THis is just to thank all those out there that helped with suggestions/information on running a silent -live auction. I especially want to thank Norman -your input saved me!! Just finished mine on friday night. We totaled 32K - a lot went right but a lot went wrong. The input from Norman et al on check in/check out saved us and we had a very smooth check in and out. Unfortunately my biggest problem was set up..BIGGEST ADVICE allow enough time for set up. I only had two hours to set up 215 silent and 40 live auction items. People arrived and I wasn't dressed yet! OOPS! I was definitely a rookie and learned a lot. Another wish is that I had gone with an auctioneer more accustomed to charity auctions. I had a professional auctioneer but feel he left a lot on the table... he missed a lot of the emotion some of the items up for bid had for people. I even heard people say "I would've gone to $4000 -when they won the bid for $2000".. somewhat frustrating but live and learn. Again thank you all especially Norman!