Da Vinci Academy Auction

Save the Date: Da Vinci's Annual Benefit Auction "Seuss on the Loose" is on Saturday, April 28th, 2012

2012-01-24T10:27:00.000-06:00

Save the Date! Da Vinci's Annual Benefit Auction will be held at the St. Charles Country Club, Saturday, April 28th, 2012 at 6:00 PM. We are excited to announce our fun theme this year, "Seuss on the Loose!".

Mark your calendars and plan to join us at our auction this year, featuring some exciting new changes like MOBILE BIDDING!

We need your help!

There are FOUR easy ways in which every family can help make this year’s Annual Benefit Auction a success.

Find out more information on how to help on our Auction website (coming soon!) or and on this blog! The auction cannot be a success without you!

Auction Wrap-Up 2011

2011-05-15T22:12:00.000-05:00

We are excited to announce the totals raised at this year’s Annual Benefit Auction: Once Upon a Time. The event raised an estimated $ 77,000 for Da Vinci Academy. A few highlights from this memorable evening:

148 people attended the auction
Fund-a-Project/restricted donations raised $42,000 ($7,000 is still needed to fully fund these projects)
The Live Auction raised $ 14,775
The Silent Auctions raised $ 14,400
The Golden Ticket raised $11,000
Cash Donations totaled $7,500
The Buy-A-Bottle, Precious Moments Figurines and Centerpiece sales totaled $4,885
Sponsorship and Advertising totaled a record amount of almost $ 10,000
Golden Ticket Winners:

Macbook Air - Faith Oriold (mother of Ben Oriold - 8th grader at Da Vinci Academy)
The Apple Tree - Laurie Rogman (Alumni Family and Board of Trustee Member)

Please keep in mind that many companies will match cash donations (via Fund-A-Project) you give to Da Vinci Academy. Contact Larry Steffens if you would like to pursue this giving opportunity to the school.

The success of the Annual Benefit Auction is due in part to the wonderful items that were contributed by supporters and friends of Da Vinci Academy. Thank you so much for your donations and for the time and effort that went into securing donations from area businesses.

This event is made possible by the support and commitment of the entire Da Vinci Academy community. From securing donations, to selling raffle tickets, to purchasing and selling advertising space, to helping students conceptualize and create remarkable works of art in class projects, and volunteering before, during, and after the event, it takes a remarkable community to carry off an event of this size and scale. Thank you to everyone who donated their time and talents to the Auction. The faculty, staff, and students of Da Vinci Academy directly benefit from the Annual Benefit Auction, and are deeply grateful for the tremendous volunteer effort that goes into creating this event each year.

Stay tuned for an announcements detailing next year’s annual benefit auction, it promises to be an Exceptional event!

Save the Date April 28, 2012

With Gracious Gratitude,

The Da Vinci Academy Annual Benefit Auction Committee

2011 Catalog Preview

2011-04-24T21:37:00.000-05:00

Dear Da Vinci Families,

We are excited to share with you the draft catalog and program for the 2011 Da Vinci Academy Annual Benefit Auction. Steak and jumbo prawns are on the menu, and an evening of fine dining and exciting raffles, silent auction items, and live auction items await.

Final attendance numbers are due to the club on Monday. If you would like to attend but have not had the opportunity to RSVP, please contact auction@dvacademy.org as soon as possible. If you cannot attend but would like to proxy bid on any of the items in the catalog, please also contact auction@dvacademy.org and we will walk you through the process. Don’t miss your chance to bid on some wonderful items! Remember, too, that families can register bids for the various Fund-A-Project items listed in the catalog via proxy bid, even if they are not able to attend the auction. Contact us for more details.

We look forward to seeing many of you next Saturday, April 30 at the St. Charles Country Club.

Warm Regards,

The 2011 Da Vinci Academy Annual Benefit Auction Committee

Parent Education Breakfast Pictures

2011-04-17T21:08:00.000-05:00

Thank you to everyone who was able to attend the Parent Education breakfast last Tuesday. I thought it was a very informative talk and a special thanks to Dr. Michelle Bidwell for the amazing information and taking the time to answer our questions.

Here are some pictures from the event:

2011 Sponsors

2011-04-15T12:20:00.002-05:00

We are so grateful to our generous sponsors for the 2011 Annual Benefit Auction. Below are details on what each contribution will fund:

Wheaton Eye Clinic - Hors' dourves
Brian Bemis Automotive Group - Buy-A-Bottle
Janet and Jeff Stroebel - Class Projects
Orlando Greco and Sons Imports - Centerpieces
Wet & Forget - Dinner Wine

Additionally, we wanted to thank the Knight Sponsors:

James and Paige Fitton
Tony and Jill Sikorski
Michael Simon and Nancy Sohn
Matthew and Nancy Owen

Thank you so much for participating in our Annual Benefit Auction.

Auction Item: Week in Paradise, Antigua

2011-04-15T11:34:00.000-05:00

Enjoy One Week in Paradise
Take your pick of from four luxurious four- and five-star resorts offered by Elite Resorts. Enjoy up to seven days for 2 people.

St. James Club and Villas in Antigua
Indulge in the world-renowned private 100-acre peninsula on Antigua’s southeastern coast where clear, turquoise waters surround your own private oasis. St. James’s protected Bay is great for swimming, windsurfing and kayaking. There is also a deep-sea fishing boat on site. The two magnificent white-sand beaches; rooms, suites and villas with every amenity imaginable, supervised kids activities, and spa, St. James’s Club will capture you and leave you with unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

The Verandah Resort and Spa in Antigua
The 200 luxury studio style suites, with king size beds and pull out sofa fit a family of four comfortably. The recently opened, eco-conscience tropical resort will rejuvenate your body and senses with its pristine surroundings on the northeast coast of Antigua. Two white-sand beaches, nature trails to the historic Devil’s Bridge, three wedding gazebos, kids club & mini cinema, multiple dining options and world class Spa Tranquility, is perfect for those seeking a romantic hideaway, family vacation or just looking to escape and leave the world behind.

Long Beach Resort and Villas in Tortola
Plan a getaway to a slice of paradise and set your course to our gem, the largest resort in Tortola. With 90 breathtaking rooms and 26 exquisite villas, guests can take a relaxing walk to the romantic Smuggler’s Cove, enjoy tropical drinks at our swim up pool bar, or just breathe in the spectacular views on land and on the water with our sailing tours and excursions. Pamper yourself at our Spa Tranquility. Long Bay Beach Resort & Villas is perfect for couples and families seeking an island retreat.

Palm Island Resort in Grenadines
This exclusive resort is set in pure paradise where tranquility reigns and an unforgettable experience of a lifetime is inevitable. Palm Island Resort is located on its own private 135-acre island hideaway amidst lush tropical landscapes embraced by five dazzling white sand beaches. Your choice of cottage, loft, suites, or villas will fit your accommodation needs. The world famous Tobago Cays (great for snorkeling), palm groves, nature trails and indigenous wildlife make this a paradise for nature lovers.

Restrictions and Rules:
Expires: 12/20/11 This Resort Certificate provides accommodations for up to 7 nights (double occupancy) at any of our participating Caribbean beachfront resorts. All reservations are subject to a mandatory surcharge which provides all dining, beverages, resort facilities, activities, taxes & service charges, which must be paid in full at time of confirmation. See inside for resort & nightly supplement information. Guest choosing to upgrade to a higher guest room or suite category may do so at the applicable upgrade charge. Blackout dates do apply (may be used Christmas & February) and is subject to availability. Some restrictions apply. Air transportation not included.

Value: $3,000

Auction Item: Chicago Fire vs. Manchester United

2011-04-15T11:26:00.000-05:00

The Chicago Fire Soccer Club, in conjunction with MLS and CAA Sports, announced today that the Chicago Fire will take on Manchester United at Soldier Field on Saturday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. CT as part of the World Football Challenge.

