Also, don’t forget that this will be a fun and entertaining evening as well. A great opportunity to mingle with other Lakeshore parents and teachers, enjoy tasty hors d’oeuvres from professional chefs, and beverages from an International Wine Competition, and a live band.

Q. How does the Auction work?
A. All Lakeshore parents are asked to solicit donations (items or gift certificates) from merchants or give donations ourselves that will then be available for bids at the Auction. The Auction Catalog will be handed out prior to the event so you will have a chance to preview all of the donations. During the event, all of the items (with the exception of the pre-selected Live Auction items) will be laid out with bid sheets attached. Each family will be assigned a number upon arrival. Simply use this number throughout the evening to bid on items of your choice. The highest bidder will win the item. There are amazing deals and amazing items.

Q. What is the difference between the Silent and Live Auction?
A. The Silent Auction will take place during the first half of the night. You will be able to view all of the items and place your bids (the amount you are willing spend) on the bidding sheets. The Live Auction will take place during the last half of the night. Key items are pre-selected and will be announced by an Auctioneer. Families will then actively try to outbid each other to win the prize item.

Q When do I find out which bidding items I’ve won? When will I need to pay?
A. At the end of the evening, a checkout staff member will itemize and tabulate your bill. You will then pay for your winning bids as you pick up your items. Bring your checkbook and credit cards and be prepared to take home your winnings!

Q. What kind of items can I expect at the Auction?
A. Many of the donations are essential items. You can expect certificates for dry cleaning and lessons for children. Also there will be theme park and theatre tickets, restaurant certificates, and a variety of other items. More importantly, the teachers have often offered personal gifts, such as star gazing with Mr. Rich or a day at the movies with Mrs. Pang.

Q. What are the expectations for each family?
A. Each family is expected to bring in two donation items. You can either solicit donations from local merchants or you can donate items yourself. We also expect every family to be part of the Auction. The way you do this is up to you. There are several committees you can volunteer for. You can sell raffle tickets to co-workers, friends, and family. Giving your support by attending the event is also important. We understand that we all have different spending limitations. But, the Auction is a great venue for fundraising because there is something for everyone, for every budget.

Q. Do I have to solicit donations from merchants only, or can I donate items myself?
A. Some of the most popular items at these auctions are handmade items or services donated by many of the talented parents at Lakeshore. You can also get really creative with your donation. Offerings of cooking lessons and special outings (i.e. take a group of children to the movies for the afternoon) are some great crowd pleasers. Chat with your teachers for ideas, or with other parents.

Q I won’t be able to attend the Auction due to a prior engagement. Can I still bid on the items?
A. Absolutely. The Auction Catalog will be handed out prior to the event. You can also bid online. Absentee bid forms will also be available.

Q. What if my spouse can’t make it?
A. You can bring a friend or relative with you, or just come on your own. The food and drink are fabulous so you will feel proud to bring a friend.

Q Can I bring my children?
A No. This is an event just for the grown-ups.

Q. I would like to get involved with a committee, who could I contact?
A. Call Julie Lin at 415-334-3173 or email: julie@acromaxnetworks.com.

Everyone’s participation is crucial in the success of this Auction. Not only can you expect to have a wonderful evening out, but also you will be helping Lakeshore to continue providing excellent enrichments programs to all of our children.