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SUPER SILENT AUCTION #1 Subarctic Adventure: Churchill Polar Bears
Value: $15,000 | Donors: Frontiers North Adventures, U.S. Bank Altitude Points, Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryOn this out-of-this-world trip, meet some of Como’s polar bears wild cousins in Churchill, Manitoba—the Polar Bear Capital of the World!
All you’ve got to do is pack your parka and Frontiers North Adventures does the rest. Your five-day, four-night adventure starts in Winnipeg where you meet your Interpretive Guide before flying to Churchill for three action-packed days. You’ll enjoy visits to the Polar Bear Holding Facility, Parks Canada Visitor Centre; Polar Bears International; and two days on the famed Tundra Buggy to see polar bears and other amazing subarctic wildlife.
This “life list” trip for 2, includes a Como Behind-the-scenes polar bear training and zookeeper Q&A, all meals and accommodations in Churchill, transit to Churchill, two nights hotel stay in Winnipeg, and 150,000 U.S. Bank Altitude Points for airfare.
Please note: Because of the short polar bear viewing season, the trip will need to be scheduled for a time between October 1, 2023 – November 11, 2023.
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SUPER SILENT AUCTION #2 Name the Snow Leopard Cub
Value: Priceless | Donor: Como Friends and Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryIn early May, Como Zoo welcomed a new snow leopard cub, a 7-pound female who’s been bonding behind the scenes with mother Alya before she makes her public debut later this summer. Now, you could be the one to name her!
Make the winning bid to select just the right name for this fast-growing cub who’s captivated her keepers with her furry cuteness and fighting spirit. Born blind, this little cub has been making fast work of exploring her new world and growing into her big paws. Being sightless hasn’t been a barrier for this lovable cub who is playful and thriving. Read more about Alya and Moutig’s cub here!
Naming Como’s newest snow leopard cub is an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. To get your creative juices flowing, zookeeper Hans Jorgensen says, “She’s a milk-drinking machine! She’s absolutely adorable and loves to climb on her mom. But she’s got very sharp claws, so I’m not sure how much Alya likes that.”
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SUPER SILENT AUCTION #3 Explore Philadelphia
Value: Priceless | Donors: Sage Hospitality, U.S. Bank Altitude Points, Como Friends’ Board of DirectorsExplore Philadelphia’s historic sites, incredible restaurants, family-friendly attractions and vibrant arts scene. This historic city has something for everyone.
With four centuries of history, a hip waterfront, and a culinary culture that includes everything from haute cuisine to cheesesteak, it’s easy to fall for the City of Brotherly Love.
During your four-night stay in Philly, tour the fabulous museums and vibrant parks; explore the Philadelphia Zoo; and visit the extraordinary Longwood Gardens, featuring more than a thousand acres of flowers, fountains, and woodlands.
Package comes with accommodations at the Logan Hotel, dinner at Urban Farmer Philadelphia, a $50 gift card to Reading Terminal Market, a two-day Go City Pass that provides free or reduced access to many of Philadelphia’s historic or cultural sites, a $500 Visa Gift Card, and 100,000 U.S. Bank Altitude points for airfare.
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SUPER SILENT AUCTION #4 Celestial Dream Pendant with Aquamarine and Diamond Halo
Value: $6,900 | Donor: Gunderson’s JewelersHandpicked for Sunset Affair: Stargazing from the experts at Gunderson’s Jewelers, this spectacular pendant is the star of the auction!
The classic, emerald-cut aquamarine pendant matches the color of the life-giving waters that sustain some of the most endangered species on Earth.
Twenty responsibly mined diamonds totaling 0.47ctw are set in a halo around the 2.17ctw gemstone giving it additional sparkle, and also dotting the 19kt white gold chain, reminiscent of the evening stars.
By donating this piece of fine jewelry, Gunderson’s Jewelers is proud to support the conservation efforts of the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory.
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ONLY COMO
Primate-painted Ostrich Egg
Value: Priceless
Donor: Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryAn artistic collaboration never before seen in nature, this amazing work of egg art is an unbeatable Como conversation starter. Laid by Como’s iconic ostrich, Pickles, and hand-painted by Dara, the western lowland gorilla, these pieces are truly one of a kind. The ostrich egg is hollow and can be a lasting family heirloom that inspires the next generation of Como collectors.
