Robert Cliff has been a busy man lately.

Sweet-talking golf pros, scheduling yacht rides, persuading artists to create pet-inspired masterpieces.

It’s all part of the gig of netting big-ticket auction items for Tails at Twilight, the Kootenai Humane Society’s largest and most anticipated annual fundraiser.

“It’s hard work. But you know, when the event comes off without a hitch, it’s worth every hour you spent,” said Cliff, a member of the event committee.

And he promises this one will be.

“This is right up there with the best of the best,” he said.

Cliff estimated he’s spent roughly 40 hours acquiring extravagant auction items for Black Rock ‘N Roll, the 5th annual Tails at Twilight event scheduled on July 20.

Some of the auction bounty includes a six-person ride on Duane Hagadone’s sailboat.

Sizzler, a round of golf with celebrities Andrew Magee and author Greg Rowley, a Buick Park Avenue from Jennifer’s Coeur d’Alene Cars and a 12-by-16-foot painting by award-winning artist Kyle Paliotto.

“Everyone has been incredibly generous,” Cliff said. “It’s rewarding. That’s the bottom line. You get almost more out of it than you put in once it’s all done.”

Not to mention people will have a great time, said Holly Stetson, KHS director of development.

Folks are urged to buy tickets early, Stetson said, as space is limited and tickets go quickly.

“It’s usually a great party. We always have wonderful weather,” Stetson said. “It’s also an opportunity for people just to get onto someone’s property they’ve never been on before and mingle with animal advocates in the area.”

The event will be held at Roger and Denice Rummel’s lakefront property at Black Rock.

Besides the live auction, the event will include a silent auction, a wine and beer tree raffle, games, live music by Motorboat, and an impressive food spread served by Tony’s on the Lake, Daanen’s Deli, Pilgrim’s Natural Food Market, Scratch Restaurant and The Wine Cellar. Select wines and beer will also be served.

“It’s just a wonderful time,” Stetson said.

Only 500 tickets will be sold for the event, which lasts from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on July 20.

Tickets cost $100 per person or $175 per couple.

To purchase tickets, call 762-2480.

Proceeds will go toward the shelter, feeding and care of animals at the humane society.

“We anticipate this one (fundraiser) to really carry us through the year,” Stetson said.

Costs for caring for the fluffy guests can be high, she said, with some looking at long stays before they are adopted, and others needing intense medical care.

“In a lot of cases if they’ve been run over or dehydrated, there are a lot of medical issues we have to deal with,” Stetson said.

Ticket holders will be ferried to the event on luxury buses, with complimentary wine served on the way.

Individuals can also take their own boats and park at Black Rock Marina.

Cliff promised that ticket holders won’t be disappointed.

“Just come and have a great time,” he said. “It’s the most fun summer evening you’ll spend.”