SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. -

Organizers of the Active Auctioneers Foundation’s second annual beach party and benefit auction said more than 300 industry professionals helped to generate more than $100,000 during more than 20 live auctions.

Held on June 18 at historic Casino in San Clemente, Calif., AAF reiterated the funds gathered during the event provide financial support for individuals in the auction community hit by financial misfortune as a result of injury, illness or disease. One such individual in attendance that evening was Walt Johnson.

“A very colorful and popular individual, Walt’s career as an auctioneer was cut short as a result of an accident which left him unable to work,” AAF officials shared.

John Fox, general manager of Manheim Southern California, led all bidders as he purchased seven live auction items. Fox also was an active bidder on numerous other items, too.

“We have always appreciated and understood the important role our auctioneers play in the overall success of the auction,” Fox stated. “Quite simply, we could not accomplish our goals and objectives without them. Unquestionably, their level of skill and professionalism is demonstrated on our auction blocks every week of the year.

“When given the opportunity to participate and support the Active Auctioneer’s Foundation, we did so without hesitation,” Fox continued. “This was Manheim Southern California’s opportunity to give back to those who have given us so much. And clearly, the spirit of the event demonstrates once again that there is more to this business than just selling cars.”  

Another veteran industry professional who participated at the event again this year was Keith Langer from Premium Auto Wholesale of Escondido, Calif. 

“I have been in the automobile industry for over 30 years and understand the complex and fragile environment that we work in,” Langer stressed.

“There have been many highs and lows, but the one element that has remained constant throughout is the professionalism of the auctioneers,” Langer went on to say. “It was an honor to have been invited to the benefit and support the AAF.

“I feel privileged to support those that have worked so hard to make me successful,” he added.

Mike Hoch Auctioneers and Prime Auto Auction were listed as platinum sponsors of the event. Gold sponsors of the event were all four Manheim Auto Auction Southern California locations as well as ADESA Los Angeles, Beahm Auction Group, Equine Auction Service, William Goebig, South Bay Auto Auction and Truck City.

“The Active Auctioneers Foundation — a 501c3 corporation — exists solely to provide the auction community support with its primary focus on rehabilitation, education and interpretation,” officials emphasized.

For more information concerning the AAF, contact the board of directors at activeauctioneersfoundation@gmail.com.