An annual banquet and auction to benefit this region’s chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is set for Saturday, Aug. 13, beginning at 4 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Expo Center in Asheville.

The Great Smoky Mountains Chapter this year is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the reintroduction of the elk into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Joe Yarkovich, elk researcher for the Smokies, will give an update on the elk. His presentation will be followed by a prime rib dinner with all the fixings; raffles and drawings; a silent auction; and a live auction with at least 13 rifles or shotguns and two handguns raffled or auctioned.

At least six hunting trips and one pack trip will be auctioned in addition to the special Pro Bull Riders Package.

The cost of the meal is $45 per person. Dress is casual. If you purchase a membership and attend the banquet, you will receive a free Buck knife with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation logo, retail value of $39.95. You will also receive six issues of the “Bugle” magazine in the coming year.