It seems no accident that on the day Space Shuttle Endeavour arrived in Houston, we can officially begin the countdown to the 2012 Bedichek-Orman Professional Development Auction, scheduled for exactly one month from today.

So, first and foremost, mark your calendars for 5:30 pm on October 19 and join us for dinner, drinks, a silent auction, and — the highlight of the evening — a live auction in the West Loop Auditorium. This year’s auction promises to have all sorts of thrills and chills as we will be transporting you to the magical and mysterious land of Transylvania… Count Dracula himself may even make an appearance at this year’s auction. ;-)

Second, keep in mind that you have just a few weeks left to make a donation to this year’s auction. Although our committee has worked tirelessly all year to score some awesome donations from area businesses (including an autographed Texans jersey, a Pleasant Hill Wine Basket, and tickets to the Symphony and Main Street Theater), it is the items donated by faculty and staff that truly ensure a successful auction.

Items that typically do well include art, jewelry, themed baskets, and exciting adventures and experiences. However, all donations are more than welcome! We are hoping to make 2012 our most successful year thus far, so please think about items you have that you could donate for use (like time at your vacation home or on your boat), look in closets and attics and garages for treasures in your home, purchase an item to donate, ask local businesses that you frequent to donate, or partner with your department or discipline to put together a donation. For more details, check out the donation guidelines and download a copy of the donation form.

Please remember that we cannot do it without YOU — we need your donations and your support.

So… we’ll see you in Transylvania! MWA-HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!