News
The Farmer’s Fete Live Auction Items
Posted January 25, 2010
- SANDPIPER CLASS PROJECT: “On the Farm” – A photo collection of the children and their parent(s) engaging with nature at Slide Ranch.
- QUAIL CLASS PROJECT: "Stick Sculpture" – Inspired by the art of contemporary American artist Charles Arnoldi, the children gathered sticks, experimented with their placement and secured them to create a large stick sculpture.
- PELICAN CLASS PROJECT: "Blackie’s Triptych" – Inspired by our colorful Marin landscape and a wonderful class picnic at Blackie’s Pasture, the children created a beautiful abstract triptych using acrylic paints.
- GREAT BLUE HERON CLASS PROJECT: "Illuminating Marin" – A panoramic view of the colors and landscape of Marin.
- MOURNING DOVE CLASS PROJECT: “I Spy” – A colorful reuse of the children's old toys, creating a fun “I Spy”-like sculptural art piece, framed in a large shadow box.
- RED TAIL FOX CLASS PROJECT: "Framing Joy" – Multiple sizes of framed children's artwork are collaged together, creating a large and collaborative piece of unique, individual works.
- THE DOMES CLASS PROJECT: “The Joker” – Playing cards that have been artistically enhanced by the children decorate this black, 42" round pedestal table, ideal as a family game table.
- GREAT WHITE EGRET CLASS PROJECT: “Mayan Calendar” – In the spirit of the class trip to Mexico, each child has handmade a glyph of this well-known ancient calendar, creating a beautiful ornamental piece of art that is 24" in diameter and ready to hang.
- ERDKINDER CLASS PROJECT: "Children of the Earth" – A collage of photographs of each MMS child, taken by the Erdkinder students and crafted into the shape of the earth.
OTHER AUCTION ITEMS IN THREE CATEGORIES:
Thrills of a Lifetime, Chef Dinners & Amazing Getaways
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
MMS HEADMASTER FOR A DAY
What exactly does the MMS Headmaster do every day? Put your child in charge of the school for a day and have him or her find out. Your child will plan a fire drill, schedule meetings and observe a classroom. The day is complete with lunch and an on-the-job training conversation with our esteemed interim Head of School, Dr. Emerson Johnson. Who knows what leadership skills or future career this special opportunity may inspire!
Value: Priceless
Donated by Dr. Emerson Johnson
– Chef Dinners –
“TOUR DE FRANCE” CHEF DINNER PARTY
Host a dinner party and let the details be handled by professional chef Gary Bulmer, a talented culinary master. He will prepare a restaurant-quality French dinner that will make you feel you are dining on the local cuisine in Paris. Chef Gary has been cooking professionally for 30 years in the San Francisco Bay Area and teaching cooking classes for over 20 years. Today he is the proprietor of Gary Bulmer Fine Catering and the star cooking-class instructor at Williams-Sonoma’s flagship store in San Francisco. This dinner party for eight to 10 people will be served in the comfort of the lucky winning bidder’s home. Bon appetit! Valid in 2010.
Value: $1,800
Donated by Chef Gary Bulmer
Tour de France Sample Menu
APPETIZERS
Oysters on the Half Shell, Champagne Mignonette Sauce
Crimini Mushrooms Stuffed with Wild Mushrooms & Herbed Goat Cheese
Pissaladière (Provencal Pizza)
SIT-DOWN COURSE ONE
Moules Marinière (Mussels Cooked in White Wine, Garlic & Herbs)
SIT-DOWN COURSE TWO
Organic Chicken Cooked with Tarragon, Mustard, White Wine, Mushrooms and a Touch of Cream, Served in a Puff Pastry Shell
SALAD COURSE
Spring Greens with Toasted Walnuts & Blue Cheese, Walnut Vinaigrette
ENTRÉE
Rack of Lamb Provencal, Herb Roasted Potatoes & Ratatouille
or
Sea Scallops St. Jacques, Rice Pilaf & Glazed Carrots
DESSERT
Tarte Tatin served with Homemade Cinnamon Ice Cream
DIGESTIF
A Selection of Fine Cheeses
– Amazing Getaways –
DELICIOUS WEEKEND OF SONOMA PLEASURES
Spend a luxurious weekend away in Sonoma at a beautiful private residence, only one mile from the Sonoma Square. This lovely home features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two fireplaces, a hot tub, gourmet kitchen and outdoor kitchen. Upon arrival you will be treated to champagne and dinner for two at the award-winning restaurant, The Girl and the Fig. A perfect retreat to refresh and renew!
