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I don’t think I’m alone in saying that I LOVE the hunt of a good bargain. And most especially around the holidays.

Obviously, there are many ways to find those special deals – online, consignment shops, outlet stores, the list goes on. But my favorite spot? Auctions! And this year, it’s all about the online auctions.

Had COVID-19 not consumed our lives as it has in 2020, we would be in our final preparations for Northeast Sight Services’ Annual Awards Dinner. A very important fundraising event that not only informs our sponsors about the important work of our agency, but also raises nearly 25% of the funds it takes to allow our organization to carry out our very important mission of supporting those who are blind and visually impaired, as well as support the prevention of blindness locally. Usually this includes a very elaborate in-person auction that also raises a great deal of money for us.

But obviously we can’t gather together this year – and yet, so many have offered their support to ensure our programs continue by sponsoring or buying tickets to our No Show Awards Dinner. … I’m sure you’ve heard about it, since it’s going to be the non-event event of the season this Thursday. A perfect opportunity to celebrate and support from home.

And your chance to support doesn’t end there! Yes, you guessed it – Northeast Sight Services will hold our online auction in conjunction with the No Show Awards Dinner on Oct. 29. Imagine something that you want, something that you can give, something that you need, and you’ll find it at our Online Auction this year.

At least once a day, I tell my husband something that I think we should bid on. I mean, who doesn’t need some liquor baskets before the holidays, a new purse as a gift for someone, or the best is all the wonderful gift cards to local restaurants and businesses. That way you can support local, too!

Of course, feel free to outbid us because every dollar of the money raised through this auction is used for services for people in our local community. It’s really a win-win, considering you can get items that you want but also give back to help those who need it the most in our area.

Want to know where you can find a great deal on Airpods, a Megatouch machine, jewelry, Italian basket, car detailing package, home décor for the holidays, and so much more, check out www.northeastsight.cbo.io. We’ve made it incredibly easy to register on your computer, phone or tablet and then start to preview items. The site is open now, and official bidding starts on Thursday at 10 a.m. until the auction closes on Sunday, Nov. 1, at 10 p.m.

And did I mention that you can still buy tickets? Check out those options also online at www.northeastsight.org.

We can’t thank you all enough for celebrating and supporting from home.

Sara Gorgone Peperno is the president and CEO of Northeast Sight Services. She contributes a monthly column to the Times Leader.