This Auction stuff is fun. Care to join in?

Greetings from your 2010 Auction Chair,

I can't believe it's been two months since I last posted.  But, in my defense I have been busy doing Auction stuff, and lots of it.  There is so much to do and learn to prepare for such a spectacular evening. 

You should have received the "Save the Date" packet in your kiddo's backpack.  Here's a recap in case you didn't, or you need a subtle reminder. 

The Twelfth Annual Forest Park Elementary Foundation Auction will be February 27, 2010 at the Downtown Hilton.  The theme is a Mystery Theater.  Doors open at 4:45PM  to begin check in, with the Silent Auction and Mystery Theater to begin at 5:00PM.  With the help of many volunteers, the evening is shaping up to be tons of fun. 

Were you wondering how you can help with the success of the evening?  Well, we have begun accepting donations.  You can bring them to the office, we can pick them up, or you can email me the particulars.  You can find the donor form on the pages of the blog, in the school's office,or we will get one to you.

This year tickets can be purchased online.  I have already purchased mine, and invite you to do the same. Go to www.tiny.cc/getaclue.  Our goal this year is the sale of 300 tickets. 

The last six weeks I have spent working on the auction have been a ton of fun.  I have met many of my neighbors and fellow parents.  The dedication of everyone involved has been quite moving.  So many people working every year in an effort to raise funds for the Forest Park Elementary Foundation. The experience has been priceless, just like the items you will see at the auction.  Parent volunteers and students have already begun the art work you can't wait to get your hands on.

Remember, your financial support allows the Forest Park Elementary Foundation to help pay for additional staff for our school.  Currently, the Foundation funds 2.5 full time employees.  As well, money raised provides technology instruction, test preparation, music, P.E. and counseling.  One third of all funds raised goes directly to the Portland Schools Foundation, an umbrella organization that provides
grants to close achievement gaps between students throughout the school district.  Every auction dollar is a true gift to the children. Without Foundation dollars Forest Park would be forced to cut programs.

Please consider what you can donate for the evenings festivities.  Do you have a vacation home, gift certificates, Blazer tickets, or something unique?  The Foundation can use them.  As well, each class room is sponsoring a themed basket that will be in the Silent Auction.  Ask your student's teacher what the theme is for their classroom and consider what you can add to your classroom's basket.

Well, I'll sign off now in hopes that you will spend your next few minutes purchasing your tickets online at www.tiny.cc/getaclue.

The words thank you don't seem enough.  But, they are what I have to offer for your support. 

Thank you, and see you at the auction.

Laura Croll

lauracroll@cbseal.com

503-936-9757