"We are excited to host Manchester United, one of the world’s finest clubs, at home in Chicago, in front of our supporters,” said Chicago Fire owner Andrew Hauptman. “Bringing United to Chicago helps the Fire continue to expand our reach in one of North America’s premier soccer markets. Our participation in the World Football Challenge gives our players an opportunity to take on one of the most talented clubs on the planet, while galvanizing Chicago’s vast soccer community.”
Led by Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United is one of the most recognized clubs in the world, lifting a total of 18 English Premier League titles, four Carling cups, three European Cups and a record 11 FA Cups. In 1999, United were the first team to win the Treble (English Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League) in one season. Founded in 1878, the Red Devils have competed in the top division of English soccer since 1938, with the exception of the 1974-1975 season. United currently sit atop the Barclay’s English Premier League table with 63 points through 30 games.

Four Tickets
Section 209 Row 12 Seats 8-5
Value $735.00

Auction Item: Chicago White Sox Fans

2011-04-13T17:39:00.000-05:00

Included in this Auction item are a signed baseball and four tickets to a White Sox game.

The baseball is autographed by #50 starting pitcher for the Chicago White Sox John Danks
The tickets are for the White Sox vs. Texas Rangers, U.S. Cellular Field, Chicago, IL on Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 07:10 PM. Four Tickets with parking pass as well as food and drink.

Price of this item is $830.00.

Auction Item: Peter Gabriel Concert

2011-04-11T21:43:00.000-05:00

You can hear Peter Gabriel play all your favorite hits when he tours this summer. However, there will be a twist…

No drums, no guitar, just a 53 piece orchestra.
The 2011 Peter Gabriel New Blood Tour will be a brief one – only 12 dates are currently scheduled in the United States and Canada over a three week period this June. It will also feature the New Blood Orchestra, who, along with Gabriel, will play his most famous songs but with a completely new orchestral arrangement.

Auction Item: Enjoy a day and a night in downtown Chicago

2011-04-11T21:39:00.000-05:00

Enjoy a walking tour, learning about Chicago's world class architecture by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Four guest passes for special walking tours.

After the tour, stay at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago offers unique and upscale accommodations in the heart of downtown Chicago. Frequented by musicians, celebrities, and fans alike, our Chicago downtown hotel on Michigan Avenue combines exceptional service standards and upscale surroundings to serve as a stylish oasis in the midst of Chicago's vibrant city culture.

Stretching 40 stories tall in the heart of downtown Chicago, hotel guests will find a musically inspired atmosphere where Art Deco meets the art of hospitality. Stylish and forward thinking, our contemporary ambience blends seamlessly within the walls of the iconic Carbide & Carbon building, a historic Burnham masterpiece fashioned from green terra cotta and black polished granite.

Service at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago is second to none, with a team of professionals standing ready to welcome you. Our four-star quality blends with practicality, and guests will appreciate the extras afforded to them - including complimentary Gibson guitar rentals and 10 free iTunes downloads.

Early Bird Pricing Extended

2011-04-11T21:36:00.000-05:00

Dear Da Vinci Families,

Our Auction Committee has decided to extend the deadline for early auction RSVP pricing to this Friday (April 15). If you are planning on attending (and we certainly hope that you are), you definitely do not want to miss the discount pricing.

We will make it easier than ever, just use this hyperlink to e-mail the Auction Committee that you are coming and how many are in your party:

Respond Now

After you respond, fill out the reservation form and send it to school with your check. Once we get your e-mail RSVP, your discount pricing will be good as long as we get your paper registration and check by Friday.

Six compelling reasons why you should attend the Auction!

1. It is a fun, adult evening out.

2. You get a fantastic meal (wine, steak, jumbo prawns).

3. You get to see the fantastic class projects our students have been working on for the auction.

4. Auction revenue accounts for about 5% of our educational budget. Your child’s education is positively impacted every day by funds provided through past auctions. We need everyone in our community’s support going forward.

5. You show your appreciation for the countless hours that our parent volunteers devote toward making the auction a great event.

6. Every attendee has a chance to win a Barnes and Noble Nook Color eBook Reading Tablet. Your odds of winning are going to be about 1:150. Not bad at all!

The auction is Saturday, April 30. Please join us! Much more information is available on our website.

Jeff Stroebel

Class Projects 2011

2011-04-05T14:53:00.002-05:00

Class projects are getting started in anticipation of the 2011 Annual Benefit Auction here at Da Vinci. Each child gets the opportunity to participate in the class projects and there are really exciting things going on!

PK - The pre-Kers are working on a Fairytale quilt. Check out the pictures of the progress of their work.

K - The Kindergartners are creating a mosaic birdbath with a Jake and the Beanstalk theme. Pictures of the work in progress are here.

1st - The first graders are working on a canvas painting. We can't wait to see what they are making!

2nd - The second graders are making a sidetable with a "Rumpus in the Rainforest" theme.

3rd - The third graders are going to make a world clock.

4th- The fourth graders are going to be creating a Photoshopped piece of art.

5th - The fifth graders are using the Alice in Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass theme for a mirror.

6th - The sixth graders are making a Red Wolf Paper Collage theme.

7th - The seventh graders are working a Mona Lisa theme.

8th - The eighth graders are working on a reproduction of the "Son of Man" artwork by René Magritte.

Welcome back from Spring Break!

2011-04-04T10:32:00.000-05:00

The official countdown to the auction has begun. A few things to remember in these upcoming weeks.

Volunteers are still needed. Please see our volunteer page for more information.
The Parent Education event is also coming up Find out more information about this event. Please consider coming.
Lastly, don't forget to consider coming to the auction. The early-bird ticket pricing expires on 4/11. RSVP information has been added here.

Hope everyone had a great break! Stay tuned for class project updates and continue to check out the blog for auction items and various other information.

Auction Item: Bonita Springs, Florida

2011-04-04T10:21:00.000-05:00

Up for auction at our event on April 30th. You don't want to miss this!

8 Days in beautiful Southwest Florida. This condo is located in the Fort Meyers Area in the town of Bonita Springs. Ideally located between Naples and Ft. Myers, the community of Bonita Springs offers the unique and inviting Old Florida lifestyle of a charming, small, beach town. Beautiful beaches, along with the sparkling Gulf of Mexico and the natural beauty of Estero Bay, offer sun-lovers and anglers the ultimate paradise.

This gorgeous 3 bedroom plus loft, 2 bathroom condo is on the second floor overlooking a pool and waterfall. Water taxi is available to island beach. Condo can sleep up to 8 (four twins, one King, one Queen) and is completely furnished and equipped, including laundry, linens, towels, well-outfitted kitchen, broadband Internet and WiFi.

Winning bidder may select a date between May 15, 2011 and September 15, 2011, subject to availability.

Auction Item: Schwinn Scooter by BBK Motorsport in Elgin

2011-03-24T10:51:00.003-05:00

Up for auction is a Schwinn Scooter, a 2008 Schwinn Hope™ 50.

Find out more information about this scooter here and complete technical details here. The top speed on this amazing scooter is 30 mph (downhill with a tail wind). As it is a 50cc machine and is capable of less than 30 mph, it can be ridden on public roads with only an Illinois automobile license. The purchaser will be responsible for 7% Illinois vehicle tax and $134 plate and title fees.

This scooter is donated by BBK Motorsport located at 222 Dundee Ave in Elgin. Please check out their site for what they offer at http://www.bbkmotorsport.com/.

Golden Ticket Contest Board

2011-03-23T17:49:00.001-05:00

The Golden Ticket Contest has begun and we are keeping track of the score in the front lobby of the school. Here is the Golden Ticket Contest board!

