Businesses and individuals have generously donated several items to Gathering Waters Conservancy’s silent auction.  This is where the fun begins! 

Know what you want before you arrive.  Take a moment today to check out all of our great silent auction items.

Each attendee will receive a bidding number and the auction will take place throughout the evening.  All proceeds benefit Gathering Waters.

Sports/Outdoor Activities

Boulders Gym Membership, Class & Passes

Boulders Gym has 8000 square feet of sculpture climbing walls with some of the most varied and creative angles.  After over a decade in existence, Boulders has continued to build a vibrant climbing community in the Madison area as well as introduce hundreds of new people to the sport every year.  Beginners with no experience can learn to climb in no more than 15 minutes, while the seasoned climber will find many fun and challenging routes and problems to whittle away the hours, days, and weeks. This package includes:  an Adult Intro to Climbing class, an eight-week membership, and four day passes. (www.bouldersgym.com)  

Donated by: Boulders Climbing Gym
Value: $169

UW Madison Basketball Tickets

Cheer on the University of Wisconsin Men’s Basketball team this winter from courtside seats at the Kohl Center! (2 tickets)

Donated by: Peter & Joy Dohr
Value: $60

Ice Age Trail Package

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a thousand-mile footpath — entirely within Wisconsin — that celebrates the legacy of the Ice Age.  Hike the trail and learn about Wisconsin’s geological history with the Ice Age Trail Atlas and the Ice Age Trail Companion Guide 2011.  The Atlas features more than 100 color maps showing every mile of the Ice Age Trail route, the locations of parking areas, campgrounds, shelters, topography and more.  The Companion Guide provides a complete description of the entire thousand-mile Ice Age Trail route, trailhead access information, and dining and lodging information at towns near the Trail.Each of these resources are a must for any thru-, section- or day-hikers of the Trail.  (www.iceagetrail.org)

Donated by: Ice Age Trail Alliance
Value: $60

UW Madison Football Tickets

Come root for the Badgers as they battle the Indiana Hoosiers on October 15^th at Camp Randall Stadium!  Great seats near the 50 yard line – Section F, Row 23, Seats 7 & 8.  (2 tickets)

Donated by: Darrell Bazzell
Value: $98

Cortland Fly Fishing Rod

An advanced combination of craftsmanship and performance, the Diamondback Americana Series is a unique fly rod that emphasizes quality and affordability. Handcrafted from blanks made in the Cortland Vermont factory, these medium-fast action rods are easy loading for smooth short casts, yet still retain plenty of power when you need to reach out further and deliver your fly on target. The Americana is a sanded charcoal gray blank with Vermont Green wraps, nickel silver colored hardware and a hard maple reel seat. This particular model is a 3-piece, 9 weight, 9 foot, rod with a deluxe carrying case.

Eagle Optics Energy Sun 8x21 Binocular  

Pick up this little roof prism binocular for use on a daytime hike, at the football game, or in the theater. The Energy has multi-coated lenses for bright views and a double-hinged design that folds into an easily portable size. With five great colors to choose from and an affordable price, you will want to order several Energy binoculars - one for yourself and more for friends.  (www.eagleoptics.com)  

Donated by: Eagle Optics Optic Outfitters, Middleton
Value: $69

Paddleboarding Lessons

Paddleboard Specialists is built on their passion for the water--and the customer focus that’s made them the leading marketer of windsurfing gear in the U.S. Their team of Paddleboard Specialists is just that. They’ve paddled everywhere from Maui to the waters of Lake Mendota—and developed first-hand expertise in what it takes for each individual to enjoy the best possible SUP experience. This package includes two semi-private, 1.25 hour lessons for 2 people. All the necessary gear is provided.

Donated by: Paddleboard Specialists
                                                Value: $300

Vacations

Pine Hurst Inn, Bayfield

Pinehurst Inn, located in Bayfield, Wisconsin provides eco-elegant lodging for those seeking adventure and rejuvenation. Located at the gateway to the Apostle Islands, the historic bed and breakfast, known for their sustainable operations, offers 8 guest rooms. Full heart-and-soul warming breakfast is provided every morning. Enso Wellness Center and Day Spa is located onsite, providing relaxing spa services. Open all year. Expires 7/31/2012. (pinehurstinn.com)                   

Donated by: Pine Hurst Inn, Bayfield
Value: $150

Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, Baileys Harbor, Door County

