The first week-long Rbay Auction of the year ended Monday, bringing in money that helps provide financial aid for students.

The completely on-line auction featured 30 items, the most ever in the first auction of a year.

The goal is to raise $20,000 between the three separate auctions and double the amount of bids placed. 

According to Ms. Judie Scanlon, director of special activities, incentives have been added to increase the amount of bids.  Lunch vouchers will be given to the fifth highest bidder of an item sold for at least $250.  Those bidders who purchase items for a total of $1000 over all three auctions will receive $50 off enrollment registration.

In addition to bidding incentives, the committee made efforts to promote the auction within the Rockhurst community.  Postcard ads, posters, press releases and advertising at school events all contributed to getting the word out.

Rbay runs very similarly to E-Bay.  Bidders can set the amount they want; however, the minimum increments are set between $5 and $100 depending on the item.  There is also a buy now option.  Winners pay with their credit-card.

Items ranged from KU and MU basketball tickets to a Santa Clause visit for 25 people. 

Numerous Rockhurst specific items up for bid included a junior class ring, a letterman’s jacket and a lunch with varsity football players.

“Rbay offers something for everybody, so everyone in the Rockhurst community can help out the school,” Mrs. Cydney Nelson, head of marketing for Rbay, said.

Similar to the past two years, three auctions will run during the 2009-2010 academic year.  However, the first auction was moved up this year to take advantage of the Christmas season.  The next two auctions will run from Jan. 25 to Feb. 1 and Feb. 22 to March 1.