Here you will find which class/advisory is in the lead for the pizza party and which student is in first, second and third place for the awesome Visa gift card prize!

Parent Education Breakfast on Thursday April 14

2011-03-20T11:44:00.000-05:00

The Parent Association invites you to a Parent Education Breakfast on Thursday April 14 at 9 AM with Dr. Michelle Bidwell, Psy.D. The event will be held at the Elgin Country Club.

Dr. Bidwell will be speaking about "The Social and Emotional Aspects of Parenting Gifted Children." Admission is $25 and proceeds go towards the Annual Benefit Auction.

Please RSVP via email to Tammi Sowinski before April 11. Feel free to invite a few friends!

Download complete information here.

Golden Ticket Contest

2011-03-20T11:38:00.000-05:00

The Golden Ticket Contest starts TOMORROW! We are running a Golden Ticket contest from March 21 through April 22. The top-selling class will win a pizza party. The top three students with the most tickets sold will win Visa gift cards ($100, $75, $50.) Download the Golden Ticket Competition flier for complete details. Sell early, sell often!

Who can compete? Any Da Vinci Academy Class or Student

When is the competition? March 21st through April 22nd

How do we know who is winning? A Pizza Party will be awarded to the class with most
Golden Tickets sold during contest dates. THE TOP THREE STUDENTS WITH THE MOST TICKETS SOLD ALL WIN A $100, $75, $50 VISA GIFT CARD TO SPEND AS THEY CHOOSE.

What are the rules? SELL AS MANY TICKETS AS POSSIBLE. Takeyour tickets with you everywhere. Winners do not need to be present at the Auction to win. You get to help raise money for your school. Please be sure the tickets are filled out completely – see Spongebob’s example below. Ticket prices are: 1 ticket for $10.00 and 6 tickets for $50.00, cash or check (checks should be made out to Da Vinci Academy). Thank you for doing your part to help out!

Front of Ticket

Back of Ticket

Auction Item: Aruba

2011-03-17T10:24:00.003-05:00

Up for auction is a sunny week in beautiful Aruba! At the Marriot's Aruba Surf Club, enjoy an amazing vacation from Thursday, December 15, 2011 to Thursday December 22, 2011. Accommodations include 2 bedrooms (BR1: King Size Bed, BR2: Pull out Sofa, Queen Size Bed, LR: Pull out Sofa) with 2 bathrooms and can hold up to 8 people with kitchen facilities, satellite TV and many other amenities. On-site, you will find car rental options, beach/pool towels, hot tub or whirlpool, restaurants, health club, laundry, playgrounds, pools, beach and much more!

Located very close to Queen Beatriz airport, you will also find yourself near many wonders such as the Natural Bridge, Huliba Caves and the Dunes.

Passports are required. Value of this awesome vacation is $4095.

Annual Benefit Auction Planning in high gear!

2011-03-09T20:55:00.002-06:00

It's that time of year, Annual Benefit Auction planning is kicking into high gear.

Some, but by no means all of the fabulous donations already received:

- Signed White Sox baseball (if I knew more about baseball I could probably tell you who it was signed by, but not a big baseball fan, alas. More info to follow!)
- A week stay at a beautiful timeshare in Aruba, wonderful amenities, unbelievable! The dates are the week before Christmas this year, 2011.
- A fabulous day at the American Girl Store including a lunch at the cafe. Plan your special outing with your favorite girl soon!
- Custom-painted signs with whimsical and inspirational sayings

Stay tuned for more details about these items and more!

Next Auction Meeting - March 7, 2011

2011-02-28T20:59:00.001-06:00

An auction meeting will be held on Monday, March 7 at 8:45 AM in the lobby. All parents are welcome. There are many volunteers needed in a variety of roles to help make this a successful event.

2011 Auction Kickoff Meeting scheduled for Monday, February 7

2011-02-02T23:35:00.001-06:00

Come join us to talk about the 2011 Da Vinci Academy Annual Auction. Meeting will take place on Monday, February 7th in the school lobby after dropoff. Hope to see you there!

Thank you everyone!

2010-05-02T14:57:00.001-05:00

The Da Vinci Auction was held on Saturday, May 1 2010 at the St. Charles Country Club and was a success! Many thanks are due to all the hardworking volunteers and the hard-spending attendees!

More details and analysis to follow. After we all catch up on some sleep!

2010 Auction Catalog available on Da Vinci's Website

2010-04-23T22:33:00.001-05:00

The draft of the 2010 Auction catalog is available online, linked from this page on Da Vinci's website, but also mailed to all Da Vinci families. Check out some of the fabulous items. http://www.dvacademy.org/s/304/davinci.aspx?sid=304&gid=1&pgid=935

I'll feature a few of the awesome items here in the coming days.

For instance, during the live auction we'll be auctioning off this:

908 Chicago Cub's Aramis Ramirez - Signed Bat

Authentic wood bat signed by Cubs third baseman Aramis Ramirez. This signed bat has a Certificate of Authenticity. To enjoy your purchase, also included are two tickets to see the Cubs, game to be determined.

Donors: Chicago Cubs

Value: $ 300

or this cool basket--the kids will be begging for this item from the Silver Silent Auction section:

719 Take Home a Bundle of Webkinz

• Tiger

• Black and White Cat

• Black Cat

• Pink and White Cat

• Yorkie

• Himalayan

Donors: A Friend of Da Vinci Academy

Value: $ 84

Dr. Kelly Johnson speaker program a success!

2010-04-22T22:22:00.000-05:00

Last Friday, April 16, Da Vinci parents and parents of gifted children in the greater Fox Valley Community were able to hear from local Neuropsychologist Dr. Kelly Johnson about giftedness and executive functioning. Her talk, titled Executive Functioning: How to Help Your Gifted Child Get and Stay Organized was an excellent and thorough review everything from the science of the brain and how certain skills and behaviors develop through practical tips for how to help a child who struggles with organization and executive functioning achieve success.

Handouts from the talk will be available on Da Vinci's website soon. Additionally, Dr. Johnson recommended these resources:

Norman Doidge, The Brain that Changes Itself

Sharon Begley's, The Plastic Mind.

She also mentions that Larry Dossey included a study in his book Healing Words, that focuses on plant health in relation to speech.

Proceeds from this Da Vinci Academy Parent Education event benefited the 2010 Auction. Future events are planned for the 2010-2011 school year.

Here are some photos from the event:

The dessert deserved its own picture.

Take-A-Chance Raffle for Class Gifts

2010-04-19T23:11:00.000-05:00

Da Vinci classes pooled resources to obtain a set of phenomenal items for the Take-A-Chance Raffle. These items will be raffled off at the auction, must be present to win. Tickets are $5 each and sold the night of the auction ONLY. (Not to sound like a broken record, but be sure to RSVP so you can be there to try for your chance to win one of these!)

The fantastic items include:

Two night's stay in the Wisconsin Dells
A huge set of Magna-tiles
All five of the Lego Prince of Persia sets
Two scooters (Powerwing and Siege)
A Barnes and Noble Nook ebook reader and case
American Girl Doll and Outfits
Xbox 360 and 3 games
DSI and games
and yes, you asked for it..

an iPad tablet computer!

Class projects

2010-04-19T22:58:00.001-05:00

Just wait til you see what the amazing and artistic duo of Anita and Amy have cooked up for 2010 Auction Class projects!

Included, but not limited to...a fingerpainted reproduction of Van Gogh's Starry Night, a dragon built entirely out of...legos! A chess set built entirely out of...nuts and bolts! A knight's head statue beaded in exquisite shades of blue. More information and pictures of the masterpieces-in-progress to come.

