AnconaGala2025 | Powered By GiveSmart

Thank You Gustavo Bamberger and Martha Van Haitsma Thank You Austin Bartlett and Emily A. Chen Thank You Susan Rogers and Richard Stephenson Thank You Tayo Mbande and Chicago Birthworks Collective Thank you Sreeram and Leslie Nair Thank You Joshua Schwartz Thank You Liz Iverson Thank You Sibyl Day and John RIng Thank You Bruce and Sue Gottschall Thank You Louis Hobson Thank You Radiah and Ben Smith-Donald Thank You to Our Anonymous Supporters

The Ancona School

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Auction Items

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Handcut Silouettes by Ainsley

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Obedience training with Alysia

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Student for a Day

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7th-8th Grade Concept Panels

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Eccentric Circles

Inspired by the artist whose work appears on the front of 5th grade math workbooks, 5th and 6th graders recreated Wassily Kandinsky's Concentric Circles. Ours is entitled Eccentric Circles to celebrate diversity and our individuality. The winner of this auction will receive a 18" x 24" canvas print.

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Challenge Island for Grown Ups

STEAM-based Challenge Island, an enrichment program that engages kids in collaborative problem-solving through themed challenges, has been a huge hit with Ancona's Aftercare kids. Now it's your turn to engineer, build, and play! Participants work in teams to tackle creative, engineering-style tasks using limited materials-fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation in a fun, adventure-like setting. Class capacity is up to 10 particpants. Date to be mutually decided upon before June 6, 2025.

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Landscaping with Chris

Ancona's Outdoor Learning Educator and horticulturist Chris Weber will use his extensive knowledge to help bring your backyard to life! He will walk through your space with you and brainstorm ideas for landscape features, then help you select and purchase appropriate plants. Will travel within Chicago city limits and the immediately adjacent suburbs. Good for the 2025 growing season only.

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Tradional Mexican Cooking

Celebrate traditional Mexican flavors with a cooking class with Yaritxa, an Ancona Preprimary teacher and chef du jour! Yarixta will share some of her favorite family recipes in the comfort of your home. This item can accommodate up to 8 adults, on a mutually agreed upon date, and will need to be within city limits or immediate suburbs. Expires 3/28/26.

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Cooking with Dre

Come learn new recipes and cooking techniques with Dre, Ancona Auxiliary team member and substitute teacher. Everything Dre prepares is absolutely delicious. Dre will prepare OR teach a cooking lesson with either 2-4 children OR for 2 adults-your choice! Cuisine or dish to be mutually agreed upon (desserts or pastries also an option). This activity can be at school or in the comfort of your home (if at home, it needs to be within the city limits). Get ready for oohs and ahhs at the dinner table! Needs to be redeemed from March 29-August 29, 2025.

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Tea Time with Taye

During this special tea time participants will learn about and sample teas and from around the world. We will also explore some of the cultural practices surrounding tea and try different snack pairings. Participants will then try their hand at making their own tea blends to take home and enjoy. This tea time is suitable for teens and adults, great for team or community building or just hanging out with friends. Up to ten paricipants for two hours.

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Overnight on the OLS

Yes! Send your kids off to camp out with friends - at school!! Camping out on the Outdoor Learning Space accommodates up to 12 students. Includes chaperones, pizza, s'mores, and movie(s) on the field. Must bring tent and sleeping bag. 3rd through 8th grade only please. Must be redeemed between August 25 - September 30, 2025.

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One Week of Ancona Summer Camp

Imagine Camp! Ancona Summer campers will engage in activities, projects, and challenges centered around a weekly theme. Whether building imaginative creations, exploring the world's wonders, or becoming heroes in mythical worlds, every camper will immerse themselves in experiences that bring the theme to life. Offerings from partner organizations, field trips, weekly beach days, and other structured programming will augment each week's themed activities. For campers 3 years old through rising 5th grade.

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Learn to Crochet Party

Get ready for an unforgettable crochet party for five, where you'll dive into the timeless art of creating the classic granny square! No experience needed-just bring your excitement and passion for this beloved craft! This party promises to be a delightful experience for both kids and adults, filled with fun and creativity. The party is hosted by Fiber Friends Studios and Karla Crochets in your home. It lasts for 3 hours and includes instruction, yarn, crochet hooks, and darning needles.

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Tour of ABC 7

Breaking News! You get to experience all of the action behind scenes of a real live TV newsroom! Emmy Award winning reporter, Leah Hope, will be your guide on this customizable, back-stage tour. This unique, all-ages experience can be enjoyed as a small group or with your child's whole class. Tour will be held on a weekend to be arranged on a mutually agreed upon date.

