Hospice Of The North Shore Auction And Regatta This Weekend

Phyllis McCarthy first became involved in Hospice of the North Shore when her father used their services years ago.

She said their reputation and willingness to serve has kept her involved for the past nine years.

"I have a real attachment to Hospice of the North Shore," McCarthy said. "They have fabulous services and it's a cause that is hard to say no to when they ask for help."

McCarthy, along with co-chair Brian McCarthy, owner of Kelly's Roast Beef (no relation to Phyllis McCarthy), are finishing the last minute details this week for the 16th Annual Auction & Regatta on Friday and Sunday at the Boston Yacht Club.

This year's live auction features more than 25 premier items and an online auction that will run through June 22. 

The live Auction on Friday will feature this year's original signature painting Incoming Tide by artist Racket Shreve, Red Sox and Celtics tickets, Aerosmith/J. Geils Band concert tickets at Fenway and exotic vacations, including Bermuda and the Caribbean, as well as an option to design your own vacation.

"This is the largest single fundraiser," McCarthy said. "Proceeds from the fundraiser go directly to services and will affect the people Hospice of the North Shore serves."

Tickets are still available for the dinner and 30 boats are signed up to partake in the regatta on Sunday. A family barbecue will be held after the race.

"The fundraiser rotates between the major yacht clubs (in town) each year," McCarthy said. "This year, we have a lot of donated items from local businesses and local people donating their services."

During cocktail hour on Friday night, there will also be a "balloon pop" where people can purchase a balloon for $20 and win a prize. 

In the second year of the online auction, more than 100 items are available, many of which are Marblehead-centric.

"The online auction is a great way to tie it all together," McCarthy said. "There are a lot of people all over the North Shore who are very supportive, but don't come to the dinner or auction. The online auction is a great way to have fun with bidding, pick up some great items and help a wonderful cause."

Tickets, on sale for $125 per person, are available by going on the Hospice of the North Shore Web site or by contacting Susan Rogers, event manager at 978-750-9357 or srogers@hns.org