Have you sent in your RSVP yet? You have to attend to have the opportunity to bid on these fantastic student-created one-of-a-kind artistic wonders. Come join the fun! RSVP today!

New donations in Art/Culture/Music

2010-04-11T22:45:00.000-05:00

Fantastic donations in the Art/Culture/Music category:

EB Creative photography package: Package includes: A two hour individual, children's or family photography session with one 11x14 print, two 8x10 prints, and 15% off all additional prints and products. Fair market value: $400

Hinds Photography portrait package: Family Sitting for up to nine people; custom deluxe wall print retouched, mounted and sprayed with matte lacquer finish. Finished portrait size 11" x 14".Fair market value: $239

Northlight Theater: Enjoy two tickets to Low Down Dirty Blues playing May 27-June 24, 2010 Fair market value: $110

Steel Beam Theater: Full tuition for one session of Steel Beam Theater Summer Camp 2010. Six sessions to choose from, three age groups. Your child will learn acting and stage skills, confidence, poise, and discipline. The two-week camp will cap off with two performances. Fair market value: $350

Painting Lessons: Two hours of watercolor painting instruction using for a beginner or advanced student. The lesson is given by artist C.D. McNamara. Let your child's creativity be channeled through painting. Fair market value: $120

Watercolor painting: Original watercolor painting by artist C.D. McNamara. Fair market value: $425

Sutton Studios donates a portrait package for Family/Dogs

2010-04-11T22:32:00.000-05:00

This gift certificate from Sutton Studios has a fair market value of $725, and is for:
Gift Certificate good for weekday portrait sitting for up to 2 people and 2 pets (flexible); 11" x 11" signed exhibition print; $50.00 framing voucher.

Nudera Orthodontics donates $1000 off orthodontic treatment

2010-04-11T22:28:00.001-05:00

Nudera Orthodontics of South Elgin has donated $1000 off orthodontic treatment to the Da Vinci 2010 Auction. Come to the event on May 1, 2010 so you can secure this fantastic package!

Concert Tickets! - Eagles, Dixie Chicks, and Keith Urban June 19!!

2010-03-25T11:52:00.002-05:00

The Eagles, Dixie Chicks and Keith Urban* will be playing Soldier Field on June 19, 2010 - four tickets and a parking pass.

The Eagles - Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmit - will perform hits from their more than 35-year career, such as "Hotel California," "Desperado," "Life In The Fast Lane," "Lyinâ€™ Eyes," "Take It To The Limit," "One Of These Nights," "Heartache Tonight," and more.

The Dixie Chicks - Martie Maguire, Emily Robison and lead singer Natalie Maines - will hit the stage for the first time in four years, performing songs from all four of their albums including smash hits, "Wide Open Spaces," "Goodbye Earl," and "Not Ready to Make Nice."

Urban's career has produced some of the industry's best known and most loved songs - 11 #1s. "Days Go By," "Sweet Thing," Who Wouldn't Wanna Be Me," "You'll Think of Me," "Better Life," as well as Billboard's Country Song of the Decade, "Somebody Like You," will highlight Urban's performance.

Caribbean Vacation!

2010-03-20T23:05:00.000-05:00

One of the big-ticket items for the 2010 Da Vinci Academy Auction is a 7 night stay in one of these prime beachfront four and five-star Caribbean resorts:

Antigua: The Verandah Resort and Spa

Antigua: St. James's Club and Villas

Tortola: Long Bay Beach Resort and Villas

The Grenadines: Palm Island Resort

Be sure to RSVP for the auction soon, so you can have your chance to bid on this fantastic Caribbean vacation!

Golden Tickets coming to a Friday Folder near you

2010-03-12T15:05:00.002-06:00

This Friday, your students will be bringing home a packet of Golden Tickets in their backpacks. These tickets are for two phenomenal prizes. One is a 46" Sony Bravia television combo pack, including a Bose speaker system. The second Golden Ticket prize is a 27 inch iMac computer system.

Golden Tickets can be sold to friends and family outside the Da Vinci community. This is a great way for us to increase our reach with fundraising. The prizes are fantastic. Wouldn't your co-workers, in-laws, or golf buddies like the opportunity to spend $10 (for one chance or $50 for 6 chances) to win a great flat-screen television/sound system or home computer?

There are two contest rounds running at school. The class who sells the most Golden Tickets in the first round will win an ice cream party. The class who sells the most Golden Tickets in the second round will win a pizza party. In addition, the two students who sell the most overall tickets will win Visa gift cards.

Additional Golden Tickets are available at school. Remember to fill out the entire ticket (including the name of the student on the back in the Ticket Sold By: line.)

Post comments if you have any questions, and get selling!

2010 Auction Theme Announced!

2010-02-06T15:25:00.003-06:00

The 2010 Da Vinci Academy Annual Auction will take place on May 1, 2010 at the St. Charles Country Club. This year marks the school's tenth anniversary, and the celebration promises to be bigger than ever!

The theme of the 2010 Da Vinci Academy Auction is "Night of Knights."

Please save the date and plan to join us on May 1!

2009-06-30T09:58:00.002-05:00

We are excited to announce the totals raised at this year’s Annual Benefit Auction: A Community Affair – Explore Your Future. The event raised an estimated $ 92,000 for Da Vinci Academy. A few highlights from this memorable evening:

• 136 people attended the auction
• Fund-a-Project/restricted donations raised $52,000
• The Live Auction raised $ 17,900
• The Silent Auctions raised $ 14,796
• The Golden Ticket raised $ 10,340
• The Buy-A-Bottle and Take-A-Chance raised $ 5,360

Da Vinci Academy was founded in 2000 as an independent school serving the needs of intellectually gifted children and has 135 students in grades Pre-Kindergarten through 8. Da Vinci students love coming to school to work alongside caring teachers who understand and embrace the unique ways in which bright kids think and learn. We encourage the intellectual creativity and curiosity of our students, and we support the growth of their minds and character. The school draws families from the local area (St. Charles, Geneva, Elgin, South Elgin) and from across the west and northwest Chicago suburbs.

The proceeds from this auction will be used to enhance and sustain the exceptional educational programs and services offered at Da Vinci Academy. As an independent school, Da Vinci Academy relies exclusively on tuition, private donations, and fundraising to provide a learning environment that is tailored to the needs of intellectually gifted and talented students.

Again, on behalf of Da Vinci Academy's students, staff, and parent volunteers, thank you for your generosity, we have enclosed a donation statement for you tax records.

With Gracious Gratitude,
The Da Vinci Academy Annual Benefit Auction Committee

Article about digital book readers

2009-04-30T22:20:00.003-05:00

Nifty article about the Kindle 2 and other digital book reading devices, and how these new technologies may change the way we look at the book buying/selling/consuming business entirely.

Final Take-A-Chance Raffle Items

2009-04-28T20:15:00.002-05:00

Remember you must be present to buy tickets for and win these fantastic items!

HP Mini Netbook with Intel Atom Processor

This compact netbook features a built-in webcam and wireless connectivity so you can easily video chat with friends and family from your home network or area hotspots.

Some of the features of this HP Mini Netbook N270:
16G Solid State Drive
Built-in Webcam and Memory Card Slot
2 USB ports
1.6GHz processor speed
Built-in Wireless LAN (802.11b/g)
Built-in 10BaseT ethernet port (to connect to the internet without using Wireless)
Weighs just 2.5 lbs and is 1" thin

Includes a Targus carrying bag and USB optical mouse.

Donors: Da Vinci Academy’s First and Third Grade Class
Value: $ 354.00

Billy Joel vs. Elton John - Dueling Pianos
Experience two Rock-n-Roll legends on one stage.
John and Joel plan to open the concerts with a series of duets, playing dueling pianos and trading vocals, then they will play solo spots with their band and end the evening with the piano men teaming up again for a grand finale. The shows are expected to include some of their greatest hits alongside a selection of rock n’ roll classics.

