Auction Booklet
UU Fantasy Auction 2024
Welcome to the First Unitarian Church Fantasy Auction
May 10, 2024
Links for online actions:
- Pay online
- By logging in to Breeze
- Easiest if you have login saved
- Pay with credit card or bank account
- Select “Give to Fantasy Auction”
- By logging in to Breeze
- Look up what you have won and how much you owe
- Look up the status of any auction item
- 1Other instructions for bidding can be found below
Registration begins at 6pm
- Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, nibbles and beverages
- Wine is also available (suggested donation $3 a glass)
Review all Silent and Live Auction items in the program. Then bid high and bid often!
Registration and Payment by cash or check — Schweitzer Room
- Pre-paid registration at Will Call
- Pay online to pick up your Bidder number and skip the payment table
Silent Auction — Undercroft Gallery
Closes at 7:30pm
50/50 raffle — Undercroft Gallery
- See Brian Rohleder for tickets
- Raffle tickets are 1 for $1; 15 for $10
- 50/50 winner will be drawn during the Live Auction
Paper Bag Auction — Undercroft Gallery
- Tickets 1 for $1, 7 for $5, 15 for $10
- Winners will be drawn before the live auction
Live Auction — Church Sanctuary
- Live Auction begins at 7:45pm sharp with Auctioneer Michael Safran
- Grand Finale Live Auction Item: Instant Wine Cellar
After the Live Auction, you can pick up your won Silent Auction items
After paying, take you item slips from the Schweitzer Room down to the Undercroft Gallery to collect your item
Wonder who won your item?
Who’s coming to dinner?
Donor receipts will be available after the service Sunday
or mailed to you.
Silent Auction
Fine Dining / Everything Food
SA (1) Fresh-baked artisan breads
Two loaves of artisan breads delivered to your home: deli rye, cranberry golden raisin, jalapeño cheddar, or plain. (Note: this is NOT sourdough bread.) Your choice.
BIDS begin at $20
SA (2) Fresh-baked sourdough bread
Two loaves of whole wheat sourdough bread. And a bit of sourdough starter to help you make your own bread.
BIDS begin at $20
SA (3) Organic Bread of the Month Club #1
Love homemade whole-grain organic bread? Then you’ll love this subscription to Bread of the Month Club. Tony Rutigliano will bake and deliver one 2-pound loaf of sourdough bread in Nov., Dec., Jan. and Feb. to the lucky bidder. Winner gets one loaf of Polenta Bread; Whole-Grain Rye Bread; Country Whole Wheat; and Sesame and Flaxseed Bread. These loaves are inspired by the famous Tartine Bakery in San Francisco. Breads will be delivered to First UU on dates to be announced.
BIDS begin at $40
SA (4) Organic Bread of the Month Club #2
Love homemade whole-grain organic bread? Then you’ll love this subscription to Bread of the Month Club. Tony Rutigliano will bake and deliver one 2-pound loaf of sourdough bread in Nov., Dec., Jan. and Feb. to the lucky bidder. Winner gets one loaf of Polenta Bread; Whole-Grain Rye Bread; Country Whole Wheat; and Sesame and Flaxseed Bread. These loaves are inspired by the famous Tartine Bakery in San Francisco. Breads will be delivered to First UU on dates to be announced.
BIDS begin at $40
SA (5) Organic Bread of the Month Club #3
Love homemade whole-grain organic bread? Then you’ll love this subscription to Bread of the Month Club. Tony Rutigliano will bake and deliver one 2-pound loaf of sourdough bread in Nov., Dec., Jan. and Feb. to the lucky bidder. Winner gets one loaf of Polenta Bread; Whole-Grain Rye Bread; Country Whole Wheat; and Sesame and Flaxseed Bread. These loaves are inspired by the famous Tartine Bakery in San Francisco. Breads will be delivered to First UU on dates to be announced.
BIDS begin at $40
SA (6) Pick your homemade pie
Choose one of three delicious homemade pies: Gluten-free Pear Hazelnut; Caramel Crunch Apple; or Old-Fashioned Pecan (made with brown sugar, not corn syrup). For choice of pie and date desired contact Kate.
BIDS begin at $20
SA (7) Vegetarian dinner for 8-10 delivered to you
You invite the guests, set the theme and let M.R. Kelsey serve as your personal chef. She’ll work with you to plan, prepare and deliver a four-course vegetarian dinner to serve to 8-10 people in your home. Choose soup or appetizer; main course; sides; salad & dessert — with several options.
Date: To be arranged with winner Value: $250+ BIDS begin at $160
SA (8) Lebanese Dinner home delivered for 8
Host a Lebanese dinner for 8 in your home. Kim Francis will prepare and deliver appetizers, entrées, side dishes, salad, bread and dessert. Choose from an extensive menu of traditional Lebanese dishes that include hummus, baba ganoush, labneh, baked kibbeh, stuffed grape leaves, lubia, tabbouleh, baklava, ma’amoul, and more.
Date: Scheduled with winner BIDS begin at $200
SA (9) Cooking skills for kids
Let M. R. teach your children how to make and serve a dinner to you! Up to four lucky kids will get the experience of planning, cooking and serving a meal to their families. Cook it at MR Kelsey’s home; serve it at your home. (For kids ages 7-12; no more than two families at a time.)
Date: Arranged with winners BIDS begin at $30 per child
SA (10) Goodies from Greene
A gooseberry cake that serves 8 plus a pint of Gooseberry Chutney from Becky Studer’s garden in Greene County.
