Purchase a Golden Ticket and one lucky winner will be drawn to select a package from our exclusive LIVE AUCTION line up before the bidding begins!

Must purchase in person on June 25, 2025 at Essence Event Center.

Dinner Party of the Year with John Kaul

Enjoy an unforgettable evening of conversation, inspiration and fine dining with renowned portraitist and storyteller, John Kaul

For half a century, John Kaul held a front-row seat to history unfolding at the Minnesota Legislature as chief of staff to Senate Majority Leader Nicholas Coleman. In recent years, he partnered with PBS for two documentaries about the Wild and Scenic St. Croix. Today, his passion is sharing the stories of extraordinary individuals whose courage and leadership have helped shape a more peaceful world.

John's acclaimed collection of painted portraits of Nobel Peace Prize Laureates premiered in Oslo, Norway, and he is currently working on a book, Our Lives, Our Fortunes, and Our Sacred Honor. Through captivating stories from his interviews and artistic journey, John brings these remarkable figures to life, offering insights that inspire hope, courage and civic responsibility.

This exclusive experience includes a four-course dinner for six with John and his wife, Gloria Gunville, at the home of Lois and Joe Duffy in Afton, overlooking the St. Croix River. Additionally, you will walk home with one of John's Envelope Portrait Collections featuring philosopher Friederich Nietzche and his quote "One must still have chaos in oneself to be able to give birth to a dancing star."

Availability: Date must be mutually agreed upon before August 1, 2026 to be used before August 1, 2027.

Donated by: Joe & Lois West Duffy

Luxury One-Week Clearwater Beach Getaway

Escape to paradise with a one-week stay at a beautiful luxury condo in the heart of Clearwater Beach, Florida, donated by Kath Hammerseng and Maureen Kennedy.

Located at 706 Bayway Boulevard, Unit 201, this stunning three-bedroom, two-bath condo offers the perfect combination of relaxation, comfort, and coastal adventure. The spacious home features three private bedrooms with accommodations for up to six guests, including two king-sized beds and one queen-sized bed.

Enjoy luxury finishes throughout, along with an extra-large private balcony overlooking the scenic inlet connecting to the Gulf of Mexico. This is the perfect place to start your morning with coffee, gather for a meal, or unwind in the evening while watching dolphins feed, boats cruise by, and marina activity come to life.

This quiet 14 unit Condo building is tucked away on a quiet, sleepy street just off Clearwater Beach's main attractions, giving you the best of both worlds. Spend time on your private balcony and down at the pool or step outside and you're within walking distance of restaurants, rooftop bars, entertainment, nightlife, shops, and the world-famous Clearwater Beach, known for its soft sugar-white sand and beautiful Gulf sunsets.

Spend your days enjoying:

The beach and Pier 60 festivals and sunset celebrations
Local restaurants and rooftop dining
Nightlife and entertainment
The nearby aquarium and many Clearwater area attractions
Relaxing on the balcony or down by the pool and hot tub while taking in the waterfront views

Whether you're looking for adventure, a family getaway, a fun beach vacation, or peaceful downtime by the water, this Clearwater Beach retreat offers an unforgettable experience. This package also includes a $250.00 Delta Gift Card for airfare.

A rare opportunity to enjoy the beauty, energy, and relaxation of one of Florida's most beloved beach destinations!

Availability: Dates subject to availability. Stay must be booked prior to May 1, 2027

Donated by: Kath Hammerseng and Maureen Kennedy

Value: $3,750.00

A Year of Dining in the Twin Cities

This package includes twelve $100.00 gift cards -- $1200.00 worth of unforgettable meals, celebrations and culinary adventures at some of the metro's most beloved destinations.

Twelve Months. Twelve Amazing experiences. One delicious package.

Restaurant Gift Cards Include:
Hai Hai
WA Frost
St. Paul Grill
The Lexington
Animales
Giulia
Rudy's Redeye Grill
Alery's
Spoon and Stable
Dario

That's one exceptional dining adventure every month of the year. Date nights. Celebrations. Weekend outings. Special occasions. Or simply twelve opportunities to enjoy the very best our local restaurant community has to offer.

