Auction
The Athenian Parent Association Auction
Dazzling 2007 Auction
Exceeds Financial Goal
The reviews are in — LIVE FROM ATHENIAN truly was the party of the year! "Fantastic evening," "great fun," "fabulous entertainment," "wonderful opportunity to socialize," "delectable food and wines" — these are just some of the phrases used to describe the event. More than 250 Athenian parents, faculty and staff attended the party at Blackhawk Country Club on April 14, 2007. Volunteers organized a superb social event and created an atmosphere of oftentimes heady bidding on the excellent auction items. The event exceeded its financial goal, raising just short of $100,000 to benefit our school!
The response to Fund-A-Need was overwhelming, surpassing the $20,000 goal. The school responded immediately by completing the Kate and Dyke Brown Terrace before the end of the spring term. Be sure to stop by the north side of the Main Hall to see this wonderful new addition that you funded.
Approximately $80,000 of the money raised was earmarked for soccer field bleachers, instrumental and choral music equipment, and additional seed money for new Middle School classrooms (a fund initiated in 2006).
A huge THANKS to everyone who supported this event. We are especially grateful to the volunteers who made this evening possible. Under the leadership team of Julie Nejedly, Karen Lynch, Louise Boas and Kathy Urbelis, parents volunteered countless hours attending to every detail so the rest of us could have fun!
LIVE FROM ATHENIAN Sponsors
We sincerely thank everyone who made monetary donations to support LIVE FROM ATHENIAN. Special thanks go to The Athenian School's Board of Trustees for its generous contribution to our event.
In addition, we are proud to have these businesses as underwriters of our auction. Their generosity greatly added to the success of our fundraiser. If you need the products/services provided by our sponsors, please give them priority consideration.
LIVE FROM ATHENIAN AUCTION CATALOG |
Giants vs. Yankees Plus a Night on the Town
Value: $850
Attend one of the hottest games of the season at AT&T Park! Four of you will see the Giants take on the Yankees on Saturday, June 23, at 12:55 pm. Your afternoon in prime stadium seats—just eight rows back from the first-base line—will be followed by a delicious dinner for four at a local hotspot, Jack Falstaff Restaurant. To complete your getaway to the City by the Bay, you will spend the night at a luxury two-bedroom, two-bath condo just across the street from the stadium. Parking for one car is included.
Expires June 23, 2007.
Donated by Mike and Mary Ann McCoy, Don and Julie Nejedly, and Plumpjack Group.
Lake Tahoe—Glenbrook Getaway
Value: $6,000
Glenbrook, a historic community on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, offers a community beach, nine-hole golf course, hiking and biking trails. Your one-week getaway in this lovely old Tahoe-style home overlooking the lake can take place during any season. Imagine a leisurely week in late fall when the aspens are turning to gold, a ski week in wintertime at Heavenly Valley only twenty minutes away, or a summer week lounging on the beach. The spacious four-bedroom, four-bath home can accommodate two families or four couples—sleeping a maximum of 10. Decks, along with a broad lawn leading to a dock and a beach, add to enjoyment of the outdoors, while living, dining, family and game rooms with panoramic views of the lake make your stay heavenly.
Dates are subject to availability from June 15, 2007, through June 15, 2008. Not available July 1 to September 1, 2007, Thanksgiving week 2007, and December 25, 2007, through January 1, 2008. No smoking. Pets require prior approval. Reserve early to ensure your choice of dates. Reservations must be confirmed by June 1, 2007. Expires June 15, 2008.
Donated by Ted and Lida Urban.
Thanksgiving in Palm Springs at the LG Skins Game
Value: $2,250
What better way to spend an extended Thanksgiving weekend (Wednesday through Sunday) than in the California desert in a fabulous condo located within walking distance of all of the fine shops and restaurants of Palm Springs? The two-bedroom, three-bath condo with pool and jacuzzi is perfect for up to four guests. For your ultimate enjoyment, two tickets to the LG Skins Game Golf Tournament (November 23-25, 2007) are included. This extremely popular golf event is being held at Indian Wells Golf Resort. The $1 million purse makes the LG Skins Game one of the richest events in golf. Past elite players include superstars Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and the game's premier female, Annika Sorenstam.
