Press release from the Libary's auction

The Soiree in the Stacks raised a staggering $64,575 in support of Hayden’s Corner and the Colfax library renovation project. Sponsored by the Whitman County Library Foundation, the fundraising dinner and auction was held October 26 in the Colfax Library. Library director Kristie Kirkpatrick credits the generosity of the community and the award-winning skills of auctioneer Butch Booker as key to the auction’s success. “The community came eager and ready to give.” “The atmosphere of love and support was simply awe inspiring. ” Top earning auction package went for the Hell’s Canyon Sightseeing Trip with total earnings of $10,200. Jet boat owner Paul Hansen donated the initial package that sold for $5100. Pleased with the result, Hansen donated a second package that brought another $5100 bid. Other top selling packages were the golf with WSU coach Tony Bennett for $3000 and the McCall vacation package for $2400. The auction also had three surprise entries including a two-night stay, breakfast and dinner from the highly anticipated Butte Restaurant and Brewery in Steptoe. Owners Mike and Lisa Tollett were pleased to donate to such an important cause. In an exciting climax to the evening, Auctioneer Booker asked for a show of hands for how many people wanted to donate additional amounts of $1000, $500, $250 and $100. 29 hands were raised for a total of $19,350 and bringing the night’s total to $64,575. Butch Booker donated his services as auctioneer while John Elwood and Sally Burkhart provided the musical entertainment. Culinary Catering Company, library staffers, and numerous volunteers kept the food and beverages flowing. Staffers Jill Cocking, Sheri Miller and Peggy Bryan coordinated the event, while Director Kristie Kirkpatrick and Jill Klaveano organized the auction packages.