Go Behind the Scenes at the Great Minnesota Get-Together!

This exclusive package includes a Behind-the Scenes Minnesota State Fairgrounds Golf Cart Tour for Two. In July 2026, you and a guest will hop aboard a gold cart and explore the fairgrounds before the hustle and bustle begins! You'll have the opportunity to learn about fascinating State Fair history, get insider updates on current projects and improvements, and visit areas of the fairgrounds that most visitors never have the opportunity to see.

You'll also receive a Minnesota State Fair Family Fun Pack that includes:
Four Gate Admission Tickets
Midway and Kidway Ride & Game Credits
An official State Fair Coupon Book

This VIP package delivers memories before and during the Fair itself. Make the most of your summer at the Minnesota State Fair!

Availability: Tour must be scheduled in July, 2026 and Certificate must be redeemed before July 31, 2026.

Value: Priceless

Donated by: Minnesota State Fair Foundation

Firefighter for a Day Experience

Ever wondered what it's like to be a firefighter? This unforgettable experience gives one lucky winner the chance to step into the boots of a local hero and spend a day behind the scenes at a fire station. This package offers a rare glimpse into the courage, teamwork, and dedication that keep our community safe every day.

Value: Priceless
Donated by: Kath Hammerseng and Maureen Kennedy

Lake Vermillion Cabin & Fishing Experience

Spend a Week on the Water!

Enjoy a 4-day, 3-night stay at a stunning newly renovated boathouse on beautiful Lake Vermillion in Northern Minnesota.

Accommodations include:

1 Queen Bed
2 XL Twin Beds
1 Queen Pull-Out Sofa Bed
Loft area (perfect for 2-3 children)
Full bathroom with shower
Kitchenette with small refrigerator, toaster oven, and Keurig
Outdoor amenities include fire pit, grill, boat parking

This package also includes a half-day guided fishing excursion with experienced fishing guide, Mike Lee. Fishing with Mike is a memorable experience you'll not soon forget!

Availability: Dates to be mutually agreed upon during summer, fall, or winter (ideal for snowmobilers). Excludes Memorial Day weekend, the week of July 4, and Labor Day weekend.
Expiration: Must be used by June 25, 2027.
Donated by: Mike Lee and Sharon Hanifl-Lee

Luxury One-Week Clearwater Beach Getaway

Escape to paradise with a one-week stay at a beautiful luxury condo in the heart of Clearwater Beach, Florida, donated by Kath Hammerseng and Maureen Kennedy.

Located at 706 Bayway Boulevard, Unit 201, this stunning three-bedroom, two-bath condo offers the perfect combination of relaxation, comfort, and coastal adventure. The spacious home features three private bedrooms with accommodations for up to six guests, including two king-sized beds and one queen-sized bed.

Enjoy luxury finishes throughout, along with an extra-large private balcony overlooking the scenic inlet connecting to the Gulf of Mexico. This is the perfect place to start your morning with coffee, gather for a meal, or unwind in the evening while watching dolphins feed, boats cruise by, and marina activity come to life.

This quiet 14 unit Condo building is tucked away on a quiet, sleepy street just off Clearwater Beach's main attractions, giving you the best of both worlds. Spend time on your private balcony and down at the pool or step outside and you're within walking distance of restaurants, rooftop bars, entertainment, nightlife, shops, and the world-famous Clearwater Beach, known for its soft sugar-white sand and beautiful Gulf sunsets.

Spend your days enjoying:

The beach and Pier 60 festivals and sunset celebrations
Local restaurants and rooftop dining
Nightlife and entertainment
The nearby aquarium and many Clearwater area attractions
Relaxing on the balcony or down by the pool and hot tub while taking in the waterfront views

Whether you're looking for adventure, a family getaway, a fun beach vacation, or peaceful downtime by the water, this Clearwater Beach retreat offers an unforgettable experience. This package also includes a $250.00 Delta Gift Card for airfare.

A rare opportunity to enjoy the beauty, energy, and relaxation of one of Florida's most beloved beach destinations!