Value: $800
Donated by Woody Price and Katherine Dinh
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
PRODUCER FOR A DAY ON THE “ALICE MORNING SHOW 97.3FM”
Two lucky people can be radio producers for the day on the #1 morning radio show in the Bay Area. Watch the live antics of the radio personalities bantering with each other, and have a meet-and-greet with Sarah, Vinni, Hooman and the entire Alice team! Get the insider’s view on all of the hilarity and learn about the production details that go into broadcasting a live show. Watch the show from 8 to 9:30 am, then enjoy a private tour of the radio station. Get some awesome Alice “schwag” to take home with you. Valid until December 1, 2010.
Value: $300
Donated by Alice Radio 97.3FM
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
“BAY AREA BACKROADS” ADVENTURE WITH TV STAR DOUG McCONNELL
Experience unbelievable Bay Area fun with acclaimed adventure guide and TV star Doug McConnell of “Bay Area Backroads.” Doug’s deep knowledge of Bay Area history make him the tour guide extraordinaire, providing you with facts and insights on the region known by very few. This day of incredible adventure begins with a tour of the San Francisco Bay on a luxurious Protector boat, a high-speed craft used by the New Zealand Coast Guard, designed to glide gracefully through the waters of our favorite bay. Cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge and around the city shoreline on this water tour of San Francisco and its history. Enjoy Doug’s rich narrative as you stop on Angel Island for a beautiful hike or bike ride around the island, followed by a gourmet picnic lunch complete with wine pairings catered by Erin Shallat Catering. End with cocktails and appetizers with Doug on the deck of the San Francisco Yacht Club. This is a perfect experience to share with either out-of-town guests or locals who want to expand their knowledge about the area and its adventures. Up to six people can share this adventure with Doug. Date to be confirmed with Doug.
Value: $2,500
Donated by the Sheibler and Draganic families
– Chef Dinners –
TWIN POWER PRIVATE COOKING CLASS
Lilly and Audrey are identical-twin culinary explorers and budding chefs! Here's what the girls have to say: "We’re 8 years old and have loved everything about food and entertaining since we were toddlers. As kids we feel you shouldn’t just eat what some people call kid food; kids should have the opportunity to eat great healthy, beautiful grown-up style food. Kids and grown ups sharing and cooking together the same wonderful foods. It’s fun and tasty, and while you’re cooking and entertaining you learn so much. It’s time well spent with your culinary grown-up helper. We have learned from a young age to love all different kinds of healthy foods. We want to spread our passion for cooking to other kids. Kids can be so creative in the kitchen; it is sort of like art." Have a two-hour cooking class for your children in the privacy of your home with these adorable and talented twins, supervised by Master Chef Elizabeth Eckholt.
Value: $500
Donated by the Twin Chefs, Lilly and Audrey, in concert with Elizabeth Eckholt of VedaGreen
– Amazing Getaways –
FIVE-STAR FIJI GETAWAY
Spend seven nights for two in a private oceanfront bure at the award-winning, five-star Jean-Michel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort. Located on the island of Vanua Levu on 17 acres of a former coconut plantation, the tropical accommodations overlook the peaceful waters of Savusavu Bay. The acclaimed resort is an international favorite for those who want to combine heavenly surroundings and exceptional dining with an unsurpassed range of eco-friendly activities when guests are ready to pick up the pace. All meals are included in this package! This resort is one of the most family-friendly AND romantic vacation destinations in the South Pacific. Named “Fiji’s Leading Resort” in World Travel Awards, 2009 and 2008. (Upgrades possible to make it a family vacation.) Valid until May 22, 2011; blackout dates apply.