Nestled on the Lake Michigan shore in the charming village of Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin; the Blacksmith Inn on the Shore graciously blends Door County bed and breakfast charm with contemporary amenities. Unwind and relax during a 2 night stay in one of fifteen deliciously private guest rooms in one of Baileys Harbor lodging, each with an in-room whirlpool, fireplace, private balcony and extraordinary harbor view.  Redeemable Monday-Thursday nights only. Expires 06/30/2012. (www.theblacksmithinn.com)                   

Donated by: Blacksmith Inn, Baileys Harbor
Value: $145-$235

Artesian House Bed & Breakfast, Bayfield

Situated at the highest point on its 24 acres, The Artesian House enjoys a dramatically-secluded setting. Open Year-round, it combines the convenience of a creatively-designed, contemporary four-bedroom home with the eclectic charm of furnishings spanning many decade. The inn has the advantage of offering both lodging and common space on one level. The Great Room features floor-to-ceiling south-facing windows, and offers distinct areas for reading, conversation or games. Guests enjoy a wood-burning fireplace in cool weather, and a spacious deck or central air on warm days. Adjoining the Great Room are four 16x20 guest rooms, each with a view toward Mt. Ashwabay or the surrounding woods. Open all year. Valid for a Monday-Thursday stay between October 24 and April 26, 2012. (www.artesianhouse.com)                 

Donated by: The Artesian House, Bayfoeld
Value: $120

For the Kids

Little Free Library

Walk or ride along a bike path sometime soon and you may see one. Stop and open the door. Take a book, then bring a favorite book of your own.  Know you are part of something big that starts right here, with you.  Each Little Free Library is a house of stories- novels or non fiction, poetry or “how-to” volumes. This particular library comes stocked with an assortment of children’s books. In front of homes and throughout the community, these little guys are getting very popular. (www.littlefreelibrary.org) Listen to WI Public Radio's broadcast about Little Free libraries by clicking this link:  Chasing Carnegie: The Little Free Libraries Project

Donated by: Capitol Kids, Madison
Value: $550

Deluxe Steer & Stroll Trike, Radio Flyer

Take your child on a ride with the Deluxe Steer & Stroll Trike! This innovative design offers two ways to ride: adults can push and steer, or children can pedal on their own. Recommended age 2-5 years. (www.radioflyer.com)

Donated by: Radio Flyer
Value: $70

Madison Childrens' Museum Guest Passes

The new Madison Children’s Museum is an award-winning destination for fun family activities and hands-on learning! Visit our inventive city of Possible-opolis for ages 6 and up, and our four-season Rooftop Ramble, with animals and gardens. Kids under 5 have a place of their own in the Wildernest, a global village made with natural, local materials. So gather up the family and head to the Madison Children’s Museum with these two day passes- each good for up to four people! (www.madisonchildrensmuseum.org)

Donated by: the Madison Children's Museum
Value: $64

Food & Drink

Dinner for Two at Harvest

Located on the Capitol Square in downtown Madison, Harvest’s inspiration is drawn from French and American cuisines, spotlighting locally grown, organic ingredients.  Named by Organic Stylemagazine as one of the top 20 restaurants in America, and most recently named one of America's top Farm-to-Table restaurants by Gourmet Magazine.Harvest takes seriously its obligation to its customers of providing the best each season has to offer.  (www.harvest-restaurant.com)

Donated by: Harvest Restaurant, Madison
Value: $150

Coffee Package

Just Coffee Cooperative is a worker-owned coffee roaster dedicated to creating and expanding a model of trade based on transparency, equality, and human dignity. They strive to build long-term relationships with small-scale coffee growers to create truly incredible coffee. This 100% fairly-traded, certified organic package contains three delicious and unique blends to be savored. This package is a vibrant introduction to one of Madison’s premier coffee roasters, containing the Revolution Roast, El Corazon, and Wake the Dead blends.  The perfect addition to any morning.

Old Fashioned Gift Box

The Old Fashioned is inspired by the culinary traditions of Wisconsin taverns and supper clubs – it exists to pay tribute to the foods and spirits that make our state famous!  The owners highlight local specialties from small producers and of course, the classic, hand-muddled Old Fashioned.  The gift box includes a recipe to mix the restaurant’s namesake cocktail, as well as many of the necessary ingredients.  Perfect for impressing your friends at a holiday party! The box also boasts two signature T-shirts (adult M, child S) and a $50 gift card.  When you walk through the doors of the Old Fashioned, you’ll not only experience what Wisconsin was, you’ll taste what it always will be. (www.theoldfashioned.com)

