VILLAGE OF MANLIUS – Centered around a silent auction, an evening of socializing, food and music is coming up to benefit the Manlius Senior Activity Centre.

Taking place Thursday, May 19 from 6 to 8:30 p.m., the gathering inside the Village Centre auditorium at 1 Arkie Albanese Ave. will allow attendees to browse and bid on a variety of items as they enjoy the musical stylings of pianist Tom Reitano and the FM Jazz Band Trio.

The auction baskets will include items like a signed football and signed basketball courtesy of Syracuse University’s athletic programs, tickets for a family of four to a Syracuse Mets baseball game, area-made pieces of artwork, and other donations from such businesses as the local Trader Joe’s grocery store, the carpet-cleaning service Stanley Steemer and the financial advisory firm Edward Jones Investments.

The bidding ends at 8 p.m., and the last half hour will be spent announcing the winners of each basket.
Last hosted in May 2019, the fundraiser will have wine supplied by Manlius’ own Cork Monkey liquor market, beer from Meier’s Creek Brewing Company, and plates of international cheeses for an appetizer.

Along with raising funds for the senior center’s programming and other services, executive director Ann Smith said the event is meant to draw greater attention to the facility, which is tucked into a corner behind the Manlius Library.

She said it can further serve as an excuse to get together with friends and have a night out after work.
Tickets for the “Jazz and Wine” auction are $20 per person in advance and $25 at the door. Business attire is to be expected, but casual wear is acceptable as well, Smith said.

There will also be a table at the event where people can sign up to become members of the senior center, and tours will be given for its nearby building, which is located at the same address as the auditorium.

More information can be discovered by visiting manliusseniors.org or by contacting the Manlius Senior Activity Centre at 315-682-7889.