2 Seats on the field for this incredible concert! Field section K, Row 8 Seat 15 & 16. Expires: 07/21/09

Donors: A Friend of Da Vinci Academy
Value: $ 350

iPod Nano
16GB Ipod Nano (Blue)
Lady Bug limited edition docking station
$60 of Itunes gift cards

Donors: Da Vinci Academy’s Forth Grade Class
Value: $275

One Night Away at the Historic and Charming Hotel Baker in St. Charles

Bed and Breakfast Package includes overnight stay in a Deluxe Room and a $20.00 breakfast coupon.

Donors: Hotel Baker
Value: $199.00

Nintendo DS Lite and Games
Nintendo DS Lite and a package of games:
∗ Mario Kart - On your mark, get set, GO!!!
∗ Guitar Hero on Tour: Decades - Be a Rock Star
∗ Pokémon Ranger - A whole new way to capture Pokémon

Donors: Glenn and Mary Leonard and Jeff and Julie Martin
Value: $240.00

Play Station 3
Play games, access the internet, and watch Blue Ray DVDs
∗ Includes PlayStation 3 80 GB system, Dualshock 3 wireless controller, and free PlayStation Network membership
∗ Internet ready Wi-Fi
∗ 80 GB of hard disk storage for all your games, music, videos, and photos
∗ Built-in Blue-ray player to give you the best high-definition viewing experience and pristine picture quality
∗ Play your entire catalog of CDs and DVDs

Donors: Da Vinci Academy Advisory Groups of Ms. Burns and Mr. Allen
Value: $400.00

Kodak Easy Share- Digital Picture Frame
Wireless access to your pictures is now at your fingertips!
∗ 8 in. (20.3 cm) high-quality display
∗ Wi-Fi enabled
∗ Kodak's Quick Touch Border
∗ Access the latest news, weather, sports, and more
∗ Automatically send and receive pictures from KODAK Gallery members right on your frame with the Picture Mail feature

Donors: Cheryl Covino and Richard Novak
Value: $220.00

Amazon Kindle 2

A few of the features of the Kindle2:
∗ Large Selection: Over 260,000 books plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs available
∗ Slim: Just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines
∗ Lightweight: At 10.2 ounces, lighter than a typical paperback
∗ Wireless: 3G wireless lets you download books right from your Kindle, anytime, anywhere; no monthly fees, service plans, or hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots
∗ Books in Under 60 Seconds: Get books delivered in less than 60 seconds; no PC required

For more information, check out the Kindle 2 on Amazon.com.

Donors: Da Vinci Academy’s Second Grade and Pre-Kindergarten Classes
Value: $400.00

Palm Treo
The Palm Treo 750 Smartphone goes where you go. It combines a world GSM phone, email, broadband wireless, and Windows Mobile - all with world-renowned Palm ease. And the sleek, midnight blue design with a soft-touch finish feels great in your hand.

Review and edit business documents and access corporate data. Answer calls as you check email. And with Microsoft's Direct Push Technology built-in, you can get your Outlook email, as well any changes to your Calendar, Contacts, and Tasks in seconds. Or kick back, play music, shoot videos, and surf the Web. All the functionality is elegant and seamless thanks to Palm enhancements on the Windows Mobile platform that will save steps and your valuable time. Get the all-in-one Smartphone that puts you in control.

Service Provider AT&T

Donors: Martin and Milanka Schray
Value: $250.00

iTouch

Take the internet anywhere you go, play games, listen to music and watch your favorite television shows and movies. Need we say more…

Donor: Da Vinci Academy Advisory Group of Ms. Ulharik-Boller
Value: $250.00

Selection of Terlato Wines

Three bottles of wine from the Terlato wine family,
Chimney Rock – Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Sanford- Pinot Noir 2007
Terlato – Cardinals’ Peak 2005

Donor: A Friend of Da Vinci Academy
Value: $156.00

Razor e200 Electric Scooter

Cruise around the neighborhood in style with the Razor E200 electric scooter. Boasting an adjustable handlebar that adapts to riders of all sizes, an ultra-quiet chain-driven motor, and a handy twist-grip throttle accelerator, the E200 is the perfect device for teens and adults wanting to speed over to a friend's house or head to the park. Unlike Razor's E300S and E500S scooters--which offers a seated ride--the E200 requires you to stand while zipping through town. But standing in the E200 isn't a problem thanks to the full-size deck and frame, which are custom designed for ages 12 and up. Once you're on the move, the variable-speed motor ramps up to 12 miles per hour--fast enough to have fun, but not fast enough to be a menace on the street or sidewalk. Protection Plan included.

Donors: Da Vinci Academy Advisory Group of Ms. Detzler
Value: $235.00

Digital Camera and Printer

Capture your family memories with The Samsung SL30 Digital Camera and SD memory card.
∗ 10.2-megapixel resolution for large, photo quality prints
∗ 3x optical zoom; 2.5-inch Intelligent LCD screen
∗ Digital image stabilization; Face detection
∗ Movie mode (VGA 30fps, MJPEG)
∗ Capture images to SD/SDHC/MMC cards

The Kodak Easy-Share ESP 7 All-in-One printer will let you print all your pictures to share with family and friends.

Donors: Da Vinci Academy Advisory Group of Senora Schnecke and the Kindergarten Class
Value: $320.00

Another great Take-A-Chance Item!

2009-04-25T13:01:00.004-05:00

The Take-A-Chance raffle is for attendees of the auction only, you must be present to participate in these raffles. If you haven't already submitted your RSVP for the auction, do so NOW, so you don't miss your chance to win this awesome item, or one of the other great items featured in Take-A-Chance. More details to follow.

Netbooks are a fantastic new take on mobile computing. Ultra-small laptops, netbooks are able to connect to the internet, do basic word processing or computation, and are small enough to fit into a purse or child's schoolbag. The scaled-down keyboards are great for small hands, but even the larger-handed users find the convenience of having a small portable laptop worth the slightly more compressed keyboard.

The HP Mini laptop available in the Take-A-Chance raffle represents some of the newest thinking in mobile computing. It has a 16G solid state drive, meaning the computer performs tasks very quickly because it doesn't have to wait for hard-drive spin times. It also has an Intel Atom processor, designed specifically for this type of computer. It also has a built-in webcam, so you can video conference with friends and family!

In addition to the small laptop, also included in this package are a Targus brand carrying case and USB optical mouse.

Fund-A-Project

2009-04-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

Fund-A-Project is a way to donate directly to a specific school program or need. During this part of the Live Auction, Da Vinci parents and guests will be able to make contributions to school programs that will directly enhance and enrich each child’s education. In previous years, Fund-a-Projects have included United Video Streaming, school wide math, science, and world language upgrades, art and music equipment, supplies and instruments, library renovation, staff professional development, and display cases for the many awards and recognitions that Da Vinci has received over the years.

On auction night, the auctioneer will ask if anyone wants to fund a complete program, section, or specific item within a project. Then funding levels of $5000, $2500, $1000, $750, $500, $250, $100, $50 and $25 will be called out in that order. Simply raise your bid card when the level of funding you wish to participate at is called.

It is our hope that every attending family will participate in Fund-a-Project on some level.

The Fund-a-Projects for 2009 are listed below.

Curriculum and Academics

Math
Funding Goal: $10,000
Throughout the second part of this year, we have been testing a computerized math program, ALEKS, in some of our classes. We have determined that ALEKS will supplement our current Math program by allowing assignments to be tailored to each child’s specific needs through the application of artificial intelligence software. It not only reinforces the lessons taught by our teachers, but also provides us with better ways to assess what students have already mastered and what they still need to learn. This approach fits perfectly with Da Vinci’s student-focused philosophy. Our free trial period with ALEKS has been so successful that we want to move forward and purchase licenses for next year at a cost of $3,200 for the year.

