Crook County waives fairgrounds rental for hospice auction; proclaims Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday

The Crook County Board of Commissioners voted Aug. 7 to waive the indoor arena rental fee for the St. Charles Foundation Hospice Auction, and a proclamation recognizing Smokey Bear’s eighthieth birthday was read into the record.

Brandy Ebner, coordinator for the Prineville St. Charles Foundation Hospice Auction, told commissioners the auction — scheduled for December at the fairgrounds indoor arena — has grown to accommodate more than 700 attendees and raised roughly $175,000 last year to help local hospice patients and families where insurance does not cover all needs. "Last year, the fundraiser raised about a hundred and $75,000 to go back to local hospice patients, and their families," Ebner said.

A commissioner moved to waive the arena rental for the Dec. 7 event, with the cost to be covered from the county's community benefit fund; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

Earlier in the meeting a presenter read a formal proclamation recognizing Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday and praising the character’s long history of wildfire‑prevention education and environmental stewardship. The proclamation names Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, as Smokey Bear's eightieth birthday in Crook County and encourages residents to continue wildfire‑prevention efforts.

Commissioners also discussed logistical support from fairgrounds staff and a separate recognition/plaque for a donated quilt that will be displayed at the new Justice Center. The board took no additional action beyond the rental‑fee waiver and the proclamation reading.

The board adjourned after concluding these and other agenda items.