By Sue Hughes | For The Times-Post

ANDERSON — Rainy weather did not keep art enthusiasts away from Artfest, the annual fundraiser for Pendleton Artists Society (PAS).

This year’s event, which featured a Mexican theme, took place Friday, April 21, at The Crystal Coop Reception and Event Center in Anderson.

About 100 people attended the buffet and auction.

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“We were apprehensive because of the rain, but the rain stopped, and we have a good crowd,” PAS member Joan Valente said.

Before the buffet a silent auction took place, festivalgoers could bid on items donated by artists.

Art of Fine Dining raffle tickets were also sold. The prize, which consisted of gift certificates from many Pendleton restaurants, was won by Pat Thomas.

PAS President Jerry Wymer welcomed guests to the event.

“I want to thank everyone for coming out to our biggest fundraiser of the year,” he said. “This supports everything we do at Gallery 119.”

He also thanked all the artists who contributed to the auction.

Karen Zane and the event planning committee received praise for planning the event.

“Karen works very hard getting this event put together,” member Terri Best said.

After the Mexican-inspired buffet, provided by Nameless Catering, the live auction began.

Auctioneer Glen Wilson was present to help with the auction.

One of the more popular items of the evening was a lamp made by Blair Patton.

The steampunk piece, made from a solid brass steam valve and various plumbing pipes, sold for more than $300.

Patton is part of The Art of Friendship group, which is a collaboration between Pendleton Artist Society and Pendleton Best Buddies Citizens. Members of each group are paired and complete a project. The money raised from their contributions will be used to fund future sessions. Seven members of that group had items in the auction.

The auction was stopped for about 10 minutes so a lively game of Heads or Tails could be played. Players bought miniature maracas before the game began. Each contestant chose where they wanted to place their maraca, on the head or on their tail. Wilson tossed a coin and announce whether it landed heads or tails up. Those who chose the wrong option had to take their seat. After several rounds, the last person standing, Mary Anne Vonderschmidt, won $200.

At the end of the evening, Artfest raised $3,476, while Art of Friendship brought in $385.

“We average about $4,000 a year,” organizer Zane said. “Last year was our best year with $6,153.41.”