To fully implement the ALEKS program, we will also need to expand our laptop access so that our current laptop carts are still available for other classes. It is our goal to purchase an additional eight laptops to be able to utilize the ALEKS program in grades 3-8. (approximately $800.00 per laptop)

Writing and Art
Funding Goal: $3,000
The writing program at Da Vinci is evolving and it is our wish to purchase curriculum resources for this program. These enhancements and tools will give our students more ways to demonstrate their knowledge and improve their ability to share it with peers. We would like to further expand our Art Program so that our students and continue to learn new ways to express their selves through Art. To accomplish this, we would like to purchase Photoshop, a scanner, and a color printer for the Art room.

Physical Improvements to our Building
Funding Goal: Open-ended
Last year’s Fund-A-Project provided the necessary resources to restructure our library, increasing our area to house and display our books while preserving to open feel of the library.

This year we would like to continue with this project by improving the acoustics of the front of the building, mainly in the Library/Computer Lab and Lobby. Our goal is to minimize noise levels so that activities in the lobby are not disruptive to the classrooms or to classes that utilize the computers in the library for test taking.

The other component of this project would be to address the challenge our school faces in our classrooms. Classrooms would receive a new magnetic whiteboards, and we would work closely with each teacher to improve storage of teaching materials, creating a more calm and spacious classroom for our students.

Da Vinci Educator’s Fund honoring Lynne Cluchey
Funding Goal: Open-ended
For the past seven years, Mrs. Cluchey has been a constant positive force in the lives of our children. Her warm, nurturing presence has been felt from the time the first child enters the building in the morning to when the last student leaves. Her departure will be deeply felt as she retires from Da Vinci to spend more time with her husband, George. We would like to honor Mrs. Cluchey’s service to Da Vinci by creating a scholarship fund. This fund will make the benefits of a Da Vinci Academy education more accessible to students regardless of family finances.

More awesome class projects

2009-04-25T11:37:00.004-05:00

Kindergarteners became little painters and decorated an assortment of clay pots and saucers using acrylic paints. These were then assembled into a collection of whimsical turtles and sealed for outdoor use. They are sure to brighten any garden space.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery in this beautifully crafted set of Adirondack chairs. These pieces were decoupaged entirely with maps of the United States. Sit for hours and see what places you can discover or reminisce about through the maps on these chairs.

Class Project Pictures!

2009-04-24T00:01:00.004-05:00

Oh my goodness, the work the students have done to create these works of art is astounding. take a look at some of the fabulous class projects that will be up for bid at the auction. Have you returned your RSVP yet? You should, just so you have the chance to bid on these items!

This first item is the First Grade project, titled: Cherry Blossoms and Bluebirds
Size: 36 x 40
Our 1st grade class created this stunning stretched canvas piece. First, the background was painted with acrylic paints. Then, students painted unique designs on individual canvas that they then cut out into the shapes of birds and cherry blossoms and applied to the background.

Pre-K created a Da Vinci Alphabet by photographing objects around school that looked like letters of the alphabet. Size: 24 x 36
The Pre-K students explored Da Vinci Academy to find and photograph objects that resembled letters of the alphabet. The photographs were then Photoshopped to create a delightful, professionally printed, framed poster.

Auction Highlights - look at what's coming!

2009-04-23T23:23:00.003-05:00

You won't believe the amazing events at this year's Da Vinci Academy Auction. Check out this list of only some of the special items available for auction:

Da Vinci Academy 2009 Auction
Donation Highlights

Unique, Date-Specific and Big Ticket Items
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Presents “Scorched” on May 23, 2009, Two Box Seats – Value: $400.00
Dinner with Wine and Chocolate Tasting hosted By Betty Watanabe and Peter Barickman on September 12, 2009 – Value: $800.00
Three Day Getaway to Door County – Value: $690.00
Bruce Springsteen at United Center on May 12, 2009 - Four Tickets – Value: $412.00
Airplane Ride on 1951 Cessna – Value: $300.00
Day with Kane County SWAT – Value: Priceless
#23 Devin Hester Signed Jersey of the Chicago Bears – Value: $250.00
One Week in Bonita Springs – Value: $1, 500.00
U.S. Men’s Team vs. Honduras Soccer Match at Soldier Field on June 6, 2009 – Four Tickets – Value: $300.00
Orlando Florida - 2 bedroom Condo, Week of December 21, 28, 2009 – Value: $2000.00
Sutton Studios Photography Package for Family/Dog – Value: $725.00
Chicago Cubs vs. Houston Astros on July 29, 2009 – Value: $72.00
Billy Joel vs. Elton John – Dueling Pianos at Wrigley Field on July 21, 2009 – Two Tickets – Value: $350.00
U2 At Soldier Field on September 12, 2009 - Four Tickets – Value: $350.00
#54 Brian Urlacher Signed Jersey of the Chicago Bears – Value: Priceless
Three Nights in Turks Caicos – Value: $500.00
Da Bears Suite for Four Guest – Game to be Determined – Value: $6,500.00

Pre-K and 2nd Grade Class gift - Amazon Kindle2!

2009-04-21T22:28:00.002-05:00

The Pre-K and 2nd grade classes have teamed together to donate an Amazon Kindle 2 with a leather case to the Auction! Thanks to all families who contributed, what an excellent gift for the auction! You will be able to win the amazing Amazon Kindle 2 if you join us the night of May 2, 2009 at the Q Center. This item will be in the Take a Chance raffle, tickets available night of the event only, must be present to win. Other class gifts to be announced shortly - stay tuned!

A few of the features of the Kindle2:

Large Selection: Over 260,000 books plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs available

Slim: Just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines

Lightweight: At 10.2 ounces, lighter than a typical paperback

Wireless: 3G wireless lets you download books right from your Kindle, anytime, anywhere; no monthly fees, service plans, or hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots

Books in Under 60 Seconds: Get books delivered in less than 60 seconds; no PC required

For more information, check out the Kindle 2 on Amazon.

Take a look at the incredible list of auction donors!

2009-04-20T23:44:00.001-05:00

In the right column of this blog is a list (including website links) of some of the incredible donors to the 2009 Da Vinci Academy Auction. Please take a look at the fantastic array of businesses represented in the donor list. We are excited to present these items at the auction. Be sure to submit your RSVP to attend. With such great donations, it's hard to resist!

Speaker Breakfast April 24 - Don't forget to RSVP!

2009-04-19T22:49:00.002-05:00

The Da Vinci Academy Auction Committee
Presents
Breakfast and Guest Speaker Program

Friday April 24, 2009
9-10:30 AM
The Elgin Country Club (directions below)

Resilience and Motivation: the Social/Emotional
Vulnerabilities of Gifted Learners

Discussion and talk led by Paula Altekruse
Learning Specialist & Coordinator of Academic Support
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA)

Sponsored by the Da Vinci Academy Parent Association

To attend this event, we ask for a donation of cash or gift card (suggested value:
$20.00 per family) for the Auction.

RSVP with your donation to Mrs. Bruns at the Da Vinci front desk by April 22th to
secure your reservation.

Address and Directions:
The Elgin Country Club
2575 Weld Road
Elgin IL 60124
Clubhouse (847) 741-1716
Directions: From the school, go north on Randall Road to Weld Road on left (Otter
Creek Shopping Center) to Club driveway on left.
Note: Weld Road comes in just before Route 20.

