Fund-raising  

Benefit for Hillcrest 2006

Auction Catalog

Live and In Concert

1

Back in the High Life Again … Spot Traffic in KTVU's Traffic Helicopter!
Have you ever wanted to know what it feels like to zoom around in a helicopter above the Bay Area and know about all the traffic headaches as they happen?  Now you can!  KGO radio's traffic copter will host 2 people to a ride as a Traffic Spotter in their jet copter during morning or afternoon traffic reporting. You can fly with the traffic reporting team from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. or from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Date to be arranged by mutual agreement.  Reporting may be for either KTVU or KGO (TV or Radio, depending on the date and what’s happening that day!).
Valid through November 2007.

Priceless

Thank you Donna and Frank Somerville and KTVU

2
La Isla Bonita
Angel Island!  The Necula crew offers you the wonderful experience of a full day of sailing on a 36-foot sailboat!  Sit back and relax in the sound of waves and admire the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco and Alcatraz from close-up angles.  Midday they will serve a gourmet lunch, complete with wine, on Angel Island. Wind in your sails!   Four person maximum; no children under 5.  Preferred dates:  In the Fall (Sept. or Oct.) since the Bay is calmer and the days are still long and pleasantly warm.
Yo No Soy Marinero! Yo No Soy Marinero! Soy Capitán!
Thank you Simona and George Necula

3
Tonight I’m Gonna Party Like It’s 1999 …
The Tonight Show!
A wonderful opportunity to see The Tonight Show with Jay Leno at NBC's Burbank Studios for you and your guest!  You'll hear those jokes first hand, enjoy funny interviews and more when you head to Los Angeles on a taping day between January and August 2007.  Be on the guest list, which eliminates waiting in line, where you will be seated along with other invited guests that evening.  Taping of the show happens Monday through Thursday only. You’ll stay at The Sheraton Universal and you'll dine on Northern Italian Cuisine while celebrity spotting at the Trendy Ca' del Sole, a short walk from your hotel.  The Sheraton is centrally located within walking distance of Universal Studios. The Los Angeles Zoo and Hollywood are also nearby as well as museums, theaters and many other attractions too numerous to list!  Note:  A minimum of two weeks advance notification is required to arrange for tickets and tickets are subject to availability and guests must be at least 16 years old to be admitted.  Package includes: 

• 2 passes to be Invited Guests of The Tonight Show
• Sheraton Universal Gift Certificate ($300)
• Dinner at Ca’ del Sole ($125)

Once in a Lifetime Opportunity

Thank you NBC, The Tiemroth Family, The Sundsmo Family

4
Bollywood in Upper Rockridge
Eight lucky ladies will join Hillcrest's purveyors of fine Indian Cuisine for an unforgettable evening of feasting, fashion, and fun!  If you love Indian food, this evening will not disappoint.  You'll savor the delights of pakora, classic creamy dahls or fragrant saffron and cardamon infused rice and meat dishes.  But wait, there's more!  The food is merely the beginning of the evening's entertainment.  If you've watched a Bollywood movie, you've seen the beautiful, colorful clothes.  This party is your chance to try them on and dress like an Indian princess.  All the clothing will be provided in our exclusive dressing room, with a wide range of choices.  You're sure to find something you like!  Not only will you be adorned in glamorous silk and exquisite jewelry, your hands will also be decorated with henna, the tradition of Indian weddings!  To add to the fun, you'll listen to the Bhangra "beat," and have the chance to learn this folk dance, which originated from the Punjab in North India.  To emblazon this classic night in your memories, we'll photograph you when your outfit is complete!

• Saturday evening May 19th, 2007
• Top 8 bidders

A Passage to India

Thank you Bal Mears, Aarti Kohli, Jazz Sandhu

5
And They Call It Puppy Love …
You will too when you adopt him through Pets In Need!  They are a nonprofit, grass-roots organization committed to saving as many animals’ lives as possible. Their Client Services team is trained to help you find the perfect lifelong companion for you and your family. You will have an opportunity to spend some time with a pet to get to know each other prior to adoption. Your pooch will have a micro-chip identification implantation plus vaccinations, testing, and medications courtesy of Pets in Need.  Your baby's new vet, Broadway Pet Hospital, will keep him healthy for 2007. To make sure s/he puts his best paw forward, he'll receive a special pet wash from Middle Schooler Renzo Costarella who'll also give him or her a nice walk.  Then, dog lover and Hillcrest Middle Schooler, Valerie Tay, will take him on a walk once a week for 10 weeks to make sure he or she gets his exercise.  Since your pup will be hungry too, you'll receive this certificate for a year of dog food from Redhound on College Avenue.  Clear out a special place in your home and your heart for your new four-legged friend!

Thank you Pets in Need, Broadway Pet Hospital, Rebecca Tay, Renzo Costarella, Redhound

Woof!

6
I Want to Ride My Bicycle!
Are you the next Lance Armstrong (or Floyd Landis, perhaps)?  Or are you a recovering '80's coach potato who needs a little motivation to ride?  Well, this is your trip!  Seven sporty Hillcrest dads will spend a weekend in Lake Tahoe riding "America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride," guided by experienced cyclists, David West, Keith Savell and John Marcone.  Ride lengths and difficulty will be varied depending on the capabilities of the riders.  When you're not riding, you'll be relaxing at the Abare-Fleig family's beautiful Tahoe cabin.  You'll also enjoy a delicious Italian dinner sponsored by Sabre Foods on Friday night, and a great steak BBQ feast followed by cigars, poker and Whiskey on Saturday night.  Your bike riding hosts will offer some training rides before the actual event to help get you into riding shape.  And if the group is interested, your hosts will arrange to have TEAM Hillcrest riding jerseys made by Bergamo in Italy for each participating dad to purchase so the TEAM can hit Tahoe in style!

• May 19-21, 2007
• Top 7 bidders

Breaking Away!

Thank you John Marcone, David West, Keith Savell, Sabre Foods, The Abare-Fleig Family

7
Time After Time …
You’ll be so happy you own this fabulous creation by Ms. Henderson's Kindergarten Class!  They’ve created a special tile table with love from each child.  This is your little ones’ masterpiece and always one of the highlights of the live auction.  It’s perfect for your patio and a great conversation piece.  No violence during the bidding process please!

Priceless

Thank you Ms. Henderson’s Class

8
My Kind of Town ... Chicago Is!
Three Day Vacation to the Windy City!  You and a friend will wing your way to Chi-town on American Airlines, then check into the Omni Chicago all-suite hotel (where Oprah's guests stay).  Wake up the next morning and head to THE museum in Chicago, the Field Museum, where you'll enjoy not only the regular exhibits (including the world's most complete T-Rex), but also the Underground Adventure … find out how it feels to be a half-inch tall and wander underground, amidst amazing creatures living in our soil.   The next day you can take the best tour in the city -- the Architectural River Cruise.  You'll see the first skyscraper in the U.S. and some fabulous modern architecture, and learn a little Chicago history along the way.  The Very Best of Chicago!  Chicago also has fabulous restaurants.  While there you’ll have your choice of lunch or brunch at Restaurant 676 and dinner at world-famous Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (in our opinion, outclassing Morton’s by a mile)!
Package includes:

• Architectural River Cruise (Two Adult Passes for the 2-hour cruise/tour; children under 6 free.  Complimentary Starbucks Coffee & treats. Operates 04/21 – 11/26; reservations req’d).
  
• $100 Gift Certificate to Ruth's Chris Steakhouse
  
• Field Museum passes
  
• 2 Nights at the Omni Chicago All Suite Hotel
  
• $50 Gift Certificate to 676 Restaurant
  
• 50,000 American Airlines Miles (subject to space availability – call early)

That Toddlin’ Town

Thank you Karen Plessinger, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, The Omni Chicago, The Field Museum of Chicago, Chicago Line, Heraleen Broome

9
Everybody Wants to Rule the World
Let your child enjoy a special day by being Hillcrest's Principal for a Day complete with the duties of leading the opening ceremony, handing out personalized business cards, visiting and assisting in classes, reading to younger students, and eating lunch in the office with a few friends.  As an added bonus, your child will be able to join every recess period the entire day.  

Thank You Beverly Rothenberg

10
I Want My HTV & My 1980s Bordeaux ... Wine Dinner
The 1980s provided a series of classic Bordeaux vintages so what a special opportunity for you to invite your friends to a 5-course gourmet meal with a selection of 1980s Bordeaux along with Peggy and Tim Toppin in their home.  Peggy and Tim will act as sommeliers/hosts and good friends as they host 6 guests.   If you ever wanted to treat friends to a gourmet experience with outstanding wines, this event is tailor made for you.   Peggy and Tim will guide you all through the tasting with their superior knowledge of these outstanding wines.

The evening will start with Champagne, followed by White Burgundy, then on to the Bordeaux.  The wines have been selected already: 

• 1986 Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou (Robert Parker 92 pts "a dark ruby color with purple nuances, the bouquet…reveals scents of … sweet cranberry and black currant fruit … with aromas of steel, minerals, and earth. Rich and medium to full-bodied, ... intensely concentrated.")
• 1988 Chateau Pichon Baron (Robert Parker 90 pts "promises to be one of the superstars of this vintage ... large-scaled … with an oaky, cassis, and licorice-scented nose, it is deep in color, rich, softly tannic.")
• 1989 Chateau Lynch Bages (Robert Parker 95 pts "…enormous potential, hugely concentrated flavors….a nose of cedar and creme de cassis. Powerful and muscular, … superb concentration… in balance for a stunning evolution.")

Two highly regarded California wines, 1985 Duckhorn Cabernet and 1987 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet will join the tasting to see how they match up against the Chateaus of Bordeaux when they all reach 20 years of age.

Wine of this quality calls for a timeless menu!  Peggy will draw on her inner "Julia Child" to create haute French cuisine to pair with the wines.  The menu will be based on the time of year to allow for full use of the flavors of the season.  Past dinners have included lobster and rack of lamb.  Artesian cheeses to complement the wines and a dazzling dessert will definitely be on the menu.   This is the fourth dinner the Toppins have hosted for the Benefit; the menu is always just as memorable as the wine.  Wine value exceeds $1000, assuming, of course, one can buy them.

• One winning bidder, six guests to join the Toppins for dinner
• Mutually agreeable date

Dinner like you remember it in the 1980's… if you lived in Paris!

Thank you Peggy & Tim Toppin

11
You Gotta Know When to Hold ‘Em, Know When to Fold ‘Em!
Boys' Poker Night in New Orleans!  The winning six gentlemen are invited to the Fitzhugh household for cocktails, Cajun food, and cards.  Enjoy a Cajun Martini or Patio Lemonade before sitting down (you'll need to sit down) for some spicy delights (Shrimp Étoufée, Fried Chicken, Andouille Sausage Gumbo).  After the repast is cleared, we'll pull out the poker chips and play poker six ways from Sunday!

• Top 6 Bidders
• January 27, 2007

Royal Flush

Thank you Mike Fitzhugh
 
12
Shake It Up!
MIXOLOGY!   A ladies only event at the Paragon Bar's private room. Our goal...to have fun and create a signature mix of our own. A resident mixologist will be on hand to help us create 'greatness.'  Who knows, maybe our creation will become a new drink at Paragon!  To keep you from falling down as you sample and improve your product, you’ll be served delicious appetizers (and wine too!) throughout the evening.  

• Top 10 bidders
• Thursday, February 1, 2007

Cocktail!

Thank you Tracey Robertson Carter and Rebecca Clark

13
Rock the Casbah in the Big Easy!
New Orleans is open for business and ready to welcome you for a 6-day vacation of fun!  Fly in on Southwest Airlines and stay three nights at your choice of any of the New Orleans Fine Hotels in deluxe accommodations!  (Hotel choices include:  Hotel Le Cirque, Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel, St. James Hotel, Hotel Chateau Dupre, Parc St. Charles, Lafayette Hotel, Pelham Hotel, Cotton Exchange Hotel, and the Historic French Market Inn -- all located in and around the French Quarter.)  The next two nights are spent in a deluxe accommodation at the beautiful New Orleans Garden District Hotel, located on the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, within minutes of every major tourist attraction in New Orleans, including the Aquarium of the Americas, the Riverwalk, Superdome, and Harrah's Casino and the Audubon Zoo.  You’ll enjoy dinner at Brigtsen’s, a Zagat top-rated, multiple award winning Cajun restaurant.  You’ll also dine at Galatoire’s, recognized for its exquisite cuisine.

Package includes:

• 5 nights deluxe accommodations in New Orleans (requires advance reservation, subject to availability and not valid during special events or high season)
• Gift certificates to Brightsen’s and Galatoire’s ($100 each)
• Earliest expiration of certificates is August 18, 2007 (some valid for 2 years)
• Roundtrip airfare for 2 on Southwest (not valid on ATA, only one connection)

Jazz!

Thank you New Orleans Fine Hotels, New Orleans Boutique Hotels, Mavis Delacroix, Southwest Airlines

14
Back to the Future
With the help of renowned artist (and Hillcrest parent) Christopher Carter, the first grade classes have put a new twist on the traditional quilt project!  The result, Future Requires Vision, is a mixed media painting decorated and embellished by Ms. Buswell’s class using appliqué methods, stencils, cloth and a variety of other materials.  You’ll recognize these little faces as soon as you see them but just in case you can’t find your precious darling, the artists have signed them!  The musical themed collage has been stretched and mounted for display on a wall in your home (~ 5’ x 5’)!   You can view the piece starting November 1, 2006 in the Hillcrest front hallway or on line at http://www.hillcrestpta.org and following the link to preview Benefit items!

Thank you Ms. Buswell's Class
 
15
Wicked Cool NFL Experience!
See the Raiders v. Rams in style and rub elbows with the players on the field with this pair of luxury suite tickets, pair of pre-game field passes and parking pass to the Oakland Raiders versus the St. Louis Rams on 12/17/06.  Experience the once in a lifetime thrill of standing on the sidelines watching the Raiders and Rams players during pre-game warm up. After the warm up, head up to a private catered luxury suite and enjoy the game!

• 2 on-field pre-game passes/tickets to fully-catered luxury suite, December 17th Raiders v. Rams game.
• Tickets will be mailed to the winner the week prior to the game.

Go Raiders!

Thank you Michael and Aviva Black

16
Instant Wine Cellar!
This vast array of wines was coordinated by the Middle School and is comprised of donations from many Hillcrest parents based on the “wine you love to drink” standard.  And, it can be yours tonight!  There are some real finds in this group of numerous bottles.  Make this eclectic and interesting variety of wines yours!  A detailed description of these bottles to be available in the supplement shortly before November 11th (but we can tell you that some very special bottles have already been donated … e.g., a 1985 Bordeaux worth at least $300 on its own!).

Bottoms Up!

Thank you Hillcrest Families, Middle School Wine Cellar Coordination Team 

17
Raising Arizona
Calling all baseball fans!  Head on down to Scottsdale for Spring Training 2007 and spend the 5-day weekend of a lifetime enjoying the Cactus League!  Whether you love the A's, the Giants, or another team, this is perfect for a family or group of 4 baseball fans to bid as a consortium.  Watch batting practice in the morning from 10 to 11 a.m. and infield practice at noon.  Then, take in 9 innings in the Arizona sun and line up for autographs of your favorite players after the game.  While there, you'll stay at the luxurious Orange Tree Golf Resort, www.orangetreegolfresort.com, a wonderful destination of its own.  With all the amenities of a first-class golf resort, it has 160 large, beautifully appointed suites, two restaurants, over 10,000 square feet of meeting space and a USGA-rated golf course.  (If you're an avid golfer, you should also check out Troon North Golf Club or Grayhawk.)  What else will you do in Scottsdale?  If you're Frank Lloyd Wright fan you will also want to visit Taliesin West.  And, you may want to enjoy Old Town Scottsdale's shopping or check out the 5th Avenue shops with Native American galleries and the famous Bob Parks' Horse Fountain.  Whatever you do, don't forget to go to Don & Charlie’s, which has every imaginable piece of baseball memorabilia and great food!

• 4 nights at the Orange Tree Golf Resort in a 1 bedroom condo
• 4 tickets to 2 games of your choosing (must identify desired games by January 10) and the opportunity to see the players up close and personal
• $75 gift certificate to Don & Charlie's restaurant and a great time!

Field of Dreams!

Thank you Suzie & Matthew Inadomi, Valerie & Kevin Tay, Don & Charlie's Restaurant

18   IT’S STILL ROCK & ROLL TO ME! 

RAISE YOUR PADDLE “RYP” FOR PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FOR ALL OF OUR KIDS!   LAST YEAR, we faced a yard with a dilapidated playstructure, failing safety code requirements.  On Benefit night, our parents said, “We make a better choice for our kids!”  We raised over $30,000 in 3 minutes & our kids reaped the benefits – a beautiful new playstructure with padding beneath it that meets safety codes! BUT THE JOB IS NOT DONE!  The structure is Phase 1 of a 3-part plan for a complete yard.  The playground also needs some essential items like benches to sit on when kids want to talk or read.  Tonight we ask you to RAISE YOUR PADDLE AGAIN FOR YOUR KIDS PHYSICAL FITNESS AND THE YARD.  PICTURE THIS: The ROCK – The ROCK supports upper-body strength development.  Mr. Inclan (our P.E. teacher) says we have many games (e.g., basketball, running) addressing fitness areas like aerobic capacity.  He says that to address abdominal, trunk extension and upper body strength and flexibility, the BEST equipment involves climbing.  While some of the playstructure’s climbing stations are great for some students, others need more challenges...hence the ROCK!  Hillcrest Teachers expressed strong support for the ROCK! The SUPERNOVA – Our kids love to spin!  The planned Supernova, an inclined spinning structure, where gravity is fed by weight which gets it spinning, with hand holds on the edges, holds up to 15 kids!  Now that’s a lot of cooperative play and spinning!  Great for balance and strength! BENCHES AND MORE – Not everyone can or wants to be on the structure, the ROCK and the Supernova.  Sometimes kids like to socialize at recess.  By raising your paddle, you will help fund all of the elements of a completed yard. How Does RYP Work?  Through RYP, you directly fund the playground revitalization.  During the Live Auction, our auctioneer will give everyone an opportunity to contribute directly to this cause.   Raise your paddle when the auctioneer calls the donation level you choose.  If you wish to contribute to RYP prior to the auction, please contact Shannon Broome.  100% of this donation is tax deductible!

Who Wins This Item?  Everyone’s a winner here – you can’t be outbid!  Please raise your paddles high and add your donation to complete the playground.

What’s Our Goal?  We know that to complete the playground, we need upwards of $50,000 for the ROCK, the Supernova, and various accessories -- a rockin’ cool campus.  Why the Need?  We need more than a playstructure for our kids.  We want a yard to serve all the kids, including middle schoolers. Why Should You RYP?  Research shows that physically fit children are confident and competent, willing to test their limits, and able to persevere when facing adversity. A good playground environment is key to our children’s success and happiness at school.

19
Be a Globetrotter!
It’s a basketball clinic with a real Harlem Globetrotter!  Your son or daughter will have a big thrill learning basketball's ins and outs, and some tricks, from this 5-year veteran of the Harlem Globetrotters, Roy "Zazu" Byrd (No. 31).  Zazu is a 6'4" guard hailing from Oakland who attended Patton College, where he averaged 15 points a game. After college, Byrd began working for the NBA's Golden State Warriors, where he choreographed dunks with the team's mascot before winning a slot on the Globetrotters.  With the kind of sparkling personality required of an "Ambassador of Goodwill" for one of the world's most popular sports, Zazu personifies the modern-day Globetrotters--or, as he will proudly tell you, the world's "best, smartest and cutest team."  This clinic will take place on a date to be mutually agreed upon with Zazu at a local basketball court (indoors).  Two children will spend an hour learning the tricks of the trade and hanging out with Zazu in this one-hour clinic.  He'll even autograph his photo for them!

• One winning bidder for a clinic with Zazu and 2 children
• Date to be agreed upon with Zazu!

Waycool!

Thank you Roy “Zazu” Byrd

20
Sweet, Dude … Like This Is Soooo Sweet!
A once in a lifetime opportunity to host a holiday appetizer & dessert class and party with Bay Wolf Pastry Chef Jennifer Altman!  Award-winning Bay Wolf pastry chef Jennifer Altman will teach a class for 8 people on holiday appetizers and baking delights!  This event will be a cooking party in which you and your guests will learn Chef Altman's secrets and then enjoy the fruits of your labor!   Party will start at 5:30 pm on either December 9 or 16.  You'll sip wine, prepare the appetizers with Jennifer and enjoy them while you prepare dessert!  Relax and talk with Jennifer and your friends as everything cooks!  If you like, you may limit this to a dessert only affair and make more desserts.  It's your choice but either way it will be fabulous.

• Cooking class and party for 8 people
• December 9 or 16 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. (must choose date by November 25)
• Your home (or if your kitchen is too small, the Morrin-Jagelski's offer their gourmet kitchen for you to host the party there).

Party Hearty!

Thank you Jennifer Altman, Pat Morrin and Janice Jagelski

21
There’s Always Something There to Remind Me…
How sweet they were at this age!  Ms. Rochester's class has created a hand-painted, mosaic tile garden indoor/outdoor table (about 3’ x 3’).  It’s whimsical!  It’s magical!  It’s functional and made with love from each child.  If your child is in Ms. Rochester's kindergarten class (or even if your child is not), you'll want this masterpiece for your patio or other room.  It's a great conversation piece.  No violence during the bidding process please!

Totally Awesome!

Thank you Ms. Rochester's Kindergarten Class

22
The Amazing Race
Join 3 wild Hillcrest couples for a WILD evening of fun and friendly competition during the First (Annual?) Hillcrest Photo Safari and Dinner Party.  There is much we cannot tell you about the photo safari (its origins are mysterious, plus we signed some silly agreements ....), but picture an evening that is part scavenger hunt (finding the most unique items Oakland has to offer), part photo show (no photography skills needed, trust us), part gourmet dining and imbibing (Lynchburg Lemonade may just reappear), and part friendly (okay, brutal) competition.  You will not forget this evening.  The pictures will ensure that your grandchildren never forget it either.  We'll start at the Marchesotti’s home and offer you refreshments and instructions, and then send you off on your challenging journey armed with a Polaroid camera to "capture" your subjects on film.  Once all teams return, much laughter will ensue at the Klein's home as we review each team's "catch" during cocktail hour.  Then, the grand finale ... a delicious dinner and awards ceremony.  If you're single, grab a friend or date to join you – you won’t want to miss it!

• Saturday, September 8, 2007
• Top 8 bidding couples!

Cowabunga!

Thank you Sara & Tom Klein, Rob & Heidi Marchesotti, Shannon & Greg Broome

23
Come With Me and Escape … on a Sea Ranch Vacation
Do you like Piña Coladas?  Are you into champagne?  Who cares?  You’ll be at Sea Ranch!  Spend 5 days/nights during 2007 Spring Break (or a 3-day weekend at another time) at The Sea Ranch.  Up to 6 people (and one obedient dog) can stay in this 2-bedroom meadow home with ocean view, hot tub and 2 fireplaces.  The house has a king-size bed in the master suite, and a queen bed plus bunk beds (for kids) in the second bedroom.  The house is a mere 5 minute walk from the beach and tide pools.  It also has access to golf, tennis, swimming pools and horseback riding.

• Arrangements to be made through Sea Ranch Escape.
• Passes to Mendocino Botanical Gardens
• Expires 12/31/07

Dream If You Can a Courtyard, an Ocean of Violets in Bloom!

Thank you Robert & Yukari Vincent

24
Heads or Tails!
Your chance to win a romantic weekend in San Francisco!

It's time for the 7th inning stretch of the auction.  Buy a necklace for $25 (they’ll be on sale during the silent auction), get up and get ready to play Heads or Tails.  (Don't worry if you don't know how to play - our auctioneer will tell you how.)  Many will play.  One will win.  The prize is a wonderful San Francisco get-away!

If you win, you and a guest will pick a weekend night to head into the city to check into a deluxe room at the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel.  Located in the heart of the city, the 158-room Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco offers panoramic views of the city from the top floors of San Francisco's third tallest building, 345 California Center.  Ranked the best hotel in the city by Andrew Harper Readers' Poll in 2005, a night here will be a great experience.  After checking in, dine at one of the city’s top restaurants, Town Hall.  In the morning, enjoy an American breakfast at the award winning Silks restaurant.  Then, head to the newly-redone de Young Museum.

• Friday or Saturday night stay at the mandarin Oriental Hotel
• Town Hall ($100 certificate, does not include alcohol, tax or gratuity)
• Breakfast at Silks Restaurant
• Passes to the de Young Museum

… When The Lights Go Down In the City, and the Sun Shines On The Bay …

Thank you Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Town Hall Restaurant, de Young Museum

25
Back to the Future II
With the help of renowned artist (and Hillcrest parent) Christopher Carter, the first grade classes have put a new twist on the traditional quilt project!  The result, Future Requires Vision, is a mixed media painting decorated and embellished by Ms. Chang’s class using appliqué methods, stencils, cloth and a variety of other materials.  You’ll recognize these little faces as soon as you see them but just in case you can’t find your precious darling, the artists have signed them!  The musical themed collage has been stretched and mounted for display on a wall in your home (~ 5’ x 5’)!   You can view the piece starting November 1, 2006 in the Hillcrest front hallway or on line at http://www.hillcrestpta.org and following the link to preview Benefit items!

Radical!

Thank you Ms. Chang's Class
 
26
The Right Stuff! 
Six guests are invited to join Sebastian and Laura Grady at their home for a special wine paring dinner.  You'll enjoy a wonderful 6-course dinner paired with exquisite wines from the Grady's 1000+ bottle wine cellar.  Prior to the event, Sebastian and Laura will talk to the winners about their food preferences, wine preferences, and diet restrictions to come up with a wonderful meal and an unforgettable evening.  Last year's event included Blue River Tiger Shrimp Satay paired with Gloria Ferrer NV Blanc de Noirs, Goat Cheese with Slow-Roasted Yellow and Red Beets paired with 2004 Pencarrow Martinborough Sauvignon Blanc, Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Brown Butter paired with 2004 Domaine Alfred Edna Valley Chamisal Vineyards Pinot Noir, Short Ribs Provencale with Crème Fraiche Mashed Potatoes paired with 1997 Chateau Montelena Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon,  Chocolate Pots de Crème paired with Yalumba Antique Tawny Museum Reserve and more!  This year's will be equally divine.

• Top 3 bidding couples
• Saturday, April 28, 2007

Some Kind of Wonderful!

Thank you Laura & Sebastian Grady

27
Maui Wowie!
Aloha!  Fly to Maui for 6 days, 5 nights at the beautiful Kaanapali Alii Resort.   Amidst Kaanapali Beach's greatest hotels is a place that's different from the rest - the Kaanapali Alii. This award-winning luxury condominium resort is nestled on the legendary golden sands of Kaanapali Beach on Maui. You'll stay in a newly remodeled 2 bedroom/2 bath, 1500 square foot ocean & garden view condominium, which offers the comforts of home in paradise surroundings.  A prior winner of this auction item remarked that she "highly recommended" this "five star" condo as "fabulous" and "very spacious."   It's walking distance to Sheraton Black Rock (famous for snorkeling), Whaler's Village (great shopping) and the Famous Hyatt Luau.  Check it out at www.classicresorts.com.