BIDS begin at $20
SA (11) More goodies from Greene
How about 12 orange muffins, rhubarb from the Studer garden in Greene County, and strawberry jam from local berries. Becky’s rhubarb plant was a gift from a friend years ago, who recently shared her recipe and muffins.
BIDS begin at $15
SA (12) A batch of Linzer cookies
Nothing could be more festive than a tray of these buttery, jam-packed Austrian cookies (approx 25-30 cookies). Whether for holidays or any days, enjoy! Or choose one of Margaret’s fabulous cakes instead of Linzer cookies.
BIDS begin at $30
SA (13) Batch #2 of Linzer cookies
Second batch of these popular buttery, jam-packed Austrian cookies (approx. 25-30 cookies). Also, you have the option of choosing one of Margaret’s fabulous cakes instead of Linzer cookies.
BIDS begin at $30
SA (14) Beer home brewing party for 4
Learn everything you need to know to get started brewing beer and find out what’s in it that makes it so good!
The main event will be the Brew Party, approximately 3-4 hours, complete with snacks at the home of Chas Murray and Raeann Olander, where your Brewmaster Nicholas Izzo will instruct you in beer making. All supplies including bottles are included.
You and up to three friends will end up with a total of two cases of 12 oz bottles (8 six-packs) of your own brew to enjoy. Your choice: American or British style ale, IPA, stout, porter or German-style lager.
Four to six weeks later is bottling day — which you may participate in or leave it to Nick — that takes about an hour. Your beer will be ready to drink 2-4 weeks later, depending on the style.
Offered for a group of up to 4 adults (minimum age: 21)
Date: to be determined and somewhat dependent on the style of beer BIDS begin at $180
For Home & Garden
SC (1) Spring quilt by Seven Sisters Quilters
A spring quilt by Unitarian Quilters Covenant group in a lovely assortment of colors on a neutral background. Good for a single or double bed. 100% cotton; can be put in your washer and dryer.
BIDS begin at $150
SC (2) Summer quilt by Seven Sisters Quilters
Summer quilt by Unitarian Quilters Covenant group made specifically for this auction, approximately 78 x 78 inches, handmade in bright sunshine colors: all cotton reds, yellows, pinks and oranges. You have to smile when you see it.
BIDS begin at $150
SC (3) 3 hours with a Master Gardener
Want to improve your garden? Considering rain barrels or rain gardens? Having trouble getting plants to grow in the shade? How about creating a pollinator garden? Scott Fingal will provide up to 3 hours of consultation time at your home to address problems you have with your home landscape.
Let Scott, a Master Gardener and a Phipps Sustainable Landscape Professional, help you get started.
Date: Offer valid until July 31 Value: $100+ BIDS begin at $60
SC (4) A field full of flowers
$500 worth of perennials to be delivered to homeowner, ready for planting. Denice Galpern, a garden enthusiast with over 30 years of gardening experience is offering more than 60 plants (large enough to transport) from her Pt. Breeze garden to beautify your own garden.
Choose from over 25 varieties, like Bee-Balm, Black-eyed Susan, Hellebore, Goldenrod, Daffodil & Tulip bulbs, Peonies, Wild Tiger Lilies, Lily of the Valley Asters, Bearded Irises, Japanese Anemone, Camassia and more.
Done in phases, you’ll discuss your yard’s condition (sun/shade etc.) with Denice, decide whether she or both of you will dig up the plants and then — keeping the plants safe until planted — deliver them to your home.
Value: $500 BIDS begin at $100
SC (5) Salad set
6 green leaf glass plates (8 x 9 in) and large glass serving plate (15 x 15 in).
BIDS begin at $30
SC (6) Etched glass vase
Vase 2.5 x 2.5 x 12 in high
Value: $70 BIDS begin at $30
Art
SD (1) Basel, Switzerland by “Grandpa Moses”
28”x22” landscape done in casien paint by Gideon Cohen (1894-1989), father-in-law of former First Church member Pearl Cohen. Known as “Grandpa Moses of Arlington, Massachusetts” his paintings have won national awards and were exhibited (and sold) in the Undercroft Gallery.
Value: $150 BIDS begin at $25
SD (2) Unitarian Church by “Grandpa Moses”
36”x20” church in Maine done in casien paint by Gideon Cohen (1894-1989), father-in-law of former First Church member Pearl Cohen. Known as “Grandpa Moses of Arlington, Massachusetts” his paintings have won national awards and were sold in the Undercroft Gallery.
Value: $200 BIDS begin at $25
SD (3) Original oil painting by UU artist: “Avocado-n-Eggs”
Oil painting 8 x 10, Avocado-n-Eggs, exhibited at UU Undercroft Gallery by award-winning Julie Stunden, CAPA teacher and Yale MFA.
BIDS begin at $100
SD (4) Statue of female nude
13” tall on 4.5” base
Value: $175 BIDS begin at $25
SD (5) Chinese clay sculptures
3 Chinese unfired clay sculptures, purchased by UU member in Suzhou, China from a rural artisan.
Value: $100 BIDS begin at $40
SD (6) Starburst flower metal sculpture
“Starburst” flower metal sculpture made entirely of recycled cans by artist Julia Sawyer, a friend of our church. With loops attached to the back, this arresting piece may be hung on a wall or post or displayed flat as a centerpiece. 8 ½ inches across.