Auction Meeting Status Updates

2009-04-08T13:13:00.004-05:00

Great meeting this morning. (Pictures to the right of auction committee members meeting at Panera this morning.) We discussed a wide range of topics. Primary outcomes:

- Still need to procure more items for the Buy a Bottle giveaways. Gift cards work really well for this, but so do tickets to sporting events or memberships or passes to museums.
- More items for the silent and live auction. We have an impressive collection of items for both the silent and live auction, however more items would be wonderful.
- RSVP for the event! And invite your friends, family members. Auction attendance is one of the biggest drivers of the success of the event. Please be sure to come, it's an enjoyable night and the items available for bidding will be exceptional this year!
- Sell Golden Tickets - a great way to involve far-flung family and friends. An email solicitation to my family members has resulted in a dozen ticket sales just this morning!
- Contribute to a class gift. Auction Ambassadors will be contacting classes to request donations to a class gift. Please consider donating to these gifts, which will be used in a variety of ways at the auction (either silent or live auction, or the take-a-chance raffle which is available only the night of the event.)

Stay tuned for an auction update to come via Friday Folders this week or next with a more complete listing of what we have and what we still need. Thank you for your support!

Golden Ticket Sales!

2009-04-07T20:57:00.003-05:00

Remember to sell Golden Ticket Raffle tickets this week! Two fantastic raffle items this year -

24" iMac desktop computer
or
LG 47" LCD HDTV and Sony Blue Ray DVD player

Approximate value of each prize is $1500. Winner does not need to be present to win. Tickets are $10 each or 6 for $50. This is a great way for grandparents are family and friends who may not be able to attend the auction to get a chance to participate in the auction, and maybe win a fabulous prize in the process!

Auction Meeting - Wednesday April 8

2009-04-06T23:15:00.004-05:00

The Auction committee will be meeting this Wednesday, April 8 at Panera just after drop-off in the morning. Please join us to hear latest status and strategize on how to get everything done before the auction - which is now less than a month away! (How did that happen?!) Hope to see you there!

Additional donations

2009-03-26T22:55:00.003-05:00

More wonderful donations are coming in. Be sure to check the right panel of the blog for major sponsors and donors. Please consider checking out the donor's websites and bringing your business to these generous local businesses.

A session of summer chess camp by Illinois Chess Teachers
3 hours of spring potting and a one hour garden consultation with the "Hairy Potter"
Microderm-abrasion with Don Gigante at One Salon in Geneva

More to come!

Update: Bears Jerseys

2009-03-26T22:53:00.000-05:00

Are for Urlacher and Hester. Cool!

Bears' Jerseys

2009-03-13T09:46:00.002-05:00

Two autographed Bears' jerseys have been donated! Thanks to Paula Nunn and family for these awesome jerseys. Bid on the jerseys *and* the Bears' Executive Suite to have a night basking in Bears' glory. This is going to be a great season, right?

Bears Game Executive Suite

2009-03-10T15:04:00.007-05:00

Da Bears Enjoy the Game in an Executive Suite

You and three friends will be guests in an Executive Suite for a Chicago Bears game (date to be determined). You will also recieve one underground parking pass that takes you under Soldier Field Stadium where you can take an elevator straight up to the top floor and enjoy a fun afternoon, (or evening, depending on time of the game) overlooking the center-line of Soldier Field. While watching the game, through the sky box window or up on one of the many TV monitors in the suite, you will enjoy the warmth of a heated suite and an assortment of food, drinks and desserts.

Date to be determined.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Tickets

2009-03-09T14:27:00.008-05:00

Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Presents

Scorched

Attention jazz fans,enjoy this special performance from your Box Seats: Box S, Floor/Aisle 2/0 seats are good for two patrons. Scorched is a landmark piece co-composed by CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Mark-anthony Turnage and jazz guitarist John Scofield. Scored for jazz trio and orchestra, Scorched is an intense and thrilling work based in classic tunes by former Miles Davis guitarist, making its North American premiere at this performance.

Featuring:
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Steven Sloane - Conductor
John Scofield - Guitar
John Patitucci - Bass
Peter Erskine - Drums

Performance Date:
May 23, 2009 8:00 PM

World Cup Soccer Qualifier Match June 6, 2009

2009-03-09T14:16:00.006-05:00

World Cup Soccer Match
2010 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

Do you have a Soccer Player in your family, what about a World Cup Fan? Well, they will love this...

Four Tickets to:
U.S. Men's Team VS. Honduras

June 6, 2009
Soldier Field
200 Level - Middle Field

Auction Wish List and Donation Ideas

2009-03-09T14:07:00.005-05:00

Auction Wish List and Donation Ideas

The Auction to be held on May 2, 2009 is approaching quickly. For those of you who would like to assist us in acquiring items for the Silent and Live Auction we have put together a list of donations ideas that we feel would be great additions to the Auction this year.

Wish List

Hot Air Balloon Ride
Hotel Room or Condo in Chicago
Sports Tickets/ Skybox
Concert Tickets or Theater Tickets
Vacation or Time Share Donations
Tour of a Business or Museum (Behind the Scenes)
Sports Memorabilia or Equipment
Water Park/Theme Park Tickets
Electronics Games/IPods/Computers
Special Wine or Collection of Gourmet Foods
Private Plane Ride or Exotic Car Ride
Airline Tickets or Air Fare to be used with a donated trip
A Collection of Your Families Favorite Books
Unique products, services, or experiences

Donation Ideas for Class Gifts or from Multiple Families:

Nintendo DS
iTouch or iPhone
Blue Ray DVD Player and DVDs
Digital Camera
Netbook
Wii
Play Station 3
Waterpark Passes
Baggo Yard Game
Firepit
iPod
Printer
Outdoor Speakers
Portable DVD Player
Small Flat Screen TV
Grill (Portable or Stand Alone)
Portable Tent (10’ x 10’)
Coffee Maker/Expresso Maker
Amazon Kindle2
Huge Water Slide for Yard
Handheld GPS unit for Geocaching

Auction Ambassadors are perfect contacts if you would like to participate in a class gift or partner with multiple families on a donation.

Donate Your Special Talent

Make a quilt or sew something, certificate for baked goods, etc…
Offer Lessons (Sewing or Knitting, Sports Instruction, Jewelry Making, Cooking)
Host a dinner party
Build a Tree House
House/Pet Sitting for a week
Host a Children’s Party of any kind
Donate a service from your company

Donation forms and Solicitation letter are available at the front desk. Remember, for every $500 in donations, you receive one free ticket to the Auction. The deadline for donations is April 15, 2009.

Wow! A lot more donations, check out these amazing items

2009-03-03T22:22:00.002-06:00

I am amazed at the latest batch of donations that have come in. More details on these will follow, but if you have any questions please ask in the comments section and we'll get answers as quickly as possible!

3 Nights in Door County at Sturgeon Bay (Cottage).
1 week in Florida - Bonita Springs (west coast near Fort Myers)
2 weeks at Avery Coonley's Summer Camp
Dinner and Wine and Chocolate Tasting hosted by Betty Wattanabe
Girls' Minature Golf Party (4) with Makena Barickman
Casino Party at Your Home by Parties with Pizazz
One semester of KinderMusik with Larry Diffenbach and Grace Hunt
Girls' Craft Birthday Party (6) with Ali's Cap Creations
Dinner at Rocks at Hotel Baker

2009-02-27T16:19:00.004-06:00

For our Da Vinci Community we have highlighted the most important ways you can help make the Auction a success:
-
- Solicit donations or make your own donations
- Sell Golden Ticket raffle tickets to family and friends
(be sure to buy some for yourself!)
- Attend the Auction (May 2, 2009)

We recognize that to do all three of these things it may be challenge. But we hope that your family will find a way to contribute in the ways mentioned above. A successful auction allows the school to invest in technology, professional development for the teachers, classroom resources and materials, sports equipment, art & music, and other areas that provide the best possible education for the students.

