Colorado State’s Raptor Program Hosts Eighth Annual Benefit Auction Featuring Singing Group and a Live Llama

The Rocky Mountain Raptor Program will host the eighth annual Benefit Auction, "A Second Chance at Freedom," from 5-10 p.m. Feb. 24 in the Canyon West and Columbine rooms of the Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St. in Fort Collins. Proceeds will benefit the rehabilitation of injured eagles, hawks and owls and enhance public environmental education programs. Tickets are $18.

The event will feature an evening of live jazz performed by the Dave Lunn Trio and a special live performance by singing group Our Mother’s Daughters. The Rainbow restaurant in Fort Collins will cater a buffet dinner.

Guests can participate in a silent auction from 5-8:30 p.m. A live auction, with auctioneers Jack Salisbury and Bill Seaworth, will begin at 7 p.m. Auction items include watercolor paintings, wood carvings, etchings and bronzes by local artists Dawn Weimer, Dan Ostermiller, Sandy Scott, Dick Pillmore and Bob O’Rourke.

Also, for the first time, a live llama will be offered for auction thanks to a donation from local llama breeder, Jan Cummer.

This year, increased seating for over 300 attendees will provide more space. Tickets are available at the Raptor Program office or from Raptor volunteers by calling (970) 491-0398 or by visiting the Web site www.fortnet.org/RMRP.

Tickets also may be purchased at the door. Reserved tables may only be available through advance ticket sales.