Vernon Parish locals gathered for a banquet and auction Saturday to benefit small businesses and community programs in its flagship town, Leesville.

The “Change for Main” Awards Banquet, put on by the Friends of Leesville and its Main Street organization, drew more than 200 guests to St. Michael Catholic Church on Saturday. The event raised money for programs that will beautify and promote the Main Street District of Leesville — from 1st to 6th streets and Mechanic Street to University Parkway.

“I’m very pleased that a lot of people came out,” said Tammy Anderson, president of Main Street Executive Board. “We had lots of merchants and local businessmen and women. It helps them be aware of the new businesses, and we encourage them to go there. It gives the new businesses confidence.”

Although official numbers have not been released, Anderson estimated about $2,000 was raised in the auction part alone.

“We don’t have the numbers in, but I can tell you we’re in the black!” said Sam Kincade, Main Street manager.

Anderson said her first priority for the money raised was improving the farmers market. Projects funding sidewalk improvement, a mural on an underpass, an outdoor theatre and cigarette butt collecting were also on the list.

Guests bid on a variety of donated items from businesses in the local area in the Piccadilly Auction, where bidders could win items for a few quarters and a bit of luck. Winners took home massages, handmade furniture, football packages, cookware and the like.

(MGNonline)