Spirit Of America

(moving this back to the top for the final day)
Unless you’ve been under a rock, you’ll know about the fund raising effort at Spirit Of America.

US Marines seek to equip seven (7) television stations serving local communities within Al Anbar Province, Iraq. The Province includes the cities of Fallujah and Ramadi. These stations will offer information that is more accurate and balanced than existing alternatives. The goal is to improve understanding between Americans and Iraqis, build trust and reduce tensions.
$1,950 purchases a PC for editing video and programming
$538 buys a digital video camcorder
$109 provides a multi-region DVD player
Any amount helps! Your donation is tax deductible.

There’s a paypal button at their site for those who want to donate directly.
There’s been a groundswell of support on the blogosphere to raise money for the effort. I’ve been a little late to the plate, but finally came up with an idea. Auction item is a portrait of your favorite small live animal. The only requirement is that you must provide a very good photograph(s) for me to work from – take a whole roll of film, develop them and send them to me. I’ll do a pencil portrait of your beloved pet.
Ok, Ok. I’ll allow cat pictures. But just this once.
Average size – 8″ x 10″ – Sample:

Bidding starts at $20US. Auction closes next Tuesday at 6pm Bid in the comments section.
(Winner will pay directly at the Spirit Of America site, and then send me a copy of their receipt, so you get your tax deduction, too.)
update: Auction closed, Fred wins