Another Successful Sagebrush Soiree
The perfect weather set the stage for the Sawtooth Society’s annual fundraising party, the Sagebrush Soiree. The event took place at Pat and Janice Lee’s beautiful property the Lost Creek Ranch. The long dusty road to the ranch allowed attendees to settle into their old leather boots and cowboy hats before arriving to stunning views of the Sawtooths, the refreshing scent of sagebrush and the soothing trickle of the Salmon River.
The evening began with drinks while checking out the many, many silent auction items. From incredible framed photos to fly-fishing packages, the silent auction had something for everyone. Once done bidding, folks could step out of the white tent and enjoy a beer from Sawtooth Brewery and tunes by Stanley local band Dewey, Pickette and Howe.
As bidding for the silent auction ended, everyone made their way to the large dining tent. Tables were elegantly set and Sawtooth views were unobstructed. The delicious dinner of elk was followed by a live auction. The most unique item on the list was a hand-crafted, 100 year old sleigh donated by Sawtooth Society board members Hans and Terry Cartsensen. While the sleigh drew a lot of attention, it was the Bourbon Tasting for 16 that got the liveliest bidding war.
The night came to a close with a rolling bid to support the Sawtooth Society’s volunteer program, the Austin Kraal Memorial Volunteer program. It was this part of the evening when people’s generosity really shone.
The program, which is in honor of one who found solace and peace in the Sawtooths, works to bring adults and youth to the Sawtooth NRA. It is designed to honor the power of those incredible peaks by giving people a chance to work amongst them.
On Saturday evening, it became apparent that those who attended the Soiree believed in that power. Donations from $100 up to $5000 sprang up from every side of the tent. It was the perfect way to end the amazing evening.
A huge thanks to all who made the evening an incredible one!
