By Rich Bangs
Music was flowing, conversations were flying and good will was apparent at Douglas Land Conservancy’s (DLC) annual Under a Wild Sky gala.
Held Aug. 29 at the Maytag Ranch just south of Castle Rock, more than 270 people gathered for good food, good music and fun times to support DLC in its mission to preserve and protect the open space of the county and surrounding areas.
A DLC staff member described the crowd as a mix of generous newcomers and people with a deep connection to DLC. Lindsay Hoppestad, DLC Administrative Coordinator, said there were many people there who donated or bid in the auction whose first introduction to DLC was the gala. “The crowd was a lively, land conservation-minded group,” she said.
Entertainment by Sarah P and the Dirty Logger was fun, lively country music that perfectly complimented the excitement and tone of the event. The group gave a beautiful tribute to Dolly Parton with “I Will Always Love You” just before dinner. Everybody was encouraged to sing the song with Sarah P.
JJ Rateriank was an energetic, entertaining emcee and auctioneer for the auction and paddle raise which raised funds for DLC’s operation. There also was an online auction that concluded at the event.
DLC Board President Todd Warnke spoke briefly about the mission and future of DLC.
“Thank you all for your generous contributions to the important, ongoing, and forever work of stewardship on the public lands such as Dawson Butte Open Space, and the private lands that DLC hold the easements on. Places such as this beautiful ranch so lovingly cared for by Ryan and Maria Thonmpson. This is why we, DLC exist, and your support allows this work to happen.”
Ranch owners Ryan and Maria Thompson explained how their move from Montana to Douglas County helped fulfill some of their dreams and introduced them to a friendly and caring community with conservation as a bedrock value. See their speech here.
“The gala was a hit,” said Hoppestad. “All staff described it as our best gala yet!”
DLC has hosted a western-themed barbecue for many years at a variety of conserved properties that showcase the success of land preservation efforts and highlights the support of the community and the generosity of its donors.
photo: Random A Photography