Availability: Dates subject to availability. Stay must be booked prior to May 1, 2027

Donated by: Kath Hammerseng and Maureen Kennedy

Value: $3,750.00

Graceful, towering, and utterly unique, the giraffe stands as a symbol of perspective, intuition, and connection to the natural world. With their watchful eyes and sky-high stature, giraffes teach us to see the bigger picture - a perfect match for our mission at Ocean Sole. Whether placed in a nursery, living room, or garden nook, these upcycled giraffe sculptures bring warmth, joy, and a powerful story of transformation.

All products are made from recycled flip-flops that are collected from the beaches, waterways and landfills in Kenya. These products are hand carved by Kenyan artisans and are all unique, therefore they will differ in color from the image shown.

Two Stunning Mugs from Lydia Johnson.

Lydia is a ceramic artist based in Bolton, Connecticut. Her colorful and meticulous work, constructed with thin, printed clay slabs, is inspired by her love of visual pattern and color found in the summer garden as well as home textiles and decor. Her work has found homes in collections across the globe. Over the past 10 years, she has exhibited nationally and internationally and has taught workshops at renowned craft schools.

Looking for a Winter Getaway? Look no further than Causeway on Gull! Timeshare is valid January 8 - January 15, 2027

Nestled between Gull Lake and Upper Gull Lake, this resort offers a serene winter retreat for families, friends or groups. Your package includes:
6-Plex 3 Bedroom Lockoff; choose a two bedroom that sleeps 6, a one bedroom that sleeps 4, or combine the two units for a 3 bedroom that sleeps 10.

Make the most of your winter adventure with activities like:
cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, sauna, hot tub, indoor pool along with many nearby shops, restaurants and activities in charming downtown Nissa

Voices that Challenge: A Banned Books Collection

Explore powerful stories that have sparked discussion, debate, and challenges across schools and libraries. This collection brings together award-winning novels and memoirs that address themes of identity, resilience, freedom, relationships, social justice, and self-discovery. From contemporary coming-of-age stories to speculative fiction and personal narratives, these books encourage critical thinking and empathy while highlighting diverse voices and experiences.

Included:
Sold - Patricia McCormick
A Court of Thorns and Roses - Sarah J. Maas
Looking for Alaska - John Green
Dream Country - Shannon Gibney
Speak - Laurie Halse Anderson
Parable of the Talents - Octavia E. Butler
Last Night at the Telegraph Club - Malinda Lo All Boys Aren't Blue - George M. Johnson
Cherry Baby - Rainbow Rowell

2 Tote Bags
1 Banned Books Coffee Mug
Hot Cocoa

Poisoned Pen Book Bag

Crime and Mystery from around the globe! From chilling Nordic noir and small-town mysteries to historical suspense and international intrigue, this collection offers something for every mystery enthusiast. Whether you're adding to your personal library or searching for the perfect gift for a book lover, this package delivers hours of suspense, adventure, and unforgettable characters.

Included:

Snowblind - Ragnar Jonasson; Thriller
The Poison Pen; Paige Shelton
The Impossible Fortune - Richard Osman
The Frozen River - Ariel Lawhon
Murder on the Red River - Marcie R. Rendon
Where They Last Saw Her - Marcie R. Rendon
Bruno, Chief of Police - Martin Walker
Signed Copy of The Imam of Tawi-Tawi - An Ava Lee Novel: The Triad Years - Ian Hamilton
The Dark Vineyard - Martin Walker

$50.00 Gift Certificate from Next Chapter Booksellers
Poison Pen Book Bag

Gangster Bus Tour Tickets for 2026-2027 White Bear Lake Area Historical Society

Everyone's favorite tour is back and we're excited to have you join us! Come along for an adventurous outing to explore the hideouts and haunts of the 1930s era gangsters who laid low in the cottages around White Bear and Bald Eagle Lakes. Sights include a Mahtomedi speakeasy and the location of a notorious dance club.

Enjoy a $100.00 Gift Certificate towards classes at White Bear Center for the Arts!

Experience the vibrant art scene at White Bear Center for the Arts, offering year-round classes, exhibitions and events for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're interested in painting, printmaking, fiber arts or glassmaking-to name a few, there is sure to be an artistic experience waiting for you.

