Oh WATA Night fundraiser takes to the City of Light

Tennis enthusiasts took to the “City of Light” to celebrate the 9th annual “Oh WATA Night” event on Saturday evening (Jan. 14). Hosted at Christ the King’s Parrish Hall in Fort Smith, the event drew a large crowd out to help raise funds for the Western Arkansas Tennis Association.

WATA, formed in 1998, helps promote the programs of the Arkansas, Southern and United States Tennis Associations throughout the region. The non-profit group sponsors tennis programs for students and adults.

The evening kicked off with a champagne hour as guests filed in to peruse the silent auction tables. Area businesses and individuals donated a wide array of items, ranging from tennis gear to spa getaways, for the auction. Several pieces of art were also up for bid, as was a unique single-speed Town Cruiser bicycle adorned in Bud Light stickers and a green paint job.

Guests dined on Beef Bourguignon and French Country Chicken, provided by Ambience Catering. A large drink and dessert bar were also set up for event-goers to enjoy throughout the night. Following dinner, the group Red Ambition took the stage to entertain the large crowd.

During the recognition portion of the evening, Barbara Daniel, outgoing WATA president, announced the 2011 Arkansas Tennis Awards received by local WATA members. Lindsey Pearce was named the Jay Freeman Most Improved Player and Melissa Kelly was honored as the Arkansas Tennis Professional of the Year. Daniel announced that Randy Jackson was inducted into the Hall of Fame and that the 2011 “Oh WATA Night Down Under” fundraiser was named Special Tennis Event of the Year by the state association.

At 9:30 p.m., the silent auction officially closed and the much anticipated live auction began. Among the featured items was the “What Happens in Vegas” prize, which included a three-night stay at the Wyndham Grand Dessert Hotel and two tickets to the winner’s show of choice. Also up for grabs were two adorable pooches including a “goldendoodle” and a pure bred poodle. The puppies, donated by Katherine Whitaker, were carried around throughout the evening and introduced to guests prior to the auction.

All proceeds from the event benefit WATA and help fund junior and adult tennis programs in the Fort Smith community. Visit the WATA website for more information about the organization.