• 5 nights in 2 BR/2 BA condo with ocean/garden views
• Schedule right away to get your perfect week
• Additional days/nights available at a discounted rate
• Maximum occupancy: 6 persons, including infants and children.
• Concierge, daily maid service, room service, beach activities desk, poolside snack service, grocery delivery service, lighted tennis courts, sauna & exercise room, heated swimming pool, children's wading pool, whirlpool spa, poolside barbeques, 36-holes of golf at Kaanapali Resort (added charges may apply).  

Walkin’ on Sunshine

Thank you Hans Moser & Karen Newton

28
1980's High School Prom
Pull out the hairspray and blow dryer, and put on your best taffeta dress.  Rent a powder blue tux and a ruffle shirt.  Bring a boutonniere or corsage for your date.  It's Prom Night '82. . .    Feast on '80s appetizers and cocktails.  Get your prom picture taken.  Slow dance the night away to the timeless sounds of Journey, Styx, Foreigner, Asia, Loverboy and REO Speedwagon.  Rewrite history and relive your high school prom night the way it should have been the first time.  Will you be crowned prom queen (again) this time?  Stretch limo optional. 

• Saturday, April 21, 2007
• Top 15 bidding couples

Lady in Red

Thank you Kim Thompson & John Bliss
 
29
Come Sail Away . . .
Aboard Per Ljung's beautiful 2007 Jeanneau 45 foot sailboat, "Aquavit!"  Up to 8 guests will board the boat in Alameda or at Jack London Square, and sail around the bay for about 4 hours, enjoying the beautiful San Francisco cityline, Angel Island and Treasure Island, before returning to the place where you embarked.  Per will be your skipper but if you'd like to take the helm for a while, you'll have the chance!  Weekday or weekend excursion to be arranged with the host. 

Ride, Captain, Ride!

Thank you Per Ljung & Barbara Murrer

30
La Semana de Spring Break en Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort en Cabo San Lucas
Wondering what to do over Spring Break?  Wonder no more!  Head down to Pueblo Bonito Resort at Sunset Beach, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, a Gold Crown Resort situated on 50 acres of private beach on the Pacific Ocean.  Look out at the beautiful grounds from your large, luxurious one bedroom unit with 2 queen beds, 2 baths, living room with comfortable queen Murphy sofa-bed, kitchenette, 2 televisions, air conditioning, and purified tap water.  Sleeps six comfortably!  Two private balconies with ocean views.  The resort provides safe, family-oriented children's activities and is close to town.  There are 2 swimming pools, including a large free-form pool with swim-up bar (for the grownups!), children's pool, large jacuzzi, hydro-massage pool, spa, fitness center, great restaurants, and grocery store/deli.  If you must leave the grounds, you’ll enjoy the fabulous nightlife, shopping, golf, fishing, scuba, and water sports nearby.  Winner must contact donors for authorization letter for the week of April 9-16, 2007.  www.pueblobonitoresort.com.

Cabo-Wabo

Thank you Noah Oderberg & Barbara Benzwi

31 
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Your child and a friend will be whisked away from classroom activities for some extra-special activities with our very own principal, Beverly Rothenberg. She's spicing it up this year with a special trip to the Sony Metreon for some arcade games and lunch in San Francisco at Mel's Diner.  The Hooky Crew will drive to BART in Ms. Rothenberg's cruisin' convertible, hop on a train and get busy having some fun in the City!   It'll be a rockin' good time!  What a cool way to spend a school day!

Totally Rad!

Thank you Beverly Rothenberg!

32
Luke ... I Am Your Father!
Whisk your child away from school on Tuesday, January 9, 2007, and begin your adventure at the new Letterman Digital Arts Center in San Francisco!  See Darth Vader, Chewbacca, and more on your personal, behind the scenes tour of the Letterman Digital Arts Center, the home base of Lucasfilm, Industrial Light & Magic, and LucasArts.  Highlights include actual props, characters, and models from Star Wars films and ILM blockbusters, George Lucas' personal movie poster collection, the Star Wars room - outfitted with every type of Star Wars merchandise imaginable, and other cool aspects of the campus.  Lunch will be provided in the Dining Commons which features a wall of windows facing the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. Participants will get a gift bag of souvenirs of their visit and a chance to shop for exclusive items in the company store.  Event will occur on Tuesday, January 9, 2007.  All guests are required to sign confidentiality agreements.  4 parent/child pairs (or parent/parent – we won’t tell your kid!) can win!

• Top 4 bidders!
• January 9, 2007

May the Force Be With You!

Thank you Jennifer Bjork & John Garrett!

33
Marakesh Madness
We'll be spicing it up this year at Marakesh Madness.  Think exotic food to tickle your tastebuds, ambiance that is as rich in colors as it is authentic and style music to get your hips shaking and your bellies dancing.  That's right, in addition to a desert oasis setting that will have you believing you needed your passport to get there, we'll have a belly dancer on hand, or foot as it were, to make sure we're all dancing to the beat of the same drummer.  For those seeking an exotic overseas adventure without leaving the 'hood, you'll have to be one of the top 10 bidding couples for this June 2nd extravaganza! 

• Top 10 bidding couples
• June 2, 2007

Mad Max!

Thank you Sarah & Jimmy Holliman, Liz & Benny Varon, Monica & John Marcone, Sandy Fox & Gary Hayter, Donna & Frank Somerville, Vicki & Michael Isip, Kellie McElhaney & David Weinerth!

34
Piano Man!
You or your child could become the Piano Man (or woman) if you win this item that the Hillcrest 3rd Graders have beautifully hand decorated.  This Wurlitzer Spinet Piano was generously donated by Hillcrest alumni Jim Callaghan and the Piedmont Piano Company and our third grade classes went right to work to make it not only a wonderful instrument but a piece of art for your home!  The background is sheet music with a special instrument designed by each third grader to make this an exceptionally attractive conversation piece for years to come.  To get you started, professional flautist, pianist and piano teacher Lynda Arnold will teach 4 half-hour lessons and provide you with piano books.  This is the perfect opportunity to get yourself or your child on the road to Carnegie Hall!  The piano is on display in the front hallway at Hillcrest.  Try it out.  Let the music play!

• The Piano!
• Piano books and 4 lessons 30 minutes in length each
• Piano delivery to your home in Oakland (further distance for an additional fee)

Rock Me Amadeus!

Thank you Hillcrest 3rd Graders, Piedmont Piano Company, Lynda Arnold!

35
My Dinner with Andre
You won’t be dining with Andre … Instead, you’ll host this full service dinner party for 8 guests (including you) in your home courtesy of Honoré Fine Food & Catering.  Honoré will plan the menu, shop for the groceries, prepare the food, provide waiter service and clean up afterwards!  All you need to do is invite the guests!  The meal will include amazing amuse-bouches, awesome appetizers, an exceptional entrée, a delectable dessert and of course, coffee.  Honoré will bring their own pots, pans, serving trays & cooking accessories.

• Meal planning, preparation, service and clean up in your home for 8 people
• $100 certificate to Piedmont Grocers to purchase the food (additional food costs paid by winner)
• A Rosenblum Desperado Meritage Magnum to serve your guests!
• Requires kitchen with gas range, oven, refrigerator and dishwashing area. Winning bidder supplies dining table set up materials, including dining table with chairs, table cloth & napkins, decorations as appropriate, plates and silverware, and water & wine glasses. 

Some Kind of Wonderful Dinner!

Thank you Honoré Fine Food & Catering, Piedmont Grocery, Rosenblum Cellars

36
Sideways … Wine Country Weekend!
A weekend in Napa Valley up to 8 People!  Head up to Napa Valley for some wine tasting at the 2 bedroom/2 bath home (plus 2 sofabeds) of Hillcrest grandparents (the Teplitz family) near Healdsburg.  The home is situated among 10 acres of vineyards, with one winery right across the street and another just down the road.  Several more are within a few minutes’ drive.  You can select any weekend you like in 2007 (except holidays, and they ask that you give them a bit of notice).  Be it a romantic weekend or a party for close friends, this is an ideal location.  Take a dip in the brand new swimming pool or bring your rod and fish in the large pond on the property.  Just a 10 minute drive from Healdsburg and 20 minutes to Calistoga, this place can't be beat!  The Teplitz family knows all the local wineries and will be arranging two tours and tastings for your group during your weekend.  Choices may include Fieldstone, Sausal, White Oak and Jordan, depending on the wineries’ availability on the weekend you select.  Your hosts will meet you at the house to show you around and make sure you’re comfortable before leaving you to your relaxing weekend. 

• two night weekend stay at the Teplitz Wine Country Home for up to 8
• swimming, fishing, and fun
• wine tasting arranged at 2 local wineries
• welcome gift basket and tour by your hosts

Thank you Linda & Gary Teplitz!

37
Celebrate Good Times, Come On!  Live Music for Your Party!
The 4th Street Dance Band will perform at your private event!  Listen to them before and after the live auction and take your chance to secure their services for your special event!  The Band, which includes awesome Hillcrest Kindergarten parents Joel Pliskin & Rachel Sater, will perform 2 hours at your special rockin' event.  Date of event to be determined by the winner and band members.  Contact Rachel in advance of the benefit if you want to verify availability for your bar/bat mitzvah, birthday celebration or other cool event!

Let's Dance!

Thank you 4th Street Dance Band!

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Pretty In Pink:  Clothing and Accessories

70.     St. Barth Piccolo Purse and Silk Compact Mirror & Lipstick Case
High end fashion can be yours with this purse by Jordan McMillan and mirror/lipstick case by Suburban Silk!  Take them home tonight and look fabulous tomorrow!
Value:  $150
Thank you Rockridge Home

71.        Nu Shooz!
The ultimate in pain relief footwear -- Z-Coil Cloud Walker - Velcro, Black, Women's size 9.  They can be yours!  Design your own super powers around these extraordinary shoes.
Value:  $150
Thank you Renee Santos-Bundy

72.     Get an Outfit and Accessorize It on College!
Style is happenin' on College!  Use this $50 Gift Certificate to Agatha Rainford Boutique and then walk over to Itsy Bitsy jewelry store and accessorize!
Value:  $75
Thank you Itsy Bitsy & Agatha Rainford Boutique

73.        Utopia
No, it isn't some 1980's cult movement, it's a fabulous boutique right here in Montclair!  Did you ever wonder where you could get Oprah's favorite jeans?  Well Utopia has them and lots of other really fashionable clothes.  Treat yourself to that new outfit, ladies, with this $100 certificate!
Value:  $100
Thank you Utopia

74.     A Great Holiday Gift for Grandma!
A fabulous Nathan & Co. pink bag filled with wonderful items, sure to please any lady in your life!  Potpourri, room freshening spray, scented candle, pillow, and a journal!
Value:  $150

75.     Bling to Make You Feel Like a Queen!
Adorn your wrist with this brilliant blue opal bracelet set in sterling silver!
Value:  $150
Thank you Stephen and Laura Fox

76.        Given Gold Faux Necklace
Beautiful necklace with faux pearls!
Value:  $125
Thank you Given Gold Jewelers

77.        Pave, Pave, Pave
Bejewel yourself with this $300 certificate from Pave on College Avenue, a merchant who has consistently supported us over the years.  So, even if you aren't the winning bidder, be sure to visit Pave and let them know we appreciate their support!
Value: $300
Thank you Pave

78.        Pearl Jam!
Bedazzle yourself or a lovely woman in your life (your wife, your mom, a favorite aunt) with this beautiful pearl jewelry set including a mother of pearl bracelet, a freshwater pearl necklace with whisky topaz, and freshwater pearl with whisky topaz earrings.  Holiday present dilemma solved!
Value:  $316
Thank you Phillipa Roberts

79.     Get Dressed (Say Vicki Vi or Eileen Fisher) and Accessorize!
Where can you find contemporary, stylish clothing for plus size women?  Right here on College Avenue, of course!   Come down and see Sharon, the owner, and she'll show you around the shop and find the perfect outfit for you!  Accessorize with this handmade necklace – a beautiful pendant strung on black silk cord with clasp.  Great to dress up a sweater or casual wear.
Value $70
Thank you Joanne & Scott Karchmer, In Full Swing

80.        Shopping and Lunch in Montclair
Wondering what to get that hard-to-buy-for friend for her birthday and need to go somewhere nearby?  Use this certificate to pick up some fashionable accessories at Hula right here in Montclair ($25)!   Then grab a gift for yourself at Pelago a block over ($25).  After all that hard work shopping, you deserve a nice lunch!   Walk down the street to Crogan's, a Montclair Institution, and great lunch place ($30 to use any time).
Value:  $80
Thank you Pelago, Crogan's Montclair, and Hula

81.        Added Culture Baby Gift Basket
Added Culture has created this beautiful baby gift basket of 7 hand-embroidered, hand-appliquéd 6-12 month sized onesies.  It’s a perfect gift for one lucky baby or to split up among many.
Value:  $200
Thank you Added Culture

82.        Baby Gifts!
Next time you hear the joyful news that a friend just had a baby, you'll be set with this $35 Gift Card to Gymboree, $20 Gift Card to Lauren's Closet and Baby Couture from Crackerjacks -- cute baby "Oakland" T-Shirt plus a $25 gift certificate to Crackerjacks at Piedmont and Glen Avenues!
Value:  $100
Thank you Lauren's Closet, Crackerjacks, and Gymboree

83.        Newborn Welcome Package
Everything a newborn could need!  Light blue Baby Gap layette (hat, jacket, pants, onesie, socks), hand-embroidered by Marcia Brockbank.  PLUS dinner delivery to new baby's family (choice of lasagna or Moroccan chicken) with salad and dessert!  Take it easy Mom and Dad, relax!
Value:  $125
Thank you Cara and Marcia Brockbank

84.     Amber Celeste Special Occasion Girls Dress
Perfect for the Holiday Season!  Plum satin tea length dress with sparkle tulle draped neckline.  Size 7.
Value:  $115
Thank you Nannette Love

85-89.   "They left the house at half past nine...The smallest one was Madeline."
Biscotti Special Occasion Girls Dress and Coat Sets.   Pale pink satin dress with navy wool blend coat detailed with pale pink grosgrain ribbon in a variety of sizes!  
85 – Size 9 months, Value:  $115
86 – Size 18 months, Value:  $115
87 – Size 2T, Value:  $115
88 – Size 4T, Value:  $115
89 – Size 6, Value:  $115
Thank you Nannette Love
 
90.  Look Hot with Clothes from Men's Wearhouse and Grab a Bite at Max's Around the Corner!
Men’s Wearhouse in Oakland has all the great styles.  Use this $50 gift card there and then head to Max’s for lunch with this $50 gift card (good at any Max's)!
Value:  $100
Thank you Max's & Men's Wearhouse

91.        Next Eyewear Sunglasses
Next Eyewear on College has donated a pair of ladies sunglasses in the latest design.
Value:  $180
Thank you Next Eyewear

92.        Next Eyewear Frames
Next Eyewear on College has donated a pair of ladies frames that you could use as prescription glasses or sunglasses.  Just pop in your prescription and you'll be stylin!
Value:  $180
Thank you Next Eyewear

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Culture Club:  Art, Books & Photography

100.   Choose One of Lesley Evers Acclaimed Paintings for Your Home or Office

Lesley Evers, Hillcrest parent and renowned artist, will allow you to select a painting from three she has specially chosen from her studio!  Sizes vary from 12" x 12" to 30" by 30".  Check out the Hillcrest PTA website just before the Benefit for pictures of the paintings so you can decide which is your favorite!  Lesley's work always goes high in the auction so come prepared to bid!

Value:  $500 to $1,000

Thank you Lesley & Curtis Evers
 
101.      Watercolor Giclee, entitled "Aspen"

This limited edition Giclee of a watercolor by East Bay artist Harold Booth is the perfect addition to your living room or office!  Size -- 18x24, matted in a lovely frame!

Value:  $250

Thank you Ananth Acharya
 
102.      Flowers Close Up!

Reach out and touch these flowers -- oh, they are photos -- but they look that real!  Taken by photographer Don Dixon as 8x10 photos, matted and framed in 11x14 wood frames.

Value:  $250

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen

103.      The Plaza in Venice!

The plaza in Venice -- oh the memories you have – bring them back with this wonderful 8x10 photo depicting the plaza at sunrise (sans people and pigeons!) matted and framed in an 11x14 wood frame by Photographer Don Dixon.

Value:  $125

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen
 

 

104.      Martha's Vineyard!

If you hail from the East Coast, you'll recognize this wonderful 8x10 photo of sunset on Martha's Vineyard matted and framed in an 11x14 wood frame by Photographer Don Dixon.

Value:  $125

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen
 
105.   Boathouse Photo in Washington Island in Wisconsin

Unique perspective of a boathouse at sunset on Washington Island, Wisconsin, matted and framed in an 11x14 wood frame by Photographer Don Dixon.

Value:  $125

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen
 
106.      La Sagrada Familia

Anyone who's been to Barcelona will recognize the "Temple de la Sagrada Família" in this matted and framed 11x14 piece, beautifully captured by Photographer Don Dixon.

Value:  $125

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen

107.      Hand-Painted Silk Butterfly Print

Just what your wall needs -- a hand painted silk butterfly print by Kerry Klein, a New Zealander living in Seaward, Alaska!

Value:  $100

Thank you Ian & Sheree Ahwah
 
108.   Ceramic Ceremonial Mask from Mexico!

This ceramic ceremonial mask from Mexico is a great piece for your wall!  The colors are amazing!

Value:  $100

Thank you Ian & Sheree Ahwah
109.   Wine Cork Bulletin Board by Jacob Southworth!

It's a piece of art!  It's functional!  Bid high on this Wine Cork Bulletin Board by resident Middle School Artist, Jacob Southworth!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Jacob Southworth

110.   I've Been Framed -- That's What Pee Wee Herman Said!

Tom at the Art Loft in Montclair can frame any picture or piece of art with style.  He has an eye for color and sense of texture that are a great help when you come in with the special piece that needs framing or just a picture you picked up at the local art shows!  He has generously donated this $75 certificate to be used for your custom framing project, so come on down!

Value:  $75

Thank you Art Loft

111.   Lonely Planet -- A Journey Through the Best Cities of the World

Coffee Table Books!  The publishers of the iconic Lonely Planet travel guides have produced this coffee table book that ranks the top 200 cities in the world. A bird's eye-view of each city in the list is provided after the writers explain their choice and the city's rank. Then, the city is described through its people, quirks, defining experience, strengths and weaknesses, things to do, see and buy, and a persistent urban myth. For those who are insatiably curious, Paris is the No. 1 city in the world; the top Asian city is Bangkok and at No. 8 and Singapore is No. 25.  Bid and find out why!

Value:  $50

Thank you Lonely Planet
 
112.      Lonely Planet -- The Travel Book

The definitive pictorial dedicated to travel and the world, The Travel Book captures every country on the planet in photographs and atmospheric text. Inspirational, inviting and beautiful, it combines stunning images with entertaining, informative text that captures the essence of being there. User-friendly A-to-Z coverage of every country in the world with double-page spreads of every country. Includes cultural insights, key facts and maps. Breathtaking photographs that capture the soul of each destination from Lonely Planet’s comprehensive image library, Lonely Planet Images.

Value:  $30

Thank you Lonely Planet

113.   Lonely Planet -- One People Many Journeys

There is not a 'them' and an 'us'; there is really only 'us.'  One People illustrates this thought through a collection of glorious photographs, accompanied by thoughtful essays that capture the universality of the human experience in the very different contexts of our diverse world.

Value:  $40

Thank you Lonely Planet

114.   Hillcrest Resident Artist Leah Korican's Painting

Beautify your home or office with this mixed media painting by Hillcrest parent Leah Korican.

Value:  $500

Thank you Leah Korican

115.      They Grow Up Before You Know It!

How long has it been since you had formal pictures taken of your kids?  Will you look back 10 years from now and remember how cute they were?  Don't let time pass you by!  Capture the memories now with this portrait session and one custom color 8"x10" portrait from Patrick Karvasales Photography. A clothing and location consultation is included (he'll meet with you first, help pick the locale and tell you what colors and clothes will photograph best).  Click!
Expires November 2007

Value:  $275

Thank you Patrick Karvasales Photography
 

116.      Do You Have 3rd Child Syndrome?

Not to make you feel bad, but how many pictures have you taken of your second or third child compared with the first?  A portrait session with well-known photographer Patrick Karvasales is certainly cheaper than years of therapy.  And, how about assuaging your own guilt?  This is a great opportunity to capture the precious look of your not-first-born child and have documentary evidence that they had a childhood.  Before you know it, they'll be 18 and headed to college.  Capture the memories now with this portrait session and one custom color 8"x10" portrait. A clothing and location consultation is included (he'll meet with you first, help pick the locale and tell you what colors and clothes will photograph best).
Expires November 2007

Value:  $275

Thank you Patrick Karvasales Photography

117.   Portrait Records Gave Us Cyndi Lauper -A Real Portrait by Artist Angela Pryor!

Angela Pryor, well-known portrait artist, will create an original watercolor portrait of one subject on an 18 inch by 12 inch canvas.  She works from a photograph that you provide.  You pick the subject -- your precious child, pet, parent -- it's up to you!  Also, she will allow you to add a subject or two for an additional charge, so don't worry if you have 3 kids, you can include them all!  Angela works from her jewelry store, Argento Jewelry, right here in Montclair, so stop by and see her work, which is absolutely exquisite!
Conditions:  Valid until November 11, 2007.  One subject; may add subjects for an additional fee.

Value:  $500

Thank you Argento Jewelry

118.      Fused Glass Artwork

Beautiful fused glass dish by Trish Culbert, a good friend of Hillcrest and local artist!

Value:  $52

Thank you Lizard Works Glass

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Don't Worry, Be Happy!  Pamper Yourself

200.   Intuitive readings from a Certified Intuitive

Pamper your spirit with a 90 minute intuitive reading with Judith Pynn, an Intuitive with 25 years of experience as a spiritual counselor.  She can help clarify your soul's intention in all areas of life -- career, business maters, relationships, health and creative expression.

Value:   $180

Thank you Judith Pynn

201.   Psych!

Ever wondered what obstacles were blocking your path to success in love, business, marriage, or career?  Lisa is prepared to answer your questions with this whole life reading that includes a palm reading, tarot card reading and crystal ball viewing.  She focuses on removing negative energies that are around you.  She can tell you about friends, relationships, and enemies.  As a spiritual reader, she seeks to enlighten your soul and set your positive energies free.  Bid today and see her for a better tomorrow!

By appointment only.  Valid until November 11, 2007.

Value:   $100

Thank you Piedmont Psychic Readings

202.   Electrolyze Me, Baby!

Judy Porat, Hillcrest Aunt, and Licensed/ Registered electrologist trained at the Jane Riddle Institute for Electrology has generously donated a consultation and 3 sessions of 30 minutes each of electrolysis.  She'll get rid of any hair you don't want for good!  Judy is an active member of the American Electrology Association (AEA) and of the Electrology Association of California (the Northern California Chapter of the AEA), and her office is located right across from the Claremont Resort & Spa.  Check out her website at www.jpelectrology.com.

Value:  $135

Thank you Judy Porat Electrology
 
 

203.   When in Rome!

Rome at Connie's Hair Design on Piedmont Avenue has a way with scissors!   Use this $50 gift certificate to get a new style for you or your child!

Value:   $50

Thank you Connie's Hair Design

204.   Hair and Makeup Please!

Hate to drive far for a cut and style!  No problem!  Use this certificate for a haircut and makeup application with Jeanne Miller at Miller & Company right here in Montclair Village.

Value:   $110

Thank you Miller and Company Salon
 
 

205.   Milagro Hairfield War?

If you feel like your hair needs a new look, use this certificate at Milagro Salon for a new style with Cynthia Joe.  With her rave reviews on tribe.net ("fun, innovative, and adventurous, but she never neglects giving her clients what they want" "does it all with class and style - without the pompous attitude of self-righteous stylists"), you can't go wrong!  Expires Nov. 11, 2007

Value:  $60

Thank you Milagro
 

206.   Look Beautiful in the SaHaira!

Carol Steinbrink at SaHaira Salon on College has donated this bevy of beauty products to pamper yourself from your hair to your skin to your nails!  Includes moisture conditioner, powder, sheer lip color, hair products, nail polish and conditioner and hair accessories!  All top of the line products by Sebastian, Paul Mitchell, KMS, Zoya, OPI and more!  Buy it for yourself or that hard-to-buy-for friend!

Value:  $120

Thank you SaHaira Salon
 

207.   Haircut at Vero with Virginia!

Get your 'do on with this complimentary haircut from Virginia Perez at the high end Salon, Vero at College and Claremont!

Value $30

Thank you Vero
 

208.      Haircut at Vero with Jessica!

Vero really supports Hillcrest!  Wonderful stylist Jessica Earle has donated a complimentary haircut for that special event!

Value: $40

Thank you  Vero
 
 
209.   Do You Think Madonna's Hair Color Is Natural?

Of course not!  But it looks pretty good and you can too with this partial highlight service offered by Alex.  People say she brings back the colors they had at age 25.  She can do bold colors too and uses high-end products that won’t harm your hair.  Upstairs from Elmwood nails, she couldn't be more centrally located for a Hillcrest parent!

Value:   $75

Thank you Alexandria Phetteplace
 

210.   Who's That Girl?

That's what they'll be saying when you walk out of the salon with your new look!  Let Mary Anne at Cuttin' Up on College give you a personal style consultation and a new image.  This is not for someone who wants a Supercuts’ hairdo.  If you want a change, Mary Anne is your personal expert. 

By appointment only, expires June 30, 2007.

Value:   $100

Thank you Cutting Up
 

211.   The Works with Louis!  Haircut, Color and Deep Conditioning Treatment

Louis at Gregg's Grand Salon will make you look fabulous with this haircut, color and deep conditioning treatment!  Valid until November 11, 2007.

Value:   $165

Thank you Louis, Gregg's Grand Salon
 
 
212.   Ancient Remedies for Your Current Aches and Pains

Try therapeutic massage and acupuncture for a unique healing experience. If you've always wanted to try acupuncture, here's your chance with Bonney Lynch, licensed acupuncturist and certified massage therapist right here on Piedmont Avenue since 1989!  What do you need to have more health and ease in your life?  A visit to Bonney at Piedmont Healing Arts Center! 
90 Minute Acupuncture and Massage Session
Expires: August 2007

Value:   $125

Thank you Piedmont Healing Arts Center
 

213.   Beat It, Just Beat It

Have you ever reached the end of the hour massage and wished you could have just a few more minutes?  Well here's your answer!  Rejuvenate your body, your mind, and your spirit with this 90 minute massage from Body, Mind and Spirit at Claremont and College!

Value:   $105

Thank you Body, Mind and Spirit
 
 
214.   Rub a Dub Dub 5 Massages in a Row!

Certified Massage Therapist Jeffie Miller has generously donated a package of 5 massages to be redeemed on a monthly basis beginning in January.  Jeffie comes highly recommended from a Hillcrest parent as being the best at deep tissue work.  She’s finishing nursing school so she knows how to find those trouble spots in your muscles!

Value:  $350

Thank you Jeffie Miller
 

215.   Have a Healthy Life!

Healthy Life Vitamins in Montclair has everything from vitamins (of course), to gifts, to food and more!  Use this $50 certificate to get healthy!