2009-02-27T16:06:00.004-06:00

Da Vinci Academy

Annual Benefit Auction
May 2, 2009
Q Center in St. Charles

Explore Your Future

Tentative Program
Registration 6:00 PM
Reception and Appetizers 6:00 PM
Take A Chance Sales, Golden Ticket Sales, and Buy A Bottle 6:00 PM
Dinner at 7:30 PM

Silent Auction Closing Times
Blue Silent Auction Closes at 8:00 PM
Silver Silent Auction Closes at 8:45 PM

Live Auction at 9:00 PM

During the Live Auction Program:
Fund-a-Project
Take a Chance Raffles
Golden Ticket Raffles

Dessert, Coffee & After Dinner Cocktails

Ticket Prices
$75.00 per ticket
Four Tickets for $ 280.00
Six Tickets for $ 410.00
Eight Tickets for $540.00 (Full Table)

Springsteen Tickets!

2009-02-19T14:49:00.004-06:00

Announcing our first big donation - four tickets to see Bruce Springsteen at the United Center! The concert date is May 12, just 10 days after the auction, so arrange your babysitters now so you can have the date free for when you win the tickets!

More details:

Section 231
Row 2
Seats 1-4
Includes a Parking Pass
Lexus Club Level
Value:$ 412.00

Class Project ideas

2009-02-18T13:43:00.005-06:00

Some news from the Class Projects team (Anita Swartwood and Amy Fleck):

Example of a Kjell Sandved poster:

Pre-K:
Pre-K will take inspiration from the artist Kjell Sandved who makes alphabet posters out of the extraordinary patterns on butterfly wings and in nature. They will explore around the school to find things in their surroundings that resemble the alphabet, photograph them and arrange them into a poster.

Kindergarten:
Will work on an outdoor garden piece. We are hoping to create a turtle family from clay pots. The intent is to have a parent turtle leading their children out into the world to "Explore."

Third Grade: Third grade will be doing a piece based on a map of the United States. We have yet to determine whether we will build it from maps, postcards or general items.

Other grades/advisories have ideas in the germination stage, stay tuned for more details. Some of the ideas include a torn paper/fabric collage, mosaic or pointillism, kaleidescopes, a written project in the "cerealism" style by artist Michael Albert, and painted Adirondack chairs.

If you'd like to get involved with class projects or have ideas to suggest, please post them in the comments or contact one of the volunteers involved.

Auction News

2009-02-16T10:08:00.004-06:00

There will be an Auction meeting this Wednesday, February 18, 2009 in the front lobby of school right after drop-off. We hope you can make it! The agendas at this time of year are heavily focused on Procurement - figuring out which donations we can get, how to target new businesses or encourage previous donors to contribute again, etc. If you are soliciting donations yourself, be sure to check the DVAcademy.org Auction webpage for the donor letter and form, as well as sponsorship forms.

Arlene Westbrook reports that she has begun soliciting donations and has several promising leads. There are rumors that Springsteen tickets are coming...stay tuned for the details and dates of that exciting event.

Kick-off meetings, photos of previous events

2009-02-06T13:30:00.003-06:00

Michelle Milo has been hosting kick-off meetings for Procurement for the 2009 Da Vinci Academy Auction this week. If you wanted to attend one but haven't had the chance, please contact her to set up a time. Procurement is obtaining items to be auctioned off at the event on May 2, 2009. We'd love your help on this important committee.

Additionally, we have some photos of previous years' events that we'll be adding in the coming days. For starters, here's a view of the Play Tent that was the 2nd grade class project in 2008.

Behind the play tent you can see part of the silent auction, which wraps around the entire ballroom at the Q Center.

Status update on Auction activities - Procurement

2009-02-01T22:15:00.004-06:00

The Auction committee has been busy already. We hope you'll consider getting involved in one of these ways, or looking for other ways to get involved through the roles and responsibilities document, found on the main Da Vinci Academy auction page on dvacademy.org.

Procurement
Procurement is our biggest to-do for the coming weeks. Auction items are procured through a combination of direct mail, face-to-face, and phone conversations with businesses both local and far afield. Every family can help with procurement by working within their own personal networks to find goods or services to donate. Have a family member with a vacation cottage who wouldn't mind donating a weekend or a week? Have seasons' tickets to a Chicago-area venue that you could spare a set of? How about the friend who works in the PR department for a sports team? Signed jerseys, tickets to sporting events, or special "behind the scenes" tours are big draws for the auction. Do you or someone in your social circle have an interesting job? Volunteer to take a small group of students through! One popular item from previous years' auctions is an insider tour of a firehouse, courtesy of an uncle of a Da Vinci student.

In addition to procuring through personal connections, we also solicit businesses by letter and in person. Please consider coming to an upcoming procurement meeting and/or getting in touch with Michelle Milo, Auction chair to get up to speed on what to do. Many volunteers find they can keep procurement letters with them in their car and bring them in on their everyday errands.

One benefit of this year's new Auction Blog is that it gives us another avenue to promote the businesses who donate goods or services to the auction. We will aim to list all businesses here as donations come in, and include links to business websites when available.

Additionally, we also sell advertising space in the auction catalog, which is given to all auction attendees. This can be another great way for local businesses to promote their brand.

Class Projects
Anita Swartwood will be coordinating the class projects for this year's auction. The class projects are a fun way for the kids to get involved with the event. Class projects from previous years have generated substantial funds for the school and include things such as a play tent, a hand-crafted chess set, large-scale collage and composite artwork, painted chairs, and many other wonderful pieces. Over the coming days and weeks we'll look to add photos of previous auction class projects so you can appreciate the scale and effort that goes into them, both on the part of the students and on the part of the volunteers who coordinate the work and the classroom teachers who help complete the projects.

Golden Ticket
This is a raffle of big-ticket items such as an iMac computer or flat-screen television. Tickets can be sold to friends and family, the winner does not need to be present at the auction to win (though we'd hope they'd consider attending!) In the coming week or two the items for the Golden Ticket raffle need to be finalized and purchased. We're still looking for committee members for the Golden Ticket committee. People who helped with it last year will be involved again to assist, but it'd be helpful to have another few volunteers.

Auctioneer
We are on the hunt for an auctioneer, the ones we have contacted thus far this year have previous engagements. If you know of anyone, please contact Michelle Milo or post a comment to this blog.

Welcome to the Da Vinci Academy Auction Blog!

2009-01-27T23:11:00.005-06:00

Welcome to the Da Vinci Academy Auction Blog. Da Vinci Academy is an independent school for gifted and talented students located in Elgin, IL. We hold a benefit auction once a year to raise additional (very much needed) funds for the school.

We are just kicking off Auction activities for the 2009 auction, taking place at the Q Center in St. Charles on Saturday May 2, 2009. We hope you will join us at the event, and volunteer to help with the event.

If you are a parent of a current or prospective Da Vinci student looking for more information, stay tuned. We'll use "parent" labels on the posts that are particularly relevant for parents.

If you are a local business who has donated goods or services to us in the past, thank you so much! We are hopeful your business marketing plans include Da Vinci this year. Our auction representatives will be in touch with you soon, or feel free to use the comments section on any blog post to let us know to get in touch with you.

We hope you'll consider subscribing to this blog and checking back often. We'll post news of big donations as they are received, decisions the auction committee makes, volunteer opportunities, donations needed, and whatever else seems newsy for the parent and local business community. This is our first year using a blog as a communications vehicle for the auction, so we'd really appreciate your feedback. Please use the comments sections on blog posts to give us opinions on information you'd like to see, features to include, things to discontinue.

We look forward to the conversation!