With a tent full of anxious buyers, Michael Valentini, pointing a finger at a bidder, was the “caller” for the Mid-Trail auction held Wednesday, August 9. Between the auction, flea market and boutique, $13,000 was raised from sales and donations for the volunteer Gunflint Trail Fire and Rescue Department.
Despite the rain— make that a Mid- Trail mid-afternoon downpour!—the August 9 Mid-Trail Property Owners Association (MTPOA) fundraiser at Fire Hall No. 1 on the Gunflint Trail was a huge success.
Flea market and boutique shoppers left the building with armfuls of textiles and unique treasures before heading to the big tent for the auction called by Michael Valentini. Bidding was lively, fun, and competitive on donated items ranging from a 5-foot-tall handcrafted moose, to Gunflint Trail dinners and experiences, to homemade key lime pies.
Poplar Lake summer resident Keitha Herron couldn’t stop smiling after her name was drawn as the lucky winner of the beautiful Log Cabin design quilt that was crafted by the talented Mid-Trail quilters. “It’s going right into our new cabin!” the elated Herron gasped.
Judy Edlund, MTPOA vice-president and event organizer said, “I am amazed by the enthusiastic volunteers, generous Mid- Trail businesses and neighbors, and the many residents and visitors who flock to this annual fundraiser for the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Deptartment. A huge thank-you to everyone who participated.”
The only downside to the event was the theft of a motor scooter that had been generously donated to the auction by an area resident. The Sheriff ’s Department has been notified.
The good news is that a $13,000 donation from the proceeds of this annual community event will be given to the Gunflint Trail Fire and Rescue in appreciation for everything they do to keep the Trail healthy and safe.
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