Duck Unlimited Banquet a success

More than 130 people from throughout the state of Montana, Washington, and Oregon attended the annual Blackfoot River Ducks Unlimited banquet and fundraiser Saturday, April 23.

There were several raffles and games throughout the evening, giving attendees the opportunity to win various items, including several firearms. There was also a silent auction with more than 35 items ranging from wall art to jewelry, and everything in between.

Of particular interest, the chapter had a tribute for Jesse Sallin just prior to the starting of the live auction. Her daughter Jill attended and graciously donated a quilt to the organization earlier in the year. The quilt, one of the last in Jesse's collection, along with a basket of smaller items made by her, kicked off the live auction and garnered more than $1,000, which helped the organization meet its fundraising goals for the event.

Local Helmville resident and friend of the chapter, Kevin Ertl served as auctioneer for the evening encouraging attendees to spend a little money while helping a good cause.

Several local artists and local businesses, as well as those from Helena, Great Falls and Missoula donated items to the event. The Montanan Steakhouse provided catering and the bar for the event.

Lincoln Public Schools' students from Nancy Schwalm's class helped throughout the evening serving, cleaning up and modeling live auction items to raise money for their class.

The committee, consisting of Sue Anderson, Lori Arambarri, Nancy Fransden, Crystal Hout, Sue & Nyle Howsmon, Tammy Jordan, Ernie & Renee Lundberg, Emily Rundell, Debbie Schoenen, Ellie Schoutan, Dawn & Gary Schwalm, Sherry Sidell, Jeff Swenson, Kathy Tams, Holly Verhoeven and Julie Zarske, would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to everyone who contributed to, attended, and supported this year's banquet and the work Ducks Unlimited does to conserve wetlands and waterfowl.

Dates for next year's banquet will be announced soon. If you would like to be involved with planning or volunteering for next year's banquet, please contact Tammy at 406-633-0073.