Note: There is no charge for attendance. 'Ticket' prices are simply suggested donations. You can make those donations online in advance, or at the door. Any amount, no matter how large or how small, is greatly appreciated, and tax deductible. If you are unable to attend, you can still make a donation by purchasing one of the available ticket options. When: August 23rd @ 6pm... [read more]

Note: There is no charge for attendance. 'Ticket' prices are simply suggested donations. You can make those donations online in advance, or at the door. Any amount, no matter how large or how small, is greatly appreciated, and tax deductible. If you are unable to attend, you can still make a donation by purchasing one of the available ticket options. When: August 23rd @ 6pm Where: Copia in Midtown (visit Copia website) Why: Raise money for Joplin Schools, and have fun doing it! What: Great drink specials, professional DJs, Yankees tickets and dozens of other awesome silent auction items Who: The (official, non-profit) Joplin Expats of New York (visit their website) Cost: Free! But donations are welcomed. See above for suggestions. During the May 22 tornado (see NY Times coverage), over thirty percent of Joplin was leveled, damaging and destroying 10 schools, affecting the homes of over half the city's student body, and killing nearly 160 citizens, including 7 students and one passionate educator. But Joplin's school administrators and staff have been working tirelessly to replace their lost resources. And this month, just 10 weeks after the disastrous tornado struck ground, students and faculty of Joplin's school system will attempt a return to normalcy. However, they will be attending school from makeshift classrooms in ex-department stores (see NPR coverage). This is your chance to help. The Joplin Expats of New York invite you to take part in good fun for a great cause, at a wonderful and convenient venue. The list of volunteer talent and donated items is already virtually endless--and still growing. You'll mingle with Broadway actors and actresses, enjoy great drinks at Happy Hour prices, listen to some of the most talented DJs in NYC (Chupacabra, Speculator, and OCO), and bid on dozens of high-demand silent auction items, such as: Backstage passes to Broadway shows Yankees Tickets Vegas.com gift cards A 1-hour professional massage Hand-made gift boxes iPod docking stations Professional personal training sessions and much more  The City of Joplin, its impassioned expats, and most importantly its entire school system, are all focused and optimistic. With donations from you, and inspiration from President Obama himself (watch his speech here), we will help give them the support they need. If you are unable to attend, please consider an advanced ticket purchase as a donation. Remember that all donations are tax deductible and go directly to the Joplin Schools Foundation (visit their website).