Hopkins Education Foundation Online Auction Runs Through Feb. 20

Would you like to purchase some fun items while helping a good cause?

The Hopkins Education Foundation’s second-annual online auction runs through 10 p.m. Feb. 20.

The auction contains 260 items in a variety of categories. Enjoy priceless experiences like a special dinner for four at First Course Bistro—where chef/owner Travis Metzger and sommelier Tim Edmunds will personally treat you like Hollywood Royalty. Buy graduation tickets and a parking pass. Pick up tickets to pro, college and high school sporting. Or buy gift cards to your favorite eateries and entertainment venues.

“It’s really fun,” said Jennifer St. Clair, the HEF auction chair. “It’s kind of a frenzy at the end.”

To bid on items, simply visit the online auction site.

All the items have been donated, so the entire bid goes to the Hopkins Education Foundation. Last year, the online auction—with the silent and live auctions —raised about $50,000, St. Clair said.

Hopkins Education Foundation money pays for programs and technology that the school district wouldn’t otherwise be able to fund. It also accelerates pilot programs and provides new technology for the classrooms—including interactive white boards, college planning software and data collection devices.

Last year, Hopkins teachers received and to augment instruction. The organization also donated dozens of iPads for use in the classroom as part of the Royal Bash's special appeal.

Tickets are still available for this year’s Royal Bash. The event takes place Feb. 25 at the . Cocktails and a silent auction begin at 6 p.m. Dinner starts at 7:30 p.m. A live auction and entertainment with comedienne Kristin Anderson start at 8 p.m., followed by a DJ and dancing at 9 p.m.

This year, the special appeal will focus on iPads and ensuring those iPads have educational content specific to the needs of Hopkins schools.

Regular tickets are $75, and patron tickets cost $125. Cash donations are also accepted. Tickets can be purchased online or attendees can download the mail-in RSVP card from the foundation’s website.