BIDS begin at $40
SD (7) Children’s art box with tempera paint
For ages 3 and up, this creative art box has 12 different kinds of art materials and supplies to inspire imagination, expression and visual learning.
Value: $60 BIDS begin at $30
SD (8) Children’s art box with liquid water colors
For ages 4 and up, this creative art box has 12 different kinds of art materials and supplies to inspire imagination, expression and visual learning.
Value: $60 BIDS begin at $30
SD (9) Water color: “Man looking down canyon”
“Man looking down canyon” by Robert Cook, noted Pgh artist and former president of Pgh Watercolor Society
BIDS begin at $40
SD (10) Water color: “Chinatown, SF”
“Chinatown, San Francisco” by Robert Cook, noted Pgh artist and former president of Pgh Watercolor Society
Value: $600 BIDS begin at $50
SD (11) Water color: “Spring Blooms”
“Spring blooms” by Robert Cook, noted Pgh artist and former president of Pgh Watercolor Society
BIDS begin at $40
SD (12) Print: “The Iceberg” by Frederick Church
Print of oil painting in Carnegie Museum of Art by Frederick Edwin Church, renown 19th century American landscape artist and central figure in the Hudson River School of American landscape painters.
BIDS begin at $25
SD (13) Print: “Bellagio, Lake Como”
Print: “Bellagio, Lake Como” Artist unknown
BIDS begin at $25
Services
SS (1) Challenge Rev. Kate: you pick her sermon topic
Sermon topic of your choice for Rev. Kate — consultation expected. The sermon will be delivered on a mutually agreed date. In the past Rev. Kate has been asked to preach on Star Trek, happy marriages and The Beverly Hillbillies, among other topics. Go on! Challenge her!!
BIDS begin at $75
SS (2) Five hours of architectural services
Could include residential or commercial remodeling and/or additions, site visit and minor drawings by Brian Rohleder, architect. Good until June 1, 2025.
Value: $500 BIDS begin at $200
SS (3) Three tutoring sessions
Montessori teacher for grades 1-9 offers three tutoring sessions. Most subjects are available; specialties are Elementary school Math to Elementary Functions; Chemistry or Physics; Writing mechanics and organization. Cathy Rohrer is a certified Montessori teacher with a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering.
Value: $180 BIDS begin at $50
SS (4) Career counseling for goal clarification
One hour of career counseling to explore “What do I want to be when I grow up?” for high school through retirees. Karen has decades of experience and is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Career Counselor.
Value: $175 BIDS begin at $50
SS (5) Private transportation to & from airport
Alice Bright and Robert Sullivan’s son provides private transportation to the Pgh International Airport and back. Now you can travel to and from the airport in comfort —and save a parking fee.
Value: $150-$170 BIDS begin at $60
SS (6) The Art of Falling Safely for 6
Barbara Litt, head instructor at Aikido Kokikai Pittsburgh, has developed a curriculum that applies Aikido principles honed from over 35 years of being thrown to falling safely in everyday life for anyone who doesn’t practice Aikido. Participants practice 8 principles of falling safely.
This summer Barbara will hold two 2-hour sessions at church with mats for up to 6 people on consecutive Saturday afternoons (scheduled by Doodle poll). She will work with you as a group and individually, setting you up for successful practice at home, so you can build muscle memory and have the techniques be a part of you. This also acts as a refresher for anyone who’s taken her class before.
BIDS begin at $30 per person (indicate number you’re bidding for) top six bidders win
SS (7) Add floral wonder to your celebration
Safflowers, a unique on-line floral boutique and studio, is offering $1,000.00 of flower services for the lucky winner. Owner Michael Safran will create floral arrangements for your home, celebrations and special events. The designs can be elegant with scented tuberose, peony, lilac, freesia and Casablanca lilies… or simple with forsythia, parrot tulips and grape hyacinths Ikebana-style.
If the winners are not planning a special event they could have fresh cut flowers delivered to their home throughout the year. Details can be worked out after the auction. (http://safflowers.org/beta.html)
Date: Offer good through the end of May, 2025 Value: $1000 BIDS begin at $250
SS (8) Reiki realignment and isolation floating
Leave the stress and excess of the outside world behind when you receive a Reiki treatment and a 60-minute sensory deprivation float. Get energetically realigned by Reiki Master Louie Portella — it can be done at Levity Float Studio or remotely!
Then experience the mood-boosting bliss of a sensory deprivation float at Levity Float Studio that eases your muscles and your mind: relax tired muscles, reduce stress and eliminate external stimuli for more inner clarity.
Louie has been a Reiki Master in the Usui tradition for over 9 years — with over 750 happy, happy recipients!
Date: Valid until Dec. 31, 2024 Value: $90 BIDS begin at $45
SS (9) Two 60-minute floating tank sessions
Experience the mood-boosting bliss of two sensory deprivation floats at Levity Float Studio. Some of the restorative effects: relax tired muscles without the pressure of gravity, reduce stress and eliminate external stimuli for more inner clarity. Valid until Dec. 31, 2024
Value: $120 BIDS begin at $75
SS (10) Three 30-minute Reiki realignment sessions
Get energetically realigned by Reiki Master Louie Portella — it can be done at Levity Float Studio or remotely! Louie has been a Reiki Master in the Usui tradition for over 9 years — with over 750 happy, happy recipients!
