No need to bring your fins and flippers to The Lost Colony's upcoming seaside extravaganza, but do bring a discerning eye to reel in some great items at the silent auction. Artist Tracy Bell and her art class students have generously donated miniature ocean inspired masterpieces to be showcased in the auction. The Lost Colony's Under the Sea, a black-tie gala will be held from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday April 17 at the Wright Brothers Memorial Pavilion. At this annual fund-raising event guests enjoy sumptuous food, an open bar, silent auction, live auction, and dancing to the exciting sounds of the North Tower Band.

In this picture, (L-R) Tracy Bell, Sis Hall, and Sally Scarborough display their original acrylic artwork for the auction. For three years now, Bell's class has donated art items such as these for the auction. Other exciting items up for bid at the event include a stay at an Avon oceanfront cottage, a signed UNC Basketball, a one hour air-tour for two, dinner for ten in your own home with a private chef, as well as artwork, home d�cor, gift certificates for dinner, jewelry and much more. For $20, guests can "try their luck" and purchase the winning key that opens a treasure chest of $1,000 value.

This year's planning committee, co-chaired by Bea Basnight and Gail Midgett, has dived into the underwater oceanic fantasy theme to create a spectacular evening. Nautical-themed attire is welcomed. Proceeds from the gala support the production of The Lost Colony produced by the Roanoke Island Historical Association (RIHA). Reserve your place for this year's "Under the Sea" Black-tie event by calling The Lost Colony office at (252)473-2127. Single tickets are $125 for RIHA members, and $150 for non-members. Reserved tables for ten guests are available for $1,750.