The auction at Sondreson Hall last weekend had more than one goal. First was to revive an old tradition. Second was to provide a community experience by hosting a community-wide activity. Finally, there was a desire to raise some money to fund the North Fork Landowners Association's History Committee.

That committee has expressed interest in doing oral histories of long-time North Fork residents and redigitizing the 78 rpm records that have been the basis for years of square dancing at Sondreson Hall. Maybe some funds could be used for a new sound system as well?

All these goals were met. The community responded with donations which covered every interest. There were fancy fresh-baked desserts, cookware, sporting goods, photographs and original art. A variety of gift certificates were offered for food and drink, airplane rides, merchandise, and even medical exams and a massage which was guaranteed not to be a wimpy massage. There was furniture, a woodburning stove, rugs, quilts and blankets, a propane refrigerator, stove pipe and even a portable basketball hoop. In short, something for everyone - young or old from inexpensive to spendy. Auctioneer Richard Hildner - thanks to his wife - will even be taking dance lessons.

Boy did we have fun. Again, the community responded with numbers and enthusiasm, matching the generosity of the donations with open wallets. Hildner added to the fun with humor and expertise, and everyone had a great time. Items sold from 50 cents to nearly $400, so that income was nearly $3,500, and that was before pop, caramel corn and book sales were tabulated. Donated books - several hundred - were offered, with paperbacks five for a dollar and hardbacks three for a dollar. Since all were not sold, I expect that they will remain on sale at all NFLA events through October. Any remaining after that will probably be donated to the Columbia Falls Food Bank along with our annual food donation.

Obviously the auction was a huge success in all respects. Thanks to the entire community, the History Committee and special thanks to auctioneer Richard Hildner, as well as Morgan and Patti Hart, Debo Powers and Tom Edwards for putting it all together.

There is more fun and information to come:

July 29 - Hike to Coal Ridge, meet at intersection of Hay Creek and North Fork roads at 8:30 a.m. Bring a lunch.

July 30 - North Fork Preservation Association annual meeting, guest speaker Charlie Russell, author of "Grizzly Heart", "Grizzly Season", and "Spirit Bear," Sondreson Hall, potluck 5 p.m., meeting 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 2 - River float from Wurtz Airstrip to Sondreson Meadows, meet at Wurtz at 11 a.m., bring your own lifejacket.

Aug. 6 - NFLA annual meeting and elections, Sondreson Hall at 8 p.m., elections at 9:15 p.m., bring a snack to share after the meeting.

Also, every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. there are nondenominational church services at Sondreson Hall hosted by Don and Sue Sullivan.