Forty lucky people will soon have a chance to find out more about their cherished treasure at the upcoming “Dinner and an Appraisal” event, scheduled for Friday, Oct. 12, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Rhinelander High School.

Mark Moran, a contributing editor for Antique Trader magazine and a guest expert on the PBS series Antiques Roadshow, will spend three hours appraising pre-registered items for this Italy 2013 fundraiser.

“We are very excited about bringing Mark Moran to Rhinelander,” said Linda Goldsworthy, group leader for the Italy 2013 trip. “His last visit in February was a great success. Many people wanted to know when he would come back. We are fortunate to get him again as he’s become somewhat of a hot commodity for local historical societies and libraries throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa.”

The Italy 2013 group made nearly $1,500 in February to help offset the cost of their upcoming trip to Italy during March and April of 2013. Moran appraised 44 items that night, ranging from a World War I photo album and antique toys to Tiffany-style lamps and vintage drawings.

For various reasons, Moran does limit what he will appraise and discuss at the event. Items he excludes include all weapons, including knives; fine jewelry, including precious gems, pocket and wristwatches; and musical instruments, including violins and wind/reed instruments.

“We encourage people who are interested in participating to bring in the following items: fine art, smaller pieces of furniture, ceramics of all types, glassware, vintage photographs, advertising items, folk art such as carvings and quilts, toys, metalware, clocks and costume jewelry,” explained Goldsworthy. “If you have questions about bringing your object, we encourage you to email Moran directly at moranm1953@gmail.com.”

People who are interested in registering an item can pick up a registration form at Rhinelander High School or M&I Bank in Rhinelander. They can also contact Judy Fritz at (715) 362-2921 or judyfritz@frontiernet.net to get a form via email. The cost per item is $15.

Members of the community who are interested in watching Moran in action can also attend the event according to Goldsworthy. Admission will be $3 for the 3-hour long appraisal program which will begin at 6 p.m. The evening’s festivities will not just be limited to items of historical interest. Those who enjoy Italian food should consider attending a spaghetti dinner serving from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

“We decided that our second dinner should focus on the culture and cuisine of our trip-so spaghetti it was,” said Goldsworthy.

Dinner tickets must be purchased in advance and are available at Rhinelander High School, M&I Bank, and all Italy 2013 participants for $12. The dinner ticket also includes entrance into the appraisal event.