Value: $6,160
Donated by Passport Resorts
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
A “BEAUTIFUL” LADIES NIGHT OUT
Host a night of “beauty” for you and your favorite gals. Start with a spa party for 10 people at the exquisite Purevana Spa in Mill Valley, complete with mini-facials, pedicures, massages, hors d’oeuvres, exquisite wine and saucy conversation! A make-up artist will make sure everyone is looking pretty before they walk over to Bungalow 44 for a delicious dinner and a night of husband-free fun. Start your summer off beautifully with your favorite ladies and let Purevana’s owner, Valerie, pamper you and your friends. Available dates: June 16 or 19, 2010.
Value: $2,500
Donated by Purevana Spa and Bungalow 44
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
FIVE-STAR TAURI DINNER CRUISE ON THE BAY
Indulge in an elegant dinner cruise on the bay for four couples aboard TAURI, a luxuriously modern, 80+ foot Sunseeker Yacht. Enjoy an evening on the San Francisco Bay as a five-star chef dazzles you with a multi-course dinner complete with paired, blue-chip wines from the Elixir Fund. Let the crew cater to your every need. Enjoy cocktails while passing Angel Island, appetizers under the Golden Gate, and your main course as you view San Francisco’s gorgeous waterfront. Don’t miss this extraordinary experience!
Value: $5,000
Donated by Karl and Trish Jacob
– Chef Dinners –
“A WHOLESOME VEGETARIAN FEAST” CHEF DINNER PARTY
Host an incredible organic and healing vegetarian meal in the privacy of your own home. Elizabeth Eckholt of VedaGreen is a holistic and green events chef focusing on sustainable sources and creating gorgeous, delicious organic food creations. A caterer in the Bay Area for 22 years, Elizabeth has a passion to create and educate people about healing medicinal foods. By incorporating medicinal herbs, roots, seeds and superfoods, her food is nutrient-dense, PH balanced and healing for the body, and absolutely delicious. During each course of this organic medicinal vegetarian feast, Elizabeth will educate your guests and explain the properties of what each ingredient does in the body to balance and heal. She will spend careful time sourcing, going to the farms and hand-picking the herbs and medicinal roots to make sure the meal represents the top picks of the season. This is a highly valuable educational and delicious experience like no other! Dinner party for eight to 10 people. Valid in 2010.
Value: $2,400
Donated by Elizabeth Eckholt of VedaGreen
Sample Menu (menu will be designed to properly reflect the season)
SUMMER APPETIZERS
Raw Macadamia Nut and Sweet Red Pepper Nori Rolls with Ponzu
Sprouted Curried Almond Hummus on Carrot Flax Crackers
Heirloom Tomato and Humboldt Fog Bruschetta, Herbed Olive Oil Drizzle
SOUP
Chilled Avocado and Maca Root Soup with Kaffir Lime, Cilantro Basil Mint Garni
ENTRÉE
Lemony Pink Lentils with Sautéed Stinging Nettles, Roasted Fennel Gratin and Medicinal Wild Mushroom Ragu with Red Peruvian Quinoa
SALAD
Mache, Raw Cashew, Pine Nut and Goat Cheese
Fig and Seasonal Fruits
DESSERT
Raw Cacao Mousse Truffles with Raw Coconut Cream Tarts and Fresh Seasonal Berries
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
WORLD-CLASS RIVER RAFTING ADVENTURE IN IDAHO
Experience an extraordinary trip for two people for five days of magnificent wilderness fun with Middle Fork River Expeditions. The Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho is the premier wilderness-rafting trip in the U.S. Wild and scenic, the free-flowing river winds 100 miles through the largest wilderness area in the U.S. The canyon is the second deepest in North America. The Middle Fork of the Salmon is unspoiled and remote, so you will be sure to get away from it all. Simply put, it is the best river run in the West!
Middle Fork River Expeditions is a licensed and bonded outfitter running safe and well-managed river trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Trips feature six days of exciting river rafting, wilderness camping, world-class trout fishing and adventure travel. The company’s equipment is specially designed for wilderness whitewater rafting, and offers mild and wild boat choices (oar boats, paddle boats, inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddling surf boards). River guides are seasoned professionals, licensed by the state of Idaho and first-aid certified. They are expert river runners, magnificent cooks, great storytellers, and knowledgeable, helpful outdoorsmen. Join Middle Fork River Expeditions for a magical wilderness river vacation this summer. Minimum age is six years old.