Value:   $50

Thank you Healthy Life Vitamins
 

216.   In Your Face with a Custom Facial!

Another popular 80's expression was "In Your Face"!  At About Face and Body on College, they really are in your face to make you look fabulous!  Use this certificate for a custom facial and feel rejuvenated!  Check out all their services at www.aboutfaceandbody.net!   Then head over to Avalon Tanning Salon in Montclair and get bronze, baby!  Requires appointment.  Get Bronze and Beautiful!  www.montclairavalon.com.
Expires:  May 11, 2007

Value:   $88

Thank you About Face & Body, Avalon Salon
 
 

217.   Acupuncture Treatment

Treat yourself to health with an initial consultation and acupuncture treatment at the lovely Temescal Acupuncture Center with acupuncturist and Hillcrest parent, Brian Barlay.

Value:   $100

Thank you Brian Barlay, L.Ac.
 

218.      She was hot hot hot!

The ultimate in pampering!  Enjoy a one hour hot tub in one of Piedmont Springs 4 private outdoor hot tubs for two people   Then go to Azul Spa to primp -- certificate for $50 is good for specialty bath, 30-minute massage, pedicure,  manicure and many other treatments!  Enjoy!

Value:   $80

Thank you Piedmont Springs and Azul Spa
 
 
219.   Meditrina Meditrina

Get a quick pick me up facial or use this $50 gift card toward another treatment at Meditrina World Healing Spa, on Piedmont Avenue!   When you get home, use this China Rain Bath set to pamper your skin.  Includes the most popular scent of lotion, body wash and French soap from Body Time on College.

Value:   $75

Thank you Body Time, Meditrina World Healing Spa
 

220.   Face!

Clear those pores with this refreshing facial from Polish on Piedmont.

Value:  $90

Thank you Polish on Piedmont
 

221.   Stay Beautiful

Signature Facial (for men or women):  A professional custom designed facial treatment combined with an ultimate relaxation experience. This service includes deep pore cleansing, extraction of impurities, therapeutic massage of face, neck, and chest, treatment mask, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Also included is a signature hand treatment and massage resulting in smooth and hydrated hands.

Restrictions:  Must redeem by 2/28/2007
Bonus:  By December 29, 2006, the auction winner may purchase  a gift certificate for a second facial treatment service of equal or lesser value at a 50% discount.  What a deal!

Value:   $110

Thank you Alwayz Beautiful
 

222.      Angel of the Morning!

Angel Perfume is Simply the Best!  You'll have a great supply with this Women's Perfume Gift Basket  include Thierry Mugler's Angel (by Clarins), 1 large Angel Women's star, 1 Angel body cream, 1 Angel shower gel, 1 Angel celestial sparkle after bath shimmer, 1 Angel deodorant!

Value:   $293

Thank you Janet and Ben Gilliken
 
 

223.   The Best Men's Cologne Ever!

Angel!  It is the best cologne for men on the market and it's right here at the Hillcrest Benefit for your bidding pleasure.  This Thierry Mugler's Angel Men's Cologne Gift Basket, contains everything a man needs to feel great.  Includes:   1 large flask of Angel Men, 1 Angel Men shower gel, 1 Angel Men after shave, 1 Angel Men skin comfort (for after shaving), 1 Angel Men deodorant.

Value:   $227

Thank you Janet and Ben Gilliken
 

224.   Sonicare IntelliClean System with 6-months supply of toothpaste

Have you flossed today?  If your answer is no, well don't worry too much. This Sonicare toothbrush system will provide deep cleaning that's one step closer to the result of daily flossing. And the toothpaste dispenser is built in!

Value:   $185

Thank you Robert H. Iezman, D.D.S. & Dr. Seth R. Osterman D.D.S.
 

225-227. Bravo for Breema!

Together with his dedicated team of Breema instructors and practitioners, Dr. Jon Schreiber has helped thousands of people discover a new level of health and experience the greater sense of well-being, harmony, and interest in life that come with practicing and receiving Breema.  Includes one 30-minute Breema Treatment compliments of Dr. Jon Schreiber and the Breema Clinic at 6201 Florio St. (corner of Claremont & College in Rockridge). Expires 6/07

Value:   $75 each

Thank you Dr. Jon Schreiber

< Back to top

Back in the High Life Again:  Kids' Parties, Fun and Classes

300.   Puppet mania!!

Everything your child needs for the ultimate puppet production!  This item includes Folkmanis Puppets, the premier manufacturer of plush puppets worldwide (located right here in Emeryville), has generously donated a variety of their famous puppets for your child to create a Puppet Theater.   Folkmanis® offers over 200 of the most heartwarming and realistically designed creatures both exotic and familiar on the market today.  Perfect for a holiday present or new baby gift:  Superbus Beetle, Girl with Ponytails, Boy with Cap, Leprechaun, Scottish Bonnie, North American Dakota, Cowboy Austin, Korean Suni, Eskimo Anaute, African Girl Makemaba, Stag Beetle, Timber Wolf, Cuckoo Clock, and a Cool Ladybug!  Alex Tabletop Puppet Theater included.  Let their imaginations run wild!

Value:   $475

Thank you Folkmanis Puppets
 
 
301.   Let's Duel!  The Ultimate Yu-Gi-Oh Gift Basket!

This gift basket from Collector's Corner is truly special.  It contains items your young Yu-Gi-Oh fan cannot buy but can only obtain through winning a tournament!  Here's a chance to own one creature swap and one trap hole tournament only card!  In addition, there is a Yu-Gi-Oh T-shirt, again only available to tournament players.  Top that off with a Yu-Gi-Oh collectable tin (Elemental Heroes Neo), Lord of the Storm Structure Deck, Pegasus Starter Deck, a Yu-Gi-Oh binder, 2 packs of sleeves, a deck box and 3 rings!

Value:   $75

Thank you Collector's Corner
 

302.   Tinkle the Ivories

Want to try piano lessons?  Well call Joe Mumm at Treetop Piano and sign up for two one-hour lessons with this certificate.  Ages 4 to 99!  Located in the Laurel District, Joe's studio is very convenient to our neighborhood.  He teaches beginning to intermediate students with age appropriate instruction to build a strong and healthy technical foundation.  You'll also enjoy this bag of musical goodies for your child, including a certificate for a studio rental or partial payment for a music lesson, a musical notes bookmark, musical instruments stickers, a dry erase musical board and a fun loud horn, all in a waycool bag.

Value:   $115

Thank you Treetop Piano Lessons, Piedmont Piano Co. - Harmony Road Music School
 
303.   Wednesday Afternoon Art Classes with Gitty Duncan

Wednesday afternoon enrichment classes are so great.  The kids love them, especially the art classes offered by Gitty Duncan!  Gitty has generously donated an entire session for Winter or Spring 2007 (12 classes).  The classes use a range of media along a common theme (e.g., garden, animals).

Value:   $160

Thank you Gitty Duncan

 
304.   Checkmate!

Friday Chess at Hillcrest!  Everyone loves chess and now your child can become a champion!  These classes are offered from 3 to 4 pm on Fridays and with this item you will win the Winter or Spring Session 2007! 

Grades 2-8

Value:  $105
Thank you The Berkeley Chess School
 
305.   Dance Hall Days!

Get into the groove with this $100 Gift Certificate to Shawl-Anderson Dance Center and look good doing it with this $35 Gift Certificate to San Francisco Dancewear!  Shawl-Anderson Dance Center is one of the Bay Area's oldest and most well-respected institutions for the study of Ballet, Modern and Jazz Dance. This is the place to learn the basics or refine your advanced technique.  Certificate can be applied toward classes and is good for 8-10 classes depending on which class you select.  Call for new schedules for winter semester.  www.shawl-anderson.org.

Value:   $135

Thank you Susie Debenham & Rob Russell, Shawl-Anderson Dance Center
 
 
306.   Radical Robots!

One Winter or Spring session (12 weeks) of Radical Robots classes on Wednesday afternoons at Hillcrest School.   Kids discover the excitement of science and engineering with Mr. Asper the Science Master (Elementary School Science Teacher and a M.Ed. from Cal).  Kids design, build and program robots in a fun class for kids. Contact Mr. Asper when the session notice is distributed to redeem.  Grades 3-5 only.

Value:   $150

Thank you Radical Robots
 
 
307-309.  Karate Kid!

The first Karate Kid movie was released in 1984 but karate is still very popular with the kids.  So, bring your child on down to Oakland Karate & Kickboxing -- with super flexible schedules, great instructors, and lots of Hillcrest kids who go there already to learn some kicks, palm strikes, and other cool moves.   Use this certificate for 3 months of unlimited group lessons at Oakland Karate & Kickboxing located at 33rd and Broadway.  Take it from Shane Broome, Eli Asimow, and lots of other Hillcrest kids, this place is the best.  New customers only please!

Value:   $275 each (3 items)

Thank you Oakland Karate & Kickboxing

 

310.   Art Classes at Expressions Gallery in Berkeley

Expressions Gallery right on Ashby in Berkeley has generously donated a $40 gift certificate redeemable for a children's art class (2 hours in length) provided a second class is purchased at the same time.  Choose from a variety of fun classes, including creating or sewing a creature.  Check them out at www.expressionsgallery.com!

Value:   $40

Thank you Expressions Gallery

 
311 - 312.  Math Tutoring from Yellow Cottage

Michelle Liotsakis at Yellow Cottage Tutoring has generously donated 2 sets of 4 sessions of tutoring for a child in grades 1 through 5.  Michelle is a former classroom teacher.  Kids say, "Math is fun with Michelle!"

Value:  $120

Thank you Yellow Cottage Tutoring
 
 
313.   Mocha Mocha Mocha and Supplies Too!

Membership to Mocha and $20 of Art Supplies from Blick on Broadway!  Kids create fabulous works of art at MOCHA so use this certificate for an entire year for your family to create and enjoy.  MOCHA provides all the materials -- you just bring the imagination!  Includes:  One year family membership to MOCHA. entitling all family members to free admission to drop in art programs, special members-only events with artists and educators, and more.  Also a $20 gift card for Blick Art Supplies.

Value:   $80

Thank you The Art Store a Blick Company, Museum of Children's Art

314.   Get in the Holiday Mood with a Gingerbread Cookie Party!

Four kindergarteners will spend the afternoon decorating gingerbread cookies and sipping cider with Sophie Luskin.  Healthy snacks provided too. 

-- Top 4 bidders!
-- Sunday December 3, 1-3:30 p.m.

Get Into the Mood!

Thank you Jessica Weiss
 
 
315.   Easter Egg Dying Party

Six kids are invited to the Spielman/Sawyer house for two hours for exotic egg coloring and fun.  They'll have hard-boiled and blown eggs, along with all the materials to make some great-looking eggs! Egg hunt and pizza to follow. The fun takes place on March 31 at the Sawyer Spielman home.

-- Top 6 bidders
-- March 31, 2007

Do you like Green Eggs (but no ham)?

Thank you Steven Spielman & Linda Sawyer
 
 
316.   Seasonal Crafts with 3 Middle Schoolers

Each month (once per month) for 1 year, Camille Fenn, Maddy Pelton, and Sarah Allison will lead 2 hours of seasonal crafts (6 kids maximum) at your home!  Crafts will include things like baking, making masks, carving pumpkins and the like.

Middle Schoolers Rock

Thank you Sarah Allison, Camille Fenn and Maddy Pelton
 
 
317.   Reading and Math Skills Assessments for Life and More!

Ever wondered if your child is performing at grade level (or how far above grade level he or she might be)?  Then this is the item for you!  Sylvan Learning Center on Grand Avenue has donated a LIFETIME of diagnostic assessments for your child.  This means that you can bring your child in for a battery of tests and they will give you a comprehensive report on his or her strengths and weaknesses.  The assessment:

-- Combines standardized tests covering multiple skill areas 
-- Includes vision and hearing screenings 
-- Provides starting point for determining learning objectives 
-- Pinpoints academic strengths and weakness, known as "skill gaps" 
-- Creates the blueprint for your child's unique programs. 
 
Then, you can come back again at any later date as many times as you like up until the age of 18 for further assessments to track improvement in skills.  There is NO obligation to sign up for Sylvan's programs but if you decide to do so, the registration fee will be waived and you will receive $300 toward the first month's tuition.  Tuition typically ranges from about $400 to $1000 per month so you could receive the first month for just about $100!  All you have to do is have your first assessment by July 31, 2007 to qualify for your child's lifetime of assessments.  Once redeemed, its good through high school!
-- Lifetime Assessment valued at $200
-- Registration Fee waiver valued at $75
-- First Month Tuition certificate valued at $300

Value:   $575

Thank you Sylvan Learning Center

 
318.   4th Grade Boys Adventure to Pinnacles National Monument

Three fourth-grade boys will head out with Margery Buchanan and sons for 2 nights of tent camping and adventure among the caves, bats, ancient volcano site and endangered condors! Mexican food at San Juan Bautista and fun under the stars. Expires 9/1/2007

-- Top 3 bidders

This Land Is Your Land

Thank you Margery Buchanan
 
 
319.   Cool Toys and Books for Kids!

Here's an assortment of toys for your child or for your birthday party gift stash.  Pirate's Cove ... the excellent board game.  A See and Spell puzzle for the young ones in your life and a $30 gift certificate to Lucciola Children's Books.
Value:   $100
Thank you Lucciola Children's Bookstore, Dr. Comics and Mr. Games, babyalula
 

 

320.   Holiday Shopping for Toys Made Easy with Wild Planet!

Spy Video Car, Wild Planet's Hot New Toy for 2006 - One of Family Fun Magazine's top toys of the year!  The kid lucky enough to receive this toy will drive the remote-controlled Spy Video Car into top-secret territory without being detected, see in the dark with infrared light transmitted to your head-up display, send the spy car on secret missions using the hand-held remote control, and keep in control through the small screen attached to your headset. Darkness poses no obstacle for the Spy Video Car as its infrared night-vision system lets you see clearly in the dark without emitting any visible traces of light. From the safety of your spy headquarters, he or she will watch what’s going on wherever the video vehicle travels, up to 75 feet away.

Value:   $100

Thank you Jennifer Chapman & Michael Allison
 
 
322.   Come Explore the Musician in You!

Want to try piano lessons?  Well call Joe Mumm at Treetop Piano and sign up for two one-hour lessons with this certificate.  Ages 4 to 99!  Located in the Laurel District, Joe's studio is very convenient to our neighborhood.  He teaches beginning to intermediate students with age appropriate instruction to build a strong and healthy technical foundation.

Value:  $90

Thank you Treetop Piano Lessons

 

323.   Studio 54, I Mean Studio Naga

Get your kid moving with this one-month training certificate to Studio Naga.  Studio Naga's programs are designed to promote confidence, coordination and discipline in a safe - FUN! - and caring environment. Group classes include kids at all levels and peer support is encouraged and modeled. 

Value:   $200

Thank you Studio Naga
 
 

324.   Swimming Lessons with Expert Swim Team Members #1

Let your child age 7-10 years old strengthen his or her swimming skills in lessons at the Montclair Swim Club with swim team members Zach Orfali, Emmit Fenn, and Julia Davis!   They'll teach 2 kids for 3 consecutive days during a Spring or Summer week.  Parental supervision will also be provided (thank you parents of Zach, Emmit and Julia).  All your child needs to know is basic strokes and how to float and they'll help take it to the next level.  One bidder wins (2 kids attend).
Valid until August 1, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!
           
Thank you Zach Orfali, Julia Davis, and Emmit Fenn

 

325.   Swimming Lessons with Expert Swim Team Members #2

Let your child age 7-10 years old strengthen his or her swimming skills in lessons at the Montclair Swim Club with swim team members Zach Orfali, Emmit Fenn, and Julia Davis!   They'll teach 2 kids for 3 consecutive days during a Spring or Summer week.  Parental supervision will also be provided (thank you parents of Zach, Emmit and Julia).  All your child needs to know is basic strokes and how to float and they'll help take it to the next level.  One bidder wins (2 kids attend).
Valid until August 1, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Zach Orfali, Julia Davis, Emmit Fenn
 
 

326.   Lacrosse Anyone?

Emmit Fenn knows how to play lacrosse and he's willing to teach your child to play too!  He has a stick for your child and he'll spend 90 minutes for 2 days imparting his tremendous knowledge and skill!  2 slots available.  Weekends only.  Valid through October 2007.

-- Top 2 bidders

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Emmit Fenn
 
 

327.   His Airness!

Basketball Clinic for 2 hours at Hillcrest School (after hours or weekend) for 2 kids to sharpen their skills.  Valid through May 2007.

-- Top 2 bidders!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Andy Carlson and Dustin Dolby
 
 

328-330.  You'll Be Better than Barry!

Your baseball skills will be, after this training session with Sam Drexler. He has spent his entire life honing his skills and has played on a team for 5 years. He will work with your 7-10 year-old on throwing, catching, batting and fielding for one-hour. Barry Zito, Barry Bonds - step aside - this kid is ready to take over! Date to be mutually determined. One child per session.  Just ask Axel Broome, Nick Vollintine, and Gregory Kleinman, last year's winners of this valuable item and they'll tell this was a whole lot of fun!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Sam Drexler

331.   Improve Your Stroke!

Swimming lessons for 1.5 hours for 3 days to learn and improve on the basic strokes, to practice drills and to learn some fun games to practice/improve your form!  Winner must be 7 or older and know how to float and get across the pool on his or her own.  Valid through November 11, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!
           
Thank you Camille Fenn
 
 

332.   Carlson and Dolby Birthday Party Helpers!

Let two 8th graders help with your child's birthday party.  They have helped at other parties and would love to make yours a success!  Up to 4 hours of help on mutually agreeable date!
Valid until June 15, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Andy Carlson and Dustin Dolby
 
 

333.   Chabot with the Kids and then Pizza in Montclair!

Not from Hollywood...but the Milky Way! These four passes are for general admission to check out our planet and universe at Chabot Space & Science Center.   After all that fun, you must be hungry!  Use this certificate for two 17 inch pizzas of your choice at Montclair Cybelle's!

Value:   $102
           
Thank you Chabot Space & Science Center and Cybelle's Pizza
 
 
334.   It's a Cool Cool Kids Pool Party!

Celebrate the arrival of summer with this swim party for 15 kids in grades K-3 at Oakland's newly renovated Montclair Swim Club.  Kids can bid farewell to the school year by splashing and swimming in any of the club's three connected pools, ranging from 2' to 7' deep. Marco Polo, anyone? Other games and entertainments also provided. Or take a break from the water at the ping pong tables! Pizza, cool drinks, and dessert will be served. Get out the sunscreen! No non-swimmers please.  Don't worry if you work on Friday afternoons!  We can arrange carpools to the swim club so all the kids can attend!

-- Top 15 bidders (girls and boys in grades K-3)
-- Friday, June 1, 2007, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

 

A Big Splash!

Thank you Keith Savell & Karen Katz and Sarah Weld & Wayne Snodgrass
 
 
335.   ASL  (American Sign Language) Tea Party

Come to an ASL Tea Party...for first grade students only. Hosted by Sheila Holmes (Hillcrest's ASL teacher) and the winning bidder. Students will sign during the tea party (delectables provided by the teacher) and play ASL games too! ASL surprises and a book of basic ASL signs included for each student.

6 students maximum. Time and location to be mutually agreed upon. Party must take place by April 30, 2007.

Value:   $400

Thank you Sheila Holmes

 
336.   Summer Pool and BBQ Party for Twelve 3rd Graders

It's become a tradition at the Vollintine's and all the kids look forward to it!  A great summer pool and BBQ party!  The Vollintines will BBQ Kosher hot dogs and hamburgers the last Saturday in August before school starts!  They'll even have a lifeguard on hand to ensure safety.  Drop off the kids and go have a good time!

--Top 12 bidders

Thank you Priscilla & Larry Vollintine
 
 
337.   Ravioli the Clown Birthday Party Entertainment!

Ravioli the Clown will entertain and delight kids of all ages by with his magic show and balloon animals!  Recent appearance at the St. Theresa's Family Carnival with RAVE reviews from Hillcrest kids for his very funny magic show!
 
Monday through Friday only.  One hour show.

Value:  $200

Thank you Ravioli the Clown

 

338.   Birthday Party Certificate for $100 at Expressions Gallery

Expressions Gallery right on Ashby in Berkeley has generously donated a $100 gift certificate that can be used to purchase an Art Birthday Party for children age 5 through 12.  Each party will have a theme, and each activity will be guided by the instructor.  Each theme is chosen by the host child and his or her parents.  The art activity is 1 hour and the party, presents, and cake last 1 hour.  Parents provide the cake.  All art materials are included.  This certificate covers a party with 6 children but additional children may be invited for a fee of $15 each.  Check them out at www.expressionsgallery.com!

Value:   $100

Thank you Expressions Gallery
 
 
339.   Birthday Party Storytelling Performance with AT's Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen Hill will entertain your kids at a birthday party!  She started her freelance business as a professional storyteller in 1990. She has been a teacher at Hillcrest Adventure Time for 16 years and all the kids love her.  How thrilled they'll be to have her at their party.  And, she loves telling stories at birthday parties.  Let her help you make your next birthday a big success!  Expiration date: December 31, 2007.  Dates not available: June 17- August 26, 2007.

Value:   $150

Thank you Mary Ellen Hill
 
 
340.   Party Down at the Bladium or Be a Lil Kicker!

Bladium Sports Club of Alameda is the hot new place in town with over 2 acres of sports, fitness and fun under one roof!  This is the ultimately flexible certificate.  Use it for a birthday party or for a season of Lil Kicker soccer.  Birthday party choices are wide ranging and include an hour in the sport/activity of your choice, celebrating for an hour in the kids activity center with pizza, soda and chips, certified Bladium instructor/supervisor, kids inflatable jumper, equipment rental, and utensils.  All you bring is the cake for 15 kids (12 for rock climbing).  Choose from indoor soccer, rock climbing, flag football, inline hockey, volleyball, basketball, dodge ball, and more.  Or, if you have other birthday party plans, redeem the certificate for a session of Lil Kickers soccer, the soccer program for kids from 18 months to 9 years and is widely recognized as a top program in the Bay Area.  Goal!

Value:  Up to $275

Thank you Bladium Sports & Fitness Club

 

341.   It's a Mad Mad World at Mad Science!

So many kids at Hillcrest love Mad Science birthday parties!  Use this $50 gift certificate towards a party for your child!  Valid in 2006 and 2007.

Value:   $50

Thank you Mad Science of Mt. Diablo

 

342.   More Holiday Shopping Opportunities!

Two Cool Toys and a Certificate to Games of Berkeley!  Dodge Discs -- Shoot 'em Fast - Dodge 'em Faster!  These long-range disc launchers really send them flying! Soft foam discs don't hurt and are safe. Each launcher holds 10 discs and can be easily refilled.
Digital Spy Camera -- The Digital Spy Camera puts agents on assignment in the guise of ordinary civilians. No one will suspect you’re a spy as you stroll nonchalantly into secret places or glimpse in the direction of confidential documents, looking unconcerned with all that surrounds you.  The tinted, impact-resistant sunglasses house a retractable digital camera that stores 20 color photos. Transfer the images (640 by 480 screen resolution) onto your computer using the USB cable and decide if you will expose the evidence or save it for future bargaining. The Digital Spy Camera™ blends spy role-play with reality. Takes spy photos in digital format - no film required.  Then go down to Games of Berkeley to select a game (or two) with this $50 certificate from one of the best and oldest game stores in the Bay Area.  Choose from classic and hard to find international board games, a huge selection of jigsaw puzzles, darts, kids' games, and much more!

Value:   $100

Thank you Jennifer Chapman & Michael Allison, Susan Garbarino & Matthew Merzbacher
 

343.   Pottery Party at Brushstrokes

Want to create a special artistic play date or mini-party for your child?  How about for a group of moms who need a creative outlet?  Well head on down to Brushstrokes Studio near the 4th Street Shopping District and paint in the studio.  This certificate allows 5 people (kids or grownups) to create pottery for an hour.  All that you pay for is the pottery (which is already made -- you just pick what you want, a plate, a teapot, cups, jars, whatever).   After you paint it, they will fire it for you in the kiln and you'll have a beautiful, and useful, piece of art for your home.  And since you're having fun, you should have some treats too!  Zoe's Cookies has donated 2 dozen 2.5 ounce cookies and one half dozen of each of the following flavors:  Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, Peanut Butter and Snickerdoodle.  That's 48 cookies!  Wow!

Value:   $60

Thank you Brushstrokes, Zoe's Cookies & Other Delights
 
 

344.   Jungle Time at the Zoo and in The Jungle

There are animals everywhere at the San Francisco Zoo and your kids can act like animals at The Jungle in Concord.
-- Zoo -- 2 admission passes, 4 ride passes and 2 parking passes
-- The Jungle -- 4 passes (adults are free)
Expires:  October 2007

Value:   $76
           
Thank you The San Francisco Zoological Society, The Jungle

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Suddenly Next Summer:  Kids' Summer Camp Corner

400.   En Garde!

A week of Sport Fencing Camp for Summer 2007!  Now this is a cool camp!  If only our parents had given us real swords when we were kids.  Children learn basic techniques and tactics in a fun, non-competitive atmosphere!  Camp includes fencing games develop concentration, agility and speed and Olympic-style electronic bouting.  Children are grouped according to their age and ability -- NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED, just a desire to have fun.  There are both Teen (12-16) and Youth (8-11) camps, with sessions starting right after school ends and running through August.  All equipment is provided.  Camp features a full day excursion on the last day of each session!   Camp hours 9 am - 3 pm but extended care may be arranged for an additional fee.

-- 1 week of Sport Fencing camp, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Value:  $295

Thank you Sport Fencing Center
 
 

401.   Make Me A Pro -- Baseball, Soccer, or Cheerleading Camp!

Do you have a future Barry Bonds or Mia Hamm in your family?  What about a cheerleading enthusiast?  If so, this is the camp for your child!  Make Me a Pro Camps use challenging, yet fun games and drills that push our campers to reach their potential as individuals, while training towards their goals of becoming better players/cheerleaders. They understand that every child they encounter has a different personality that comes with different needs and they spend the time to understand each individual's specific strengths and challenges to tailor interaction with each child appropriately.   This camp is located just of 80 in Albany and the instructors have years of experience in their fields.  A great experience! 

-- 1 week of Make Me a Pro Camp
Mornings or afternoons (9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (approx. times))

Value:   $250

Thank you Make Me a Pro Sports
 

402.   Baseball After Little League -- BALL! -- Summer Camp 2007

Play Ball!  Bid on a week of BALL camp for boys and girls ages 7-11, right in our neighborhood at Oakland's Caldecott baseball facilities.  Each one-week session runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Campers receive hands-on instruction in all aspects of the game from knowledgeable counselors. Mornings are devoted to drills and instruction; organized baseball games take place after lunch. Each camper gets a T-Shirt but bring your own glove and cleats.  Ask Axel Broome, Gregory Kleinman and Ethan Kleinman.  They'll tell you this camp is hecka fun. 
Must contact Debbie Bonzell by May 15, 2007, and complete registration form.  Valid:  Summer 2007.

Value:   $225

Batter up!

