LYLE -- The most successful small town fundraising event of its kind takes place tonight and Saturday at Lyle.

It's the 24th annual Lyle Area Cancer Auction.

Volunteer auctioneers will begin the auction 6 p.m. today and stop when they get too tired to continue.

Then, the auction action starts over 10 a.m. Saturday until approximately 11 p.m. or when the last item is sold.

Proceeds go to the 5th district Eagles Cancer Telethon fundraiser to be telecast this weekend on KTTC Channel 10 at Rochester.

The money is shared by the Mayo Clinic, University of Minnesota

Hospital and Hormel Institute.

Last year, the auction raised $81,000 for the charity and set a new record for fund-raising success.

The total was the highest in the Eagles' southeastern Minnesota district, except for the city of Rochester.

Throughout the two-day events, homemade pies and other baked goods, plus soups sandwiches and soft drinks will be sold.

The events take place at Lyle American Legion Post No. 105, or next door in a maintenance garage because of the growth in interest for the fund-raiser.

According to Gary and Cindy Ziegler, old traditions will be observed, which means fun and nostalgia.

Charlie Berg, a Lyle resident, crafts a one-of-a-kind wood figure each year to be auctioned and always attracts the largest bids.

Berg's latest creation in wood will be auctioned beginning 4:30 p.m. Saturday.

Not to be outdone, his wife, Dorothy, annually donates baked goods that also bring high prices.

Last year, the pair raised more than $3,000 by donating their own specialties, according to the Zieglers, who are among a corps of long-time volunteers.

There is no admission and many auction-goers come early and stay late with their entire families in tow.

Hundreds of northern Iowa and southern Minnesota businesses have donated items for the auction.

Also, auction fans will learn the results of year-long fund-raisers for the charity. Most recently was what organizers said was a highly successful pool tournament at Carpenter, Iowa.

There will also be plenty of tears shed, judging from the emotions displayed at previous auctions, and the number of northern Iowa and southern Minnesota families who have suffered the loss of a loved one's life due to cancer.

For any last-minute donates of items to be auctioned or offers to help in any way, call the Zieglers at (507) 325-2571.