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Seven Ten Social

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Chicago Fire

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Wine Not!

It's time for wine! This item includes a curated assortment of wines from 57th Wines as well a Wine Tasting party courtesey of Wines for Humanity. Host live or virtual! Includes at least 5 bottles for 14 to 18 people with a private Wine Advisor. Wines for Humanity is a Wine Tasting Event company dedicated to introducing the public to fine wines while raising funds for charity. Their delicious wines are sourced from award-winning vineyards the world over. For any wines selected at the tasting, a portion of the purchase price will go to a charity of your choice!

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Sailboating on Lake Michigan

Enjoy a 3 hour cruise on the 34' sailboat INTEGRITY. Sailing from Monroe Harbor in the afternoon or evening with a cruise tailored for your group of up to 6. Light snacks and beverages provided. Available June through September, date and time to be agreed upon later. Skyline views, fun, and making memories.

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VIP White Sox Scout Seats

Hey, batter, batter, swing batter! Get VIP treatment at a White Sox game! Includes: (4) Scout Seats to the White Sox vs Minnesota Twins game, Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and 2 parking passes. You'll enjoy an unparalleled view of the game from the first rows behind home plate, private entrance at Gate 3 1/2, and wide, comfortable, padded seats. All-inclusive gourmet buffet and premium open bar will be available pre-game in the Scout Lounge.

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Taos Getaway and Keepsake

Escape to the enchanting beauty of Taos, New Mexico! Enjoy a 3-night stay at this charming adobe casita, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Southwest. Explore vibrant art galleries, savor local cuisine, and soak in the region's natural wonders. To make your trip even easier, this package includes airfare for two on Southwest Airlines. Plus, take home this one-of-a-kind Dia de Los Muertos charm bracelet from artist Venessa Arizaga to get you in the mood for the adventure that awaits! Must be used between April 1, 2025 - November 10, 2025 (blackout dates: May 23-27); airfare subject to dates and availability.

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Alice in Wonderland at Joffrey

Plunge down the rabbit hole into the fantastical world of Wonderland at the Chicago premiere of choreographer Christopher Wheeldon's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland! A two-time Tony award-winner, Wheeldon brings Lewis Carroll's whimsical adventure to the stage with a modern twist. Featuring a hallucinatory soundworld and vibrant stagecraft and puppetry; it's a very important date for which you don't want to be late! The winner receives two tickets to the extraordinary show of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, running June 5-22, 2025. Price Level B tickets only, excludes weekend matinees. Expires 6/15/2025.

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Chicago Protest Photo #1

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Chicago Protest Photo #2

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Chicago Protest Photo #3

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Chicago Protest Photo #4

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Suya Photography

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Alimon Ari by Baca, Casa Noble

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Season Tix to Court Theater

Court Theater, established in 1955, is a Tony Award-winning theatre company located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, affiliated with the University of Chicago. The recipient of this item will receive two subscriptions to the 25-26 season. Valid towards the EVENING performance of your choice during the regular Court Theatre season. Special engagements may be excluded. Expires May 2026. Subject to availability.

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Master the Art of Movement

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Pilates with Leslie B

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Get Fit, Flexible and Relax

A strong exercise routine, with a stretch routine is important to health and longevity. Let Old Town Fit Body Boot Camp, Stretch Lab and Mota Magick help you acheive that goal. This item includes a one-month pass to Old Town Boot Camp, three (3) 25-minute assisted stretching sessions (to be used by 5/31/25) and an infused gift set for the bath from Mota Magick to help cool down after a tough work out.

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Self-Care with Merz Apothecary

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Take Care of Yourself

The world is crazy right now and taking care of yourself is paramount! This item includes a 90-minutes Energy Discovery and Healing Session with Ancona's own, the amazing Carla Kupe, Certified Energy Worker; a tea and loose-leaf infuser from Haji Healing Salon, and coupon for 20% off a couple's massage at House of Hands.

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Find Your Flow at YogaSix

Here at YogaSix, we believe that everyone deserves the mind-body experience of yoga. We believe we can all grow, becoming better together. We believe in a world of inclusion and acceptance of each other. Whether you're connecting to the rhythm of your breath or working up to the edge of your fitness level in class, there is always something new to discover about yourself. Begin a regular practice with us at YogaSix and allow the transformation to begin.Tap into the intelligence of your body, and unlock your full potential. Recipient will receive a 3-month unlimited membership.