You will arrive at the course decked out head-to-toe in your new Nike ensemble, which can be ordered in advance of your trip via nikegolf.com. Each of two gift certificates includes hat, shirt, shorts or slacks, shoes, as well as a selection of golf accessories.
Expires November 25, 2007.
Donated by Wendell Arnold '92 and Jackie Thomas '82.
Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Value: $10,500 (Minimum bid: $4,500)
Enjoy one week at exclusive Esperanza, located on a secluded stretch of coastline four miles from Cabo San Lucas, overlooking the Sea of Cortez. This luxury hotel, spa and Private Residence Club feature world-class amenities, including oceanfront restaurants offering inspired cuisine, a fitness center, a sensational full-service spa, oceanfront infinity-edged pools and extraordinary services. You will stay at a three-bedroom villa that features Mexican styling and is exquisitely appointed with handcrafted furnishings, local artwork, a gourmet kitchen and spacious baths. Satellite television, DVD, stereo and high-speed internet are all available for use. Expansive views, an outdoor patio and floor-to-ceiling glass doors provide outside living in the wonderful tropical air.
Dates are subject to availability during one of the following times: October 14-21, 2007; December 16-23, 2007; May 11, 2008, through November 16, 2008; or December 14-21, 2008. Reserve early to ensure your choice of dates. Reservations must be confirmed by July 1, 2007. Expires December 31, 2008.
Donated by Doug and Debra Highsmith.
Quilt of "Sunshine and Flowers"
Value: Priceless
This beautiful, full-sized quilt evokes the mood and colors of springtime. The colorful yellow, blue, white and green pattern on the front is complemented by a back of blue and white paisley and bright blue binding. Designed and hand-sewn by the Athenian Quilters; machine quilting by Sue Anderson of Creekside Quilts.
Donated by the Athenian Quilters.
Destination: Sun Valley, Idaho
Value: $3,000
Outdoor adventure lovers, this vacation is designed with you in mind! The destination is Sun Valley, Idaho. Spend a week in a lovely and welcoming two-bedroom home, with expansive views of the surrounding hills. Head into the Sawtooth or Pioneer Mountains for hiking, biking or four-wheel drives; ice skate at Sun Valley; organize a rafting trip; play golf or tennis. And you won't want to miss exploring the eerie volcanic Crater of the Moon National Monument and its surrounding areas.
Available May 15, through September 30, 2007.
Donated by Scooter Carling '85.
Private Cellar Wine Tasting
Value: $300
Wine Thieves of Lafayette will open its private cellar to a party of 10 for a special wine tasting, which will introduce you to a number of lovely wines from around the world. Your hosts will provide entertaining and educational discussions of the producers, the regions, and the grape varieties that comprise each bottle—all while you have fun learning without inhibition. If you prefer to enjoy food while you taste, you are welcome to bring in/cater appetizers. This package also includes stemware and tasting notes.
Reservation required. Expires October 31, 2007.
Donated by Wine Thieves.
Vacation in Cape Cod
Value: $2,200
This newly constructed contemporary Cape-style home is located in a private setting less than two miles from Indian Neck Beach. With two bedrooms and two-and-one-half baths, the house sleeps seven comfortably. To enjoy the outdoors during the day and night, there are both a screened porch and a wrap-around covered porch on two sides of the building. The main floor consists of living, dining, and kitchen areas, half bath, and a master bedroom with king bed and bath. The large bedroom on the second floor has one double and three twin beds, as well as a full bath and a loft overlooking the living area. Close by are the Wellfleet Center and ocean beaches.
Dates are subject to availability from September 1, 2007, through September 30, 2008. Reserve early to ensure your choice of dates. Maximum occupancy is seven; no pets. Expires September 30, 2008.
Donated by Elizabeth Costantino.
Safari West Adventure
Value: $575
A safari in Santa Rosa! Four people will head north to the Safari West Wildlife Preserve for dinner, drift off to sleep in a deluxe tent cabin while listening to the serenades of the animals, and rise to enjoy a scrumptious breakfast before hopping into a safari vehicle to tour the park. Get up close and personal with giraffe, gazelle, oryx, ostrich and species of African antelope in a home designed to protect and preserve the wildlife while allowing the animals to roam about freely.
No expiration, based on availability; reservations required.