Date: Valid until Dec. 31, 2024 Value: $90 BIDS begin at $40
SS (11) Reverse appliqué workshop for 4
Bring three friends with you to Barb Gengler’s 3-hour, hands-on workshop. You’ll begin with a preview and practice of the reverse-appliqué technique; then choose a design, with access to a plethora of fabrics to build your own foundation. Designs will be stitched out on a longarm quilting machine. Patterns unfold as four crafters cut away layers to reveal their own unique design.
This 3-hour, hands-on workshop for 4 will be held at CandyStore Quilting, 7501 Penn Avenue, in the same building complex that houses the East EndFood Co-op.
Value: $200 BIDS begin at $100
SS (12) Pet sitting with furry friendly family
Up to two weeks of pet sitting. All kinds of pets welcome, and all will be given LOTS of love. Also we’ll water your plants, take in your mail, etc. For dog sitting, we’d likely have your dog stay with us. (We do have cats.) We’ll work out a plan with you and your pet.
BIDS begin at $100
SS (13) Family photo session in your home
After you set up your photo shoot, Pgh photographer Larry Rippel will visit your home on a weekend morning before the shooting date to determine the best place for your family photo. Then on the day of the photo-taking Larry will arrive an hour beforehand to set up lights, etc. Your family photograph will be uploaded to his site for you to download (you will be given a password for security).
Value: $500 BIDS begin at $150
SS (14) Private Balancing Movement Lesson
Let Mary Pat Mengato lead you in a 1_ hour private movement lesson designed to meet your needs and abilities. Seated, standing and floor movements will assist you to align and center your structure and energy, finding ease, fluidity and balance. The work is based on Unity in Motion and other gentle practices; includes hands-on guidance.
Mary Pat is a movement artist, Unity in Motion teacher and multidimensional energy/bodywork practitioner.
Value: $70 BIDS begin at $50
More Fun Stuff
SF (1) Rev. Kate’s Pizza & Game night for 6
Join Rev. Kate and family (includes two Springer Spaniels), for Mark’s home-made pizza with ice tea or lemonade, to play multi-generational games. Appropriate for all ages.
Date: Sunday, Sept. 15, 5-7 pm BIDS begin at $20 per space; indicate number being bid on; top 6 bids win
SF (2) Yamaha PSR-330 Keyboard
Yamaha PSR-330 electronic keyboard: 61 keys. circa- early 1990s. Complete with stand, owner’s manual, power supply and plug-in cartridge. Excellent for practicing the piano. From original owner and lightly used.
Value: $100-$125 BIDS begin at $50
SF (3) UU Bookstore gift certificate
Value: $25 BIDS begin at $10
SF (4) Birds of a feather flock at Aviary for 3
Spend a morning at the National Aviary with Jean and Martin Schmidt and more than 500 beautiful birds from around the world; have a close encounter with Rainbow Lorikeets who land gently on your arm to drink nectar from a cup in your hand; see an interactive theater show; and then lunch at the Aviary café. Super fun for children (age 4 and up) and/or adults. Transportation included to and from your home.
Bid on a single space or up to 3. (3 kids or 3 adults or any combination of kids and adults)
Date: Saturday June 1, 9am to 1pm Value: $40 per space BIDS begin at $25 per space
SF (5) Two Tickets for Nina Totenberg
Two Pittsburgh Speakers Series tickets to hear Totenberg. “With a career spanning more than 40 years as NPR’s legal affairs correspondent, Totenberg has covered the Supreme Court longer than any sitting justice has served.”
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 25, 8pm, at Heinz Hall Value: $170 BIDS begin at $70
SF (6) Jigsaw puzzle organizer
Wooden jigsaw puzzle organizer with 4 pullout drawers, plus two good-quality jigsaw puzzles with no pieces missing (500 and 750 pieces).
Value: $50 BIDS begin at $20
SF (7) Two Penguins Tix for 2024/25 Home Opener
“It’s a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh!” Come see the Penguins in their home opener for the 2024-25 NHL season where they hope to get back into the playoffs and chase Lord Stanley’s Cup again! Can Sidney Crosby and the Penguins keep pace with the rest of the Metro division and rise to the top? Oh Slap me silly Sidney! Come to the home opener and find out!!
Date: Home Opener date will be set in the coming weeks by the NHL — usually in Oct. (If game date does not work for winning bidder, tix could be swapped out for another home game as available). Value: $125 BIDS begin at $50
SF (8) Private tour for 10 at Phipps Conservatory
Join Docent Mike Crawmer for a private 1_ hour tour of Phipps Conservatory and be enchanted with its summer show, Under the Sea, a colorful dive into the magical underworld of the ocean with whimsical displays of sea creatures, unique foliage, and fantastic flora. During the tour you will visit the butterfly exhibit, walk through Hawaii in the groundbreaking Tropical Rainforest, and learn some of the history of this beloved Pgh site.
Recommended dress: casual & good walking shoes. Bring camera/cellphones; photographic opportunities abound. (FYI: Renovations mean the Sunken Garden, Desert Room, and Japanese Courtyard Garden will not be on the tour.)
Date: Sunday, June 9, 1:30pm; meet in Welcome Center
Fixed Bid: $20 — First 10 who sign up get the tour
SF (9) Game night without kids
Need a relaxing night and some laughs? Join Al & Rob Schwartz in their Highland Park home for an evening of dinner & games! It’s adults only so leave the kids at home.
You’ll start with appetizers, drinks (both alcoholic and non) and the Hat Game. Then break for dinner and play some Chronology. Finally it’s dessert and Mexican Dominoes. If you know the games, great! If not, no worries, your hosts will teach you. The night’s more about fun and community rather than competition.