Thank you BALL Summer Camp
 

403.   GOAL!

Fill your 2007 summer with fun at Jack Hyde Soccer camp now in its 29th year!  Half day sessions, upgradeable for an additional fee to full day, so it's open to every child age 6-13!  Girls and boys alike love this camp!   Training for beginners to advanced players with low coach to student ratios.  Includes soccer camp shirt, prizes, model board demos, drinks, tactical sessions for goalkeepers and all positions with individual instruction. Two sessions to choose from June 18-22 or August 6-10, 2007.  Convenient location at Caldecott Field, less than a mile away! Grab your cleats!  Check their website www.jackhydesoccercamp.com for more details!
Must Use Summer 2007

Value:   $95

Thank you Jack Hyde Soccer
 
 

404.   Roughing It Day Camp

Roughing It - Voted Best In the Bay Area.  Celebrating their 35th year, Roughing It Day Camp is a traditional all-outdoors day camp, located in the San Francisco East Bay Area on a lake site in Lafayette.  Most activities occur at the spectacular 900-acre Lafayette Reservoir, with the exception of swimming and horseback riding, which take place in nearby Moraga (a short 6-8 minute van shuttle from the reservoir).  Campers are grouped by grade and participate in a wide variety of traditional camp programs.  They offer four and eight week sessions to ensure that campers have time to develop strong group spirit and improve their personal skill in each program area.  Check out more about Roughing It Day Camp on their website: www.roughingit.com.  Use this $500 certificate towards summer fun in 2007!

Value:   $500

Thank you Roughing It Day Camp
 
 

405.   Blue Grizzlies Camp at Strawberry Canyon for 2 Weeks!

Your 12-14 year old will have a great time at Strawberry Canyon for two weeks of full-day Blue Grizzlies camp.  This is a multi-activity camp that Hillcrest kids love!  Camp runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. but extended care is available for an additional fee.  Other restrictions may apply.

Go Grizzlies!

Value:   $370

Thank you Cal Recreational Sports Facility

 

406.   You Can Dance If You Want To!  You Can Leave Your Friends Behind!

Luna Kids Summer Dance Camp 2007!  Put on Your Dancin' Shoes and spend a week next summer with Luna Kids Summer Dance Camp or Teen Choreography Workshop!  These camps are offered in July (precise weeks to be established by March 1).  This $150 certificate can be used towards the purchase of either a week of Summer Dance Camp 2007 (age 8-11) or Teen Choreography Workshop 2007 (age 12-16).  The Summer Dance Camp runs 9-3 M-F and is offered for two separate weeks.  The Teen Workshop is designed for experienced dancers as well as those new to dance. Teens ages 12-16 explore and expand their dance making skills. Dancers will make and manipulate phrases using spoken or written word as inspiration.  It runs from 10-4 M-F and is typically offered for a single week the first week of August (final dates to be set by March so you can plan).  LKD camps are held at Julia Morgan Center so they are very convenient.  A "can't miss experience" for any aspiring young dancer!
Expires:  August 15, 2007

Value:   $150
           
Thank you Luna Kids Dance

407.   Mills Summer Arts Camp -- 3 week Session!

The Summer Arts Program at Mills College provides an exciting and fun environment for children to learn, play and grow through structured morning classes and traditional afternoon "camp" activities.  In past years, each three-week session has offered swim lessons and classes in art, music and dance for ages 6-9 and swim lessons and classes in computers and drama for ages 10-12.  This certificate is for the half-day camp but can be upgraded to full day for an additional fee.  Half day camp runs from 8:30 am to 12:15 pm.  Full day continues to 5 pm and costs approximately $250 additional for the 3 week session.  Kids love Mills Summer Arts Camp and the 3-week sessions allow for some continuity so let the bidding begin!

Value:   $500

Thank you Mills Summer Arts Camp
 
 

408.   A Day at Monkey Business Camp for Winter or Spring Break

At Monkey Business in Berkeley, it's all about the fun!  For your kids, that is.  If you have to work over Winter or Spring Break, this is the ideal place for your child.  This certificate entitles you to $60 towards any day of camp for kids aged 5 to 10 years old over Winter or Spring Break.  Monkey Business is located on Bancroft Way in Berkeley (at the Berkwood Hedge School), convenient to the Upper Rockridge neighborhood.  A day of camp typically costs $58-$65 and lasts from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, with extended care available for a small additional fee.

Value:   $60
           
Thank you Monkey Business Camp
 
 

409.   This Land Is Your Land Camp Summer 2007

A week of camp with This Land Is Your Land is just what your child age 5-12 needs for a fun and enriching summer!  It is a summer day camp of outdoor science, blending the exciting science and nature studies developed by Sarah Shaffer, with art, music, hiking, swimming, and outdoor games.  Valid for Summer 2007 but you must register early as enrollment is limited and is subject to availability.  This certificate is valid at either the Oakland or Berkeley site.  Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily and extended care is available for an additional fee.

Value:   $285
           
Thank you This Land Is Your Land
 
 

410.   Camp Galileo

Send your child to Camp Galileo for 1 week
Voted "Best Camp for Kids" in Bay Area Parent and "Best of the Bay" in San Francisco Magazine, Camp Galileo combines art, science, and outdoor programming with fun camp traditions to create a summer day camp experience K-5th grade kids love.  Delivered by a highly talented staff, Camp Galileo's curriculum is developed in partnership with the Tech Museum of Innovation, the de Young Museum, and Klutz.  Camp Galileo features three unique weeks of programming to appeal to all interests. Visit www.campgalileo.com or call 1-800-854-3684 for more information.

Valid for Summer 2007.

Value:   $339

Thank you Camp Galileo
 
 

411.   Summer Time Fun at Park Day Summer Arts Camp!

Summer Time Fun at Park Day Summer Arts Camp!

Your budding artist will be thrilled to spend one week next summer in one of many creative art classes held at Park Day Summer Arts Camp. Park Day is a visual and performing arts camp recognized for its excellence throughout the Bay Area.  Check for more detailed descriptions on www.parkdaysummerartscamp.com. Child must be 6-12 years of age.  Due to their great popularity, some weeks fill up quickly, so contact them early to confirm availability.  Expires August 2007.

Value:   $310

Thank you Park Day Summer Arts Camp

412.      ¡Viva el Español!

Viva el Español, a non-profit Spanish language center located in Lafayette, is offering the following full-immersion half-day Summer Camps for 2007 for the winner of this item!
The camps are listed below and are a great way for a K-5th grader to immerse themselves in the Spanish language for a week!
Under The Sea:  June 18 – 22, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.  Take a deep breath and come with us on an underwater voyage as we travel under the sea. Students will discover the mysterious wonders of the deep blue as they learn to speak-in español-of marine life, fish, seashells, and more! Your little pirates, sailors, and mermaids will come home with a new appreciation for aquatic life.

Bugs' Life:  June 25 – 29, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Is your little scientist fascinated with bugs and nature? Then this session is perfect for your curious child! Curriculum includes insect dough creations, marble rolling slug trails, ants on a log snack, caterpillars out of egg cartons, butterfly symmetry painting, stick painting, leaf prints, nature collages, and music and books surrounding bugs and nature-all in español!

Value:   $375

¡Viva el Español!

Thank you Lamorinda Spanish, www.LamorindaSpanish.com

413-415. The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades – 3 Weeks of Sylvan Summer Camp

Sylvan is offering 3 separate items, each consisting of a week of Summer Camp at Sylvan Learning Center on Grand Avenue for Summer 2007.  Keep your child's mind active next summer in one of Sylvan Learning Center's Academic Camps. The camps include 20 hours each and address reading, writing, and math for students in grades 1-8.  You pick which one of the camps you like.  Seminars are available for students in middle school. Don't let your child suffer from brain drain over the summer!  Keep them sharp in this fun and challenging camp environment!

Value:   $300 each

Thank you Sylvan Learning Center

416.   Ms. M's Algebra Boot Camp

Enrollment for one student in Ms. M's Algebra Boot Camp. This camp is a fast-paced review of 7th grade Math designed for students taking Algebra 1 in the Fall.  This class is designed to cover all the concepts in Math 7 that are required in Algebra 1 so that the students start the year with the concepts fresh in their minds. The camp is held the last full week of summer vacation for two hours a day at Ms. M's house. The camp is limited to five students so they get a lot of individual assistance!

Value:   $200

Thank you Elsie Mallonee

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Bow Wow Wow:  Pet Items & Services

500.   Pet Doctor!

Dr. Carlos Yang at Thornhill Pet Hospital treats many of Hillcrest's pets and he generously donates a checkup for your cat or dog and annual vaccines (rabies, distemper, etc.).

Value:   $125

Thank you Thornhill Pet Hospital
 
501.   Your Pooch Will Love Julia Clark-Riddell and Nutro Dog Food!

And, why shouldn't he or she?  Julia will walk your dog for 45 minutes on 4 separate occasions.  Restriction -- only sweet-tempered dogs!  Valid through May 22, 2007.  After walking, your pup will need to eat so feed Fluffy or Fido with this 20 pound supply of pet food.  Your beast will have a full belly!  Expires 12/31/06

Woof!
           
Thank you Julia Clark-Riddell, Nutro Products

502.   Doggie Field Trip!

Everybody loves field trips.  Doesn't your precious doggie deserve one too?  Well Kelsey Dolby (and her adult driver) will take your dog to Point Isabel for a day to romp and frolic!  Valid through June 2, 2007.  Limited to one dog.

Woof!

Thank you Kelsey Dolby

 
503.   Have Julia Davis Watch Your House and/or Pets When You're Away for the Weekend

Rest easy and take a weekend away without worrying about your house, pets or plants.  Julia Davis will provide a weekend of house-sitting, including feeding pets, watering plants, taking in the mail and more.  Valid through August 2007.

Peace of Mind

Thank you Julia Davis

504.   If Your Pet Is Lonely, Call Zach Orfali!

He's an experienced pet sitter and will take care of your precious member of the family (from rodent to reptile to puppy) for a weekend.  Valid through October 2007.

Woof!

Thank you Zach Orfali
 
 

505.   Claremont Vet Hospital

Claremont Vet Hospital will take special care of you pet with this $100 gift certificate for veterinary services.  Expires 7/31/07

In Good Hands

Thank you Claremont Veterinary Hospital
 

 
506-507.  Dog sitters!

Emma Bishop-Moser and Michelle Branch love dogs and they'll love yours for 5 1-hour sessions during this school year!  Weekends and Wednesdays only please.  Expires June 30, 2007.

Peace of Mind

Thank you Michelle Branch, Emma Bishop-Moser
 
 

508.   3 Half Hour Adventures for your Pooch!

3 half hour dog walks for your precious pup (or grownup dog) with animal lovers Jordan Below and Allison Hytha!  Valid through June 14, 2007!

Woof!

Thank you Jordan Below and Allison Hytha
 
 

509.   Dogs Love to Walk with Emmit Fenn!

Emmit Fenn will treat your dog to an outing for 4 days.  Each walk will be 30 minutes long and he says he'll arrange it at "whatever time works for you and your dog!"  Awesome!!!  Valid until October 2007.

Woof!

Thank you Emmit Fenn
 
 

510.   Is Your Dog in Shape?

Well, Maggie Phillips is ready to help him or her get some exercise with this 4 mile walk in Redwood Park.  Dog must be friendly with other dogs.  Valid until March 26, 2007.

Woof!

Thank you Maggie Phillips
 
 

511.   Long walk and a nice bath ...

For your dog, of course!  Deirdre Collins will take your precious hound for a long walk and bathe him or her on a Saturday or Sunday!  She or he will smell fresh and new!  Valid through August 2007.

Woof!

Thank you Deirdre Collins

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Let's Get Physical: Adult Classes, Activities, and Toys

600.   UB40? 40 Is the New 30 So You (or Someone You Love) May as Well Look It!

One of our most valuable items this year, this package has everything you need to freshen up your look and feel like a million bucks!  Starting with a skin care consultation at the offices of well known and respected Berkeley physician Dr. Elizabeth Lee.  Dr. Lee, a Diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, has generously donated a consultation for facial rejuvenation and a 75% discount on a treatment with botox, restylane, or a starter set of Obagi NuDerm skin care.  Regardless of the treatment that will be best for you, this item is a several hundred dollar value! 

Afterwards, head over to the offices of Dr. Martenson, DDS, for a laser whitening of your teeth with ZOOM technology -- and walk out two hours later with a sparkling smile.  The stars do it so why shouldn't you?  (Value $600)

Next, fashion consultant Vanessa Hernandez is ready to spend 2 hours going through your closet to help you figure out what works and what doesn't and make recommendations for your perfect style.  She'll give you an objective viewpoint, one your friends might not be willing to give, and get you on the road to fashion, style, and more.  (Value $160)

Then, lengthen and extend with 3 Pilates Classes at The Daily Method on Piedmont Avenue.  Check out the schedule at www.thedaileymethod.com. 

And, finally, Mary Ryan, at Hair by Mary in Montclair, will style your hair and give you a makeup application as the finishing touch.  She'll give you a shampoo, blow-dry and conditioning treatment and an eyebrow wax with eye massage!   (Expires May 1, 2007. Requires appointment, subject to schedule availability.  Coupon must be presented to redeem this item.) 

This package will revitalize you or a friend and is intended for women or men.  All of the professionals who have donated work with both men and women to improve their appearance and health, so let the bidding begin!

Total Value: At least $1500, but when you're done, you'll know it's priceless!

Thank you Vanessa Hernandez, Piedmont Dental by Design, Dr. Elizabeth Lee, Hair by Mary, The Dailey Method
 

601.   Splash!

A charming movie about a man and a mermaid.  Maybe you won't find Daryl Hannah or Tom Hanks but a dip in the pool at the Montclair Swim Club is always refreshing!  This one-month family membership is good for Summer 2007 -- and you won't even have to pay the membership initiation fee ($2000) to enjoy your month.  Also includes access to the health club equipment and jacuzzi for the grownups.  Conditions:  Immediate family only; application must be completed and signed prior to use.
Expires 8/01/07

Value:   $145 (monthly dues – 250 amortizing the annual membership fee)

Thank you Montclair Swim Club
 

602.   It's fun to play, at the Y-M-C-A!

Okay, it was a 70's song but we had to use it.  Why the Y?  Because the downtown Oakland YMCA offers everything for your fitness needs: swimming, aerobics, racquetball, basketball, indoor track, cardio-vascular & weight lifting equipment and much more! This family membership is for two adults and two youth. May not be redeemed by current members or anyone who has been a member for the last 12 months. Expires 3/31/07

Value:   $499

Thank you Downtown Oakland YMCA

603.   Get in Shape at Fit-Lite!

Get in shape with this 60-day membership to Fit-Lite on Piedmont Avenue.  Fit-Lite, a new club concept by 24 Hour Fitness, is a co-ed circuit-only club which provides a total body strength, cardio and core workout in 30 minutes.  If you elect to continue membership after the 60-day period expires, you may be required to pay an initiation fee.  Valid until November 2007

Value:   $82

Thank you Fit-Lite

 
604.   Get Fit Inside and Out!

Get in shape with this pass for 10 workout sessions at Inside Outside Fitness.  This gym is under new ownership and now offers child care!  The facility is newly renovated and has a host of new classes.  Check it out on Piedmont Avenue!   Plus, here’s a dumbbell set, perfect for a home workout.  It adjusts from 3 lbs up to 5 lbs.  You can easily remove tops to add weight as needed.  Comfortable grips.  Perfect for strengthening and toning the entire upper body!

Gym Certificate Expires 3 months after first use

Value:   $110
           
Thank you Inside Outside Fitness and Busy Body Home Fitness
 

605.   Personal Training in Your Home and a Yoga Ball

Do you want to increase your speed, balance, and metabolism, utilize your 100+ micro muscles, and improve your nervous system's functioning?  Have you considered that your body is functioning well when you have a cold?  Do you have a daily system for achieving fitness goals?  No worries!  Certified Personal Trainer, and Hillcrest Mom, Gretchen Grani will provide you with 3 personal training sessions in your home, in which she will design a training program for you that you can use with the Yoga ball.  No fancy equipment required.  Just a commitment.  Gretchen works with people who are ready to take control of their fitness, health, and self-healing -- new mothers, athletes, seniors, and families.  She specializes in ProBodX, combining core development and strength training on unstable surfaces like the yoga ball and helps her clients achieve their goals by adopting a positive-thinking perspective based on the Laws of Attraction.  Gretchen also teaches classes at Inside Outside fitness in Oakland and the RSF at Cal.  This package includes the latest trend in fitness, "the ball."   Gretchen will deliver this Xtreme Zone Exercise Ball (75 cm diameter) and Mat and instructional CD at the first session.

Value:   $305

Thank you Gretchen Grani, Inspired Fitness and Wellness Training, Busy Body Home Fitness
 
 
606.   Lengthen and Strengthen with Pilates!

Pilates Personal Training and Mat Classes with Sally McLanahan, Pilates instructor and Hillcrest parent.  Sally's studio is in the neighborhood so there's no excuse to put off your new workout routine!  Includes 4 private Pilates sessions on the Reformer and 4 group mat classes.  What a deal!  When you go, bring along the Frelonic Pro Exercise Mat included with this package.  It provides you comfort while you work out!  Convenient fold up molded mat unfolds to a full 22" x 58".  Easy to put away!  Unique closed cell EVA Foam construction protects against shock.  Washable Ultrilure surface wicks moisture away.  Treated with anti-bacterial protection.  Unique skid resistant bottom layer ensures stability!

Value:   $340

Thank you Sally McClanahan, Busy Body Home Fitness
 
 
607.   Body Sculpting System!

Get in shape with this total body sculpting system!  Includes 2 Green Genie Workout Balls, 1 Versaball with air pump., 1 Yoga mat, 2 DVD workouts, and 2 workout instructional booklets.  Enjoy a firmer body and better stamina with a fun and relaxed workout!  Also, you'll love the Ultimate Scale!  More than a scale - an important health and fitness tool, this scale plus body fat monitor gives you a more complete picture of the shape you're in by providing both your weight and body fat percentage.  More importantly, it tells you if you're losing pounds from fat or muscle, giving you the facts you need to make the right health and fitness decisions.

Value:   $85

Thank you Busy Body Home Fitness
 
 
608.   You can't start a fire, can't start a fire without a spark

Take that spark and learn the art of spinning, eating or breathing fire at The Crucible in Oakland!  Interested in learning to spin fire?  How about eating it?  Or breathing fire like a dragon?  Head on down to The Crucible and check it out!  If fire isn't your thing, then check out the wide array of classes from blacksmithing to jewelry making to ceramics to woodworking to making marbles and more.  Youth and adult classes are available even in fire eating and this certificate good for any one Crucible class or lab of the winner's choice up to $250.  There are classes that meet on the weekends and class sessions that last several weeks and meet after school.  You make the choice!  The Crucible is located near West Oakland BART (you pass it when you go to Raimondi Soccer Fields)!   Not redeemable for cash.

Value:   $250

Thank you The Crucible
 
 

609.   Go Climb a Rock!

Ever wanted to go rock climbing but been a little nervous about it?  Well bid on this item for an indoor and safe climbing experience.  Bring your spouse or significant other down to Berkeley Ironworks for these 2 classes and learn to put on the harness and enjoy an immediate climbing experience with the experienced instructors as they guide you through the proper use of belay equipment, knot tying & basic top rope climbing. Recommended for first-time climbers.  Also a great holiday present for your parents!

Next Stop Half-Dome!

Value: $54

Thank you Berkeley IronWorks
 
 

610.   Mosaic Mirror Party for Five

Mosaic Mirror Party for 5!  Snapshot Mosaics is a new addition to Montclair Village, and they have generously donated a party for 5 adults to enjoy an evening learning how to make a 10" x 10" mosaic mirror.  Party will be held at Snapshot Mosaics located in Montclair Village.  All materials and tools will be provided by Snapshot!  Call ahead to make your reservation.  Perfect for a creative get together with friends or a birthday celebration!

Value:   $150

Thank you Snapshot Mosaics
 
 

611.   Floral Design Class and Book

A copy of Ron Morgan's most recent book, "In the Company of Flowers" and 2 reservations for a class/exhibition on floral design by Ron Morgan during Loot Antiques' Spring or Fall 2007 series.  Ron Morgan is the most sought-after and well-recognized floral designer in the United States.  He has dazzled lecture and garden club audiences for over 20 years with his wit, knowledge and unparalleled creative talents.  n the Company of Flowers captures Ron's delight in finding ways to turn the art of creating centerpieces upside down.  This time around, he has dug into the depths of his imagination and let his more playful side out.  This book is a joyous celebration of flowers and all of the possibilities they offer.  With these examples as a starting point, readers should feel inspired to create their own masterpieces.

Call Loot for class schedule and to make the reservations.  Expires January 2008; Recipient must call for class schedule and to make reservation.

Value:   $100

Thank you Loot Antiques

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The Umpire Strikes Back:  The Sporting Life

700.   Talk the Talk at Lunch with Brian Murphy of KNBR!

You and a friend will have lunch at Scott's Seafood Restaurant in Oakland and talk everything sports (Giants, A's, golf, etc.) with celebrity talk show host Brian Murphy of the Murph and Mac morning show on KNBR.  Brian Murphy has spent 15 years as a sportswriter covering the NFL, Major League Baseball, and Tiger Woods and the PGA!  He's covered Steve Young, Jerry Rice, Barry Bonds, Terrell Owens, Jason Giambi and Phil Mickelson, to name a few.  Indeed, he has interviewed every major sports figure in the Bay Area and over the course of his career, many national sports celebrities, including just recently, Felipe Alou, Gary Plummer, Nick Faldo, Harry Carson, Brad Hennessey, and Matt Cain.  Find out what he's learned and what goes on behind the scenes.  Even if you aren't a Giants fan, Murph's experience and interests span Bay Area and national sports.  He'll even break down the last season of The Sopranos with you if you like!  Mutually agreeable date to be arranged between the winner and Mr. Murphy.

Includes:  $100 gift card to Scott's Seafood

Bull Durham
           
Thank you Brian Murphy, Maxine & Mark Drexler, Pamela Kershaw & Andrew Thomas
 
 
701.   The BIG GAME

It's almost time for the BIG GAME!  Cal v. Stanford on December 2, 2006 at Memorial Stadium!  Includes parking pass in the Lower Hearst Garage.  Excellent Seats -- Section UU, Row 28!  We bet that if you could get these tickets on Stub Hub, they'd be at least $250 each!  Go Bears!  Finally, you'll have this football autographed by Jeff Tedford, Cal football coach so you'll always remember this special experience!

Better than Stubhub!

Thank you Dan & Rhita Williams and Shorenstein Realty Services
 
 
702.   Raiders' Fans are Fanatics!

Join them at the December 3rd Game and take home tonight an autographed football by kickers Sebastian Janikowski and Shane Lechler!   You'll love sitting in these great seats to see the Houston Texans take on the Oakland Raiders at 1:05 p.m.  These seats are an aisle seat and the seat next to it on the 45 yard line:  Section 141, Row 26, seats 13 & 14.  Great seats for a great afternoon watching football!

Value:   $250
Glory Days!

Thank you Laura & John Carlson
 
 
703.   Instant Superbowl Party!

Want to host a Superbowl party but don't have the energy?  Bid for a party delivered to your house - 2 types of Chili (your choice), corn bread, brownies, and beers for 20-25 of your friends. You supply the friends!   Also, included is a chip and dip tray so you can munch during the pre-game!  All of the food will magically appear Superbowl morning 2007!

Touchdown!

Thank you Ken Dupee and Nancy Scanlon Annie's Hallmark
 
 
705.   See Jerry Rice Retire & His Number Too!

The 49ers square off against the Seattle Seahawks on November 19th here at Candlestick Point!  Imagine sitting in the 12th row on the 30-yard line -- say hey to Alex Smith!  These six tickets can be yours!  Section 25, Row 12, Seats 3-8.  It’s the day Jerry Rice is officially set to retire from the Niners!  A special ceremony will be held – a not to be missed event for any Rice fan!

-- 6 tickets to the November 19th game

Value:   $384

Thank you Donna & Frank Somerville
 
 
706.   Play the Ponies!

Play the Ponies During Your Day at the Races!
Admission to the newly remodeled Turf Club at Golden Gate Fields and Lunch for 4, a program and the big payoff (depending on your handicapping skills!).

Value:  $196

I Got the Horse Right Here …

Thank you Golden Gate Fields
 
 
707.   Great Seats to See Them Giants!

You'll love the view of the game from these 4 Lower Box Seats (w/ Parking Pass) to a 2007 San Francisco Giants game.  First base side on the 9th row.  Game date to be arranged after the 2007 schedule is released.

Value:  $160

Field of Dreams!

Thank you Robert & Yukari Vincent
 
 

708.   Take Me Out to TWO Ballgames!

Two of you can soak up the fabulous view of San Francisco Bay while you take in two baseball games at SBC Park. These great seats are between home plate and first base in Row 7 of the view level. Choose one game in May and one game in June.  Please call the donors early to select the date!

Value:   $88

Thank you Marty Nolan and Liz Weld Nolan
 
 

709.   Go Bears! to the Cal Golden Bear Classic Weekend Basketball Game

If you love all sports, you'll love this baseball and basketball combo package!  Use this certificate for two reserved seat tickets to the Cal Golden Bear Classic weekend men's basketball tournament held December 8-9, 2006.  Next season you'll be entitled to 2 plaza level seats to an A's game.  Expires August 31, 2007; excludes Opening Night, the Giant Series, the Yankees Series, Boston Series, inter-league games and Fireworks nights.  Based on availability.

Value:   $70
           
Thank you Oakland Athletics Baseball Company, University of California Athletic Ticket Office
 
 
710.   Tennis Racket Restring & Regrip

Tom at Montclair Sports knows his tennis!  Montclair Sports will restring and regrip your racket so you can be on the top of your game!  Valid until March 31, 2007

Value:  $45

Thank you Montclair Sports
 
 
711.   Tennis Anyone?  A Nice Workout?

Your entire family can play tennis, work out, steam, use the ellipticals and other exercise equipment, aerobocize, and swim all while enjoying the beautiful views that the Oakland Hills Tennis Club has to offer. Not available to existing members. Expires 5/31/07

Value:   $210

Thank you Oakland Hills Tennis Club
 
 
712.   What a Racquet!

Tennis, that is. Dazzle the court with this Wilson nPS 95, 4.25 grip strung with Wilson Enduro Mono racquet and feel the "Love" from the other side of the court! Neil Rothenberg, former owner of Berkeley Sports, member of Wilson Advisory Staff since 1986, official stringer for UC men's and women's tennis teams & Berkeley Tennis Club, will string your racquet, too, with a Wilson Sensation string job!

According to tennisexpress.com, the NPS 95 is a solid choice for the 4.0 + player who demands the highest quality frame that will allow him or her to hit winners from every angle of the court.  Why not discover Neil's expertise?  Billie Jean King, Rosie Casals, Brad Gilbert, John McEnroe, Michael Chang, Marty Davis, Scott McCain, Tim Gullickson, Jeff Borowiak, Steve DeVries, JP Fruttero and many other touring pros have!

Value:   $140

Thank you Neil Rothenberg
 
 
713.   What a Racquet Too!

Another great one!  This is the Wilson n98, 4.25 grip strung with Wilson Enduro Mono!

Value:   $150

Thank you Neil Rothenberg
 
 
714.   What a Racquet Three!

Another great one!  This is the Wilson n98, 4.25 grip strung with Wilson Enduro Mono!

