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JULY 2007

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Uptown Saturday Night!

In October of 2006, Angela McCluney joined Alachua Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to help build homes for those in need.  At that time, Habitat’s thrift store on SW 13 Street was the primary source of income to fund their efforts.  But according to McCluney, it wasn’t enough.  “We wanted to raise more money and needed another source of revenue.” 

So in December of that year, Habitat opened Uptown Saturday Night Auction – a second arm of fundraising for the charity.  On the second Saturday of every month, Uptown Saturday Night offers up for auction antiques, vintage furniture, estate jewelry, collectibles and even large appliances at 1024 S. Main Street in Gainesville.  Much of the proceeds go directly to fund the efforts of the Habitat for Humanity volunteers.   Habitat Executive Director William McCoy says that the auctions have been a big success.  “Basically, with each auction we raise approximately $5,000,” he says.  “That’s just one night.” 

Some of the items up for auction are donations, while others are consignment pieces for which Habitat gets a portion of the profit.  “A lot of people don’t like the hassle of selling (a piece) themselves,” McCoy explains.  “They can consign it to the auction, and we sell it for them.”  Uptown Saturday Night makes it easy for you to donate quality items for auction.  “They can just give me a call,” says McCluney.  “We’ll pick up as long as they’re in the Gainesville area.”  Antique furniture and collectibles are the most requested offerings, but collectibles and framed art pieces are also gaining in popularity. 

After a few months of auctions, Uptown Saturday Night conducted a survey to find out what would make the monthly event more fun and convenient to attend.   Many conveniences and amenities have been added as a result.  The facility at S. Main Street is now fully air-conditioned, reserves are kept at a minimum and absolute auctions (those with no minimum selling price) are held whenever possible.  Customers can also participate in online bidding if they can’t attend an auction, and absentee bidding is also available. 

As a result, the auctions have become even more successful with each month.  Not only have they helped an important cause, but they have also turned into a fun,  social experience.  Additionally, the auction house has added a full-service snack bar, and McCoy is already starting to see some regular attendees. 

The preview of each session begins at 4:30pm, with the actual auction starting at 6:00pm.  Uptown Saturday Night takes Visa, MasterCard and Discover cards, as well as cash and personal checks.  McCoy says that it’s a great way to enjoy a fun evening while raising money for a good cause.  “Come out to have an enjoyable evening.  Everyone seems to have a great time!”

For more information, log onto their website at www.uptownauction.org/homepage.html or call them at 352-378-8320.