1 Night Stay at White Bear Country Inn and $20.00 Gift Card to Rudy's Redeye Grill

Unwind and relax with an overnight stay in White Bear Lake!

Treat yourself to a luxurious staycation at the Hotel Emery, nestled in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. This package provides a 2 Night Weekend Stay in the King Studio Suite. Enjoy dinner for two at Giulia-a restaurant focused on Northern Italian cuisine in partnership with James Beard Semifinalist Chef Steven Brown. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Guthrie Theater, Stone Arch Bridge and Mill City Museum, you'll be sure to find yourself surrounded by the endless cultural experiences that Downtown Minneapolis has to offer. Have a pooch? Hotel Emery is dog friendly!

Items: 2 Night Weekend Stay in the King Studio Suite, Dinner for two at Giulia

A Love Letter to Saint Paul, Written in Thread!

Saintly is a brand born from the hearts of two St. Paul sisters, created to celebrate the unique charm and tight-knit community that make this city so special. We like to think of it as our "love letter to Saint Paul."

Size: XL

Designed, tagged and embroidered in Saint Paul.

Lane Seven: 80% cotton, 20% poly blend

Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative:
Tour & Private Tasting for 4

Raise a glass and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes adventure at Broken Clock Brewing Cooperative!

- A Private Brewery Tour for up to 4 guests
- A Guided Tasting Experience featuring a selection of Broken Clock's handcrafted beers
- Learn about the brewing process, the cooperative model, and the passion that goes into every pint

Perfect for young readers, families, and dinosaur enthusiasts alike, this package combines engaging stories, beautiful artwork, and a gift card to help you discover even more great books.

Included:

Northwoods Lullaby by Mary Casanova with Illustrations by Jordan Sundberg

Where We Come From by Diane Wilson, Sun Yung Shin, Shannon Gibney, John Coy with Illustrations by Dion MBD

$15.00 Red Balloon Bookshop Gift Card

12x18 Dinosaur Print

Transform your favorite artwork into a beautifully displayed piece with this $100 Custom Picture Framing Certificate from Wet Paint. Known for quality craftsmanship and personalized service, Wet Paint offers expert custom framing designed to protect and showcase your treasured items. Whether you're framing original art, family photos, or special keepsakes, this certificate helps bring your vision to life with professional results.

Make the most of a Minnesota summer with this perfect local adventure package!

Start with a visit to Utepils Brewing, where you'll enjoy four beverages of your choice and take home a growler filled with your favorite beer.

Then keep the fun rolling at Can Can Wonderland! This package includes admission for four and mini golf for four, giving you access to one of the Twin Cities' most creative and entertaining destinations. Challenge your friends on the artist-designed mini golf course and enjoy an unforgettable day of quirky fun.

Package Includes:

Four beverages of your choice at Utepils Brewing

One growler filled with beer from Utepils Brewing

Admission for 4 to Can Can Wonderland

Mini Golf for 4 at Can Can Wonderland

Flirt Boutique is the Twin Cities' destination for designer intimate apparel. Known for its luxurious collections and exceptional service (personalized shoppers & fittings!), Flirt Boutique offers a wide selection of pieces and sizes that blend comfort, and allure--not to miss! Treat yourself with a $25.00 Gift Certificate!

Items: $25.00 Gift Certificate

This package from Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack is your all-access pass an unforgettable weekend! Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack is a Cutting-edge, Las Vegas-style Card Room with Family Friendly Live Horse Racing and Trout Fishing during the Summer, Great Dining options open until 2am every night, Year-round Simulcast Wagering, and a Full-service Hotel. This enticing offer includes:

One Free Night Stay in a deluxe hotel room
$30.00 Gift Certificate to Trout Air Tavern
Two $10 Free Bets - try your luck at the casino!

Why not roll the dice? Luck might be on your side!

Gift yourself with the ultimate self-care experience at Wellness Center MN! Discover bliss with the power of float therapy. Float Therapy provides an unparalleled environment for complete relaxation of both the mind and body. Prioritize your well-being with a 90-minute float session and immerse yourself in pure tranquility.

