On Thursday, September 18, 2008, Loft & Home Essentials will host the annual “Bagnificient”event. The original idea of a purse auction, conceived two years ago, has expanded to include all types of bags including golf bags, computer bags, briefcases, suitcases and diaper bags – and is now Bagnificent!  

“With the new variety of auction items as well as great refreshments, we are also encouraging teenagers and men to attend this year’s event,” said Linda Szymanski , event coordinator.

In 2006, Sally DePerro, past YWCA board president, and Mary Martin, CEO OptiVue, both strong advocates of the YWCA, created this event for women to come together, shop, have a glass of wine, and support the many worthy causes of the YWCA. 

“For two years, the response for donations of new and handcrafted purses has been excellent,” said Mona Shousher, manager of Loft & Home Essentials.  “We are currently asking people in our community to donate designer handbags, vintage purses, golf bags, briefcases, beach bags and other carryall containers that will make nice auction items that fit with our Bagnificent! theme.  And we welcome monetary donations that can be used to purchase some very special bags for the event.”

“YWCA is best known by its mission - empowering women and eliminating racism,” comments Lisa McDuffie, CEO of YWCA of Greater Toledo. In Northwest Ohio, the YWCA provides annual services for more than 23,000 women and children, including Battered Women’s Shelter, Newton Residency for homeless women, ENCOREplus breast-health program, HEARTplus, Youth Development teen pregnancy-prevention, Child Care Resources & Referral, H.O.P.E. Center for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors, and Leadership Academy for Women.

If you are able to make a donation, deliver it to Loft & Home Essentials, 7103 West Central Avenue, west of McCord Road , no later than August 1.  Store hours are Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.   For further information or to receive an invitation to the event, please contact the YWCA Marketing Department at 419-241-3235 or visit:  [email protected]