Annual effort nets $200,000

Funding technology upgrades and an auction package that included a helicopter ride were among highlights of the 36th annual gala dinner and auction for Scotus Central Catholic Junior/Senior High School in Columbus.

More than 500 guests raised more than $200,000 during the April 1 event, with $30,690 going to fund Lenovo computer tablets for student to use in class. The remainder will support the school’s operating budget.

A unique auction item included tickets to a University of Nebraska volleyball game, dinner and a round-trip helicopter ride from Columbus to Lincoln. A dinner with Archbishop George J. Lucas and several vacation packages also were auctioned off.

Titled "Through the Looking Glass," the gala included silent and oral auctions and a five-minute, student-produced video highlighting the school’s charisms of gratitude, service and faith, and thanking guests for their support.