Date: Saturday, June 15, 6:00 PM
BIDS begin at $20 each; indicate number bid; top 6 bids win
SF (10) Urban bike tour for 8 with Nancy & Rev. Kate
Pittsburgh has bike trails along all three rivers — really! But it takes a knowledgeable guide to connect them smoothly. Our own Nancy Latimer (experienced bike trip leader) and Rev Kate (experienced bicyclist) will show you the secret connections. You can expect a great 12-15 mile tour of the city and its riverfronts with plenty of interesting stops along the way via the Three Rivers Heritage Trail. Bring a daypack, water and snacks. We’ll do three hours of easy pedaling. Your own helmets & bikes required.
Date: Aug. 6, 6pm; RAIN DATE: Aug. 16
Fixed Bid: $20 — first 8 who sign up win the tour
SF (11) Dual 1-year membership to Phipps
Your dual membership first begins when you use it and is valid for one year. You also may give this membership as a gift and the same rules apply.
Value: $99 BIDS begin at $60
SF (12) Family 1-year membership to Phipps
Your family membership first begins when you use it and is valid for one year. You also may give this membership as a gift and the same rules apply.
Value: $129 BIDS begin at $75
SF (13) 6-book series by popular local author
Do you like witty banter and snarky dialogue? Do you crave books with big, nosy families who always butt in? Do you believe everyone deserves a happily ever after? Meet the Brady Family — they’re brooding, brilliant, and barreling into relationships they weren’t expecting.
Six books, attributed to “USA Today” bestselling author Lainey Davis, about a quirky family of engineers, set in the Steel City and centered around epic sinkholes, landslides and other engineering meet-cutes. Unexpected love has turned the Brady family’s world upside-down, and these fun special editions are for YOU to turn upside-down.
Package also includes the 3 tête-bêche duets, vellum inserts for each book and a sticker showing the Brady family.
Value: $100 BIDS begin at $30
SF (14) High steppin’ the Southside steps
Enjoy a 2-hour, 3-mile Southside Steps Hike up and down the unique stairways of Pgh with Nancy Latimer, your experienced trip leader. Tour includes some amazing views of the city, plus history and interesting city facts. Maximum 10 people; Difficulty: Moderate
Date: Tues, June 11, 6-8pm
Fixed Bid: $20 — first 10 who sign up win the tour
SF (15) Playtime at Romp N Roll
Romp N Roll is a one-of-a-kind learning and play center for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. This $100 gift certificate is a gift that builds creativity and confidence through gym, art and music classes.
Their vibrant community is a wonderland where children aged 3 months to 5 years can explore, learn and grow in spaces designed to ignite curiosity and creativity. For more information, visit their website (https://rompnroll.com/) then choose your preferred option, select the time that suits you best and confirm your reservation — all from the comfort of your home. Visit us at our first Pgh location (Pgh North & Pgh South coming soon): 6600 Hamilton Ave., Suite 200, Pittsburgh 15206 (412-717-1220)
BIDS begin at $50
SF (16) 3-piece wardrobe for American Girl doll
Custom-made wardrobe for your favorite little (18 inch) “American girl.” Lots of patterns available. (See binder on table for examples.) Bid does not include doll.
Value: $50 BIDS begin at $30
SF (17) All-ages family game night
Have fun with the Staresinics at an all-ages family game night. Bring an extended crowd (the more the merrier) for a PotLuck game night. Play games like Banagrams, Qwirkle, Rat-A-Tat-Cat, Five Card, Sorry! Don’t Be Sad, Man!). They’ll bring the games, teach the basics, and you bring yourselves and a bit of food and drink.
Hosts will arrange with you for a mutually agreeable time and place for this gathering, though at Church on a Friday or Saturday evening would be best.
BIDS begin at $25
SF (18) Purse (Rebecca Minkoff)
Value: $200 BIDS begin at $25
SF (19) Giant giraffe (stuffed!)
4 and a half foot tall stuffed animal giraffe. Brand: Melissa and Doug, new with tags.
BIDS begin at $50
SF (20) Summer flowers in your home
Bring summer into your home when you win six bouquets throughout the summer of seasonal flowers and herbs from the permaculture garden of Affiliated Community Minister, Rev. Stephanie Gannon. The bouquets will be delivered to your home (or pick-up at the church, if that is more convenient for you).
BIDS begin at $50
SF (21) Handcrafted eco boxes
Group of three eco-friendly, custom-made gift boxes decorated inside and out: reusable, one-of-a-kind boxes.
BIDS begin at $50
SF (22) Gift box custom made for you
Stephanie will also custom make a box for the winner on a topic or design of their choice. Check her website for ideas: (click on Present Tense when it opens) https://www.labellitude.com/
BIDS begin at $25
SF (23) 1st Afternoon high tea @ Inn on Negley for 4
Afternoon high tea became a favorite for visitors since the Inn on Negley opened — styled after the traditional teas of the British isles. Now bring your family or friends to dine in their Victorian dining room or outside on their deck.
Their chefs feature ingredients from Pittsburgh’s most famous bakeries, butcher shops and ethnic shops. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are offered.