Donated by: The Old Fashioned, Madison
Value: $150

43 North Gift Certificate

A Fancy Night Out: Chef Nick Johnson is at the helm of the new Madison restaurant, 43 North. The menu is his take on contemporary American dining, but also described as "whimsical."  Johnson, a Wisconsin native, worked in New York City and Italy before his return to Madison and the former Magnus.  His menu is arranged in first and second courses, main course, cheese course, and dessert.  One of the restaurants of owner Shinji Muramoto, this new spot is a true Madison original and shouldn't be missed. (www.43north.biz)

Donated by: 43 North, Madison
Value: $160

North American Honey Basket

In addition to being a delicious natural sweetener, honey helps soothe sore throats and provides natural energy boosts.  This basket boasts a variety of mouth-watering Wisconsin and North American honey.  It would make an excellent gift for a friend or loved one - or a special treat to yourself!

Donated by: William Van Haren, Blue Mounds
Value: $35

12-Piece Box of Chocolate, Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier

The Food Network show “America’s Best” dubbed Gail Ambrosius’ chocolates the “Best Little Box of Chocolates” – one of the 10 best sweets in the country.  Inspired by Aztec kings, Old World Europe, and a high school trip to Paris, Gail Ambrosius' dark chocolate creations are made by hand, in small batches, fresh every day.  Gail understands the importance of supporting sustainable practices and working with small family farms; that's why she starts with single-origin cacao purchased from small producers around the world to produce her gourmet dark chocolates.  Go ahead, indulge in America’s most delicious box of chocolates! (www.gailambrosius.com)

Donated by: Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier, Madison
Value: $23

Ozaukee-Washington Counties Beverage Package

This tasty drink package comes from the Cedar Creek Winery and Lithia Brewery. Cedar Creek Winery is located in Cedarburg, WI. The winery opened for business in 1990 and the operation runs in a restored 19^th century woolen mill. These wonderful Wisconsin wines are made from both traditional grape varieties, such as the Vitis Vinifera, and French-American hybrids. Lithia Brewery, located in West Bend, WI, is an upcoming brewery with a lot of promise. Lithia, a beer drinker’s beer, is based not only on the finest natural ingredients and processes, but also on all natural, mineral containing water. Their first brew, Regner Red, is a Rich & Creamy Style Red Ale, a very smooth, drinkable brew, developed in the great spirit of Lithia beer of the past. This package includes a Pinot Grigio, Cranberry Blush, and Riesling from Cedar Creek Winery, and two-six packs of Regner Red Ale, bottle openers, and a raffia sun hat from Lithia Brewery.

Donated by: Ozaukee Washington Land Trust, West Bend
Value: $64

Special Gifts

Photo Session & Prints

Enjoy a fun and magical photo session with Althea Dotzour Photography. Althea describes her approach to photography as “Natural light, genuine expressions, real life…my photography captures children and families the way they really are”.  Her photo sessions are typically filled with a lot of running, playing, and laughing, and will include $50 worth of prints.  Must schedule session by September 29^th, 2012. (www.altheadotzourphotography.com)

Donated by: Althea Dotzour Photography, Madison
Total value: $180

Book Set, Wisconsin Historical Society

In History Afield, Robert Willging brings the people and places of Wisconsin’s storied outdoors past to life. Drawing on dozens of first-hand interviews and accounts, he explores the richly varied history of sporting pursuits in Wisconsin, from hunting for waterfowl or deer to trout fishing in wild northern Wisconsin rivers to vacationing at family-operating lakeside resorts, and more. Illuminated with historic photos depicting Wisconsin’s early sporting life, History Afield shows how the intimate relationship between humans and nature helped shape this elemental part of the state’s heritage. Hardcover.

The diversity of landscapes evoked in Beyond the Trees is matched only by the characters who inhabit them. From orchids to oak savannah, beaver to brook trout, and white-tailed deer to timber wolves, discover Wisconsin’s flora and fauna. Richly illustrated with color photographs, Beyond the Trees is also an informative visual portrait of these stunning landscapes. Paperback.

When European immigrants and Yankee settlers arrived in Wisconsin in search of a better life, they brought with them a range of agricultural and culinary traditions reflective of their diverse heritages. With Putting Down Roots, historical gardener Marcia Carmichael offers a window into the lives of our ancestors by detailing numerous heirloom plant varieties, authentic ethnic recipes, cultivation techniques and tools, and folklore tidbits employed in the kitchens and gardens of early Wisconsin immigrants. Paperback.