Donated by Andy and Marilyn Blick, and Safari West.
Evening with Lynne Carberry and Mike Pavitt
Value: $500
A delectable feast for four prepared by Mike Pavitt, who will be assisted by his wife and sous chef Lynne Carberry, Athenian’s own Head of Middle School. Mike and Lynne will prepare and serve a gourmet dinner at their home in Livermore. Dinner will be complemented by a "vertical" (2002, 2003, 2004) of Lancaster Estate Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Date to be mutually agreed upon; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Lynne Carberry and Mike Pavitt, and Wayne and Laura Cotton.
Seascape Getaway
Value: $3,300
Your weekend begins on Saturday, September 8, 2007, with a leisurely trip to Aptos. Enjoy lunch al fresco overlooking the 15-mile long Aptos beach (pictured from the deck) at the oceanfront home of Tom and Mary Anne Jorde. Spend the day relaxing at the beach or hiking in the redwood forest. Or just sit in the hot tub and read a book—all to the sound of crashing waves.
You will stay overnight at the lovely Seascape Resort, adjacent to the Jorde home, so take your time getting ready for dinner and enjoy the ambiance of this lovely resort. Your hosts Tom and Mary Anne, with assistance from Susan and John Chapman, have planned a fabulous multi-course gourmet dinner, which will complement these extraordinary cabernet sauvignon wines: 1994 Opus One, 2000 Far Niente, 1997 Heitz Wine Cellars "Trailside," 2000 and 2001 Peter Michael "Les Pavots," 1998 Silver Oak, and 1999 Vineyard 29. Expect other surprises from the wine cellar as well. Enjoy Sunday at your leisure and return home that day refreshed and relaxed!
Donated by Tom and Mary Anne Jorde, and John and Susan Chapman.
Sailing on SF Bay
Value: Priceless
Sailing for the day on a "J/105" 35-foot racer/cruiser sailboat berthed in Alameda/Berkeley. Steve will take up to eight people for the day. Enjoy a complimentary lunch on Angel Island, on the pier at Sam's in Tiburon (great for teenagers), at the St. Francis Yacht Club, or have sandwiches while sailing. The sailing can be fast-paced or relaxing—your choice. Children are welcome. Steve and a member of his expert racing crew will be on board to take care of everything.
Date to be mutually agreed upon; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Steve Podell '77.
Family Photography Portrait Session
Value: $1,250
One family portrait session with San Francisco-based photographer Joshua Ets-Hokin. Joshua has been photographing Bay Area families for the past 20 years, specializing in fine art and black-and-white family portraiture. Includes one photograph matted and framed to 11 by 14 inches.
Date to be mutually agreed upon; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Joshua Ets-Hokin, Ets-Hokin Photography Studios.
Dinner Party at Chef's Table
Value: $950
A unique experience that combines education, entertainment and eating for eight people at Chef's Table in Lafayette. Famous chefs Howard and Jamie Karp work with you to design a menu and prepare a five-course, world-class dinner and share tips, techniques and stories as you bask in magnificent dining. Chef Howard's credentials include cooking for four U.S. Presidents, as well as for Prince Andrew during his visit to Athenian.
Reservations required; expires September 30, 2007.
Donated by Chefs Howard and Jamie Karp.
KTVU Channel 2 News Tour
Value: Priceless
This tour for a family or a small group of up to six people takes you through the KTVU Channel 2 News Station at Jack London Square. You will receive KTVU memorabilia and autographed photos of our local celebrities. The tour will take place from approximately 11:30 am to 12:30 pm and includes observation of a live newscast from the studio and the control room. You'll end your day with lunch at Kincaid's Bayhouse in Jack London Square.
Date to be mutually agreed upon; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Tori Campbell Nelson.
3L 2002 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Value: $500
Cool temperatures through spring and summer 2002, coupled with wet weather during bloom, led to a Cabernet Sauvignon crop with small berries and great flavor concentration. The spectacular 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve (83 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 7 percent Merlot, and the remainder Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec) offers a perfect marriage of power and elegance. Cedar wood, blackberry and cassis, spice, and dried herb aromas soar from the glass of this medium-bodied, beautifully balanced wine.
Donated by Wayne and Laura Cotton.
