MOSES LAKE - Spring rain didn't dampen Grant County's support for the arts Friday evening, according to Columbia Basin Allied Arts Executive Director Pat Daugherty. The Arts Soiree hosted 160 ticket-holders for a night of music, food and high culture, Daugherty said - a 23 percent increase from last year's attendance.

"We've got typical Moses Lake weather making people late tonight," she said. "But overall I think we've got great community support here. It's been amazing to see a lot of new, first-time supporters."

Held at Big Bend Community College's ATEC building the event featured both a silent and live auction, raffle prizes and a performance by Moses Lake band Free Beer Nuts. Arts patrons visited and browsed donated baskets and art pieces to support Columbia Basin Allied Arts' upcoming season.

Doreen McGraw, the group's vice president, said she became involved in the Moses Lake arts scene after moving from Detroit.

"I came here to a small community, and I wanted to bring in quality shows so we could enjoy them here locally," she said.

McGraw added she is excited for CBAA's 2013 season. The line-up will include "Ring of Fire," a night of Johnny Cash's greatest hits; Heart by Heart, a tribute band comprising original members of the band Heart; "Henry and Mudge," a live imagining of the beloved children's book for young theater enthusiasts; and the Icicle Creek Piano Trio, a classical group featuring violin, piano and cello.

The latter, Daugherty said, will appeal to more traditional fans of the arts.

"We're going to have a reception with it and make it an intimate event," she said. "For those who have been with us for the long run, we want to make it worth their while."

Season tickets for CBAA events are on sale now and will cost between $100 and $125, according to Daugherty. For more information on the 2013 season or to purchase tickets, call (509) 793-2059 or visit columbiabasinalliedarts.org.

The total amount of money raised at the soiree from ticket sales, auction bids and donations was not available by press time, but Daugherty counted the event as a success.

"We always get our primary supporters, the people who really care about the arts in our area," Daugherty said. "That's how we're able to keep running strong."