silent Auctions had become the single most successful fundraising event in our organization’s history. The entire community came together to support hope, restoration, and second chances for individuals and families affected by addiction. The outpouring of generosity will greatly strengthen CORE’s recovery mission, for which we are sincerely grateful.
This tremendous turnout was made possible in large part through the support of our presenter, Ozarks Dynacom, whose family of radio stations helped spread the word throughout the Tri-Lakes area. We are also grateful to Image Works, Inc. for creating and distributing outstanding promotional materials across print, web, and digital platforms.
The event itself was supported by an incredible network of sponsors, businesses, craftsmen, and community partners who generously donated more than 100 auction items. Their willing spirit says a great deal about the compassion and generosity of the people who call the Ozarks home.
Guests were treated to an outstanding meal prepared by chefs Christos Papanikas and Adam Yorty. Roast pork, chicken, traditional sides, and desserts rounded out a menu that has become a hallmark of CORE gatherings. Throughout the evening, friends, supporters, alumni, and community leaders shared meals and conversations while celebrating the life-changing work made possible through recovery.
Behind the scenes, no one worked harder to bring the evening together than CORE HR Manager Tami McKinney. Months of preparation culminated in a detailed event plan that the Second Milers carefully reviewed beforehand to ensure the evening unfolded without a hitch. Thanks to their hard work and coordination, the entire event proceeded smoothly from beginning to end.
As guests arrived, the silent auction area immediately became a center of activity. Bidding remained lively throughout the evening for gift baskets, resort packages, handcrafted items, and countless other donations contributed by local businesses and artisans. Meanwhile, both the 50/50 raffle and the raffle for the Nighthawk Custom “President” firearm generated tremendous excitement as well.
The energy in the room only intensified once live auctioneers Duane and Kay Gerken took the stage. One item after another sparked spirited bidding contests as attendees enthusiastically competed for everything from homemade pies and cakes to unique specialty items and experiences. Yet perhaps the most memorable moment of the entire live auction came near the very end of the evening with the appearance of a single “Mystery Envelope.”
Nobody knew what was inside.
The bidding began modestly enough before rapidly escalating into a full-scale contest of curiosity, suspense, and determination. By the time the bidding finally stopped, the mysterious envelope had sold for an astonishing $900, proving once again that at a CORE auction, almost anything can happen.
During the evening, CORE CEO Cary McKee addressed the audience and reflected on what the event truly represents. He reminded everyone that while auctions and fundraisers are important, the real purpose behind the evening is helping clients reclaim their lives from addiction and discover lasting recovery.
One of the most anticipated moments of the night came during the drawing for the Nighthawk Custom “President” firearm. Entries had arrived not only from across the country, but from outside the United States as well. Anticipation filled the auditorium as Nighthawk Custom CEO Mark Stone personally stepped forward to draw the winning ticket. The winner of the firearm was Reynolds Henderson of Panama City, Florida.
The generosity shown throughout the evening will directly impact men and women seeking a new way of life and a renewed sense of purpose.
Most importantly, the evening demonstrated something profoundly encouraging: our community believes in recovery. That generosity will help change lives, restore families, and give individuals who once seemed hopeless the opportunity to find a future again.
From all of us at CORE, thank you to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, staff member, and supporter who made this unforgettable evening possible. Your generosity will continue changing lives long after the final auction item has been carried home.