Meadowood Croquet Tournament
Value: $1,500
Spend a day enjoying that backyard game you probably haven't played in a while—croquet! The real game is played on a perfectly manicured lawn court, upon which players hit two one-pound balls clockwise through a series of six wickets and then back again before pegging out. Add in strategy and tactics and everyone thoroughly enjoys a spirited game.
This package includes day of croquet at Meadowood for up to 16 adults and children, complete with lessons, a tournament, and a delightful gourmet lunch under the trees overlooking the croquet court. Also included is a gift pack of wine for each adult participant from Cartlidge & Browne Winery. Clothing requirements, which must be adhered to, include white collared shirts for men and white collared shirts or shirts with sleeves for women, white or light beige pants or shorts, and flat-soled shoes. Hats are highly recommended.
Date to be mutually agreed upon; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Tony Cartlidge and Sarah Forni-Cartlidge.
Costa del Sol in Marbella, Spain
Value: $1,400
Wouldn't you enjoy a glorious week on the Mediterranean coast of Spain? One week at Costa del Sol, located in Marbella, Spain, can be yours for the right bid. Stay in a two-bedroom, two-bath condominium overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Walk to the beach, shops and restaurants. Immerse yourself in the Spanish culture; explore art galleries and exhibitions; and relax to the lively sounds of traditional flamenco music. Athenian families only.
Book early for your choice of dates; expires April 14, 2008.
Donated by Gordon Firestein and Doris Lang.
Coronado Beachfront Condominium
Value: $3,700
Enjoy eight days and seven nights in a beautiful condominium with oceanfront views from every room. This spacious three-bedroom, four-bath unit is located on Coronado Beach, one of the country’s consistently rated Top 10 beaches. The complex includes four swimming pools, barbeque and dining areas overlooking the beach, and a health club and tennis courts. A $200 gift certificate for dining, shops or the spa at San Diego's world-famous Hotel Del Coronado is included with the condo package.
Dates to be mutually agreed upon; available May 2007 through April 2008 (excluding Labor Day weekend, Fourth of July week, August 1 through 21, and Thanksgiving).
Donor is anonymous.
Premier Parking Space
Value: Priceless
Use of a designated Athenian parking space in the upper lot for the 2007-08 academic year. Avoid the pick-up line and crowded parking lot! Can be used by family members and eligible student(s).
Donated by The Athenian School.
Whaler's Cove on the Island of Kauai, Hawaii
Value: $3,675
Looking for an amazing week in the sun? This secluded hideaway at Poipu in Kauai overlooks one of the island's most gorgeous coves. The luxurious two-bedroom condominium includes a large private lanai, oceanfront pool and spa, a barbeque and a fully equipped kitchen.
Dates are subject to availability; expires April 30, 2008 (not available in September; however, an alternative condominium can be substituted during that month. Not available from December 15, 2007 through January 15, 2008.)
Donated by Irwin Eskanos and Eskanos & Adler, PC.
Crab Feed
Price: $50/person
On Saturday, January 19, 2008, bring your appetite and your friends to a casual evening at the Athenian Main Hall, where you will enjoy the best of the season's crab in the comfort of a roaring fire. This all-you-can-eat affair includes sumptuous crab, crispy fresh green salad, and French bread along with wine, beer, coffee and soft drinks. Maximum guests: 50.
Donated by Vance and Amy Phillips, Dave and Susan Williams, Larry and Tori Nelson, Paul and Georgia Cantrell, Wayne and Laura Cotton.
A's Game with Athenian Athletic Department
Price: $40/person
"Play Ball!" Parents, sign-up your student(s) for this fun day at the ball park with Darek Cliff and seven other members of Athenian's Athletic Department. Darek and his staff will escort 40 students to McAfee Coliseum in Oakland to see the A's take on the Seattle Mariners on Sunday, July 8, 2007. The Athenian bus will depart from the main parking lot at 11 am, returning after the game at approximately 5 pm. Game ticket and transportation included.
Donated by Bob and Sharon Burke.
Cool Jazz on a Hot Summer Night—A Dinner Party
Price: $75/person
The Athenian Upper School Grade Representatives take great pleasure in inviting 50 people to join them for Cool Jazz on a Hot Summer Night on Saturday, June 2, 2007. When you arrive at the home of Greg and Debbie Wiener, you will be greeted by the smooth sounds of the Athenian Advanced Jazz Combo, a superb group that will provide music throughout the night. Chat with old friends and make new ones while you enjoy a glass of wine, appetizers, and the magic of the outdoors. After a delicious dinner served under the stars, finish a lovely night with some dancing.