Value: $3859 for two
Donated by Meg and James Ellsworth
– Amazing Getaways –
CAVALLO POINT STAYCATION
Nature. Nurture. Culture. Adventure. Cavallo Point – the Lodge at the Golden Gate is close to everything but away from it all. The award-winning eco-lodge is located at historic Fort Baker in Sausalito, gracefully situated within 75,000 acres of the beautiful Golden Gate National Parks. Named one of 10 New Green American Landmarks by Travel+Leisure, the lodge was recently certified LEED Gold. Take a ‘staycation’ for a refreshing escape without the travel hassles. Or use this getaway, ideal for enjoying the best of the Bay Area, as an unforgettable treat for family or dear friends. Includes two nights for two people in a Contemporary King Suite with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, two 60-minute spa treatments, and a daily gourmet breakfast each morning. The Cavallo Point Healing Arts Center & Spa is an incredible place to unwind, refresh and soak up the surrounding beauty. Michelin-star dining is available at Murray Circle restaurant. This is a truly special and romantic weekend for those who want to get away but not travel very far. Valid Sunday – Thursday for a stay before May 22, 2011.
Value: $1,757
Donated by Passport Resorts
– Thrills of a Lifetime –
FANCIFUL GARDEN BRUNCH WITH MISS BRIE
Please join Miss Brie in the MMS Children’s Garden for an exquisite Sunday Brunch on September 12, 2010, from 10 am till 2 pm. Four fortunate families are invited to spend a festive, fun-filled day celebrating the best things in life: great friends, gorgeous kids, a glorious garden and great food. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, you may wear your finest to these superb festivities. You may adorn your ensemble with fabulous, glamorous accessories provided by Miss Brie. Fancy hats, tiaras, crowns, capes, boas, wings and wands await your arrival to begin this magical, whimsical, perfectly delightful celebration. Gather your fantastic friends, mark your calendars, and bid high so you and yours will experience this fabulous, memorable, once-in-a-lifetime extravaganza created by Miss Brie.
Value: $1,000
Donated by Miss Brie
– Amazing Getaways –
KIRKWOOD SKI WEEKEND FOR EIGHT
Ski your way into bliss with this awesome, family-friendly, three-bedroom condo in Kirkwood Ski Resort. Over 2,200 square feet in size, the condo offers three bedrooms plus a loft, three bathrooms, gourmet kitchen and two-car garage. It also features ski in/out and a pool! The master bedroom offers a king bed and jetted tub, the guest bedroom has a queen bed with bath, the bunk room has a twin bed and full bunk with bath, and the loft offers a queen sleeper couch. This is a perfect Tahoe retreat for up to eight. Ideal for family fun, Kirkwood offers over 65 designated trails and diverse terrain for skiers at all levels to enjoy.
Value: $1,400
Donated by Jennifer Perini and Jim Cunningham
– Chef Dinners –
GOURMET INDIAN DINNER PARTY FOR TEN
Teacher by day, gourmet chef by night! Enjoy 25 years of culinary expertise as our very own primary teacher, Miss Monica, dazzles you with her Indian recipes and secrets. Who knew she had so many talents? Host this delicious dinner party at your home and transport your guests into the colorful and flavorful world of Indian cuisine. Be a guest at your own party, for Monica will spoil you with her culinary delights. What a wonderful way to connect with friends in the intimate environment of your very own home.
Value: $500
Donated by Monica MacDonald
Sample Menu
APPETIZERS
Fresh Onion Spicy Fried Bhajias Served with Fresh Banana-Tamarind Chutney
COURSE ONE
Cubed Leg of Lamb Marinated and then Stewed in Sweet Onion Paste with Garlic and Mint, or a Chicken Stewed in a Creamy Tomato, Garlic Cashew Sauce Served with Fresh Homemade Chapati (Flatbread)
COURSE TWO
Roasted Eggplant Served with Tangy, Hot, Sweet Tomato Chutney and Drizzled with Garlic Yogurt, a Vegetable Pilaf, and Homemade Hot Lime or Green Chili Pickle
DESSERT
Classic Roasted Vermicelli Pudding with Cream, Almonds, Dates and Raisins
– Amazing Getaways –
PEBBLE BEACH PERFECTION
Have a glorious week away with your favorite couples, friends or family members at this artful, unique home in beautiful Pebble Beach. It’s located near the renowned Pebble Beach golf courses, beaches, Carmel and the Monterey Aquarium. The spacious house, which sleeps eight to 10 people comfortably, features four bedrooms, a large fenced garden, hot tub and swimming pool. Enjoy one of California’s most beautiful destinations. Dates to be agreed upon with owner.
