December 4th, 2004 Silent Auction - The Bidders Speak Up

A standing-room-only crowd filled Underhill Town Hall on Saturday December 4th. Some were there for the slide show on ravens presented by internationally renowned author, naturalist, artist and professor Bernd Heinrich. Some were there for the chance to bid on a huge variety of items available in our silent auction. Some may even have come for the sumptuous refreshments. None were disappointed.

Dr. Heinrich educated and entertained both adults and children in the crowd with his in-depth studies of ravens. We learned that ravens fear ostrich eggs, but not domestic dogs whose tails they occasionally pull for fun. We learned that ravens cache food for hard times, but also find the energy to engage in play activities like stuffing tennis balls into tubes, No one could leave the presentation without a newfound respect for these fascinating birds.

Both before and after the auction, audience members stood patiently in line viewing the incredible array of items available in our silent auction. You name it, we had it: Sporting goods like bicycles, sleds, and ski bags; artwork that included lamps, paintings, and jewelry; learning opportunities like figure skating lessons and cooking classes; services like dog-grooming, a chiropractic evaluation, and a massage; and outdoor activities including passes for alpine and nordic skiing. In the end the item that received the most bids was one that fit into none of these categories. A hot air balloon ride with Above Reality, Inc. received a grand total of 21 bids. In second place, with total of 18 bids, was a beautiful hand-blown glass bowl by Casey McMains who felt it only fitting that she should support the hill that (coincidentally) bears her name.

All in all, it was a hugely successful and enjoyable evening. Many happy residents left carrying their winnings and, most importantly, JULT raised more than $3,500 towards the purchase of Casey's Hill. Our sincere thanks go to all of the supporters, bidders, and item donators who helped make this event possible.

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