Value:   $150

Thank you Neil Rothenberg
 
 
715.   Fore for Four

Come experience the Bay Area's newest upscale daily fee golf course.  The course was designed by Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss.  This item includes green fees and carts for 4 players plus a golf goodie bag with balls, tees, and other golf essentials from the host of Hooked on Golf, KNBR and now on TV!

Valid anytime Monday through Friday and after 11 am Saturday through Sunday or Holidays!

Value:  $370

Thank you Metropolitan Golf Links, Mitch Juricich
 

716.   Golf Picnic Basket

This attractive bag has all you need for a great golf and picnic outing . . .  A bottle of Beringer Merlo, a bottle opener, picnic wine glasses, napkins, a cheese board, knives, golf balls, tees and a $25 gift certificate to Semi Freddi's.  Fore! The host of Hooked on Golf, KNBR and now on TV, has donated this golf goodie bag with balls, tees, and other golf essentials.

Value:   $70

Thank you Jan Leuin & Martin Stone, Mitch Juricich
 
 
717.   Urban Golf Gear & Boulder Creek Golf!

You'll be stylin' in this set of clothing from Urban Golf Gear.  Included is a Blue, tee off, 100% moisture wicking, drytech golf shirt, and beige hat and black towel.  Once you're outfitted properly, you'll head on down towards Santa Cruz, bring your clubs, and enjoy a day of golf at Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club.  Just over an hour's drive, it’s a great outing for two duffers!
Expires  November 11, 2007

Value:   $124

Thank you Craig & Jill Tanner, Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club
 
 
718.   Get in Shape Bag

Something for all the adults in your household, this great bag could be a beach or pool tote!  Inside, you'll find a one-year subscription to Women's Health, Men's Health and Runner's World Magazine, a travel suit bag, cool gym bag, T-shirts large and small, a beach towel, and other goodies.

Value:   $225

Thank you Caryn & Andrew Kramer
 
 
719.   New Year's Peet's to Peet's Bike Ride for Five!

Start 2007 with a bicycle ride from Domingo Street Peet's near the Claremont Hotel to Peet's in Montclair.  Coffee at the start of the ride for extra energy and enthusiasm.  Coffee at the end of the ride will make a great recovery drink.  We will take a scenic route, going up Tunnel, on to Skyline, Redwood, and up Pinehurst before a final descent to Montclair via Snake and Colton.  About 25 miles, done at your pace.  No one will be dropped or left behind with a mechanical problem.  Must supply own, functioning bike and helmet. Ride will take place January 14, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. weather permitting, unless we have a particularly hardy bunch.

-- Top 5 Bidders

Bill & Ted's (and Your) Excellent Adventure!

Thank you Vlad Luskin
 
 
720.   Bike Tune Up

Oakland has great bike shops!  Get your bike tuned up at Montano Velo with this $65 certificate for a bike tune-up   Then, hop on your bike and cruise up to Montclair and use this $50 certificate to get a new helmet or some other cool gear at Wheels of Justice Cyclery!

Value:   $115

Thank you Wheels of Justice Cyclery; Montano Velo
 
 
721.   Bicycle Tune-Up, Local Ride & Post-Ride Brunch

Have a bicycle that's collecting dust in the garage?  Or a trusty steed that just needs some TLC?  Raja will chauffeur you and your bike to the fabulous Montano Velo Bicycle Shop on Piedmont Ave.  This high-end bike shop has donated a basic service/tune-up.  Raja will pick-up your bike when it's ready.  On a mutually agreeable morning, Raja will accompany you on a local ride, followed by a delicious and nutritious post-ride brunch, prepared by his lovely bride, Aarti.  You can bring a guest to the brunch, as well as to the ride.  Allez vite et bon appetit!

Value:   $150

Thank you Aarti Kohli & Raja Sekaran

 

722.   Up Where We Belong!

You belong at Bear Valley with these 2 adult full day trail passes & equipment rental! The Bear Valley experience is more than just some of the finest cross country skiing in the world.  It is a complete family friendly resort with all the amenities you expect at a winter adventure destination.  If you are new to cross country skiing, you will find Bear's easy terrain, friendly instructors and superb ski equipment to be just the right combination for easy and fun skiing.  Advanced skiers like the huge selection of rolling trails that are meticulously groomed!  Use this certificate to get started and have a great time!  Valid weekdays (Sun. - Fri.) during non-holiday periods through the 2006-2007 ski season.

Value:   $86

Thank you Bear Valley Cross Country
 
 
723.   Snow, Snow, Snowbomb!

You will when you use these 3 Tahoe Cards and lift tickets from SnowBomb!  The Tahoe Card includes a free lift ticket to either Sugar Bowl or Kirkwood, FREE rentals and tune-ups, lift ticket discounts all season long, plus loads of restaurant, lodging, merchandise and service discounts. The Tahoe Card is Lake Tahoe's premiere discount program that saves skiers and snowboarders big money with discount lift tickets at local resorts, free snowboard and ski rentals, tuning, discount dining and lodging, and much more.  What's Included? 5 free rentals, 4 free tune-ups, free hot waxes, over $500 worth of savings and much more...

Value:  $150

Thank you Snowbomb

724.   GIANTS ALL-STAR GIFT BASKET #1

For the serious baseball fan, this memorabilia filled package features a jersey autographed by 3-time AL All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove Winner, Giants shortstop Omar Vizquel. Get ready for the 2007 All-Star Game with a limited-edition All-Star Game jewelry/cigar box. And no trip to the ballpark is complete without this one-of-a-kind Giants messenger bag! Also, included are two Lower Box tickets and Club level guest passes (game to be determined by donor).

Value: $300
Go Giants!

Thank you Margo & Michael Malone, San Francisco Giants

 
725.   GIANTS ALL-STAR GIFT BASKET #2

For the serious baseball fan, this memorabilia filled package features a bat autographed by 2002 AL All-Star, Giants outfielder Randy Winn. Get ready for the 2007 All-Star Game with a limited-edition All-Star Game jewelry/cigar box. And no trip to the ballpark is complete without this one-of-a-kind Giants messenger bag! Also, included are two Lower Box tickets and Club level guest passes (game to be determined by donor).

Value: $250

Go Giants!

Thank you Michael & Margo Malone, San Francisco Giants
 
 
726.   Zoom, Zoom, Zoom

NASCAR racing -- you just feel it ... an incredible experience!  We have one of the premier U.S. road racing venues right here in Sonoma, at Infineon!   Sunday, June 24, 2007 is your chance to experience NASCAR racing like a VIP.  In addition to your tickets, this package includes admission to the VIP chalet with catered food, where all the "beautiful people" socialize before the event and where you can enjoy a personal appearance by leading Formula 1 Driver Juan Pablo Montoya!  Montoya, from Columbia, has made the switch to NASCAR! He is the first Hispanic NASCAR driver and is incredibly successful!  What a treat.

-- This package includes:
-- Two grandstand tickets
-- Two credentials to the VIP chalet with food & beverages
-- Two Race Day goody bags
-- Appearance by the Texaco/Havoline Racing driver Juan Pablo Montoya

Value:  $500

I Feel the Need, the Need for Speed

Thank you Alison Townley & Kurtis Fechtmeyer, Chevron

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Our House, in the Middle of Our Street: Home and Garden

800.   Handcrafted Wood Salad and Serving Bowls from El Salvador!

You'll love this set of wood salad bowls, handcrafted in El Salvador!  Great for serving salad or pasta -- la madera bonita!

Value:   $100

Thank you Reina Margarita Landaverde

 
801.   Air Supply (Panasonic Ventilation Fan) and Electric Light Orchestra (Fluorescent Light Combo)!

Planning a remodel, or in the middle of one?  This unit is just the ticket for your bathroom.  Panasonic sets the standard for virtually silent ventilation and superb quality construction.  80 CFM ventilator, combined with 36 watts of fluorescent lighting, this unit meets Title 24 standards and is Energy Star rated. Requires 4" duct to outdoors. For more details about this unit, including dimensions, visit www.laner.com and search for catalog #FV-11VQL4.  Note this item can be exchanged for equal or lesser value electrical products - including Leviton / Lutron / Juno Lighting / Halo Lighting /
Lightolier and more!

Value:   $160

Thank you Devra & James Laner
 
 
802.   Wok Me Amadeus and Everything You Need for that Backyard BBQ!

Two special cooking baskets for two special cuisines.  First, do you love stir fry?  If so, this basket has all you need!  You'll find a cookbook, rice bowls, chopsticks, rice wine, sesame oil, and assorted sauces!  Yum!
And, if you love to grill too, this package is for you!  Put on your apron, use these sauces and tools and serve up some great food to the family!  All you need is the meat!

Value:   $105

Thank you The Abare-Fleig Family and Erik Larsen & Jannie Wong
 
803.   Get Prepared!

When disaster strikes, grab this kit and get some shelter.  A must for every home in these here hills.  This SMART Box: 72-Hour Preparedness Kit for One includes everything you'll need for 72 hours.  Remember, that it may be 3 days before emergency vehicles could reach our homes in an earthquake or other event.  We need to be prepared so Early Bird Safety (www.earlybirdsafety.com) in Montclair has taken care of this for us!  Bid on this kit which includes the following items:
--Food & Water: 6 8.45 oz. Drinking Water Boxes (Up to Five-Year Shelf Life); 1 2,400 Calorie Emergency Ration Food Bar (Up to Five-Year Shelf Life);
1 Packet of Sugar-Free Flavored Drink Mix; 1 Roll of LifeSavers; 1 Multi-Function Knife: 1 Drinking Cup
--Warmth & Shelter: 1 Emergency Thermal Blanket; 1 Rain Poncho; 1 Bandana; 2 Trash Bags; 1 Drawstring Backpack / Back sack;
--Light & Communications:  1 AM/FM Radio with Headphones; 1 LED Flashlight; 3 12-Hour Light Sticks; 1 Whistle with Lanyard; 10 AAA Batteries (Two Complete Sets of Batteries for Flashlight and Radio);
--Health & Hygiene: 1 21 Piece All Purpose First Aid Kit; 1 Pair Non-Latex Gloves; 6 Hand Wipes; 1 Package of Tissues; 1 Toothbrush; 1 0.6 oz. Tube of Toothpaste; Activities & Extras: 1 Basic Emergency Guide; 1 Pad of Paper; 1 Mini Sharpie Pen
1 Deck of Cards;
--This kit is packaged in a 9 X 7 X 6 box with handles.

Value:  $60

Thank you Early Bird Safety, Sarber's Cameras
 

804.   Decorate Your Home for the Holidays!

Hang Your Holiday Lights!  Laural Roaldson of Laural Landscapes decorates many of the houses in the Hillcrest neighborhood with holiday lights.  She'll save you from precariously perching on a 10-foot ladder as you try to attach the lights to your eaves!  She's a pro and she'll do the job quick, making your home the envy of drivers' by on December evenings!  Valid for up to 1.5 hours (enough time for most jobs) of light hanging.  Use this $25 gift card to Rite-Aid to purchase your lights (icicle or otherwise) so you are sure they're in working order when she arrives at your home!  Laural is an expert landscaper as well so she'll be kind to your plants as she works.  laurallandscapes@sbcglobal.net.
Inside your house, you’ll want to decorate your tree with this incredibly beautiful ornament!

Value:   $180
           
Thank you Ian & Sheree Ahwah, Rite Aid, Laural Roaldson

 

805.   Beautify Your Garden with Elizabeth Sundsmo!

Elizabeth Sundsmo knows gardening!  She'll do 2 hours of yard work and bring you a 14-inch clay pot decorated with colorful glass stones and filled with succulents!  Expires August 30, 2007.  You might want to head to the Bay Area's Place for Plants, East Bay Nursery, before she comes so you have something cool to plant with this $50 gift certificate.

Value:   $125

Thank you Elizabeth Sundsmo and East Bay Nursery

 
 
806.   Candle in the Wind

You'll love these two Silk Lantern Candle Holders with candles from Waterlillies on Piedmont Avenue.  Just Beautiful!

Value:   $132
           
Thank you Waterlillies

 
 
807.   Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Your Home!

Convert your home cleaning products to be safe and environmentally-friendly with this Home Conversion set from Melaluca!  EcoSense is a line of cleaners with an entirely different philosophy.  Rather than relying on harsh chemicals to break down dirt through chemical reactions, Melaleuca relies on natural or naturally-derived ingredients and pioneering new ways to tap their unique power.   This exceptional collection of cleaning products includes everything you need to clean your counters, do the laundry, wash windows, clean your bathroom and more!  It's a 90-day supply of 16 different cleaners, plus mixing bottles and the Ecosense® DVD that will help you instantly convert your home to safer, naturally sourced EcoSense® cleaners.  Ask the Edmonson/Rumseys and they'll tell you this stuff is great!  Cheryl Liquori will arrange delivery so you don't need to bring all of these home tonight (they're heavy!).

Value:   $146

Thank you Cheryl Liquori
 
 

808.   Antique Globe and Stand and a Weather Station Clock!

A piece of beautiful furniture and a wonderful teaching tool!  Perfect for your library or to teach the kids geography.  Replogle World Classic Series 16" globe, antique styling, & Cambridge wood stand.  And while you're at it, this Bombay Company Weather Station Clock displays the time, temperature and other features!  Also a special item for your home.

Value: $235

Thank you Liz and Ed Mercier
 
 

809.   KISSSTORY

Reserve your place in Kisstory with this awesome 440 page book from the band's private collection. The book weighs 9 pounds and measures 1.25 ft. long x 1ft. wide (approximately).  This is a must-have item for any KISS fan.  Because this item sells for at least $100 on eBay, there is a reserve price on this item of $70.

Value:   $100

Thank you Leigh and Neil Kjeldsen
 
 

810.   KISS -- Limited Edition!

You can't call yourself a KISS fan unless you own this 1998 Ultimate Limited Edition KISS Gene Simmons 24-inch Doll!   Each doll was individually numbered when created and provided with a certificate of authenticity.  This is number 003943.  The costume is an authentic replica of one worn during the Destroyer Era. The stand is 24 inches tall ultra articulation city base with authentic audio samples from the Destroyer Album.   This doll is in mint condition and has not been used.

Opening Bid $60

Value:   $100

Thank you Leigh and Neil Kjeldsen
 
 

811.   Perfect for child's room or any room in your home or office!

Perfect for child's room or any room in your home or office, these 4 underwater close-ups of fish by Photographer Don Dixon (1 taken in Monterey, 1 in Palau, 2 in the Florida Keys) make you feel like they are looking right at you because they are so lifelike.  All are 5x7 photos matted and framed in 8x10 wood frames.

Value:   $260

Thank you Don Dixon and Colleen Thilgen
 
 

812.   Gardening Gift Basket

Do you have a green thumb?  Do you want to?  If you do, you'll enjoy this spring bulb basket and planter pot with accessories for your garden!

Value:   $100

Thank you Susi Vogler
 
 

813.   Go Pack by Sam Stone!

Use this "Go Pack" for emergency preparedness at home or bring it along on your next camping trip to be ready for any eventuality.  Contents:  granola bars, water bottles, toilet paper, poncho, Band-Aids, Tylenol, alcohol swabs, hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, scissors, paper and pencil, cough drops, and a flashlight!

Value:  $52

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Sam Stone
 
 

814.   Take the Long Way Home!

Get everything you need for your home office with this $25 gift certificate from Piedmont Stationers & Office Supply right here on Piedmont Avenue!   Cruise over to Grand Avenue and pick up a few things at Ace Hardware ($40 gift certificate).  Pick up anything else you need to spruce up the house with this gift certificate from Ashby Lumber ($25).

Value:   $100

Thank you Ashby Lumber, Piedmont Stationers & Office Supply, Grand Lake Ace Hardware & Garden Center
 
 

815.   Save Your Back and Protect Your Computer!

Save your back in those airports and running around town with this Wilson wheeled backpack!  Slip your laptop into this nice bag and head to the plane!

Value:   $65

Thank you Neil Rothenberg

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Women and Men at Work:  At Your Service

900.   Money Ain't for Nothin'

Complete Financial Planning Package!  Wondering how you'll send your kids to college (or high school)?  Worried about how much money you should be saving for retirement?  Trying to get things together today? Most people spend more time planning their annual vacation than their financial future, but you don't have to be one of them.  Head on over to meet with the experienced team at Embarcadero Financial Group to get your financial affairs in order.  These certified financial consultants will provide you with a financial security "check up" and a customized written financial plan to make sure you stay on track!  The plan development process includes a confidential review of your current financial profile and establishing and prioritizing your goals and objectives, along with a plan to achieve them.

Value:   $1900

Thank you Embarcadero Financial Group
 
 
901.   Rock Law-bster

Head over to the office of Larry Vollintine, Esq., where you'll receive 4 hours of legal consultation services for non-litigation real estate purchases, leasing and boundary/title matters, and/or design and construction contract matters.
Expires September 1, 2007

Value:   $1000

Thank you Priscilla & Larry Vollintine
 
 
902.   Pink Houses!

Architectural Consultation with Claudia Faulkner.  If you're considering a remodel, use this certificate for 1.5 hours of architectural consultation with Claudia Falconer, AIA, to discuss ideas and feasibility for a residential remodeling, renovation, or addition project!

Value:  $150

Thank you Claudia Falconer, AIA
 
 
903.   www.yourownwebsite.com

Costarella design can put you on the World Wide Web by helping you design and construct a personal, family, or business website.  See examples of websites at www.costarelladesigns.com.

Value:   $1500

Thank you Joseph Costarella
 
 
904.   Call Me, Anytime ... for a Business Telecom Health Check

You'll have a little more Brass In Pocket after Synertel President Ben Stiegler does a comprehensive review of your business' systems and ongoing expenses for equipment, support, voice and data services and infrastructure.  He'll help you learn if you're overspending for services, if your phone and computer systems can safely support remote workers, and if your network security measures need bolstering.  You will receive a written summary detailing areas of potential improvement, and the risks, costs, and potential savings.

Value:   $450

Thank you Synertel
 
 
905.   Can't Solve That Computer Problem?  Want Better Audio/Video?

Call Dan Brandon, computer and electronics wizard extraordinaire, who has generously donated 2 hours of his expert computer services.  Materials extra.  Dan also designs and installs entertainment systems and this item may be redeemed for 2 hours of those services as an alternative to computer consulting.  Must be used as a single 2-hour block.  Call to schedule a mutually agreeable appointment time.
Valid until November 11, 2007.

Value:   $150

Thank you dB Entertainment Systems
 
 
907.   Little Red Corvette!  Deluxe Touch Auto Detailing at Titan and a Haircut!

This is the ultimate combination business -- auto detailing and barbershop -- and the nicest barbershop in the area.  Take your baby (that's your car) in for a Deluxe Touch Detailing (includes custom touch hand wash, exterior surface treatment, carnuba wax, and full interior detail).  While you wait, head on upstairs to see Charles Blades, resident barber, and walk out in style with a new haircut (men/boys only).  Take it from the Broomes and the Kleinmans that this is a great place for a boy to get a haircut.  Big screen TVs tuned to cartoons or sports (kid's choice), a barber with the perfect name (Blades -- and that is his real name), easy going attitude and great style.  Clients love their hair every time!  This is a truly pleasant detailing experience, and it’s right off of Broadway near Piedmont Avenue!

Value:  $145

Thank you Charles Blades, Titan Barbershop & Auto Detail
 
 
908.   Car Wash -- Expensive Sports Cars Preferred!

Allison Hytha and Haley Davis will take special care with your special or not-so-special vehicle.  They'll make it sparkle!  No semi-trucks or buses please.  Valid through July 2007.

My Masarati does one-eighty-five!

Thank you Haley Davis and Allison Hytha
 
 
909.   Fast Car!

One Lube, Oil and Filter Service on an Imported Car at Autometrics in Berkeley – a great place for your Volvo or any imported car to get lubed up!

Value:  $75

Thank you Autometrics Berkeley, Inc.

 

910.   Service that Special Volvo in Your Life

"Here in my car, I feel safest of all . . . "  Volvos are pretty popular in these hills because they run so long and so well.  But that long life requires maintenance!  So bring your Volvo down to Ackerman's Volvo Service in Berkeley and use this certificate for a Volvo Minor Service!

Value:  $170

Thank you Ackerman's Servicing Volvos, Inc.
 
 
911.   What Not to Wear!

Fashion Alert!  Are you in need of a wardrobe overhaul? Then take this 2-hour personalized shopping spree with fashion expert, Vanessa Hernandez. She will assist you in discovering your own individual style by helping you let go of outdated cherished clothes and last-minute bargains that no longer represent the true you. You can begin to build a new wardrobe that expresses who you are today. Or have her help you select an outfit for a special event by replacing anxiety and dread with a rewarding and productive shopping experience.

Value:  $160

Thank you Vanessa Hernandez
 
 
912.   Clear Your Clutter with Professional Organizer Barbara Duncan

Too much Stuff, not enough Time?  Does the clutter in your home overwhelm you? Are you tired of losing things -- or embarrassed when company drops in?   Learn how to make the piles disappear, while still being able to find things when you need them. Professional Organizer Barbara Duncan operates according to a very simple philosophy: Traditional organizing techniques do not work for everyone!  This is your opportunity to tackle any area of your home that has become overwhelming with clutter.  Barbara Duncan, a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, offers two (2) hours of Professional Organizing and a chance to feel more control of your life.  She is also including a special gift basket of organizing goodies to get you started.  Call Barbara when you win to arrange to get your gift basket and her services!

Value:   $150

Thank you Barbara Duncan
 
 
913.   Scrapbook of Your Child -- Ah the Memories!

Do you have boxes of photos and scraps of your kid(s) that you've been meaning to put into a scrapbook?   Release the guilt and give me those boxes.  Just hand them over.  Lisa Chavez LOVES to scrapbook (she’s made three books for my daughter that you are welcome to see) and she’d be happy to make a simple yet creative scrapbook that your child will treasure for years to come.  She’ll purchase a Creative Memories (CM) book of your choice (she’s not a consultant so no worries about a sales pitch from her but she follows the CM "style") and will provide all materials (paper, stickers, etc.).  You just give her your pictures, scraps and thoughts on your vision.   Baby book?  Elementary School Years book?  It's your choice.  A K-8 book would be an awesome graduation gift and CM has a wonderful set of pages/stickers for such an album ("School Times").  She can produce the entire book in time for graduation and leave some space for the graduation photos.  If your kid is in, say, 4th grade, she can do the pages for K-3, assemble the remainder of the album and give you all that you need to finish the rest as the years go by - this just might be the jumpstart that you need! 

Value:   $300

Thank you Lisa Chavez
 
 
914.   Tooth and Nail

Tooth & Nail was a heavy metal song from the 1980's but it's still important to take care of your kids teeth today.  Dr. Denise Bass Allen is a leading pediatric dentist right here in Oakland.  Take it from the Broome and the Jimenez-Smith kids that she knows her stuff!  And early morning and Saturday hours are a big convenience for busy parents.  Use this certificate to get your kids' teeth on the no-cavity track!  She provides a new patient exam, x-rays, cleaning and fluoride varnish.  Cheese!

Value:  $200

Thank you Denise Bass Allen, D.D.S.

 

915.   Architectural Design Can Slow Global Warming!

Licensed architect and Hillcrest parent, Joseph Costarella, will provide 1.5 hours of consultation at your home or business - turn sunlight into electricity, alternative energy systems, green building materials and methods, property development, live/work lofts, homes, additions, remodels, kitchen design, structural questions, interior design, color consultation, yard design. To review his outstanding work, visit www.COSTARELLAarchitects.com. Expires June 30, 2007.

Value:   $225

Thank you Joseph Costarella

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Steppin' Out: Awesome Entertainment & Outings

1000. She wants to lead a glamorous life ...

And she will if you take her to the world famous San Francisco Ballet!  Whether you’re a longtime patron or interested in seeing what it's all about, these tickets are for you!  Front row orchestra is the only way to go and you will with these 2 tickets to the San Francisco Ballet's March 24, 2007, mixed repertory performance.  Here's what is in store: 
Spring Rounds, Composer: Richard Strauss, Choreography: Paul Taylor.  Chi-Lin, Composer: Bright Sheng, Choreography: Helgi Tomasson.  Eden/Eden, United States premiere, Composer: Steve Reich, Choreography: Wayne McGregor. 

Value:   $200

Thank you Carolyn & Ronald Hutton
 
 
1001. Puttin on the Ritz!  Traditional Tea for 4 at the Elegant Ritz Carlton San Francisco

Atop Nob Hill, the ambience of the Ritz Carlton San Francisco is simply unmatched.  You and three guests are invited to enjoy Traditional Afternoon Tea, including a perfectly blended pot of fine tea from Taylor's of Harrogate (the official tea of the British Parliament).  Traditional Afternoon Tea is served Monday through Thursday 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.; Friday 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 1 to 4:30 p.m.  Includes:  Selection of tea, a variety of finger sandwiches (e.g., smoked salmon, cucumber, Prosciutto), freshly baked scones, English tea cakes, Chef's choice of tea pastries, and more!
Reservations and sophisticated casual attire are suggested.  http://www.ritzcarlton.com/hotels/san_francisco/

Value:   $160

Thank you Ritz Carlton San Francisco
 
 
1002. Two Date Nights on Piedmont Avenue

Go to a casual dinner and a movie 2 times with these 4 Movie Passes to Piedmont Cinema (valid Sunday-Thursday, no special engagements or when  no-pass policy listed).  Have pizza at LoCoco's one night and dinner at Tropix another.  LoCoco's has great pizza and this certificate entitles you to one up to $25 in value.  Pawpaw, cou cou, Jamaican jerk chicken and Cuban steak are just a few of the spicy delights found at Tropix Caribbean Cuisine.  Get some of it with this $40 certificate!  Expires November 2007.

Value:   $101
           
Thank you Tropix Caribbean Restaurant, Piedmont Cinema, Lococo's Restaurant & Pizzeria
 
 
1003. You Can't Call Yourself a Bay Area Denizen Unless ...

You have seen Beach Blanket Babylon at least twice.  This zany musical spoof of pop culture with extravagant costumes and outrageously huge hats is an internationally acclaimed Bay Area institution.  If you haven't been yet, you must go.  If you have been, you should go again because the show continually updates its spoofs and adds new characters, songs, and send-ups throughout the year.  What a coincidence!  Here are two tickets!  All you have to do is bid!  Valid January to June 2007 for performances on Wednesday or Thursday at 8 p.m., Friday at 10 p.m., or Sunday at 2 p.m. or 5 p.m.

Value:   $74

Thank you Beach Blanket Babylon
 
 
1004. DJ Services from DJ Afrique

Make your next party the best with this full service mobile and club DJ package spinning Classic Soul, Classic Rock, Top 40, R & B, Soulful and Deep House, Flashback, Reggae and more.  Visit www.djafrique.com for more information.  One event, 5 hours max., date based on availability, expires December 2007.

Value:   $625

Thank you Alexander Lewis (DJ Afrique)
 
 
1005. Doctor!  Doctor!

Rounds With Dr. D.  A fascinating behind the scenes 2 hour tour of the Alameda County Medical Center with renowned East Bay neurologist Dr. Claudine Dutaret for 4 middle school students.  This adventure includes transportation to and from the hospital from Hillcrest.

-- Top 4 bidders

Value:   $200

Thank you Ananth Acharya
 
 
1006. Worldly Knowledge

A gift of Knowledge and Possibility - for your entire family with this one-year membership to the World Affairs Council of Northern California. The San Francisco-based organization hosts more than 150 events every year with leading political and business leaders, academics, journalists and artists. Some past speakers include Brzezinski, President Jimmy Carter, Wesley Clark, John Kerry and many more! Check out www.itsyourworld.org for more information.

