The 30th annual Ducks Unlimited fundraising event on Oct. 18 featured a sold-out crowd, countless prizes, a long list of lucrative auction items, and an entertaining evening for nearly 250 people.
In three decades, the fundraiser has brought in nearly $1 million in St. Paul alone, with funds being directed to protect wetlands across the province. Although the official amount of funds raised hasn’t been tallied, Carol Anne MacNeil, chair of the St. Paul Ducks Unlimited committee, says just under $50,000 was raised on Saturday.
“The wetlands connect us all. They give us places for outdoors activities like hiking, fishing, hunting and camping and they provide us with the opportunity to enjoy the multitude of waterfowl and wildlife species that call the wetlands home,” said MacNeil in her message as chair.
The evening was packed with a variety of opportunities for people to win prizes, while supporting Ducks Unlimited financially. Three guns were given away at random throughout the evening, along with a silent auction being held, a number of raffle draws, and a live auction.
Volunteers were also recognized for their years of service to Ducks Unlimited, with Rita and Floyd Kunnas being presented 25-year plaques. Following the formalities and a meal, comedian Kermit Apio took to the stage.
“I would like to say I had an awesome committee working with me this year,” said MacNeil. She added that without sponsors and supporters, the event wouldn’t be possible.
Overall, the event’s atmosphere “was great,” and “everyone seemed to be having a good time,” added MacNeil.