Madrone Hospice Art Auction Raises Over $14,000 for Essential Services

The annual Madrone Hospice Art Auction was once again a resounding success, raising an impressive $14,650 from the art auction alone to support essential services throughout northern Siskiyou County. The lively event featured art from local artists, delicious food, and enthusiastic bidders from across the county.

This year’s event introduced a dessert auction that proved to be a sweet success and an exceptional addition to the program. Hospice chef Debra Sims coordinated this delicious new feature, with numerous local chefs generously donating their amazing creations. Cliff Munson’s famous cream puffs continued their tradition of drawing substantial bids, while a tantalizing peanut butter cheesecake donated by Katie Black captivated attendees with its irresistible presentation.

The dynamic duo of auctioneers, Dr. Douglas Langford and attorney Darrin Mercier, kept the energy high throughout the evening. It was hard to tell which of them was having a better time as they set the stage, keeping laughter and bids flowing seamlessly.

Siskiyou Artist Association members built the art displays that showcased the items for bid, with Allison & Victor providing dinner music that created the perfect ambiance for the evening. Raymond’s of McCloud catered the meal, delighting guests with their renowned fresh ravioli among other culinary creations.

“The event is to raise money to continue the essential services throughout northern Siskiyou County,” noted Lyndsey Clevenger, executive director. “Madrone is thankful for the community’s participation and the difference it makes in the lives of those they serve.”

While Bob and Ann Kaster were absent attending a book fair in Tucson, Arizona, their table maintained a spirited atmosphere with guests including a couple from Etna representing the Eastern Orthodox community. The Orthodox community not only donated several pieces of art but also purchased a painting depicting a lake in the Marble Mountains.

Among the most heartwarming moments of the evening was watching two homeschooled youngsters experience auction fever for the first time. Jacob Healy, (featured picture) pictured with his silent auction win of a three-wolf art piece, exclaimed, “It was our first time at a live auction and we won something!” His 14-year-old sister Alexis, a four-year 4-H member with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, also secured a wins in the silent auction.

One notable item came with a fascinating history. Snow Thorner of Open Sky Gallery in Montague donated a painting that had caught a bidder’s eye a month prior. The artwork, a charming old-world town scene with a boat, featured an exquisite hand-carved frame and was originally painted by Frank Meyer, D.C., who practiced chiropractic medicine in Yreka for approximately 70 years. The piece had been purchased at an estate sale by Randy and Mary Jane Gibbons of “MacGregor’s Book Nook” some 17 years ago before making its way to the Open Sky Art Gallery.

“It was so nice to see a piece of Yreka art and history getting a new home,” remarked Snow Thorner. The painting fetched $475, contributing to the evening’s impressive total.

The highest-priced item of the night was a Hawaiian getaway donated by Bob and Ann Kaster, whose continued support of arts and community projects around Yreka deserves recognition.

Year after year, the Madrone Hospice Art Auction proves to be a must-attend event that supports a local organization making a meaningful difference in Siskiyou County.

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