Donated by the Athenian Upper School Grade Reps.
Mt. Diablo Hike and Picnic
Price: $50/person
On Saturday, May 26, 2007, fifteen hikers will meet at 9 am at the home of trail guides Chris Beeson and his wife Nicola Place '76 on Mt. Diablo Scenic Boulevard. From there, the trek up the mountain will begin. After entering the park, the group will hike three and a half miles up the moderate, partly shaded Dan Cook Trail to Rock City, where light refreshments will be served and an Athenian chauffeur will be waiting to drive the group to the Sketchley family's extraordinary private garden on the Black Hills Reservoir near the park entrance. There you will enjoy French and domestic wine, cheese, and bread in a naturally landscaped and shaded five-acre lakeside setting. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring along some water to fully enjoy this wonderful outing.
Rain date is September 8, 2007.
Donated by Chris Beeson and Nicola Place '76.
Shakespeare's Richard III and Dick Bradford
Price: $80/person
Spend the evening of Wednesday, June 20, 2007, at Cal Shakespeare in Orinda with Athenian's Shakespearean expert Dick Bradford. This sign-up item for 12 people begins on the green before the performance with a sumptuous picnic supper accompanied by excellent wines from Mark West Vineyards. As a prelude to Richard taking the stage to begin his well-recognized monologue, "Now is the winter of our discontent ...," host Dick Bradford will lead a lively discussion of how the power-hungry Richard, as Duke of Gloucester, deviously plots to murder anyone in his way in order to become king.
Donated by Dick Bradford and Molly McClure, and Derek and Rachel Benham.
Ice Cream Social with Head of School Eleanor Dase
Price: $25/person
Twenty students will join Eleanor for a trip to the Olde San Francisco Ice Creamery in Walnut Creek for a decadent ice cream sundae, a fabulous old-fashioned milk shake, or—for the true ice cream lovers—the "Kitchen Sink," eight scoops of ice cream plus toppings served in a kitchen sink with a spoon for each aficionado.
Saturday, May 19, from 3 to 5 pm, departing from the gym in Athenian's bus.
Donated by Eleanor Dase.
Cooking with Ed Costa
Price: $75/person
Ed Costa, Athenian's executive chef, will once again conduct his incredibly popular cooking class for 20 people in the Athenian kitchen on Saturday, August 18, beginning at 6 pm. Ed, a graduate of America’s oldest cooking school—Washburne Chef’s Training Program in Chicago—joined Athenian in 1993. His forte is melding classic French and contemporary California cuisine. Sign up to learn from Ed's expertise while enjoying the superb four-course meal that he will prepare with sous chef and spouse Mary Girard. A complementary wine will be paired with each course.
Donated by Ed Costa and Mary Girard.
Fund-A-Need: Kate and Dyke Brown Terrace
(Goal: $20,000)
Take a walk around the Main Hall. On the north side is a large space that is woefully in need of a facelift. At one end there is a pizza oven, at the other a small table, with lots of barren ground in between.
Imagine what could happen to this space with a modest investment. We could have a terrace that would accommodate larger, informal gatherings. The plan calls for a 30 by 40-foot terrace resplendent with tables sporting brightly colored umbrellas. The terrace would be paved similarly to the existing quad design, combining natural and exposed aggregate patterns. Plants would provide even more color adjacent to the Main Hall.
This secluded outdoor room could easily accommodate small groups for advisories, classes, student meetings, and faculty meetings. It would become a natural place for students to congregate for lunch, to chat after school or to enjoy the outdoors while working on homework. Boarders would be doubly delighted to have this cozy outdoor dining room for those many evenings when the weather is California perfect. Not only would this terrace beautify the campus and become a gathering place, but it would probably inspire greater use of the pizza oven. With the addition of a planned student-built barbecue and some amateur chefs, many wonderful organized and spontaneous events would be enjoyed by the entire Athenian community. Click here to view a diagram of the Kate and Dyke Brown Terrace. Please contribute and make this dream come true!