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Farmers Market Faves

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Hanging out in the HP

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Artisanal Mezcal

Indulge in the rich flavors of Oaxaca with this exclusive four-bottle artisanal mezcal package. Package includes: Hacienda de Tepa Blanco, 400 Conejos Joven, Recuerdo Abocado con Gusano, Creyente Joven. Perfect for the spirits connoisseur or adventurous sipper, this collection is a true taste of Mexico's finest craftsmanship. Sip, savor, and celebrate-salud!

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A Fabulous Night Out

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Baroque Brunch

Enjoy vintage-chic Southern fare at Roux and a classical music performance of Music of the Baroque, one of Chicago's premeiere groups for classical music. This item includes $150 gift certificate to Roux (expires 5/31/26) and two tickets to Music of the Baroque performance at the Harris Theater for the 25/25 Season (expires 5/11/26).

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For the Love of Tequila

This auction prize is a premium tequila experience, featuring two exquisite bottles of top-tier spirits. A bottle of Hornitos Plata, a smooth and crisp tequila known for its clean, citrusy flavor and hints of pepper. It's perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails. Casa Noble Blanco Tequila - A high-end, handcrafted tequila made with organic blue agave. It is known for its fresh, floral notes with a subtle hint of vanilla and spice. Ideal for both sipping or crafting premium margaritas.

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Coffee Tour of HP and Beyond

Are you a coffee lover? Looking to explore something local, beyond Starbucks? If so, this is the thing for you! This item includes gift cards from Hyde Park's best coffee shops, a little sprinkle of Afro Joe's in Beverly and our favorite, Kikwetu Coffee, where you'll get 12 bags of our Ancona family favorite. Includes coffee mug, coffee grinder and percolator (the preferred method of preparation, recommended by Kikwetu Coffee Co).

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Kikwetu Coffee Party

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Taco Truck Party

Get ready for the ultimate fiesta with this private taco truck experience from the Tacomotora Food Truck! This energetic, family-owned, imaginative taco truck serves up delicious, high-quality tacos using only local and natural ingredients. Whether it's a birthday, celebration, or just a great excuse to gather friends, the Tacomotora food truck is a rolling celebration of flavor and fun. Eat tacos, be happy! Offer valid Sunday-Thursday and must book two weeks in advance. Blackout dates: all major holidays. Expires March 28, 2026.

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Shedd Aquarium

Dive Into Wonder: A VIP Day for 5 at Shedd Aquarium Treat yourself and your guests to an unforgettable day at Shedd Aquarium! Look nature in the eye - Discover playful penguins, colorful coral and beautiful belugas as you journey through oceans, lakes, rivers and reefs. VIP Access All Day: Enjoy complimentary admission to all exhibits, including animal spotlights in the Abbott Oceanarium, 4D Theater and Stingray Touch (seasonal). Immerse yourself in Shedd Aquarium's mission to spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic animal world.

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Tennis Camp on the Lake

Enjoy a week of half-day junior summer camp! Tennis On The Lake offers group lessons, private and semi-private lessons, and kids camps. Plus, they offer a full-service pro-shop at Waveland Park (summer only). The exclusive TOTL training system will help your budding tennis pro become a better player by strengthening the mind-body connection and ensuring a solid foundation for future progress. Get started with this great week-long package.

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No Longer Bored!

Looking for fun things to do with your child? In this smorgasboard of options, you are guaranteed to find something for your child. This item includes $50 gift certificate for a Chicago Kids Company production; four tickets (plus popcorn!) for Harper Theater; one-month of Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; and, after all of the running, basket of snacks from Trader Joe's.

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Altitude Trampoline Park

Host your child's next party at Altitude Trampoline Park. Includes a 10 Jumper Package (plus 4 parent/adult tickets), a reserved table in the main space, a 90-mins jump window, plus 30 mins for dinner or lunch with two large one topping pizzas, water, and safety socks for all. Choose from Private Dodgeball or Foam Pit time with a dedicated party host.

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Kenwood School of Ballet

Let your child twirl, leap, and groove with two $250 certificates to the Kenwood School of Ballet! From ballet to jazz, hip-hop to acro, and even musical theater, there's a class for everyone. Whether they dream of pirouettes or popping and locking, this is their chance to step into the spotlight and discover the joy of dance!

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Shopping with a Mission

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Architectural Konzuk Necklace

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Me and Mini-Me

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Hennessey Boxing Bag + Spirits

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Metalsmithing Restoration

D5 Design is a premiere metal fabrication and design company with combined thirty years of experience and knowledge in ornamental and architectural metal design and fabrication. In need of repairs to a fence or metal stairs? Or possibly you have metal railing or piece of metal furniture in need of restoration. D5 is perfect for the job. This item includes a day of work for those metal items in your home in need of some love.

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