Items: 90 minute float session Gift Certificate

Tee up for four rounds of golf at Gopher Hills Golf Course, just 30 minutes south of the Twin Cities in scenic Cannon Falls, MN. With three unique courses-including a family-friendly executive 9-Gopher Hills offers tree-lined fairways, rolling elevation changes, and sculpted bunkers for a fun and challenging golf experience. The beautiful clubhouse overlooking the greens makes it a perfect destination for outings, tournaments, or casual rounds with friends.

Enjoy a complimentary one night stay in a Studio King or Double Queen Room. Parking and Breakfast included!

Five $10.00 Gift Cards to Good Things

Keep them for a grand total of $50.00 or give to friends!

Good Things is a boutique with trendy and classic clothing, gifts, home goods and more! An ever-changing miscellany of good things!

Elevate your next gathering with this beautiful, locally handcrafted cutting board set. Expertly carved by a local carver Bruce Christofferson, this versatile piece combines function and style, making it perfect for everyday use or special occasions.

The set includes:
- A premium wooden cutting board
- An integrated cheese slicer for effortless serving
- A matching presentation plate ideal for charcuterie, cheeses, appetizers, and desserts

Discover history, science, and culture across Minnesota with this family-friendly museum package featuring memberships and admission passes to three outstanding institutions.

Package Includes:

Minnesota Historical Society - Household Plus Membership

A year-long Household Plus membership providing general admission to 26 historic sites for two adults, children in the household under 18, grandchildren under 18, plus two guests. Benefits also include a subscription to Minnesota History magazine, reciprocal benefits through the Time Travelers program, discounts at MNHS stores and cafe plus invitations to special events.

The Bakken Museum - Five Admission Passes

Explore interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, and innovation.

American Swedish Institute - Four Complimentary Guest Passes

Experience engaging exhibits, historic architecture, and Swedish-American cultural programming.

Hand Made Pottery by Award Winning Wisconsin Ceramics Artist, Jan McKeachie and Clarice Allgood.

The beautifully crafted basket showcases Johnston's signature artistry and attention to detail, while the accompanying tray is finished to resemble natural wood. Perfect for displaying fruit, serving treats, or enhancing decor-- A one-of-a-kind addition to any home or art collection!

Paired with Jan's collection is a gorgeous mug made by Northern Clay Center's 2020 Fogelberg Studio Fellow, Clarice Allgood.

Properties Designer Kirby Moore has created dozens of Glensheen dolls over the years as props for the song "No Parole."

Become the ultimate Glensheen SuperFan by taking home your very own Margie Barbie doll made by Kirby himself.

4 Tickets to Laugh Camp Comedy Club

Looking for a night full of laughter and good vibes in downtown Saint Paul? Laugh Camp Comedy Club is your go-to spot for high-energy stand-up, delicious drinks, and a full-service bar!

Located inside Camp Bar, Laugh Camp Comedy Club features top national and regional comedians every weekend. Perfect for a date night, group outing, or when you just need a good nap!

Head on down to Prior Lake and try your luck at Mystic Lake Casino!

Enjoy a 1 Night Stay in a double occupancy room at Mystic Lake.

Begin your night with a delicious dinner at the upscale Mystic Steakhouse, known for premium cuts and fresh seafood. Whether you're rolling the dice, or attending show, you'll be sure to secure yourself an exciting getaway!

Items: 1 Night Stay, $100.00 Gift Certificate to Mystic Steakhouse

Serving Platter made by Lorio Pottery from Boulder, Colorado. Jim Lorio designs useful pots for everyday celebrations.

Paired with it is a Dragon Tray expertly crafted by St. Croix River Potter, Peter Jadooneth. His work is centered around functional, narrative-driven pottery with a sculptural presence.

Originally trained as an architect, Sandra Torres eventually transferred her creative outlet into clay work. Her work explores the effect of small but significant variations within repetition of shapes, size and patterns. This small creamer pitcher shows a contrast of color, while maintaining the soft translucency of porcelain.

The Root Beer Lady Experience Package

Celebrate a beloved Northwoods legend with this unique experience package!