Value:   $125

Thank you Sheryl Bregman & Scott Kleinman
 
 
1007. Shakespeare was a Teenager in the 80's!

The 1580's!  And, shortly thereafter, he began to pen his wonderfully entertaining plays.  From As You Like It to Romeo and Juliet to The Merchant of Venice, the California Shakespeare Theater right here in Berkeley produces widely acclaimed renditions of Shakespeare's works and you can see one with these 2 tickets for the 2007 season!  The 2006 season received consistent rave reviews from the Chronicle, the Tribune and the Contra Costa Times!  Check it out at www.calshakes.org!

But don't just go to the theater!  Have dinner at Spenger's ($50 gift card) and earn some extra points by giving your sweetheart flowers (a rose by any other name ...) with this $20 certificate!

Value:  $144

Thank you Flower Outlet Montclair, California Shakespeare Theater, Spenger's Fresh Fish Grotto
 
 
1008.  On the Town in Berkeley

Dinner and the Berkeley Symphony!  Dine at Spenger's in Berkeley with this $50 gift certificate.  Spenger's Fresh Fish Grotto menu, printed daily, features the freshest seafood from the Bay Area, the Pacific Ocean and around the globe, reflecting availability and seasonality.  Then, enjoy some fine music with this gift certificate for a pair of $39 tickets to a Berkeley Symphony Orchestra Concert!  Excludes April 19 and May 11, 2007 Concerts.

Value:   $126

Thank you Berkeley Symphony Orchestra and Spenger's Fresh Fish Grotto
 
 

1009. Broadway by the Bay

Broadway by the Bay is a great resource for quality entertainment in the Bay Area.  Each season offers 4 productions starting in May and ending in October.  This year's offerings were Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Fiddler on the Roof, and Miss Saigon.  Bid on these two tickets to a single performance during the 2007 Season and see what's on tap for next year!
Expires:  October 7, 2007

Value:  $70

Thank you Broadway by the Bay
 
 
1010. Culture and Seafood in San Francisco!

Pier 39 is a great destination for locals too!  So head on over and enjoy dinner at the Crab House for 2!  Good for one seating, not including alcoholic beverages or gratuity.  Not redeemable for cash.  Valid through 5/2007.  Make a day of it and take in some true San Francisco Culture at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts -- A cultural gathering center for this region's many diverse communities. Admission for 4 to galleries and exhibitions.

Value:   $74

Thank you Crab House, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
 
 
1011. César and Yoshi's -- Oh What a Night!

Late September back in '63 ... Okay, it's 2007 and it's November.  So, use these certificates to enjoy dinner and jazz!  In Berkeley, César is located on the same block as Chez Panisse and like so many other successful Bay Area eateries, it's owned by former Chez Panisse staff.  Now they have opened a new location on Piedmont Avenue and they have donated this certificate for $75.  Tapas and more are available here so head on down!   Then, jazz it up and see a world-class jazz performance for two at Yoshi's - Jack London Square. Expires 5/11/2007 and other restrictions may apply.

Value:   $115

Thank you César Restaurant, Yoshi's
 
 

1012. Yum Yum Dim Sum and San Francisco Symphony Family Outing!

Kid friendly dining in San Francisco and a chance to expose your young ones to the symphony!  Use these 3 tickets to a Music for Families performance by the San Francisco Symphony, and share the beauty and drama of classical music with your child/ren, during an afternoon performance at Davies Symphony Hall designed for young people and their adults.  Two adult tickets and one child ticket can be used for one adult and 2 children.  April 14, 2007, 2 p.m. performance.  For lunch or dinner, treat the kids to some Dim Sum at Yank Sing located at 101 Spear Street or 49 Stevenson Street in San Francisco.  Yank Sing is widely acclaimed as "the city's premier dim sum house" so get a piece of this!

Value:   $100
           
Thank you Yank Sing, Julie Anable and Tom Eme
 
 
1013. Great America!

Spend the day playing at the best theme park in Santa Clara (also the only one!) - Paramount's Great America. They have thrill rides, family rides, Spongebob rides, and more! These passes are good for two admissions on any 2006 or 2007 public operating day. Not valid July 4th. www.pgathrills.com.  In addition, bring home a great book to gear you up for your thrill rides - Roller Coasters - A Thrill Seeker's Guide to the Ultimate Scream Machines.

Value:   $100

Thank you Paramount's Great America
 
 
1014. Bonfante Gardens and Golfland!

Two Days of Family Entertainment Right Here!  Start with two admission passes to the best Family destination right in our own backyard!  Bonfante Gardens features 19 rides, 27 attractions, 6 majestic gardens and world famous Circus Trees.  Bonfante Gardens Family Theme Park is located in Gilroy.  For more information call 408-840-7100 or visit www.bonfantegardens.org.  Tickets must be redeemed on or before the last public operating day of the 2007 season.   Then take the family out for an evening of fun with these 6 passes to Golden Tee Golfland!  Each pass is worth a round of miniature golf or 30 game tokens so play some golf and then some games!

Value:   $123
           
Thank you Bonfante Gardens, Golden Tee Golfland
 
 
1015. Oh Mickey You're So Fine!

Yes he is fine!  Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Buzz, and more await you at Disneyland!  Use these 2 admission tickets on your next visit to the Magic Kingdom.  Expires October 16, 2007.

Value:   $126

Thank you Disneyland Resort
 
 
1016. Animal House!

There are animals all over the bay area and you can see them with these three sets of passes.  First try the Aquarium of the Bay (two tickets).  You'll feel like you are swimming with the sharks when you pass through the underwater display (expires 8/07).  Then, begin your journey to become a conservationist at the Oakland Zoo.  With their new children's zoo, the Oakland Zoo is definitely worth a new look.  If kids are going to act like animals, they might as well do it right. That's why the Valley Children's Zoo offers kids a chance to really get to know alligators, lemurs, tortoises, fruit bats, tarantulas, otters, and much more.   This pass for 2 adults and 2 kids is just what you need to explore the whole zoo!  Finally, go 20 minutes east to the Lindsay Wildlife Museum!  Located in Walnut Creek, it is the oldest and one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation centers in the U.S., treating over 6,000 injured and orphaned animals each year.  4 guest passes!

Value:   $123

Thank you Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Aquarium of the Bay and the Oakland Zoo
 
 
1017. Entertainment and Lunch in San Francisco

San Francisco has much to offer for family entertainment.  This package includes lunch at Taylor's Refresher ($50), and passes to the Cartoon Art Museum and the de Young! 

Located in downtown San Francisco, the Cartoon Art Museumhas something for everyone -- from comic strips to comic books, graphic novels to anime, Saturday morning cartoons to the Sunday funnies, you and your family will have a great time using these 4 passes for an afternoon of fun!  Perfect for any Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, Bugs Bunny, Bullwinkle, Superman, or Tom & Jerry fan!  The de Young currently has the Quilts of Gee's Bend and always has fabulous exhibits.  Two adult passes and kids are free!  Also included is the book the de Young in the 21st Century!  Taylor's Refresher is great for kids.  From Texas burgers to Ahi Burgers to the Chicken Club, for the adults, everything is scrumptious at this high end deli!  And for the kids, try the chicken fingers, grilled cheese, or six mini hotdog plate and enjoy! 

Value:   $119

Thank you Cartoon Art Museum, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Taylor's Automatic Refresher
 
 

1018.    Winter Break Boredom Be Gone -- Pizza and Videos

Use this certificate for two 17-inch pizzas of your choice at Montclair Cybelle's then grab a movie at Blockbuster and enjoy.  Blockbuster card is good for 8 Movie Rentals good at any Blockbuster!

Value:   $82

Thank you Cybelle's Pizza and Blockbuster Video - San Francisco Regional Office
 
 
1019. Take-out and a Movie!

Great entertainment is found with this $30 certificate to Movie Express in Montclair.  To have some food to go with all those movies, we are including certificates for a large stuffed 3-ingredient pizza from Zachary's, a 10-inch pizza or half chicken meal at Pizza Rustica, and a $25 certificate to GRÉGOIRE restaurant, which offers unique high-end sandwiches and dinner entrées -- they cook it -- you eat it!  GRÉGOIRE is rated in the top 10 takeout restaurants in the entire Bay Area.

Value:   $96

Thank you Gregoire Restaurant, Movie Express, Pizza Rustica Café, Zachary's Chicago Pizza, Inc.
 
 
1020. A Night on the Town at Dona Tomas and Berkeley Rep!

"CATS" premiered on Broadway in 1982 and mercifully closed in 2000.  Thank goodness we have much better offerings at our own Berkeley Repertory Theatre, the recipient of the 1997 Tony Award for outstanding regional theatre with a national reputation for the quality of its productions and innovation of its programming.  Tony winner Rita Moreno just appeared in Berkeley Rep's production of the Glass Menagerie.  For 2007, the shows scheduled are a new adaptation of Oliver Twist, the world premiere of Passing Strange, an exuberant stage show about an African American’s search for authenticity, All Wear Bowlers, a hilarious vaudeville show that’s been a hit on four continents, The Pillowman, the latest shocking script from Oscar- and Tony Award-winner Martin McDonagh, which mesmerized audiences during its recent London and Broadway runs, To the Lighthouse, an ambitious adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s visionary novel, Tanya Barfield’s breathtaking new play The Blue Door, which wrests an African-American academic out of his ivory tower, directed by popular actor and Montclair resident Delroy Lindo (Cider House Rules, Kidnapped).  Before heading to the theater, be sure to enjoy some high-end Mexican food (and margaritas) at Doña Tomas! 

Awesome Theater Dude!

-- 2 tickets to be used by July 2007. Not valid opening, Friday or Saturday nights or Sunday matinees.  Some restrictions may apply.
-- $75 certificate to Doña Tomas

Value:  $171

Thank you Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Doña Tomas
 
 
1021. Pizza and a Movie

Remember Straw Hat Pizza and Top Gun?  Straw Hat's gone and Top Gun isn't playing in the theaters anymore but you can have some great pizza and see current movies with these gift certificates to Pizzeria SFO Bar & Grill and Regal Cinemas in Jack London Square!. 

-- $40 in certificates to SFO Pizzeria Bar and Grill. -- Valid until 12/31/2007
-- 2 movie passes to Regal Entertainment.  Void during "no passes" engagements.  Valid until December 31, 2008.

Value:   $58

Thank you Pizzeria SFO Bar & Grill, Regal Entertainment Group
 
 
1022. Ice, Ice Baby and the Fat Lady Sings!

Bring the family down to Oakland Ice Center for an afternoon of skating fun with this Family Fun Pack, including admission and skate rental for 4.  After burning those calories on the rink, drive a few blocks to the Fat Lady for some great food!
-- Family pass to Oakland Ice Center
-- $30 certificate to The Fat Lady!

Value:   $70

Thank you The Fat Lady, Oakland Ice Center
 
 
1023. Dinner and Fun at Pier 39!

Enjoy family fun and dinner at Pier 39!  Start with this Pier 39 Fun pack that includes discounts and passes to several Pier 39 attractions.  Then, try dinner at Swiss Louis Italian Restaurant.  A tradition in San Francisco since 1936, Swiss Louis offers delicious, traditional Italian dishes and fresh seafood, at reasonable prices.  Today, as in the past, Swiss Louis Restaurant continues to provide guests a cozy and casually elegant dining atmosphere with exquisite views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay.
-- $50 certificate to Swiss Louis expires 6/30/2007
-- Fun pack

Value:   $75

Thank you Swiss Louis Restaurant, Pier 39 Limited Partnership
 
 
1024. It's All the Rage!

Splash into some fun at Raging Waters in San Jose - The Best Wet You Can Get! With over 23-acres of slides and attractions, at Raging Waters there’s more than enough excitement to satisfy thrill seekers of all ages. Raging Waters is full of wide rides and great times. Family friendly with fun as far as the eye can see, no doubt about it Raging Waters is bigger than summer!

Value:   $60

Thank you Raging Waters
 
 
1025. Let's Go to Marine World!

A Safari at Home.  Six Flags Marine World is a combination wildlife park, oceanarium and theme park, all rolled into one - one fabulous day of thrills and excitement! 

Expires 12/31/2007

Value:   $50

Thank you Six Flags Marine World

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Hungry Like the Wolf: Dining, Dessert, Coffee & Other Refreshments

1100. Asian Fusion -- Mexican -- Italian -- You select the cuisine

Host a dinner for 8. Invite 3 couples over to share in the culinary delights prepared by Chef Jennifer -  graduate of California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Member American Personal Chefs Association, Member Women Chefs and Restaurateurs and Certified Safe Food Handler (National Restaurant Association) - Fully Licensed and Insured.  Jennifer recently prepared an unbelievably excellent meal for a party for 20 at the Broomes -- all were impressed!  Let her show you what she can do!  To dress up your table, use these 8 beautiful Berrywave Dry Erase Name Tiles!

Choose from these possible dates:

Must select date by December 15, 2006
-- Dinner for a total of 8 people
-- Purchaser must pay for groceries but Jennifer will shop
-- Includes 3 bottles of wine
http://jennifershomecookin.bigstep.com/

Value:   $550
           
Thank you Jennifer's Home Cooking Personal Chef Service and Surprise!
 
 

1101. December 2, 2006 Lunch Reservation for 2 at the French Laundry

Not as difficult as dinner, but pretty hard to get ... lunch reservations at the French Laundry on a Saturday.  This reservation is for 2 people to dine at the French Laundry at 11:15 a.m. on Saturday December 2, 2006.  Lunch is the same menu as dinner on most occasions and can be a nice alternative if you are in the Wine Country for the weekend.  
The Fine Print:  Reservation is for Saturday, December 2nd at 11:15 a.m. for 2 people. This item does not include the cost of your meal or drinks.  It is the reservation. Reservation must be confirmed 72 hours prior to the reservation date.  Jacket Required.  No jeans, tennis shoes, shorts, or t-shirts.  Unsuitable for children under the age of 6.  No refunds of your bid if you cancel the reservation (but you may cancel up to 72 hours prior to the reservation and avoid an additional fee by the restaurant). Cancellation or decrease in the number of people in your party within 72 hours of the reservation will result in a $100 charge by the French Laundry per person that does not dine.

Ooh la la!

Thank you Shannon & Greg Broome
 

1102. December 8, 2006 Dinner Reservation for 4 at the French Laundry

They're virtually impossible to get ... dinner reservations at the French Laundry and for 4 people at that! 
The Fine Print:  Reservation is for Friday, December 8th at 5:30 p.m. for 4 people. This item does not include the cost of your meal or drinks.  It is the reservation. Reservation must be confirmed 72 hours prior to the reservation date.  Jacket Required.  No jeans, tennis shoes, shorts, or t-shirts.  Unsuitable for children under the age of 6.  No refunds of your bid if you cancel the reservation (but you may cancel up to 72 hours prior to the reservation and avoid an additional fee by the restaurant). Cancellation or decrease in the number of people in your party within 72 hours of the reservation will result in a $100 charge by the French Laundry per person that does not dine.

Ooh la la!

Thank you Shannon & Greg Broome
 
 
1103. Lost In Love . . .

Perfect for an anniversary or Valentine's Day - dinner, flowers and chocolate.  You and that special someone will enjoy dinner for 2 at Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine in San Francisco including appetizer, beverages, and desserts!  Gratuity and tax not included.  No cash value.  www.roysrestaurant.com. In addition, you can enjoy some delicious chocolates using this $100 Gift Certificate for Leonidas Chocolates.  Valid until 12/30/07.  And finally, pick up a bouquet using this $25 Gift Certificate to Montclair Florist.  www.montclairflorist.com.  Not valid 2/1-2/15 or 5/1-5/15; Expires May 31, 2007.  Delivery Charges not included; in stock items only.

Value:   $200

Thank you Patricia Remch & Andy Porat, Montclair Florist, Roy's
 
 
1104. I Melt With You at Oliveto

Enjoy this certificate for dinner for 2 at Oliveto, the Zagat top-rated East Bay restaurant.  You'll dine upstairs any night except New Year's Eve and Special Events.  Does not include wine or gratuities; reservations highly recommended.

Value:   $100

Thank you Oliveto's Restaurant
 
 
1105. Eat It, Just Eat It!

That's what Weird Al would say if he was at Acme Chophouse, a great destination located at AT&T Park at China Basin.  The steak and sides are out of this world!  Use this $100 gift card to enjoy dinner for 2!

Value:   $100

Thank you Acme Chophouse
 
 

1106. Tommy Toy's for 2!

Enjoy a signature dinner for 2 at Tommy Toy's Cuisine Chinoise. This 5 diamond, award winning restaurant serves delicious haute cuisine Chinese food.  Like no Chinese food you have ever tasted!

Value:   $136

Thank you Tommy Toy's Cuisine Chinoise
 
 

1107. Brunch or Lunch for 4 at Montclair Bistro!

Thank goodness Montclair Bistro opened!  It provides us with a gourmet dining venue just a mile from our neighborhood!  They serve a wonderful brunch on Sunday so use this $100 in certificates to enjoy the traditional day of rest!

Value:   $100

Thank you Montclair Bistro
 
 
1108. Garibaldi's

Garibaldi's is a super destination on College Avenue for great lunch or dinner!  They even have Sunday Brunch!  Use this $125 certificate to enjoy a wonderful meal!  Valid until 11/11/07, and for food only.

Value:   $125

Thank you Garibaldi's on College and The Madness Crew
 
 
1109. Dinner for Two a la a C-Note at Caffe Verbena!

Caffe Verbena has donated dinner for 2, excluding gratuity, up to $100!  Right in the heart of Oakland’s revitalized downtown, Caffè Verbena occupies a sunny corner of the APL building at 1111 Broadway. The interior space enjoys a cherry-wood paneled dining room, soft lighting, colorful fabrics and warm accents. An open kitchen and twenty-stool bar complete the experience.  The Chronicle says the food is "worth seeking out," for dinner especially, calling it an "excellent value, especially considering the quality of the ingredients."

Value:  $100

Thank you Caffe Verbena
 
 
1110. I Want My, I Want My Kokkari

In the words of a San Francisco Chronicle Food editor, Kokkari Estiatorio serves "Greek Food Elevated to an Art Form."  Enjoy a delicious experience with this $100 gift certificate.

Value:   $100
           
Thank you Kokkari Estiatorio  
 

1111. The New Hot Restaurant in Oaktown!

That's what Sally Fitzhugh says and a bunch of other people too!  Head on down to 8th Street for tapas and more!  Why not make it dinner for 4?

Value:   $75

Thank you Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana
 
 
1112. Dopo for you and Take out for the kids!

First dine on delicious Italian food in a relaxed, warm atmosphere.  Dopo is always packed so get there early and have a wonderful time with this $75 gift certificate.  Then pick up some take out for the rugrats!  GRÉGOIRE Restaurant offers unique high-end sandwiches and dinner entrées that are meticulously prepared using classical French cooking techniques and the finest natural and organic ingredients. They cook it -- you eat it!  Rated in the top 10 takeout restaurants in the entire Bay Area.  Spend this $25 gift card for dinner this week!

Value:   $100

Thank you Gregoire Restaurant, Dopo
 
 
1113. Lunch  At Two Great Piedmont Avenue Restaurants

You are invited to the Bay Wolf to enjoy lunch for two excluding wine, beer, and gratuity.  Not valid for special events.   As Zagat says, it's been a "winner since it opened over 30 years ago ... Michael Wild’s classy Cal-Med in Oakland still sets the East Bay gold standard with consistently fabulous food (order the duck) that matches that of the most ‘in’ places in town plus well-priced wines; the charming staff and romantic converted Victorian setting with a beautiful enclosed deck make it a calming respite."  $60 Gift Certificate.  Also enjoy lunch or dinner at Jojo's French Country Restaurant.  $35 Gift Certificate.

Value:   $95

Thank you Bay Wolf Restaurant, Jojo's French Country Restaurant
 
 
1114. Five Weeks of Kid-Friendly Dining

Friday night out with the kids?  We’ve got you covered!  Christopher' s Burgers on College has a lot going for it.  The restaurant uses grass-fed beef, ground daily in-house. There are high-caliber cheeses and chichi toppings such as pesto and roasted tomatoes, as well as good fries, which you can dip in sauces like chipotle mayonnaise or aioli.  Any 4 burgers on them!  Another great place for kids is Cato's Ale House on Piedmont Avenue.  Walk up and order!  Many say the best Italian food on College Avenue is at Fillippos.  Two locations for you to choose – Berkeley and Oakland.  There's no place better for breakfast with the kids than Bette's Oceanview Diner.  Use this $25 certificate for pancakes, waffles, scones, omelettes or whatever else strikes your fancy!  http://www.worldpantry.com/bettes/home.html.  And last, but certainly not least, enjoy kid friendly pasta at Pasta Pomodoro – any location!

Value:   $125

Thank you Bette's Oceanview Diner, Cato's Ale House, Pasta Pomodoro, Filippo's Pastaria, Christopher’s Burgers
 
 
1115. Chow Down Downtown, and Clean Up on College Avenue

Enjoy lunch for 2 at Oakland's national award-winning pub and brewery, Pacific Coast Brewing Company!  $30 Gift Certificate.  Then enjoy lunch at Kincaids or Scotts in downtown Oakland.  $25 Gift Certificate.  Did your shirt seem to enjoy dinner as much as you did?  Use this $50 certificate for dry cleaning at Royal Cleaners.

Value:   $105

Thank you Pacific Coast Brewing Co., Kincaid's Fish, Chop & Steak House and     Royal Cleaners
 
 

1116. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Oakland

Enjoy three great meals at three great Oakland restaurants:  First enjoy breakfast (or lunch) for 2 at Mama's Royal Cafe with this $25 Gift Certificate.  Then enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Italian Colors with this $25 Gift Certificate. Finally, enjoy dinner at an institution on Piedmont Avenue --  Zatis Restaurant with this $40 Gift Certificate.

Value:   $90

Thank you Italian Colors Ristorante, Mama's Royal Café, Zatis Restaurant
 
 
1117. Food, Glorious Food

More great food in Oakland!  Use this $25 gift certificate to Park Ave Bar and Grill on Piedmont Avenue for a delicious meal!  Now featuring live music every 2nd and 4th Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m.  Entire amount must be used in one visit.  You'll also enjoy dinner at Messob Ethiopian Restaurant, a hot new place to go on Piedmont Avenue!  And, they have generously donated this $50 gift certificate.  Meals are served family style.  You can sit outside or enjoy the warmth inside.  But get there early!  It's popular!  And finally, experience an Italian restaurant that has become a Berkeley institution acclaimed for its great food, value and atmosphere. Caffe Venezia's menu features a wide assortment of fresh pasta, meats and fish ($25 certificate).    

Value:   $100

Thank you Venezia Caffe & Ristorante, Messob Ethiopian Restaurant, Park Avenue Bar & Grill

 
1118. Ladies Who Lunch!

Ladies Who Lunch love Il Porcellino in Montclair for its rustic Italian charm, with colorfully stained cement floor and partially glazed exposed brick wall against a background of Italian pop music.  Chat with Florentine owner-chef, Corrado Vannini, who greets everyone like a returning friend and enjoy a fritto misto, Caesar salad swathed in a creamy, lemon-spiked, Parmesan-rich dressing, or some light potato gnocchi in a cream-enriched rosemary-tomato sauce -- which one reviewer calls luscious or pick some other delectable dishes from the menu!   Or if you're more in the mood for Thai food, use this $25 gift certificate to Pararung Thai Cuisine right here in Montclair, Delicious!  FYI, you can bid even if you’re not a lady!

Value:   $55

Thank you Il Porcellino, Pagarung Thai Cuisine
 

1119. Lunch and Brunch Down the Hill

Enjoy three great meals in Berkeley. 
1 - First have a delicious breakfast at Rick & Ann's with this $25 Gift Certificate. 
2 - Then enjoy lunch or brunch with this $25 Gift Certificate to La Mediterranee on College!  Yum!
3 - Finally, enjoy great burgers at Ben & Nick's with this $25 Gift Certificate. 

Value:   $75
           
Thank you Ben & Nick's Bar & Grill, La Mediterranee, Rick & Ann's Restaurant
 
 
1120. Don't Feel Like Cooking?

Manic Monday?  Use this $25 gift certificate to Holly's Mandarin Cuisine on Piedmont Avenue for delicious Mandarin cuisine. 

Tired on Tuesday?  Use this $50 gift certificate for a yummy organic meal hand delivered to you and your family of 4 in January 2007.  You'll choose from two options.   Option #1:  Coq Au Vin, served with Creamy Polenta and Swiss Chard with Balsamic Glazed Red Onions; Option #2 (Vegetarian Option):  Butternut Squash Lasagna with Fresh Sage and Creamy Ricotta, served with Arugula Salad with Fresh Grated Pecorino and Sautéed Snap Peas with Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar.  Deliveries are made on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays, No service on January 1, 2007.  Expires January 31, 2007.

Wacky Wednesday?  Pick up some delicious food from GRÉGOIRE restaurant, who offers unique high-end sandwiches and dinner entrées that are meticulously prepared using classical French cooking techniques and the finest natural and organic ingredients. They cook it -- you eat it!  This restaurant is rated in the top 10 takeout restaurants in the entire Bay Area.  Spend this $25 gift card for dinner this week!
Value:   $100

Thank you Gregoire Restaurant, Holly's Mandarin Restaurant, Everyday Gourmet
 
 
1121. Picnic at Dunsmuir Anyone?

All you need for a picnic at Dunsmuir  . . .
First get some delicious treats using this $20 gift certificate to Genova Deli at 51st and Telegraph.
Then pick up some dessert for the picnic from La Farine.  (Or use this $25 certificate for a wonderful cake for a specified event.)  Will you try the Moka, which is a chocolate genoise cake soaked with Kahlua, filled with a creamy coffee mousse?  Or will you opt for the GENÈVE, a moist chocolate genoise cake, layered with rich milk chocolate mousse, finished with a bittersweet chocolate ganache?  There are so many choices here!  Try one  You'll love it!
And when the picnic basket's all packed, come see the beautiful Dunsmuir Estate with this Family Membership for two adults and two youths under the age of 21. Benefits include unlimited free admission to the Wednesday Mansion Tours (April - September) and Family Sundays (the Sunday after Easter thru September), a 15% discount in the gift shop, and free or discounted admission to designated Dunsmuir events. www.dunsmuir.org

Value:   $105
           
Thank you Dunsmuir House & Gardens Historic Estate,    La Farine and Genova Delicatessen

 
1122. The Bagel Song

Everybody loves Noah's and you'll have plenty of it!  Enjoy these certificates for 5 dozen bagels!

Value:   $60

Thank you Noah's Bagels
 
 
1123. Palio d' Asti in San Francisco

You must try Palio D' Asti, named after the famous Medieval bareback horse race (Il Palio) in the town of Asti Italy.  Palio D'Asti is a top-rated Italian Restaurant located in San Francisco's Financial District and within walking distance of all major hotels. The award-winning 7,000 square foot restaurant interior permits the viewing of the chefs as they prepare Italian dishes with a seasonally roving regional emphasis. Chef-Owner Daniel Scherotter focuses on Piemonte, Emilia Romagna and Toscana in the Fall and Winter, Rome and Umbria in the Spring, Sicily and Naples in the Summer.  $100 gift certificate.
Expires Nov. 2007.  Dinner only on Monday through Friday, excludes taxes, gratuity and beverages.

