PONCE.- For the first time in its history, Museo de Arte de Ponce will be holding an on-line auction as part of its year-end fundraising initiative. The auction will be administered by the prestigious company charitybuzz, and it will run until December 19. All proceeds will be used for activities programing and exhibitions.

Among the articles to be auctioned off are glamorous jewelry items, including a limited-edition “Marilyn Monroe” pearl necklace from Mikimoto; paradisal stays in exotic locations; fine collectible wines; and unparalleled gastronomic experiences.

The starting bid for each item will be determined by its value, but is guaranteed to be below the market value so that the public will be encouraged to make their bids.

“In the age of the internet, on-line auctions are becoming increasingly common. They increase the number of people that can take part—no place is any longer geographically out of range—and they offer absolute security for the bidders,” noted Cecille Blondet, director of the museum’s Office of Development and External Affairs. Winners will be notified at the end of the auction, on December 19, 2011, and the items will be shipped for arrival before Christmas.