Soap star's world turns again for The Arc's benefit auction

Observer-Dispatch

Michael Park is taking some time away from Oakdale, Ill. — and stopping by Utica.

On Friday, May 3, the actor returns to host a silent auction at the Fort Schuyler Club on Genesee Street.

One of three major fund-raising events sponsored each year by the “Friends of the Arc Foundation,” the auction helps support services provided by The Arc for people who have developmental disabilities in Oneida and Lewis counties.

Park plays Jack Snyder on the CBS daytime drama “As the World Turns,” which is set in the fictional city of Oakdale. As the enthusiastic host of last year’s auction, he was able to help make the event a success.

“I had a blast,” Park said. “It benefited a great cause, and we all had a great time.”

The auction features dozens of theme baskets filled with products and services donated by area businesses and professionals. Park will describe the baskets and take “bids” from the audience. A bonus to fans, among the items available last year was a dinner with the Emmy-nominated actor.

The $20 admission price includes food and refreshments, as well as entertainment by local performer Monk Rowe.

Michael Farnsworth, public relations coordinator for The Arc, said Park made last year’s auction very entertaining, and hopes to see the event grow.

“It’s a great venue and we were on the right track,” he said, “We’re just hoping to get a few more people this year.”

Park has strong ties to the area and the benefit. His wife, Laurie Nowak, is a Whitesboro native, and his mother-in-law, Anne Van Strander, is the director of community development at The Arc.

“We’ve just always been supporters of people with disabilities,” Nowak said.

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