Value:   $100

Thank you Palio D' Asti
 
 
1124. Village People!

Use this $100 gift certificate to Village Market for groceries or specialty foods or other treats.

Value:   $100

Thank you Village Market
 
 
1125. A Taste of Market Hall!

A set of $10 gift certificates to each of the Rockridge Market Hall vendors including:
Bloomies Flowers, Enzo's Meat & Poultry, Rockridge Fish, Market Hall Bakery, Market Hall Produce, Paul Marcus Wines, Peaberry's Coffee & Tea, The Pasta Shop.
Expires November 11, 2007.

Value:   $80

Thank you Rockridge Market Hall
 
 
1126. Italian Gourmet Basket

Enjoy this fabulous basket of Italian goodies from Rocco's Pizzeria in Walnut Creek.  They have great pizza and they cater too so they've filled this basket with cheeses and other items to whet your appetite.  Bon Appetito!
Value:   $75
Rocco's Pizzeria Walnut Creek
 
 
1127. Scott's Seafood Wine and Gift Basket!

Go on a picnic and break out this lovely gift basket from Scott's Seafood in Jack London Square!  Filled with goodies like brie, smoked oysters, wine, and more!

Value:   $35

Thank you Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar
 

1128. Just Another Manic Monday!

Do wish it was Sunday?  Well, face reality and head to The Terrace Coffee and Gifts on Broadway Terrace, where all the Hillcrest parents head after morning ceremony or drop-off!  The Terrace has generously donated the opportunity for one lucky parent to receive the coffee or tea drink of his or her choice every Monday for 2007.  Starting with the Monday that we return from the winter break, you'll use this certificate to redeem for one drink each Monday of 2007. 

Restrictions:  Only valid Mondays.   Not valid if the Terrace is closed.  Applies for one coffee or tea drink of your choice (e.g., latte, au lait, chai - the good stuff!) of any size.  Must present card; non-transferable.

Value:  $208

Thank You Terrace Gifts and Coffee

 
1129. Beat It, Just Beat It -- A Year of Peet's Can't Be Beat!

They told me, "Don't you ever come around here" -- well too bad for them because you have this certificate for a YEAR of Peet's coffee (one pound per month) which can be redeemed at any Peet's retail location!

Value:  $200

Thank you Peet's Coffee & Tea
 
 

1130. Some Like It Hot - Peets Coffee & Tea.

Get your hot java or ice tea with this $100 gift card to Peet's Coffee &Tea!

Value:   $100

Thank you Pamela & Jonathon Ellman
 
 
1131. Breakfast In America - Coffee and/or Tea for a Year!

Enjoy coffee or tea all year around using this gift certificate from Peet's Coffee & Tea in Montclair to buy 12 lbs of coffee.  One quarter pound of tea may be substituted for any 1 lb of coffee.

Value:   $160

Peet's Coffee & Tea in Montclair
 
 
1132. Coffee, Tea or Me?

Coffee of course!  From Starbucks in Montclair, 3 pounds of coffee and a cool travel mug!

Value:  $42

Thank you Starbucks Montclair
 
 
1133. Chocoholic?  Might As Well Face It, You're Addicted to Love ...

-ing chocolate.  Give in to temptation with this basket of fine dark chocolate goodies that would put Little Red Riding Hood's basket to shame.

Value:   $100

Thank you Julie Saba
 
 
1134. L'Amyx  it Up with Bakesale Betty!

Enjoy all sorts of delicious baked treats from Bakesale Betty with this $30 Gift Certificate and enjoy some great tea with this gift box containing 5 of L'Amyx Tea Bar's most popular teas!

Value:   $90

Thank you L'Amyx Tea Bar and Bakesale Betty
 
 

1135. Otis Spunkmeyer Cookie of the Month

Want to be the first to try out the new flavors they are baking up at Otis?  Two dozen cookies each month will be brought to your home the first of every month will be brought to your home the first of every month - your preference of FROZEN pre-portioned cookie dough nuggets or fresh BAKED cookies.  Michelle Thornton recommends the frozen dough for the convenience of baking off as many or few as you want at the drop of a hat.  That fresh baked warm out of the over, delicious small wafting through your home . . . will bring them running.  And taste. . .  just like you make them from scratch.  It'll be your little secret.

Delicious!

Thank you Michelle Thornton
 
 1136.   Donsuemor Madeliene Cookies

Madeliene Cookies are the best and they are made right here in the East Bay!  With this item, you are entitled to one fresh 3-Pack of Traditional Madeleines and One fresh package of New Rich Chocolate Madeleines. Plan to eat them soon while they're deliciously fresh.

Value:   $84

Thank you Donsuemor, Inc.
 
1137. Bigger than Big!  It's the Biggest Chocolate Bar You Ever Saw!

Have you ever seen a 10 pound chocolate bar?  Well, you have now!  Perfect as a holiday present for the chocolate lover!

Value:   $50

Thank you Wendy and Mike Malecek
 

1138. Sweet Dreams Are Made of This:  Neal's Famous Chocolate Truffle Tarts

Taken straight from the cookbook Cocolat, these handmade chocolate tarts provide dessert for 16.  Delivered to your door on a date to be decided.  Expires June 30, 2007

Value:   $60

Thank you Neal Finkelstein

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Red, Red Wine and Strange Brew! From the Vineyard and the Brewery

1200. Anchor Steam Brewery Tour for 8

Join Anchor Steam Master Brewer (and Hillcrest parent) Phil Longenecker for an exclusive private tour and tasting party at the world-famous Anchor Steam Brewery in San Francisco. This isn't your everyday tour - you'll be treated like VIPs, go behind the scenes for a look at the brewing process, mingle with the brewers, and end your evening with a tasting party in the classic old-world style tap room overlooking the brew house. Impress your friends with this experience AND some delicious beer! Two weeks advance notice required for reservations, available M-Th at 5:30 p.m. One bidder; expires 5/11/07.

No Foam Please!

Thank you Phil & Rebecca Longenecker, Anchor Steam Brewing Company
 

1201. Fine Beer in Berkeley

Perfect for your next party or just to have while you watch football.  Critics love Trumer Pils, brewed right here in the East Bay calling it an "exquisite and authentic tasting German pils" "clear, pale and golden with a crisp, refreshing taste and aroma."  "Few other American craft brewers are making a beer like this. It differentiates itself."

Value:   $70

Thank you Trumer Brauerei Berkeley
 
 
1202. Byington Vineyards Tour and Tasting for up to 30 People

Bring 29 of your friends down to Byington Vineyard and Winery in Los Gatos for an afternoon of fun!  With the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains as your backdrop, you'll enjoy vistas of sloping vineyards, redwood forests, and the Monterey Bay.  The Winery is an 18,000 square foot Italian-style villa, housing the winemaking facilities, spectacular cave, spacious landscaped lawns, and an elegant wedding and conference center.  Groups joining for a tour and tasting are welcome to reserve a picnic area for lunch or simply to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.  You can bring your own lunch or use their caterers to make a wonderful party.  1 bottle per couple must be purchased to reserve the picnic area.  Advance reservations required.

Value:   $300
 
1203. Double Magnum of Domaine Serene Pinot Noir

Perfect for your next dinner party!  Pour this double magnum of Domaine Serene Pinot Noir and impress your guests!

Value:   $200

 

1204. Red, Red Wine You Make Me Feel So Fine!

UB40 probably just toured Grgich Hills when it recorded this hit!  Grgich is a premier vineyard in Napa Valley and this is your opportunity to have a PRIVATE tour and tasting for four.  During this unique experience, you and your friends will be enlightened about Grgich Wines and the vineyard by one of the knowledgeable tasting room staff.  You'll learn how Grgich biodynamically and organically farms its 366 acres of Napa Valley vineyards in American Canyon, Yountville, Rutherford, Carneros, and Calistoga, to produce internationally renowned and sought-after Chardonnay, Fumé Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, and the late-harvest Violetta.  One bottle of Grgich's current vintage Chardonnay is included along with an autographed poster of the winery.

Includes:  Private tour and tasting, one bottle of current vintage chardonnay and autographed winery poster.

Value:   $125
Thank you Grgich Hills Cellar
 
 
1205. Gallo Family Vineyards Gift Basket

Red, Red Wine . . . and so much more in this basket of treats from Gallo Family Vineyards.

Value:   $130

Thank you Carole Klein & Raphael Gilbert, E & J Gallo Winery

 

 
1206. Artistic Wine Bottle Holder with LAN Rioja

This artistic Napolean wine holder made from welded steel is modern yet sophisticated.  A great addition to your dining room! A 1999 bottle of LAN Riojo Reserve from Spain!  Best time to drink is 4-12 years after bottling, so it's ready to drink right now!  Full bodied and rich!

Value:   $104

Thank you Hand & Mind, Vino!
 

1207. Red, Red Wine

A Case (12 bottles) of Southern Rhone Red Wine. Vignerons de Caractere  Cotes du Rhone Domaine de la Maurelle 2004.  This is a great food wine, paired with earthy dishes such as a Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce or even a mushroom bisque.  It is rustic, with sweet earth, spice and tobacco notes leading the way for dried currant fruit.  If drinking now, open up or decant about an hour before drinking so the wine will really open up.  A very pleasant, reasonably priced Rhone wine.

Value:   $120

Thank you K&L Wines
 
 
1208. One case of wine: 2003 Lirac Rouge

From Domaine Du Joncier.  Blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre.  Kermit Lynch says he has never tasted a Lirac so ripe, rich and concentrated.

Value:   $172
           
Thank you Cathy Ward & Rich Salaiz
 
 
1209. Cotes du Rhone Anyone?

Case of 2004 Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge wine.  The Cotes du Rhone region is a great source for delicious red wines that are moderately priced by packed with flavor and character.  From Chateau Du Trignon.  Kermit says of this wine: "unusually balanced and structured for a southern Rhone, and the berry and cherry fruit shows remarkable freshness, like freshly crushed berries.  Drink now or over the next ten years."

Value:   $150

Thank you Cathy Ward & Rich Salaiz
 
 
1210. Case of Wines from Around the World!

Case of wines from around the world specially selected by the Morrin/Jagelskis!

Bottoms Up!

Thank you Pat Morrin & Janice Jagelski

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Vacation, All I Ever Wanted: Get Aways

1300. Scottsdale Weekend Getaway for the Family!

Summerfield Suites Scottsdale

The Summerfield Suites in Scottsdale is perfect for a family getaway.  Use these certificates for a two night stay in a one bedroom suite, complete with a kitchen and living room (sleeps 4 easily).  Complimentary buffet breakfast is included every morning, and a complimentary social hour with beer, wine, soft drinks, and hot hors d'oeuvres is offered Mon. - Thurs. evenings.  Amenities include a great pool and hot tub, in-house grocery shopping service, and an on-site convenience store. The Summerfield Suites is located within walking distance of major shopping, Cheesecake Factory, Don and Charlie's and other fine restaurants in town.  When you want to go out to eat, walk over to the Cheesecake Factory and use this $100 gift certificate for a great meal!  Everything a family needs for the weekend!   Contact Tammy Ladd, Director of Sales, to make the reservation.

Value:   $600
           
Thank you Summerfield Suites Scottsdale, Hamilton & Gina Hunt 

1301. Mendocino County on My Mind

Tides Inn

Get away from it all with someone you love!  Use this certificate for a 3 night stay at the Tides Inn located in Shelter Cove, California.  A few hours up the coast and you are there!  Feel right at home in an oceanfront suite with full kitchen, private deck, private bedroom, romantic fireplace, and custom furnishings.  Whale watch from your balcony or walk down the steps to the beach to go tide pooling.  Later take a short walk to the golf links and restaurants.  The best for a romantic getaway!  Restrictions:  November through March for 2 Adults only.  Don’t forget to visit the Mendocino Botanical Gardens while you’re there with these passes.  It’s not to be missed!

Value:  $560

Thank you Tides Inn of Shelter Cove, Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

1302. Gold Country Getaway

Head on up to Gold Country and enjoy some old California charm with this certificate for a one-night stay and breakfast for 2 at the Historic National Hotel & Restaurant in Jamestown.  Sip a glass of wine on the vine-covered patio, step into the award-winning restaurant for a gourmet dinner, and experience a night of peaceful slumber in the turn of the century, luxurious guest rooms followed by a sumptuous buffet breakfast.  Then, go antique in Jamestown and Sonora or explore the area's award-winning wine country, take a historic train ride or play in a wonderful variety of outdoor activities.  Who knows, you might even meet Flo, the National Hotel's friendly ghost -- she favors the upstairs rooms in the front.  Check out the hotel and accommodations at www.national-hotel.com!  Restrictions:  Valid Sunday through Thursday, all holiday periods excluded.   Expires May 11, 2007.

Value:   $150

Thank you The Historic National Hotel & Restaurant
 
1303. Make Oakland Feather River Camp One of Your Family Traditions!

Make Oakland Feather River Camp one of your family traditions! Oakland Feather River Camp, located near Quincy, California is nestled along Spanish Creek.  Choose to stay in rustic wooden cabins or wood-framed tent cabins, with or without electricity.  Enjoy three great meals a day including vegetarian entrees and a salad bar at lunch and dinner.  And, make sure you join us for barbeque every Friday night.

This is a vacation destination for families, children and adults seeking relaxation, recreation, fun and friendship.

- Please use between 7/1/07 & 7/15/07
- www.featherrivercamp.com

Value:   $600

Thank you Camps in Common, Terry Cullinane
 
1304. Get Away to Yosemite in a Family Cabin at Evergreen Lodge!

Spend a night in a two-bedroom family cabin at the Evergreen Lodge in Yosemite.  The Evergreen Lodge is a historic Yosemite hotel nestled in the woods bordering Yosemite National Park. The lodge offers a timeless Yosemite experience, including fully-furnished cabins, delicious food, a classic all-wood tavern, diverse recreational activities, expert advice and a warm, welcoming environment. Escape the crowds and come enjoy the serenity and mountain charm of this Yosemite hideaway.  The spacious, new Two-Bedroom Family Cabins (built in 2004) are the most popular choice for families. These cabins feature a bedroom with queen bed, another bedroom with two twin beds, a comfortable living room with sofa bed, a private deck off the living room, a spacious bathroom with shower/tub, overhead fans, heat, a CD player and a small refrigerator.  www.evergreenlodge.com
Expires December 31, 2007, not valid on holidays; 2 night minimum stay is required in peak season and off-season weekends other restrictions may apply.

Value:   $250

Thank you Beth Sirull & John Shuster
 
 
1305. Feel Like a King in San Francisco!

Get away from it all right here in San Francisco.  Treat yourself to two nights at the King George Hotel, ideally located in the heart of downtown, just one block from Union Square.  The King George is in the theater district, with shopping and fine dining just outside the front steps.  Check them out at www.kinggeorge.com.  After checking in, take in some culture while you're in town, visiting the Quilts of Gee's Bend Exhibit at the de Young Museum.  The de Young exhibits more than 25,000 works from classic American Paintings to powerful African sculpture.  The Quilts of Gee's Bend has been hailed by the New York Times as "some of the most miraculous works of modern art America has produced."  Have a great dinner at Bob's Steakhouse to top off your evening.  Next day, you can enjoy all the attractions at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts with your VIP Ticket for 2 Adults. The center is the cultural gathering center for this region's many diverse communities.  On your second evening away, take in a great show at the Great American Music Hall.  Then head back to the hotel or go out for some more fun!  Next day, it's back home to rescue Grandma from those kids!   Package includes

-- Two night stay for 2 people at the King George Hotel Sunday - Thursday, excludes New Years Eve and Blackout dates.  Expires Nov. 30, 2007
-- Dinner for 2 at Bob's Steakhouse (up to $100 value).   No cash value, Alcohol & Gratuity Not Included, Remainder Will Not Be Refunded, Call for Reservation  Expires 11/11/07
-- Passes to the de Young Museum and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts
-- Two tickets to a show at the Great American Music Hall.  Reservations must be made one week in advance. Restrictions: New Year's Eve show excluded. Must call in advance of Sold Out shows.

Value:   $514

Thank you King George Hotel, the Great American Music Hall, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, Bob's Steak & Chophouse
 

1306. In Laws Coming to Town?  Send 'em to the Berkeley City Club!

"You'll be more comfortable in the hotel, Mom" -- Yes she will.  Everybody needs a little space so when you have out of town guests, give them this certificate for a night's stay and dinner at the Berkeley City Club, just a stone's throw away!  Amenities include:  Indoor Swimming Pool, Access to UCB Fitness Center, Fine Dining Restaurant, In House Massage Therapist, and more.  Or, use it for yourselves to get a night away from the kids!  Check out the great accommodations at www.berkeleycityclub.com.

Valid until November 2007, subject to availability.

Value:   $175

Thank you Berkeley City Club
 
 

1307. Napa Getaway

Wine and Lodging in Napa Valley!  Use this certificate for a 1 night stay at the Hennessey House in Napa a Queen Anne Victoria Bed & Breakfast, when a second night is purchased.
 
Lodging certificate valid: Sun-Thurs Nov 26 2006 through March 1 2007.  Holidays and 12/26 through 12/31 excluded.  Requires purchase of a one-night stay. 

To make the Napa trip complete, this package also includes private tour, tasting and wine from two excellent vineyards, Arrowood and Cline Cellars!  Come and learn from the masters at Arrowood during this private tour and tasting for up to 4 people.  Then, pick any wine that you enjoyed at a value of up to $45 and bring it home to enjoy!  Requires advance appointment.  At Cline Cellars, you'll receive a VIP Winery Tour and Tasting for up to 4 people at this high end vineyard -- a favorite of Hillcrest's Mears family.   These wines win award after award.  You’ll receive a bottle of wine to take home during the tasting too!

Value:   $515

Thank you Arrowood Vineyards, Cline Cellars, and Hennessey House - Napa's 1889 Queen Anne Victorian B&B
 

1308. Redwoods Getaway Opportunity!

Go Take a Hike!  In the Redwoods, that is, and enjoy a fabulous relaxing spa experience!  Vichy Springs is a unique 150 year old historic hot springs resort only two hours north of Oakland.  Offering the only naturally warm and carbonated Vichy mineral baths in North America, enjoy the famous "champagne" baths as the well as its hot soaking pool and 700 acres for nature walking and hiking. Full buffet breakfast is also included and other meals are five minutes away in Ukiah.  Come and experience a true carbonated Vichy mineral bath, massage, facial and a walk on the beautiful 700 acre ranch. You will feel a million miles from your cares, and "your heart will sing a new song."  Oakland Mayor Jerry Brown says it is a "Great Place!  Good for Presidents and everyone else."  Includes: 
-- One night stay when a second is purchased. 
-- Day use of the spa and springs. 
Restrictions:  Valid Sunday to Friday Oct-Mar and Sunday to Thursday, April - September.  Not valid during holiday periods.

Value:   $317

Thank you Vichy Springs Resort
 

1309. Like For Sure, Two Tickets Anywhere in the Continental U.S., Radical!

Roundtrip Airfare for 2 anywhere you want to go in the domestic U.S. on American or Continental.  Really, it's 50,000 miles!  American requires 25,000 miles for advance redemption tickets within the continental U.S.  You can use these 50,000 miles as you please.  To get the best value, you'll want to book as far in advance as possible.
-- 50,000 miles (subject to seat availability)

Up, Up & Away

Thank you Karen Plessinger
 
 
1310. I Think We're Alone Now ... Romantic Getaway to the Claremont!

Ever just need a night away but even San Francisco seems to far to go?  Escape in your own backyard at the Claremont Resort & Spa in one of our relaxing Bay view rooms.  Wake up refreshed and enjoy Jordan’s with a scrumptious Sunday Brunch.

Chillin' Out

Thank you Claremont Resort and Spa
 
 
1311. Costanoa Getaway!

Costanoa is an eco adventure resort designed to encourage our guests to explore the stunning beauty of our protected California coastline and Discover the Pace of Nature.  Spend a night in a  Pine Village canvas tent cabin and wake up to the many activities Costanoa offers.  The Pine Village cabins accommodate 3 guests or more and are made of wood or metal frames with waterproof canvas tent walls. They have electricity, sliding windows, a locking door and heated mattress pads. These accommodations combine the best part of camping with creature comforts you will appreciate. No two bungalows are exactly alike as they are placed throughout the property with a variety of views. Guests who come to experience the Tent Bungalows have three dedicated comfort stations to pick from with restrooms, indoor hot showers, heated concrete floors, a 24 hour dry sauna and an outdoor fireplace. We suggest packing flashlights to use in the evenings as our property is quite expansive and rural.  The outdoor hot tub is available to Lodge, Cabin and Cypress Bungalow guests from 7am until 10pm each day.  If you absolutely must stay connected to civilization, wireless internet access is available in the bungalows as well as surrounding areas for a $10 fee.
- Certificate for one-night's stay for 2 people; additional children cost $15 per night, and adults $30 per night.

Value:   $146

Thank you Costanoa

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I Go to Parties, Sometimes Until 4... Adult Parties and Progressives

1400. Candlelit Winter's Evening

This special evening returns.  Join the Kwan/Heywoods, the Blackorbys and the Hanshaws for a candlelit winter's evening.  Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres will be served and a classical trio will play.   Join us at the Hanshaws on Saturday, February 3, 2007. 

-- Top 20 bidding couples
-- Saturday, February 3, 2007

Champagne Wishes, Caviar Dreams

Thank you Nicole & Larry Hanshaw, Melinda & Jose Blackorby, and Kristen Kwan & Greg Heywood
 
 
1401. Mahjong Night

This party was so popular last year that the Fang-Horvath's had to add one during the auction.  This year, they say, "Only one"!  That means if you want to enjoy an evening of homemade Chinese food, followed by fun games of mahjong, you'll have to start bidding now!   No "buy-it-now" on this one this year! 

-- Top 4 bidding couples

Gung Hay Fat Choy

Thank you George Horvath & Maria Fang
 
 1402.   Traditional Swiss Dinner In Your Home!

Traditional Swiss Wintertime Meal of Raclette, Potatoes, Chicken and Pickles served with white wine.  Dinner is for 4 to 6 people in your home!  Expires 7/1/07

-- One Winner

Delicious!

Thank you Wendy Wheeler
 
1403. Japanese Dinner with an Asian Fusion Accent

Do the corners of your mouth curl up and your eyes mist when you chance to reminisce about your last Japanese meal? Do you long for another business trip to Tokyo, just for the food?   For a taste of Japan, come to the Cheyer house and let Chefs Carol and Lin ply you with food and drink till you think you've reached the next level of enlightenment.

-- Top 3 bidding couples
-- Saturday, February 24, 2007

Irrashyaimase!

Thank you Lin & Adam Cheyer, Carol & Ken Newberger

1404. Jammin' Dinner at Jamaican Soul

We'll be Jammin' at Jamaican Soul Restaurant in Berkeley for some jammin' food, rum punch and reggae on Sunday evening, February 11, 2007, right on time for Valentine's Day. 

-- Top 10 bidding couples
-- Sunday, February 11, 2007, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Chillin' Out

Thank you Patrick Matteson & Susan Weinberg
 

1405. I'll Have What She's Having . . . La Comida de Espaňa

Madrid, Marbella, Seville, Ole!  You'll feel like you're there when you step into Casa de Bregman/Kleinman on April 28, 2007.  Just like the Spaniards, you'll dine on several courses of traditional dishes, such as paella, gambas al ajillo, and flan de caramel ... delicioso!  All of this will be accompanied by fine Spanish wines.  The evening will be hosted by chefs Mike Panori and Scott Kleinman, hostess Sara Bedford, and pastry chef Sheryl Bregman.  Bring your castanets! 

-- Top 5 bidding couples (an adults only evening please).
-- Saturday, April 28, 2007

¡Ole!

Thank you Sheryl Bregman & Scott Kleinman, Sara Bedford & Mike Panori
 
1406.Bunco Night!

It's Bunco Time!  This event is for those of you who enjoy games, but don't want to be weighed down by complicated rules.  Bunco is an easy, fast-paced dice game where players switch partners regularly and luck rules the day.  The Ahlers and Braccos will be your hosts for this evening of food, drink and dice.  Prizes will be awarded to the evening's high and low scorers, and a Bunco champion will be crowned!

-- Top 4 bidding couples
-- Saturday, March 3, 2007

Are You Game?

Thank you Amy & James Ahlers, Mike & Kathy Bracco

1407. Traditional Chilean Dinner for Six

Come and enjoy a delicious Chilean dinner for the top three bidding couples.  Your evening will include traditional Chilean cocktail Pisco Sour and tasty authentic appetizers, a scrumptious entree, and  typical mouth watering desserts.  Gloria is a native of Chile and knows her way around Chilean cuisine.  And, it will all accompanied with fine Chilean wine, of course.

-- Top 3 bidding couples
-- Saturday, March 17, 2007

Delicioso!

Thank you Bill Fine & Gloria Flores
 

1408. Beer, Beer and More Beer

To Celebrate the Stansbury and Petru families’ last year at Hillcrest:  Ten couples will attend an anything-but-subdued international beer tasting affair:  Southern fried chicken, biscuits and other homemade chow to complement the brew.  Relax by the waterfall or boogie to the beat with the Stansburys and the Petrus.

-- Top 10 bidding couples
-- Sunday, May 6, 2007, 5:30-8:30 pm

No Foam Please!

Thank you Anthony & Sally Petru, Jeannette & Kenn Stansbury
 

1409. An Evening Along the Silk Road

Get back into the Hillcrest swing and kick-off the school year with a delicious evening of intrigue along the route that linked the Roman Empire with the imperial court of China.  Experience exotic flavors in the authentic cuisine and cocktails of Persia, India and beyond as east meets west in this evening of fun and mystery along Golden Gate Avenue and Romany Road during this progressive neighborhood party.

-- Top 8 bidding couples
-- Saturday, August 25, 2007
-- Attire: Silk, of course

Delights!

Pouneh & Lorenz Trockle, Diane & Wayne Diamond, Joanne & Scott Karchmer, Aarti Kohli & Raja Sekaran
 

1410. Acacia Avenue Cocktail Party Returns with Extra Special Service!

Spend the evening toasting Hillcrest with wonderful friends and unmatched food.  We'll even take you home at the end of the evening. Rumor has it that all guests leave having had a wonderful dinner, world-class desserts and spirited conversations.

-- Top 20 bidding couples
-- Saturday, January 20, 2007, 6-9 PM

Cheers!

Thank you Aileen & John Dolby, Neal Finkelstein & Rebecca Johnson, Cathy Ward & Rich Salaiz, Victoria Jew Wong & Yinpo Wong
 
 

1411. If I Stay It Will Be Trouble, If I Go (to the Sonia Street Stroll) It Will Be Double

A magical mystery tour of multicultural delights awaits the lucky bidders who will attend this progressive baccanalia on Saturday, March 10, 2007.  Savvy former guests have judged this event the most "happening" happening to be offered at the Hillcrest auction.  Travel from home to home and absorb the ambiance of multiple magnificent motherlands. We guarantee that this round-the-world trip is well worth the fare!  Arrange for a babysitter and prepare for this virtual voyage around Sonia Street. Get ready for the time of your life!