Date: Good until May, 2025 BIDS begin at $75
Live Auction
Dates to Keep in Mind (for Live Auction)
June 9: Brunch Kentucky style (LA-11)
June 22: Secrets of the Strip tour (LA-3)
June 23: Summer Pancake brunch (LA-15)
July 7: Traditional Egypt dinner (LA-7)
July 14: Persian Dinner (LA-19)
Aug. 3: Whiskey Tasting (LA-10)
Aug. 10: East African Swahili dinner (LA-6)
Aug. 24: Chinese Tea Party (LA-1)
Sept. 8: How to be a Wine Snob tasting (LA-16)
Sept. 14: Tasting Pgh’s best brews (LA-8)
Sept. 21: Catered Vegetarian dinner (LA-5)
Oct. 12: High Tea (LA-14)
Oct. 13: Autumn Pancake brunch (LA-18)
Nov. 1: Girls Want to Have Fun Book Party (LA-13)
Winners’ Pick:
Oven Baked Pizza Party (LA-2)
Tablas Creek wine tasting (LA-12)
Inn on Negley High Tea (LA-4)
Live Auction
LA (1) Chinese Tea Party at Rev. Kate’s for 6
Rev. Kate’s Chinese Tea Party features a variety of black, oolong and white teas, accompanied by an assortment of Asian snacks. Share a laugh with Rev. Kate and family (includes two Springer Spaniels) over easy to learn games for all ages.
Date: Saturday, Aug. 24, 4-6 pm
BIDS begin at $20 per person
LA (2) Brick Oven Baked Pizza Party for 8
Head to Kate Snow’s home for a pizza party where guests create their own sourdough pizzas and bake them in the brick oven in her backyard!
Choose from a variety of ingredients to build your own pizza, then watch it slide off the peel into the oven and cook in minutes at 1100°!!! While you wait: wine, beer, sangria, iced tea or water are great ways to wash it down. Finish off the evening with a chocolate eclair dessert!
Date: Finalized with winning bidders
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (3) Secrets of the Strip 2-hour tour for 6
Join Sam Hens-Greco and five friends in a two-hour tour of the Strip District. Begin with coffee at La Prima, which is included, and then discover the hidden gems of Pittsburgh’s Strip District.
Date: 45465
BIDS begin at $20 per person
LA (4) 2nd Afternoon high tea @ Inn on Negley for 4
Afternoon high tea became a favorite for visitors since the Inn on Negley opened — styled after the traditional teas of the British isles. Now you can bring your family or friends to dine in one of their intimate Victorian dining rooms or outside on their beautiful deck.
Their chefs feature ingredients from Pittsburgh’s most famous bakeries, butcher shops, and ethnic shops. While the menu is seasonal, guests will find such mainstays as vanilla crème scones, roasted chicken salad on homemade gougeres, petite quiches, decadent cheesecakes, lemon madeleines, and French macaroons. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are offered (subject to availability).
Date: Good until April, 2025 Value: $200
BIDS begin at $75 for all four diners
LA (5) Pure Grub Catered vegetarian dinner for 6
Your hosts Eleanor Mayfield and Bob Pego welcome six guests to their Squirrel Hill home to enjoy a delicious organic, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free dinner catered by Pure Grub, Pittsburgh’s premier plant-based caterer. (The menu includes a nut-based sweet treat.) Without sacrificing any of the flavor, owner Asante’ Bierria draws on his West Indian, Cuban and southern American background for his offerings, utilizing wholesome and delicious vegetables and even trendy items — though rooted in indigenous Central American cuisine. No wonder Pittsburgh Magazine calls Pure Grub as Pure Love.
Date: Saturday, Sept. 21, 6pm
BIDS begin at $35 per person
LA (6) East African Swahili dinner for 6
Get ready for a flavorful tour of Swahili cuisine! Zanzibar’s location in the spice trade route brought Indian and Arab influences to African culture and cuisine, melding with Kenyan and Tanzanian traditions to create succulent dishes. Please join your hostess Julie Downs for a casual evening of wining and dining, and general merry making. Menu includes: Passion daiquiris, Nyama juu ya fimbo (tenderloin skewers), M’tori supu (traditional African soup), Kuku njugu (peanut chicken), Sukuma wiki (greens—literal translation is “push the week” — this is the staple that helps get everyone through the week until the next market day), and Tanzanian coconut rice.
Date: Aug. 10; cocktails at 6pm; dinner at 7pm
BIDS begin at $30 per person
LA (7) Traditional Egyptian Dinner for 6
Join your hosts on the Islamic New Year, which marks the beginning of a new lunar Hijri year, and enjoy a tasty dinner of traditional Egyptian cuisine — including one dish dating back to the pharaohs.
Begin with Egyptian hummus and a slightly spicy Ful Medanes; followed by Lentil Soup; your choice of Fattah (lamb with rice, toasted pita, and tomato sauce) or Mediterranean Fish, Shakshuka style; with the Egyptian classic Om Ali pudding for dessert. Drinks will include Karkadeh (hibiscus tea), Sobia (spiced coconut drink), Shai Bil Na’na (mint tea) and wine.
Date: Sunday, July 7, 6:30 PM
BIDS begin at $35 per person
LA (8) Tasting Pgh’s best brews for 8 adults
Join Rev. Kate and her nephew, Ryan Thompson, former beer and wine buyer at Pittsburgh’s Whole Foods, for a tasting of Pittsburgh’s best brews. Pub snacks will help fill the belly. Adults only. (Evening includes two Springer Spaniels).
Date: Saturday, Sept. 14, 7-9pm
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (9) Laurel Highlands 5-day getaway
Here’s a getaway close to home: the country house of Hugh McGough & Kris Rust on 14 acres overlooking Chestnut Ridge, adjacent to a horse farm in the Laurel Highlands. Perfect for a family or group of friends: 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, fireplace and a large deck. Dog friendly.