Value: $3,200
Donated by Alexis White
– Chef Dinners –
“CASABLANCA” CHEF DINNER PARTY
Channel your inner Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman as you host a beautiful Moroccan-style dinner party at your home. Play up the theme and dress up in the part, or dress down and enjoy the pleasures of the incredible cuisine that will be prepared by Bay Area favorite and professional Chef Erin Shallat of Erin Shallat Catering. The occasion is truly a treat to anticipate. Erin’s incredible talent puts her in high demand, thanks to an impeccable reputation for culinary perfection and attention to detail. She will prepare a Moroccan-inspired menu and help you adorn the dinner table to properly reflect this fabulous theme. A private dinner party is the perfect way to entertain your guests and create an unforgettable evening of flavors and fun. Dinner will be prepared for 8-10 people. Valid in 2010.
Value: $1,800
Donated by Erin Shallat Catering
Sample Menu
APPETIZERS
Lamb Croquettes Served with Apricot Chutney
Marrakech Prawns Wrapped in Bacon
SIT-DOWN COURSE ONE
Mache Greens with Watermelon, Fried Chickpeas, Avocado and Mint with Lemon Tahini Dressing
SIT-DOWN COURSE TWO
Chicken Tagine over Moroccan Couscous with Roasted Vegetables
DESSERT
Turkish Coffee Crème Brûlée
– Amazing Getaways –
ROMANTIC LUXURY AT POST RANCH INN
Indulge in natural luxury in Big Sur overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. Nestled in 100 undulating acres that rise to 1200 feet above sea level, Post Ranch Inn is a serene sanctuary that melds life's indulgences with nature's bounty in perfect harmony. Quite simply, Post Ranch achieves luxury on a higher plane. No surprise that it is one the most romantic destinations on the planet. Enjoy two nights for two adults in a stunning Pacific Suite on the edge of the ocean, with glorious views from the living room, the glass wall in the bedroom, the window by the oversized bathtub and shower, and expansive deck. The suite offers 960 square feet of living space, private entrance, wood-burning fireplace, wet bar, concrete floors with radiant heat, and luxurious amenities. Also included is a four-course, prix-fixe dinner for two at award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant and extensive buffet breakfast each morning. The inn also offers an acclaimed spa, a lap pool, two basking pools overlooking the ocean, hiking, diverse activities and more. No children, no TVs, just luxurious accommodations, exquisite cuisine, heavenly views, unforgettable stargazing and precious time away with your partner. At Post Ranch, romance and connection thrive.
#1 Hideaway - U.S.
Andrew Harper's Hideaway Report, 2009
2009 Award for Excellence
Most Romantic Hideaway
Condé Nast Johansens, 2009
Traveler's Choice Awards
Best for Romance - United States
TripAdvisor, 2009
Value: $4180
Donated by Passport Resorts
FUND-A-NEED
FUND-THE-CHILDREN
MMS is committed to offering the broadest possible experience to our students by fostering the diversity of our community, including economic diversity. With approximately 30% of MMS students receiving tuition assistance, far more than in previous years, our fundraising efforts this year are especially important.
Financial aid at MMS comes from two sources, the annual operating budget and the Short-term Tuition Relief Fund. Every year the school reaffirms its commitment to provide financial aid by maintaining or increasing the Tuition Assistance monies in the budget. In response to the current economic environment and expressed needs of our families, an additional short-term program was established two years ago with funds from prior years’ fundraising. This effort has sustained families who find themselves needing additional financial support in order to remain at MMS.
This year’s Fund-A-Need* – Fund-The-Children – will raise necessary funds for the Short-term Tuition Relief Program. Please raise your paddle and make a donation! Increments are $10,000, $5,000, $2,500, $1,000, $500, $250, and $100.