A crowd of more than 300 people filled the Morgan Convention Center Thursday evening in celebration of the 15 years of service rendered by SABRA Sanctuary Inc. to the people of Selma, Dallas County and the Black Belt.

Those people donated about $26,000 through a silent auction held that evening — the most ever seen, said Director Nancy Travis.

“There is no recession!” Travis declared Friday. “We are so grateful to those who bid on items last night. This is the best auction ever.”

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Roy L. Johnson Exemplary Service Award to Sabrah Agee. Johnson was 4th Judicial Circuit District Attorney, who recognized the need to have a shelter for victims of domestic abuse. He appointed Susan Moreland Keith to spearhead its establishment and in March 1991 SABRA opened its doors. Since Johnson’s death in 1998, the SABRA Board has given a yearly award in his memory to those who support the cause and mission.

The program agenda included a social hour, dinner and an auction to benefit the non-profit organization serving the needs of victims of domestic and sexual violence. Sponsors were Alagasco, Tutu’s, Marion Bank & Trust Company, KFC of Selma, First Cahawba Bank, Papa John’s and Old Southern Estates.

During the social hour guests were encouraged to examine, enjoy and perhaps select an item or items for bidding from the numerous selections on display around the walls of the large room.

Among silent auction offerings were tempting caramel cakes, buttermilk pie, a two-person umbrella-overed outdoor chair set, and even a computer of sorts.

A favorite selection was a handsome polished wood-framed and cushioned glider — and cushions, pillows and more cushions.

SABRA Sanctuary is administered by a 20-member board of directors chaired by Steve Smitherman and Jane Pollack. SABRA maintains a confidential safe house for victims and a sexual assault crisis center offering a safe and confidential environment for victims.