Countywide : Barbecue to Benefit Abused Children

A country-Western barbecue and silent auction will take place today in Santa Ana Heights to raise money for abused children.

The event is sponsored by Family Service of Orange County and ARK, Services for Abused Children, both local nonprofit groups that aid troubled youngsters.

Tickets are $75 each, and the proceeds will be shared by each organization.

The country-Western group Out on Bail will perform, and Kim Petyo formerly of the Country Rock Cafe, will offer dance instruction.

Auction-goers can bid for more than 80 items, including a trip to Bora Bora, a cruise, dinners, artwork and jewelry. Many of the opening bids will be as low as $10 to $50.

“It is going to be a first-class party,” said Monica Milstead of ARK.

The Crean mansion at 2300 Mesa Drive, owned by John and Donna Crean, is behind the Newport Beach Golf Club and overlooks Newport’s Back Bay. The fund-raiser will be from 4 to 9 p.m.

Tickets will be available at the event, but participants should first call ARK at (714) 978-0340 and leave a message that they plan to attend.