<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575315694182.jpeg">Brian Mitchell, Pro-Green owner, presents a Hustler riding lawnmower toConnie Oetken, director of development at Sunflower Diversified Services. The mowerwill be a major attraction at Sunflower’s Charity Gala live auction in February.Brian Mitchell, owner of Pro-Green, 1720 Main in Great Bend, wants to “go all in” for the 25th anniversary of his business next year. And one local non-profit agency willbenefit from the celebration. Sunflower Diversified Services “couldn’t be more grateful to be part of Brian’s plans,” said Connie Oetken director of development. “He has donated spectacular items for the live auction at next year’s Charity Gala to benefit people with special needs.” Mitchell is donating a brand-new riding lawnmower and aluminum trailer to the Gala, which is set for Saturday, Feb. 29. The Hustler Raptor SD features a 54-inch welded-steel deck; the Aluma trailer is 78 inches wide and 10 feet long. The Raptor retails for $4,249, while the trailer is valued at $2,410. “Hustler builds its great products in Hesston,” Mitchell said. “This Raptor lawnmower has many heavy-duty qualities at a homeowner’s price. It features a great design and ease of operation with raw performance.” When Oetken approached Mitchell about an auction possibility, he decided to take advantage of the opportunity to give back to his community. “Sunflower is a great organization,” Mitchell commented. “It provides numerous services to help children and adults with disabilities and delays. Since the Gala is Sunflower’s major fundraiser of the year, we thought this would be a good way to support the agency and our community.” Oetken noted the mower and trailer are “practical items that are a perfect fit for our auction. When Gala time rolls around, it will be the season to start thinking about lawn care. Brian should be commended for his care and compassion for the people we serve at Sunflower.” The 15th annual Gala begins with a social hour at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 29 at the Great Bend Events Center, 3111 10th . Participants can expect a catered meal from Ellsworth Steak House, open bar and wine at every table. “Every dollar we raise supplements the cost of direct services such as early education, independent living and employment opportunities,” Oetken said. “The Gala and our other fundraisers are crucial to the people we serve because there is so much need and not enough tax revenues.” Auctioneer Mike Niedens and Emcee Scott Donovan will keep the audience entertained again this year. A seat at the Gala is $100. Contact Oetken by calling 620-792-1325 for more information, to donate and/or make a reservation. Sunflower, a non-profit agency, serves infants, toddlers and adults in Barton, Pawnee, Rice, Rush and Stafford counties. It is in its 53rd year.

Pro-Green donates mower, trailer to Sunflower Gala auction