We did it – we held an auction for the first time, post-pandemic, at the Metaline Falls Study Weekend. A certain “at-large” member of the board with a cast and crew of appointed and self-appointed volunteers dazzled the crowd with potential take home treasures, many butterfly themed.

Approaching showtime, several chaotic plans were hatched and rapidly discarded for how to hold the auction: silent? load the picnic tables and have people bid?…time’s up! – we’re going live! With Liz organizing the wares from the picnic tables to show to the crowd, our MVP stars (is that redundant?) of the night were the incomparable Jasmine, Rhiannon and Annabella James who were pressed into service for the formal delivery and presentation of each item. Shout out to those young ladies for graciously stepping up into those roles – well done!

Going over the notes from the festivities we auctioned off 39 items amongst 14 bidders and brought in a tad over $300 for the association. A few items did generate some bidding competition: Dave Nunnallee’s buckwheat guide, a copy of Bob Pyle’s 1974 publication, “Watching Washington Butterflies” and notecard packages drawn and painted by Cathy Clark. Thanks to all who participated and helped out including Liz (auction item organizer), Maureen (scribe) and once again the James girls.

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