Enjoy beautiful views of Laurel Ridge and Chestnut Ridge, explore the woods and meadows and sip wine on the deck. (15 minutes from Ligonier; 30 minutes from Johnstown.)
With flexible scheduling for a 5-day stay (Thurs.-Mon.), pick a mutually acceptable date with Kris & Hugh.
Value: $1000 BIDS begin at $500
LA (10) Whiskey tasting 2.0 for 10
Dan Fortier may not be a whisky sommelier but he knows his Scotch, which he demonstrated at this successful event in 2019. This time Dan offers two separate tastings simultaneously: (1) A Survey of Whiskey track and (2) A Deep Dive into Scotch Whisky track. You pick the track.
Those who choose (1) the Survey of Whiskey will taste Bourbon, rye, Irish, Scotch, and American Single malt whiskies. Those who choose (2) the Deep Dive into Scotch will compare single malt scotches of the different regions of Scotland, and of various ages and finishes, and we’ll answer the question: why is there peat?
The whiskies available for tasting during this event will be top shelf, and for the most part not available in Pennsylvania. There will be enough whiskies available to tailor the choice of bottles to taste for each individual.
With more than 25 whiskies to choose from, here are some of the special whiskies that will be highlighted:
Scotch: A 24 year old Speyside; An 18 year old limited release sherry finish Islay; A 17 year old Pedro Ximenez sherry finish limited release Islay; Several limited release Arbegs; Difficult to find Campbeltowns; The original Offerman Lagavulin.
Bourbon/rye/American Single malts: Limited release rye from local distillery Liberty Pole; direct from the barrel bourbon, hand bottled at Heaven Hill Distillery; a hard to find bourbon from craft Kentucky distillery; private barrel selection “stave profile” from Makers Mark; the 15th Anniversary special release from Texas distillery Balcones.
During this guided whisky tasting we will discuss aspects of whisky that are relevant to all types of whiskey, including: Whiskey reviews; Where to buy whisky; Whisky aging, maturation and finishing; Whisky regions of Scotland; The American bourbon trail and distillery visits; Why are there sometimes lines at PA Fine Wine and Good Spirits stores (!); and How do you pronounce Laphroaig, Ledaig, and Toiteach?
Plus, a wee bit of something to enjoy at another time will be provided to each participant to take home.
Date: Aug. 3
BIDS begin at $40 per person
LA (11) Scrumptious Brunch Kentucky style for 12
One of the best things Stephanie Sullivan got from her time in Kentucky was their food, and now she’s planning a relaxing and scrumptious brunch to share it all with you! Baby Browns, Coach House Salad, Derby Benedicts, Burnt Caramel Custards, and more. And, of course, her partner Tom will pour the juleps, Kentucky lemonade and iced tea. Feel free to wear your Derby gear and come hungry.
Date: Sun, June 9, 1pm; Rain Date: June 23
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (12) Tablas Creek Vineyard wine tasting for 6
The instructions are Virtual; the tasting is Live! Enjoy an intimate tasting of Tablas Creek wines at LeeAnne Haworth and Kirk Striebich’s home as the winemaker presents a live, virtual tasting for six guests, which showcases the award-winning Paso Robles winery. Its history, culture & wines will be discussed with opportunities to ask questions of the online staff. Try these award-winning wines plus delicious hors d’oeuvres for a truly informative and fun evening. Winners and hosts will settle on a date for the tasting.
Listed in the “Top 100 Wineries in America” by a panel of sommeliers, wine writers, chefs and restaurateurs, Tablas Creek is dedicated to producing wines from the grapes traditional to France’s Rhone Valley.
Date: Late summer or fall
BIDS begin at $35 per person
LA (13) Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Swap Books – Dinner Party for 14
It’s a once-a-year ladies-only book club with benefits! Join Karen Burns in her Plum home (and Jan Carlino her co-host) for a fabulous repast, prepared by Tony Rutigliano, including wine, soft drinks and hors d’oeuvres; dinner buffet and dessert.
In between the chatting and dining, you’ll be part of the best darn book tale lightning round you’ve ever heard! Everyone brings one or two beloved books and gives an impassioned (brief) testimonial for it. Then a lucky lady gets to take the book home. It’s great fun, and you’ll receive the entire booklist after the party as a bonus. (Makes a great book list agenda for the next year.)
Date: Friday, November 1 — 6pm
BIDS begin at $40 per person
LA (14) High Tea at Rev. Kate’s for 6
Join Rev. Kate and family (includes two Springer Spaniels) for High Tea featuring a selection of black and herbal teas, accompanied by a variety of sweet and savory treats. Appropriate for all ages, hats encouraged.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 12, 4-6 pm
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (15) Summer Pancake Brunch for 8 – June 23
Join Karen and Tony Rutigliano at their home in Plum overlooking a beautiful summertime field, for a delicious Pancake Brunch. (Come after church for a no-cook break!) They’ll have delicious ricotta pancakes (a popular treat), with bacon/ham, fruit salad, Mimosas and other luscious accompaniments. Up to 8 guests will enjoy each other’s company… and a leisurely afternoon.