Package Includes:

Four tickets to History Theatre's summer production of The Root Beer Lady, starring Kim Schultz. Date of your choice to be arranged with the Box Office July 8-26, 2026.

A Dorothy Molter Museum Gift Package:

One-year Annual Membership to the Dorothy Molter Museum

Free museum admission for the membership term

10% discount on museum merchandise

Quarterly member newsletter

Exclusive member-only discounts and offers

One 6-pack of Isle of Pines Root Beer

Enjoy an evening of outstanding entertainment and delicious dining in Bloomington!

Package includes:

Two tickets to any musical in Artistry's 2026 season
$25 gift card to Porter Creek Hardwood Grill

Treat the kids to a summer of fun & imagination!

This kid friendly package includes:

4 Admission Passes to Gibbs Farm, where families can explore Minnesota's pioneer and Dakota history through hands-on experiences, farm animals, and interactive exhibits.

4 Tickets to a Performance at Stages Theatre Company. Choose one of the following productions:

The Secret Garden
Dragons Love Tacos 2: The Sequel
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical
The WIZ

2004 Minnesota Twins Joe Mauer Bobble Head

The product is a limited edition Joe Mauer autograph bobblehead featuring the Hall of Fame player from the Minnesota Twins. Officially licensed by Major League Baseball, this collectible item is a stadium giveaway from the MLB. Produced by Bobble Dobbles, this unique piece is a must-have for any baseball fan or collector looking to add a special item to their sports memorabilia collection. Complete with Authentic Commemorative Card #04710.

Add a vibrant touch of artistry to your jewelry collection with this set of three handcrafted necklaces. Each piece showcases a unique blend of colorful materials and creative design, making every necklace a one-of-a-kind accessory.

Step out on the town in these eye catching pieces!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

Enjoy an evening of baseball, entertainment, and summertime fun with the hometown favorites, the St. Paul Saints!

This certificate is redeemable for two tickets to any Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday St. Paul Saints home game during July or August 2026. From exciting on-field action to the Saints' signature between-inning antics, every game delivers a memorable experience for fans of all ages.

Package Includes:

Certificate for 2 tickets to any Tuesday-Thursday St. Paul Saints home game in July or August 2026

Treat yourself to a gorgeous dining experience with a $25 gift card to the renowned New Scenic Café.

Located along the breathtaking North Shore of Lake Superior, New Scenic Café is celebrated for its creative cuisine, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality. Whether you're stopping in during a scenic drive, enjoying a special meal, or discovering a new favorite dish, this gift card is the perfect excuse to savor one of the region's most beloved dining destinations.

Justin Morneau Signed Baseball

Terri Steinbach, Paul Molitor, Chuck Knoblauch Signed Baseball

Four Homer Hankies:

Signed Homer Hanky: Wayne Terwilliger, Mark Guthrie, Gene Larkin, Kevin Tapani, Kirby Puckett

1999 Sealed Collectible Twins Playing Cards

2 Bobbleheads: AJ Pierzynski, Paul Molitor

Zoo Experience Package!

Four tickets to the Minnesota Zoo, eligible for daytime Zoo admission -- complimentary parking included!

But, wait! There's more! Head on over to Wild Rumpus book store for a $25 Gift Certificate and meet some of their shop animals!

Say hello to the cast of wonderful characters you can find living at the bookshop full time! Cats roam freely throughout the store, while all other creatures live in their houses throughout. Have fun finding them!

Great Gathering with Twelve Theater Friends, Featuring the Mockumentary Waiting for Guffman

Be among the lucky 12!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of cocktails, appetizers, desserts, and laughter at board member George Dow's home on Saturday, August 29.

From 6:00-8:00 PM, enjoy delicious bites, beverages, and great company before settling into a private theater screening of the cult-classic comedy Waiting for Guffman.
Christopher Guest's beloved "mockumentary" follows the wonderfully earnest residents of tiny Blaine, Missouri, as they prepare for a community theater production-and anxiously await the arrival of a famous Broadway producer. What could possibly go wrong?

A hilarious celebration of theater people, big dreams, and small-town showbiz.
Only 12 seats available

$125 per person

Purchase one of the beautiful centerpieces!