Bid for Kids Auction Part of Chesapeake Academy's 30th Anniversary Celebration

The folks at the Chesapeake Academy are pulling out all the stops in honor of their 30 year anniversary. Most parents are used to fundraisers that offer cookies, pizza or wrapping paper but that's just not the way this institution works.

Think more along the lines of designer handbags, sporting event tickets, fine dining, pampered pets, original artwork and even luxurious vacations. No need to worry about filling out the usual order forms though, as these items (along with so many more) are available through Chesapeake Academy's online auction. The online portion of this 30th Anniversary celebration acts as a proverbial red carpet, leading up to a Saturday soiree of silent and live auctions.

Be sure to take plenty of time to browse but don't wait too long if you've got your eye on that Ellen Allen bag or that trip to Mexico - all  online bidding ends at 6 p.m. on Thursday (April 7).

"The online auction is a wonderful way to encourage more participation from the community," said Susan Leonard, co-chairperson of the event. "Everyone, including our sponsors, has been so supportive."

The Chesapeake Academy is a colorful, progressive institution that has encouraged creative expression and forward thinking in their students for three decades. The Academy's 30-year history is rich with stories of successful children and warm memories for each family that has been a part of the Chesapeake Academy experience.

Faculty, staff and parent volunteers have come together to create a multi-part celebration that is not only worthy of the record books,  but ultimately enriches the educational experience for present and future students.  

The private school has always understood the importance of art and creativity. This year, the final celebration on Saturday (April 9) focuses on original artwork inspired by children's book author and illustrator Eric Carle. One piece from each grade will be auctioned, along with the sweetest masterpiece: the 4-by-6 foot anniversary logo cake created by pottery artist and art teacher Jonnie Friedman .

"It's so important to encourage creativity, especially because it's dying out in so many schools," said Jay Scheurle, head of Chesapeake Academy. "Art is a big part of our school's legacy and we are lucky to have a teacher like Jonnie."

"The things she teaches are amazing and I'm talking from a parent perspective here," said Leonard.

Of course there are plenty of other "top shelf" items offered at the live and silent auctions, like two box seats to the Broadway musical "Wicked" at the Kennedy Center, an Ace of Cakes Basket of Goodies, dinner for 10 at Marrakesh (complete with limo service) or a handcrafted bar.

In addition to the auctions, the final event on Saturday promises to be a magical evening of champagne, dancing, food and nostalgia. Guests will partake in a champagne stroll down memory lane, complete with photos of the schools history, 80s photos of the staff, 80s memorabilia and even a simulated beauty salon. "It's funny because most of the kids don't know what those black round things hanging from the ceiling are," said Jennifer McGowan.

Radio personality Carrie from 103.1 will act as auctioneer for the evening and DJ Cowboy Mike will keep everyone dancing. Proceeds from the 30th Anniversary Auctions will go toward improving the back of the school. "We want to build proper athletic fields," said Jay Scheurle. "A nature trail or possibly an organic garden would be wonderful too." The staff also aspires to put SMARTboards in each classroom.

So, consider bidding online or making a donation if you cannot attend the live event. For more information, visit  https://www.chesapeakeacademy.com/podium/default.aspx?t=108098 or call 410-647-9612.

*Editor's Note: The link to the auction information was updated from the previous version of the story. The former link was not incorrect, the updated link takes the reader directly to the auction page.