Haxtun fire benefit raises over $150,000

Over 1,000 people were in attendance at a fire relief benefit at the Haxtun Fire Hall Saturday, April 15, and silent and live auctions brought in over $150,000 that night.

The fundraising event was planned to provide relief to those who suffered losses in the March 6-8 wildfire in Logan and Phillips counties and to recognize firefighters who worked so hard to protect the community and control the blaze.

In a true show of community support, 94 items were donated largely by local businesses, organizations and individuals for the live auction, including such things as baked goods, services, handmade items, animals, tools and tickets. A number of other generous donations made the meal a success.

Several auction items were bought once, redonated to the auction block by the first buyer and sold again to a second buyer. One angel food cake, for example, sold for $150, then $200, then again for $275.

Multiple items sold for over $10,000 each during the live auction, bringing the total proceeds to $142,650. A silent auction was also held, raising an additional $12,337.

Auctiongoers enjoyed a meal and live music by Braydon Zink and Madison Rodges for a freewill donation.