WALLACE — The 15th annual TaTa’s Party Extravaganza was held Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Wallace Elks Lodge, bringing together supporters from across the Valley for an evening of auctions, games, food and fundraising, all aimed at helping local residents battling cancer. 

According to organizer Aubrey Stovern, volunteers barely had a chance to catch their breath as donations continued arriving right up until the auction began. 

Guests spent the evening browsing nearly 40 silent auction items while getting a preview of more than 30 live auction offerings. Every item up for bid was donated by local businesses, organizations and individuals committed to supporting the cause. 

"It’s a true 'by the community, for the community' event," Stovern said. 

A new attraction, the Bottoms Up Booze Pull, quickly became a hit, giving participants the chance to walk away with wine, beer or spirits. Meanwhile, the ever-popular Coffee Cart gained momentum throughout the evening and sold out within a few hours. Cupcakes offered by donation disappeared just as quickly, with boxes emptied before the end of the social hour. 

When it came time for the live auction, longtime auctioneer Darren Arave kept the energy high, encouraging spirited bidding as attendees competed for their favorite items. 

“Because of these efforts the event raised $19,400.00,” Stovern exclaimed. 

The proceeds benefit the Shoshone Cancer Resource Center in Kellogg, which provides assistance to cancer patients and their families throughout the Silver Valley. Services available through the center include gas vouchers, prescription assistance and access to Debby's Grant, a program designed to help with larger cancer-related expenses. 

This year's sponsors included Dave Smith Motors, Rossi & Kellogg Insurance, Miki Albrecht & Friends, Hecla Mining, Bank CDA, Zanetti Bros., Boulder Creek Tech, Peak Mechanical, Mountain West Bank, Innovative Builders LLC and New Phase Body Therapies & Tami Atkins. 

TaTa's Party has come a long way since its beginnings. 15 years ago, the event was little more than a simple wine night among friends inspired by a local woman's breast cancer diagnosis. However, over the years, it has evolved into a community-wide effort featuring live and silent auctions, decorated bras, specialty raffles and games, all benefiting local cancer patients through the Shoshone Cancer Resource Center.  

Now a Silver Valley tradition, the event draws supporters who understand that cancer treatment often comes with costs beyond medical bills. Funds raised through TaTa's Party help residents cover expenses such as travel to appointments, prescriptions and other needs that arise during treatment. 

For organizers, however, the event is about more than the money raised. 

From businesses donating merchandise and services to volunteers organizing auction tables and attendees opening their wallets for a good cause, the evening served as another reminder of how the Silver Valley rallies around its own. 

The TaTa's Party crew extended its thanks to everyone who donated, sponsored and attended this year's event. 

The Shoshone Cancer Resource Center is located at 204 Oregon St., Suite J, in Kellogg. Silver Valley residents may access its services by calling (208)784-1475 or emailing [email protected].