On the Hunt is the story of deer hunting in Wisconsin, from the spear-throwing Paleo-Indians to the sportsmen and –women of today. Meticulously researched, On the Hunt covers subsistence, market, and sport hunting; deer camps; firearms of the past; the evolution of deer management policies; and recent developments and controversies. Range maps and gun deer season data complement Willging’s engaging storytelling. On the Hunt aims to connect you with the enduring tradition if the Wisconsin deer hunt. Hardcover. (www.wisconsinhistory.org)

Donated by: The Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison
Total value: $105

Necklace & Earrings

Ladies, show off this matching necklace and earring set at work or out on the town!  Made from amazonite, agate, topaz and turquoise, these carefully hand-crafted pieces are the perfect accessories for formal or informal attire.  Whether paired with a black cocktail dress or jeans, this jewelry set is sure to draw attention!

Donated by: Rita Hayen
Value: $80

Backyard Composting Machine

The Earth Machine™ is one of the most (if not the most) successful backyard composting machines in the world. Features of this wonder-machine include its large capacity (80 gallon or 10 cubic feet), easy snap together assembly, its ability to fit into any vehicle, its durable and lightweight design, a Twist Locking Lid, a convenient 13” x 16.5” Harvest Door, vertical and horizontal columnar ventilation, and its made from recycled plastic and has a 10 year warranty. (www.earthmachine.com)

Donated by: Norseman Plastics Ltd.
Value: $160

Community Pharmacy Gift Basket

Fall is here and winter’s on its way – now is the perfect time to indulge in a natural and organic care package from the Community Pharmacy!  For nourishing the body inside and out, this package includes Four Elements herbal tea, Four Elements Detox bath salts, and an all-natural skin exfoliator.   Immerse yourself in the votive’s exotic aromas as you satisfy your sweet tooth with a bar of organic, fair trade orange-flavored dark chocolate. (www.communitypharmacy.coop)

Donated by: Community Pharmacy, Madison
Value: $30

Book Set, UW Press

Dennis Boyer has created in Listen to the Land: Conservation Conversations a fascinating communal conversation that invites readers to ponder their own roles in grassroots environmentalism. Each of the extraordinarily varied perspectives that Boyer recreate considers the question, How do I interact with the Earth? Listen to the Land encourages you to read a conversation or two and then go outside and start one or two of your own. Paperback.

In Environmental Politics and the Creation of a Dream¸ Harold Jordahl, one of the primary advocates for designating the Apostle Islands as a national park, discloses the full story behind the effort to preserve their natural beauty for posterity. He describes in detail the political and bureaucratic complexities of the national lakeshore campaign, augmented by his own personal recollections. Paperback.

Green Travel Guide to Southern Wisconsin surveys the best green restaurants, lodgings, shops, and activities southern Wisconsin has to offer. Eat at independent, locally owned eateries that serve up delicious fare grown and raised by farmers right down the road. Scour markets that sell locally foraged mushrooms, berries, and syrups as well as arts and crafts created by local artisans. Stop in southern Wisconsin where travelers are not only welcome, but encouraged to visit. Paperback. (uwpress.wisc.edu)

Donated by: UW Press
Value: $70

Nutzy Mutz and Crazy Catz Gift Certificate  

Their specialty is natural and, wherever they can, eco-friendly pet products ― including food, toys, training aids, supplements and grooming supplies. Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz has so much to offer for your dog, cat and, yes, even your chicken! They’ve got your locally milled bag o’ chicken scratch, your sweet smelling kitty litter, and a fresh bone for your best friend. Nutzy Mutz & Crazy Catz is also passionate about shopping locally ― they do it, and they want you to do it, too. They carry the work of local artists and artisans, from spirited pet portraits and super cool dog collars to funky cat toys made with recycled wool and buttons.

Donated by: Nutzy Mutz and Crazy Catz, Madison
Value: $25

Cut and Style with an Associate Designer

Need a new hairdo? The Ultimate Spa Salon is an award winning luxury salon and day spa with over 70 professionals to serve you. They believe that an educated, experienced staff is very important. The Staff regularly attends education classes for the latest techniques and styles. Having been in business for over 25 years they place a large emphasis on teamwork and perfection. They do their very best to give you the ultimate in customer service so that every time you’re with them you leave feeling invigorating. The experience awaits you. (ultimatespa.com)

Donated by: The Ultimate Spa & Salon, Madison
Value: $35

Makeup & More, Gift Box

This stylish gift set is perfect for any girl on the go. Packed with the finest Bed Head and Dermalogica makeup products, you’ll always have what you need wherever you go. The package includes everything from eye shadow and lipstick to eyeliner and blush. All of the products included come from Indulge Spa right here in Madison, WI.

Donated by: Indulge Spa, Madison
Value: $70