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ONLY COMO
Hand-painted Ostrich Egg
Value: Priceless
Donor: Beth Myers and Como Park Zoo & ConservatoryBeth Myers by day is in charge of a multitude of responsibilities for Como’s Visitor Services, but by night is a talented artist who finds great joy in finding time to paint the plants, animals and natural world that she has loved since she was very young. This truly stunning work of egg art with a nod to both our Sunset Affair: Stargazing theme and to the painstaking artistry of the Ukraine will be something to behold as a centerpiece on your dining table or fireplace mantel. Where ever you choose to display this beautiful conversation starter we know it will be something to gaze upon for years. The ostrich egg is hollow and can be a lasting family heirloom that inspires the next generation of Como collectors.
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PREMIUM
Dazzling Diamond Earrings
Value: $1,250
Donor: Sheryl and Mike ZaworskiThese captivating diamond earrings are eye-catching yet understated. A perfect addition to any look, whether casual or haute couture, these sparkling twist earrings set in 13 kt white gold will make a statement.
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PREMIUM
Ice Blue Aquamarine Pendant
Value: $3,000
Donor: Sheryl and Mike ZaworskiCapturing the colorful convergence of water and sky, icy blue aquamarine is a precious gemstone once believed to protect those at sea. This stunning 1.67 carat aquamarine pendant, surrounded with sparkling halo diamonds, is exquisitely set in white gold on an 18-inch chain. Elegant and eye-catching, this heirloom pendant is the perfect way to remember a night of “Stargazing” at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.
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WINE & DINE
Cool Blue Cocktails
Value: $244
Donor: Caroline MehlhopChill out in style as you shake up some fun with this cool blue cocktail package. Create a colorful martini by adding Hpnotiq, a liqueur made with fruit juices, vodka and cognac and Reyka small batch vodka from Iceland to the star of your bar, a Michael Aram stainless steel shaker. Pour the Hpnotini into the four double-walled martini glasses that keep the chill in your drink and not your hand. Comes with a tray for easy serving!
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PREMIUM
Como Penguin
Value: $200
Donor: Foci Minneapolis Center for Glass ArtsThis pint-sized penguin sculpture was custom-made for the guests of Sunset Affair: Stargazing by central Minnesota artisan glassblower Isaac Theobald from Foci Minneapolis Center for Glass Arts. Crafted from flameworked borosilicate glass, this 5.5” x 3” sculpture is a great conversation starter about why you care about Como Park Zoo & Conservatory.
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CHILDREN’S
Stargazing Doll
Value: $200
Donor: Mary Jo WolfWith a wild wardrobe custom-designed for Sunset Affair: Stargazing, this adorable 18″ doll is ready for an adventure with her polar bear, penguin, and puffin friends! Her bags are already packed with handmade, custom clothing perfect for any occasion or adventure.
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BAGS & SPECS
Aquatic Ambassador Earring Set
Value: $55
Donor: Nancy and Todd KochA fun shot of color and an instant conversation starter, this set of penguin, puffin and harbor seal earrings are perfect for the accessory lover in your life.
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HOME & GARDEN
Metal Polar Bear Art
Value: $139
Donor: Jean McGoughThis 26” x 17.5” metal art piece by Shelle Lindholm is a darling depiction of a polar bear for any eclectic art collector. Made in the USA, this piece would look perfect in your cabin or three-season porch.
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BAGS & SPECS
Kate Spade Penguin Card Case
Value: $149
Donor: Caroline MehlhopPut a little waddle in your step with this whimsical Kate Spade Morty Small Zip Penguin card case, which closely resembles one of Sunset Affair’s favorite animal ambassadors.

CONTACT
Bid or Contribute

Como Friends’ Sunset Affair gala includes a silent auction featuring exclusive only-Como items, delectable wine and dine items, and one-of-a-kind artwork. To make an in-kind donation to the Sunset Affair silent auction, contact Caroline Mehlhop, Director of Institutional Partnerships and Events.