Date: June 23, 1:00 PM
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (16) How to be a Wine Snob: wine tasting for 8
Beginners and knowledgeable wine lovers alike should enjoy this informal wine tasting (with heavy appetizers) in the hosts’ Victorian home. Get to know your fellow wine tasters over a glass of Champagne. Then practice the steps in analyzing wine. After tasting several flights you’ll compare wines in a blind tasting. At least eight different wines will be served during the tasting. Don’t bring anything but enthusiasm for this informative and fun night. And remember, there are no rights or wrongs. You are the best judge as to which wines you like. You might even taste a wine you’ve never tried — or heard of — before.
David has facilitated a wine tasting group for more than 40 years and taught classes at CCAC and organized wine tastings as fund-raisers.
Date: Sunday, September 8, 6:30 PM
BIDS begin at $35 per person
LA (17) Eye care/eyewear: I can see clearly now
Lawrenceville Vision Care is changing the way we see eye care, and now you’ll be the one who sees clearly. With highly trained Optometrists, this friendly neighborhood eye clinic administers high-quality, personal eye care for the entire family: comprehensive eye exams, contact lens evaluations, refractive surgery options & medical eye care.
To make your eye care & eyewear more accessible: Here’s a $300 gift certificate from Lawrenceville Vision Care. They accept most vision plans for routine eye care, however, every vision plan differs in its coverage for glasses, contact lenses and exam services. (It’s a simple process to verify benefits.)
More info on Lawrenceville Vision Care: http://www.lawrencevillevisioncare.com/
BIDS begin at $75
LA (18) Autumn Pancake Brunch for 8 – Oct. 13
Join Karen and Tony Rutigliano at their home in Plum overlooking a lovely autumnal farm panorama, for a scrumptious Pancake Brunch. (Come after church for a no-cook break!) They’ll serve delicious ricotta pancakes (a popular treat), with bacon/ham, fruit salad, Mimosas and other luscious accompaniments. Up to 8 guests will enjoy each other’s company on a leisurely autumn afternoon.
Date: Oct. 13, 1:00 PM
BIDS begin at $25 per person
LA (19) Persian Dinner for 8
Join the Masalehdans in their Point Breeze home for an authentic Persian dinner. Appetizers include Kashk-e-badamjan (eggplant and whey dip) with pita bread and warm Persian nuts. Dinner will start with Aash-e-joe (a light Barley soup) followed by the main dish, Fesenjan, which consists of chicken, walnuts and pomegranate molasses, served with saffron rice. Sabzi salad with mint, scallions, radishes and feta cheese will accompany the meal. Finally, all will be topped off with an edible artwork (Shol-e-zard) which is rice pudding with saffron, cardamom, pistachio slivers and cinnamon lettering.
Date: Sunday, July 14, 5:00 PM
BIDS begin at $60 per person
LA (20) Instant wine cellar
General Bidding Instructions
To bid on a silent auction item
- Write your bidder number on the last line of the auction sheet and an amount that is higher than the previous bid(s) by at least the incremental bid amount noted at the top of the form
- Whoever bid the highest amount when the auction closes wins at that bid price
To bid on a live auction item
- Hold up your bidder number so the auctioneer can see it
- If they call your bidder number, then you have bid at the price that they call
- Bidding continues until no one cares to outbid the high bidder; that person has won
- In the event that there is more than one item available (e.g., six seats at a dinner)
- The highest bidder chooses how many to buy at their price
- If any remain, the next highest bidder chooses how many to buy at their winning price
- Et cetera until all items are claimed
To buy tickets for the auction using a credit card or bank account
- If you already pay your pledge online you can log in
- If not, you can enter your credit card or bank information directly
- Give $10 per ticket and select “Give to Fantasy Auction”
- If the ticket is more more than just you, let us know who else
- Your bidder number(s) will be waiting for you at Will Call in the Schweitzer Room
To pay for the auction items you have won
- Consult the dynamically updated Bidder Summary page to see which items (silent and regular auction) you have won and how much payment is due
- Pay from your own phone on Breeze
- If you already pay your pledge online you can log in
- If not, you can enter your credit card or bank information directly
- Select “Give to Fantasy Auction”
- Write your bidder number (and the number of any other bidder you are paying for, such as your spouse, partner or child)
- Pay at the table
- Write a check or use cash
- Once you have paid, your “Balance” on the Bidder Summary page should update to PAID
To pick up the auction items you have won and paid for
- Consult the dynamically updated Bidder Summary page to ensure that you have paid for all your items (it should say PAID under “Balance”)
- For Take-home items
- Pick up your auction item tags next to the payment table
- Proceed downstairs to the Undercroft Gallery with any tags that say PICK UP
- A volunteer will be available to have you sign for your item and help you bring it to your car if needed
- All other items (dinners, classes, consultations, etc.)
- You will receive follow-up information about the item by email, or you can reach out to the item donor to coordinate
To look up the status of any particular auction
- Find the auction item number in the booklet
- Consult the dynamically updated Auction Item Summary page
THANK YOU
Thanks to YOU for attending tonight and supporting First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh!!!
A HUGE THANK YOU to our Generous Auction Donors!
And many thanks to our event volunteers:
David Doorley and Brian Rohleder; Julie, Theo, Simone Downs; Moira Dunn; Sarah Fields; Liz Foley; Laura Gallagher; Kyle Gracey; LeeAnne Haworth, Kirk and Kadri Striebich; Bethany Irwin; Nancy Latimer; Maria Lauro; Peter Layman; Heather, Rob, Ruby Masterson; Janet Pohl; Shelley Ross; Michael Safran; Rose Saville-Iksic; Jean Schmidt; Al, Rob, Charlie Schwartz; Pat Ulbrich
Our wonderful, big-hearted donors