-- Top 12 bidding couples
-- Saturday, March 10, 2007

What Happens on Sonia Street
Stays on Sonia Street!

Thank you Susie Debenham & Rob Russell, Phil & Rebecca Longenecker, Leila & Bob Clark Riddell, Pam & Marc McDonald, Mary Ann & Patrick Piette, Vanessa & Perry Graham, Charles Pelton & Jacqueline Frost
 
1412. You Gotta Know When to Hold 'Em and March Madness!

Texas Hold 'Em in Rockridge just in time for March Madness!  Been religiously watching the World Series of Poker, but don't quite understand the winners' secrets?  Thirty lucky players will enjoy an evening of poker, prizes, drinks (of the alcoholic and non-alcoholic persuasion), food and fun on March 24, 2007.   You'll watch NCAA tournament basketball, play some cards and have a great time.  All skill levels welcome.  Shirts provided if you lose yours.  Just kidding.  We'll play with a set amount of "poker dollars."   Chips, tables, dealers, cards are all provided.  Just bring your skill and $20 for prizes! 

Ante Up!

-- First 30 signups at the fixed Price of $80
-- Saturday, March 24, 2007 (time based on basketball!)

Thank you Kent Schwartz & Michelle Shibata-Schwartz, Hamilton & Gina Hunt
 

1413. Go Take a Hike -- Sierra Backpacking Weekend for Hillcrest Dads!

Experienced Backpackers and Novices Alike Are Invited to Hike the Sierras with Experts David Rudel, Kurt Nihei and Steve Herz!  Five lucky Hillcrest dads will join David, Kurt and Steve on a Friday morning in mid- to late-September 2007 and head to the mountains.  If you have your own gear you can bring it, but if not, they'll rustle some up for you.  Your hosts will provide the food and beverages and you'll get some great exercise.  All you need is to be physically fit to hike with a backpack at altitude.  Take in the beauty of the Sierras at this special time of year!

-- Top 5 bidders
-- Date to be determined in mid- to late-September 2007 (please hold the 3rd and 4th weekends free for this event).

Go Climb a Rock!

Thank you Kurt Nihei, David Rudel, Steve Herz
 
 
1414. Hillcrest Dads / Child Camping Weekend

You and your child are invited to come spend a summer weekend car camping in the Sierras with other Hillcrest Dads.  This top secret Sierra location provides opportunities for swimming in alpine lakes, hiking, and kid-friendly mountain biking on fire trails.  Nighttime activities include toasting marshmallows and stargazing until the kids go to bed, poker after.  We'll be car camping, so your hosts will be able to bring in plenty of gourmet grub and cocktails, along with general campground comforts to pamper the most discerning campers.  All you need to bring is your personal gear and enthusiasm for the great outdoors!  Warning: Lowest winning bid will be assigned dishes duty, make sure you update your bid regularly.  Minimum bid $100.  One child per father is preferred, but in any event please don't bring more than two children per parent.

-- Top 10 Dad/Kid bidders
-- July 20-22, 2007

Keep On Trekkin'!

Thank you Ken Dupee, Greg Heywood, Stuart Hanson

 

1415. Ladies Doubles Tennis Day at the Club

Doubles Lesson, Paragon Luncheon, and Poolside Relaxation.  Learn the secrets of doubles tennis and enjoy a spectacular day at the Claremont with other Hillcrest moms who share your interest in playing tennis (and sipping white wine on the deck at Paragon)!  The day starts with a 1.5 hour doubles lesson taught by Rosie Bareis, head tennis pro -- a renowned doubles expert who is also super funny.  Then, after a quick shower, we'll hit the deck at Paragon Restaurant for lunch with a panoramic view.  Finally, retire to the newly renovated Claremont pools and hot tubs for some much needed R&R.  Stay as long as you like and take full advantage of the classes and other resources the Club has to offer!

-- Top 7 bidders

A Big Hit!

Value:  $80 per person

Thank you Rosie Bareis, Claremont Tennis Pro,  The Club at the Claremont, Sally Fitzhugh
 
 1416.   Knit Out!

If you enjoy a good yarn (get it!), you'll love this party! For the last time, Julie and Fiona will host an evening at Article Pract yarn shop at 51st and Telegraph.  Bring a project, or choose one while there, we will have the shop to ourselves!  Wine or tea and munchies will be served. 

-- Top 10 bidders
-- Date TBD (Friday evening in January or February 2007).

A Big Knit!  I Mean Hit!

Thank you Fiona Jackson, Article Pract, Julie Weisenberger
 
 
1417. Hillcrest Moms' Backpacking Trip (Second Edition)

Conquer Mount Everest - No Problem, Again!
Four hearty women are invited to join Mary Ann Piette and Jennifer Chapman for a two-night, three-day backpacking adventure. Requirements: you need to be fit and ready to hike! Expires 9/07.

-- Top 4 bidders

Keep On Trekkin'

Thank you Mary Ann Piette, Jennifer Chapman
 
1418.    Loteria Tres 2007

Loteria night for 15 fun women - Lots of authentic Mexican food, Lovella Style Margarita's.  A wonderful fun gift for each game winner and one Grand Prize...also prize for best Mexican Dressed.  Party to be scheduled for a mutually convenient time for the winning bidders - sometime around Cinco de Mayo. 

-- Top 15 bidders
-- Cerca Cinco de Mayo

Buena Suerte!

Thank you Claudia Mariolle, Carmen Jimenez-Smith, Rhita Williams, Rose Collins, Andriana Fry, Lovella Barney and Anna-Lisa Silvestri
 
 

1419. Women's Winter Hike & Brunch

Join a group of Hillcrest moms for an exhilarating morning hike to the Lafayette Reservoir (no experience necessary) on Sunday Jan. 21, 2007 and then back to the neighborhood for a lovely, sumptuous brunch.

-- Top 12 bidders
-- Sunday, January 21, 2007, morning!

Keep On Trekkin'

Thank you Carol Sani, Sumi Shohara, Maxine Drexler, Darcy Brown-Martin, Rose Collins, Vanessa Graham, Robin Lasser
 
 
1420. Women's Shanghai Night

Cards, delicious Chinese food from Shen Hua restaurant and silly prizes make this a fun annual event you won't want to miss.  Shanghai is a progressive, gin rummy type card game that's easy to learn and tons of fun. 

-- Top 7 bidders
-- Friday, February 9, 2007

Are You Game?

Thank you LeAnn Bischoff & Dan Asimow
 
1421. Tantalizing Tootsies Pedicure Party

Okay gals, get ready to have your feet soothed and pampered and get your toes looking sexy for sandals.  Nine lucky women will spend a relaxing hour (or two) with some wine, some cheese and some relaxation!  Get together with your friends and bid as a group! 

-- Top 9 bidders

Footloose & Fancy Free

Thank you Tootsies Rockridge

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The Wonder Years:  From the Classes

1500. Ida Kohlmeyer Inspired Painting by Ms. McLaughlin's Class!

With the guidance of resident artist Lesley Evers, Ms. McLaughlin's second grade class has created a beautiful 30"x30" oil painting.   The class looked at work by a renowned Louisiana artist named Ida Kohlmeyer for inspiration.  Her work is rooted in the spirit of Abstract Expressionism with joyous colors and gesteral movement.  This is a must-have item!
True Colors!

Thank you Ms. McLaughlin's 2nd grade class
 
1501. Framed Photos of Each Child in Ms. Nelson's Class

Each child's photograph, handprint and self portrait is framed and ready for purchase by his or her parents.  What parent could resist?

-- No competition required, just purchase your child’s piece for a fixed fee of $40.

Picture this!

Thank you Ms. Nelson's 2nd Grade Class

1502. "Poppies in a Vase" by Hillcrest’s 4th Graders

"Poppies in a Vase" is a gallery-quality original painting expressing the soul and creativity of Hillcrest's 4th grade artists as they celebrate our native California flower, the Poppy.  This beautifully rendered still life of a vase overflowing with poppies is a vibrant expressive statement and display of youthful energy and talent.  The central image is contained in a darker, calming background that focuses and sets off the bright, uninhibited center of the painting, which was created one flower at a time by each of our young artists. The name of each artist is written in the center of their flower.  This gorgeous painting will fill your heart and your most precious display space on your home.

Some say love, it is a flower . . .

Thank you Hillcrest's 4th Graders!
1503. How to Be a Kid Forever!

Ms. Bahr's fifth grade class of young published authors invites you to become one of the first to own a signed copy of "How to Be a Kid Forever," their collaborative venture into advice aimed at parents of all ages.  Something for everyone can be gleaned from this insightful manuscript.  No more than two of these prized hardbacks will be auctioned!

Forever young!

Thank you Ms. Bahr's Fifth Grade Class

1504. Middle (Ages) School Furniture!

Revisit the 80's?  We're talking the 1380's here!  You can be one of three to take home a piece of the middle ages.  These three pieces will be individually auctioned the night of the Benefit:

-- A chair decorated with ancient Latin and hand-scripted calligraphy, accented with golden finials and topped with a vintage upholstered seat cushion depicting architectural details.

-- A chair decorated with ancient Asian calligraphy also accented with golden finials and an upholstered seat cushion of satin jacquard woven with Asian chrysanthemum motifs.

-- A side table that can double as a small storage chest.  It is decorated with architectural trump l'oeil and hand-scripted calligraphy.

Priceless

Thank you Mrs. Massey's Middle School Class, Mr. Gorman's Middle School Class

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Head of the Class:  From the Teachers!

1600. Birthday Party with Ms. Henderson

Happy Birthday to You!  Miss Henderson will volunteer to help at your child's Birthday party.  She'll run activities that you plan, read books, and help supervise the kids -- anything you need, within reason.  Up to 4 hours on a weekend day.

Priceless

Thank you Annie Henderson
 
1601.    Another Birthday Party with Ms. Henderson!

Happy Birthday to You!  Miss Henderson will volunteer to help at your child's Birthday party.  She'll run activities that you plan, read books, and help supervise the kids -- anything you need, within reason.  Up to 4 hours on a weekend day.

Priceless

Thank you Annie Henderson
 
1602.    Zoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo

Take a trip to the Oakland Zoo with Ms. Rochester. Three children will join her there from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2007.  Pickup and drop-off at the zoo entrance!
-- Top 3 bidders
-- Saturday, March 24, 2007, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Eye of the Tiger!

Thank you Alice Rochester
 
1603.    Day at Tilden Park with Ms. Buswell and Ms. Chang

Be among the 6 lucky kids to accompany Ms. Chang and Ms. Buswell to the carousel at Tilden Park.  Snacks, art projects, fun, laughter and unlimited rides on the carousel will be provided.  Drop off children at 2 p.m. and pick up at 4 p.m.
-- Top 6 bidders
-- Saturday, January 20, 2007, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Saturday, in the Park

Thank you Candace Chang and   Barbara Buswell

1604.    Animal Adventure - Oakland - Day at the Zoo for 3 Children with Ms. McLaughlin

Ms. McLaughlin will take 3 children to the Oakland Zoo to commune with the animals. Includes transportation, lunch and zoo rides!
-- Top 3 bidders
Wild!

Thank you Marianne McLaughlin

1605.    Ice Skating for 4 Children

Ms. Nelson will take 4 lucky children to the Oakland Ice Arena for an ice skating session, including snack, on a Saturday or Sunday before this school year ends!
-- Top 4 bidders
Waycool!

Thank you Brooke Nelson
 
1606.    Lock-In at Hillcrest!

Friday Night Lock-In!  Ms. Minick and Ms. I.S. will treat ten lucky students to a "lock-in" night at Hillcrest School. This won't be like your daily Hillcrest experience, filled with teacher's lengthy lectures, grueling math and endless essays. No school work allowed tonight! You will be treated to dinner, an art project and an after-dark visit to the nature area by the fabulous Grade 3 and 3/4 teachers. 
-- Top 10 bidders
-- May 11, 2007, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Everybody Wang Chung Tonight!

Thank you Annie Iverson, Sherry Minick and Claudia Staniford
 
 
1607.    Roller Skating for 6 Children with the 4th Grade Teachers

Ms. Weinberg and Ms. Minick will take 6 children on a roller skating adventure at the rink in Hayward.  Date to be determined. Teachers will coordinate with parents to arrange carpools.
-- Top 6 bidders

Totally Cool

Thank you Sherry Minick and Susan Weinberg
 
1608.    Hiking with Ms. Bahr

Three lucky 5th graders will enjoy a day hiking with Ms. Bahr!  Lunch will be provided and the hike will take place in early Spring on a Saturday.
-- Top 3 bidders

Walk Like An Egyptian

Thank you Hallie Bahr
 
1609.    Ice Skating Escapades for 6 with Mrs. Massey, Mr. Gorman and Mr. Solove

Have a blast with your friends and teachers at the Oakland Ice Center!  Everyone will meet outside the Ice Center for a rockin' good time!  Weekend day in December.
-- Top 6 bidders

Waycool!

Thank you Eileen Massey, Jeremy Gorman and Mr. Solove
 
1610.    Hillcrest Rocks:  the CD!

Are your child and his or her friends future rock stars?  Well, this is their chance to put together their very own CD!  Hillcrest's own Mr. B has donated up to 6 hours of music recording, producing, mixing, and mastering for a small "rock 'n roll" group.  The finished product will be one song burned as a CD master recording.  The session will take place at a professional pre-production studio in Mr. B's home near Lake Merritt.  Mr. B requests that at least one parent and preferably two come to assist in the process.  He will help "pull the song" together with the group, either helping to compose an original song or arranging a "cover song."  Perfect for a group of young "Hillcrest Rockers!"  We have a lot of talent here... Available for a group of 2 to 6 kids.  Mr. B records electric guitars, bass, vocals, and electronic drums or drum "samples" but not acoustic drums or other acoustic instruments.  Parents can hear a sample of his home recordings of Mr. B's material per request via e-mail attachment of mp3 file mcbain69@hotmail.com.

-- 1 winning bidder – individual or group
-- Mr. B prefers to jam with you during Hillcrest's Winter Break but if that is not possible for the winning bidder, will arrange a mutually convenient date.

Rock and Roll Over!

Thank you Adam Bergman
 
1611.    Learn to be a Photographer with Sharon Green!

Learn to take the perfect portrait with Sharon Green!  Hillcrest's art aide extraordinaire is also an expert photographer and she's willing to share her secrets with you just in time for holiday photo cards!   Sharon will teach you film or digital techniques based on your choice to get the perfect shot.  Sharon has reserved November 18 at 1 pm (up to 3 hours available) for this experience but is flexible if you can’t do that date.
-- 1 winning bidder
-- November 18, 2006, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. or other agreeable date!

Say Cheese!

Thank you Sharon Green
 
 1612.   Climb Mt. Everest with Mr. Inclan!

Mt. Everest is a little far, actually, so let's do Alamere Falls in Point Reyes.  If your kid has what it takes to go 11 miles, then this is for you (duh… not for you, for your kid).  The ever-popular Mr. Inclan and Ms. Chang are leading this hike to Alamere Falls on Saturday May 19th for 6 lucky children!  Kids must be in at least 3rd grade and be fit enough to make the 11 mile hike!  No sag wagons here!  Hikers will meet at Hillcrest to begin their expedition on Saturday morning.
-- Top 6 bidders
-- Saturday, May 19, 2007

Up Where We Belong

Thank you Jessie Inclan

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Way Cool Class Baskets!

1700.    Best of the Bay Basket!

Something for everyone in the family! Sample Ms. Rochester's Kindergarten family favorites to create a unique 'tour' of the Bay Area's Best.  It’s an eclectic selection of treats, activities, art, books, music and more. 
-- Food and Drink:  Chocolate (Scharffenberger is simply the best. Enjoy four sophisticated delicious bars), Ice Cream ($20.00 gift certificate to Fentons), Coffee (One fragrant delectable pound of Peet's Coffee!), a bottle of locally produced artisan Olive Oil, $75 gift certificate for dinner by the bay at either Kincaid's, Horatio's, or Skates, Village Market Certificate for $20.00. Sample some of their wonderful prepared foods and cheeses before your museum or kite flying outing!  Lush reds make Rosenblum winery Alameda's best kept secret. These bottles will make you a fan: 2004 MerlotRussian River Valley and 2004 Mourvedre, Appellation Series, $20.00 gift certificate to the Market Hall Wine Shop
-- Activities:  Two Lawrence Hall of Science Passes. Plus, Chabot Space and Science Center: Four admissions, Let's go Fly a Kite. Take this colorful kite to windy Berkeley Marina or Crissy Field, Family Guest Passes to the Oakland Zoo. The new children's zoo is the best!  Four passes to the Oakland Museum, Four passes good for movies at AMC theatres.
-- Sports: How about those Golden State Warriors? Two seats to a Warrior Game in Oakland across the aisle from the media seats in the corner zone. These are "awesome" seats.
-- Music:  Private House Concert: Songwriters and brothers Michael and Peter Black, also known as May Lake, will perform at your house (East Bay only) on a mutually agreeable date to be determined. The concert will last at least one hour. Michael Black has performed music all over the United States since 1990 and is the proud parent of Hillcrest kindergarten student Elza Black. Some of their influences are Neil Young, John Coltrane, Chopin, Elliott Smith, Air, and Zero 7. Visit myspace.com/maylake for more information about these unique artists.  Big wide Grin: Enjoy the CD "live" from Big Wide Grin, including Elaine Dempsey, Mill Valley musician, and family friend of the Katz's.  Album includes their renditions of Tracy Chapman, Steven Earl and Sly and the family stone songs. The trio has recently toured with K'eb Mo'.  Super Diamond: A CD from the Bay Area band that keeps the music of Neil Diamond "forever in blue jeans" and will make you "a believer," too.
-- Books:  Fanny at Chez Panisse by the pride of Berkeley, restaurateur Alice Waters. Includes recipes for great home cooking!  The Devil's Teeth: Best shark feeding ground? The Farallons! A riveting account of a journalist's great white shark adventure just outside the Golden Gate. Take an armchair tour of a fascinating eco-system and the sharks who visit there each fall in our own front yard.

Value:   $500

Thank you Ms. Rochester's Kindergarten Class
 
1701.    Rockridge Dining Basket

Don't feel like cooking tonight? This is your savior. Grab a gift certificate out of your *Rockridge Dining Basket* and take the family out to dinner.  Basket will include gift certificates for dinner at favorite haunts along College Avenue- ranging from Cactus to Khana Peena to Soi 4.  Order pick-up and eat at home, or take the family out to dinner, on us!

Value:   $350

Thank you Ms. Henderson's Kindergarten Class
 
1702.    Drive, Chip and Putt around Oakland

I'm about five inches from being an outstanding golfer.  That's the distance my left ear is from my right.  ~Ben Crenshaw

Need to work on that distance?  Experience an exclusive private country club, a true American links course, neighborhood ranges, family golf, and a basket overflowing with fabulous golf accessories sure to improve your game!
• Enjoy a round of 18 holes for you and two friends on the beautiful Alister MacKenzie course at the Claremont Country Club.  - Compliments of Peter and Pat Smith, former Hillcrest Parents.
• Experience "American Links" on a beautiful Johnny Miller course.  18 holes for 4, plus carts. - Compliments of the Metropolitan Golf Course
• Need to work on your full swing before you hit the course?   Drop in anytime for 6 buckets for use on the driving range. - Compliments of the Montclair Golf Club.
• You've spent a lot of time on the course, now its time to enjoy a day playing with the kids.  6 complimentary passes to Golden Tee Miniature Golf. - Compliments of Golfland.

Value:   $700

Thank you Ms. Chang's Class

1703.    Rock and Roll "Swag Bag"

This beautiful Steve Madden Mixed Media bucket bag ($175) is loaded with lots of rock and roll loot.  You'll be the envy of all your friends with your bag filled with the must haves of the stars.  Some of the goodies included are: an iPod/MP3 player ($50), Chanel sunglasses ($400), fine champagne ($75), DVDs and books ($125), bling, chocolate ($20), gift certificates ($100 ++) plus many more surprises.

Value:   $800

Thank you Ms. Buswell's Class

 

1704.    Gardening Gift Basket!

Ms. McLaughlin's class has put together a basket for the gardener in you!  It's everything you'll need to have the best garden in the hood!  Include, among other things, a pair of West Country gardening gloves ("the best in the world" says Peggy Toppin), gift certificate for Thornhill nursery, wonderful seeds & bulbs, & a Secret Garden DVD. 

Value:  $150-$200
GROW!

Thank you Ms. McLaughlin's 2nd grade class
 
1705.    Emergency Preparedness Kit

Use this kit to be sure you are prepared for every emergency!  We live smack-dab on the Hayward Fault, and we’ve witnessed so many disasters of late.  We saw how long it can take most people to get assistance.  Do you want to trust your family's safety to the federal or local response agencies?
It’s also important to remember to keep separate emergency supplies away from your house and not rely on your day-to-day first aid equipment.  In the big one, you may not be able to access camping equipment or tools stored under or in the house.  Don’t put it off one more day!  Be the lucky winner of this kit and be prepared now!

Value:   $300

Thank you Ms. Nelson's 2nd Grade Class

1706.    Chocolate Lover's Gourmet Basket!

Calling all chocoholics!  This is for you!  Godiva, See's, Scharffenberger and more!  A complete list of the contents will be available the evening of the event!  But isn't it enough to know that it's chocolate, pure chocolate?

Sweet dreams are made of this!

Thank you Ms. I.S. Third Grade Class

1707.    Family Road Trip Cargo Carrier

Keep your kids entertained and the whole family safe on your next road trip with this convenient Cargo Carrier filled with all the essentials:  portable DVD player, travel games and activities for the kids, roadside emergency kit for the car and other goodies all packed in a cargo carrier perfect for keeping the family car organized!

Value: $400

National Lampoon's Vacation

Thank you Ms. Minick's Class
 
1708.    In Cold Blood

All the fixin’s for a pet snake!  Gift certificate for $40  to East Bay Vivarium;  10 gallon fish tank; a close-fitting lid for the tank; heat pad; overhead light ; dimmer switch; water bowl; coconut shell; scenery wallpaper. 

Value:  $150

Slither!  Slither!

Thank you Ms. Weinberg's 4th Grade Class
 
1709.    Oakland Family Green Basket

A basket full of goodies for a family who would like to be a little more green.  The basket contains supplies and information relating to composting, recycling, energy conservation, and doing other things to help our environment.  Items include West Country gardening gloves ("the best in the world" says Peggy Toppin), a gift certificate for Thornhill nursery, wonderful seeds & bulbs, a Secret Garden DVD and more!

Value:  $150-$200

It's Not Easy Being Green

Thank you Ms. Bahr's Fifth Grade Class
 

1710.    Video Killed the Radio Star!

Movie Night at Home!  Prefer to stay home?  Enjoy popcorn, candy and an array of PG movies selected by our own middle-schoolers.  When you've viewed all of them, take your movie guide and Blockbuster gift card to rent some more.
 
Value:  $150

Two Thumbs Up

Thank you Mrs. Massey's Middle School Class, Mr. Gorman's Middle School Class
 

1711.    A's Equipment Bag

A bag of goodies from the ALCS winning A's, including bobbleheads, baseball DVD's a $50 gift card from the A's store, and more.

Value:  $150
 
A Grand Slam!

Thank you Mrs. Massey's Middle School Class, Mr. Gorman's Middle School Class
 

1712.    Giants' Equipment Bag

Get ready for the 2007 Season with this totally rad bag including hats, orange and black wig, Giants Italian Heritage night t-shirt, a baseball autographed by Lance Niekro and a $50 card for the Giants store.  Andiamo giants!

Value:  $150
 
A Splash Hit!

Thank you Mrs. Massey's Middle School Class, Mr. Gorman's Middle School Class

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Totally Awesome Middle Schoolers

1800.    But, Mom, This Homework Is Hard!

Rebecca Tay knows her stuff so let her help your 1st to 5th grader with their homework!  She is offering 10 (wow!) 30 minute tutoring/homework help sessions!  Valid through November 11, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Rebecca Tay
 
1801.    Homework Helper Kendall Williams

Homework, math, or reading helper for 30 minutes a week for 5 weeks.  1 child per half hour on mutually agreed upon dates for Grades K-5.  Valid through June 15, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Kendall Williams
 
 1802.   Babysitting for Kids that are 10 or Younger!

5 Hours of Babysitting on one occasion with Jordan Below and Allison Hytha!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Jordan Below and Allison Hytha

 
1803.    A Panoply of Services by Super Sarah!

Super Sarah returns from last year's Benefit!  She has so many services that you'll be glad you called.  She will baby-sit, serve at a party and clean up, be a mother/father's helper for an afternoon or walk your dog!  She is offering 2 sessions of 5 hours each!  Restriction for babysitting:  You must be home by 10 pm (weekends only).

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Sarah Allison
 

 1804.   Molly's on the Job!

She’s a cool babysitter!  4 hours of babysitting with Molly Magoulas - no more than 4 kids please!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Molly Magoulas
 
1805.    5 Nights on the Town!

Talia Gilbert and Yalda Rafie are super sitters so take advantage of these 5 nights of babysitting for up to 3 hours each night.  They prefer weekends or summer vacation.  Valid until August 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Talia Gilbert, Yalda Rafie
 
1806.    Babysitting with Luca and Zach!

Luca Castellotto and Zach Fleig are fun kids who want to have fun with your kids in a 4 hour babysitting adventure.  Head out to dinner and have a good time because your kids (up to 3) will be in good care.  Valid until October 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Luca Castelloto, Zach Fleig

 
1807.    An evening of babysitting with Maggie Phillips!

One evening of babysitting with Maggie Phillips!  Valid until March 26, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Maggie Phillips

 
 1808.   Dinner and Babysitter Haley Davis!

Amazing 8th Grader Haley Davis will come to your house with dinner (macaroni & cheese) and some great movies (G-rated) accompanied with popcorn.  Then, she'll watch your children for 4 hours while you enjoy a night of fun all for yourself!  Limit of 4 children in one family.  Call to schedule a mutually agreeable date!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Haley Davis
 
1809.    Babysitting and More with Hanna Weisenberger

8th Grader Hanna Weisenberger has offered an array of services.  You choose any combination up to a total of 6 hours:  babysitting up to 4 kids, gardening help, homework helper, or pet care for any animal!  Call to arrange mutually agreeable date.  Expires August 31, 2007

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Hanna Weisenberger
 

1810.    Sierra Bundy Baby-sits!

And, if you bid high, she'll baby-sit your kids!  Sierra has offered 6 hours of babysitting for your kids (2 kids maximum).  You can divide the time however you like but please ensure that each session is at least 2 hours.  Valid through June 30, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Sierra Bundy
 
 
1811.    Kendall Williams is a Cool Babysitter!

Need someone to watch your kids so you can go to a cool holiday party?  Try Kendall Williams.  She baby-sits for kids age 1-10, up to 4 kids at a time in the Hillcrest neighborhood.  Valid through January 15, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Kendall Williams

 

1812.    A Babysitting Team Extraordinaire!

Three hours of babysitting with an amazing tag team to entertain your little darlings!  They need to be home by 9:20 pm on weeknights and by 10:00 pm on weekends.  Up to 3 kids.  Valid through June 12, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Dora Finkelstein, Kelsey Dolby
 

1813.    A Night of Babysitting

Your kids will have a great time and so will you because you'll know that Marlee's on the job!  Please be home by 11 pm and call her to arrange a mutually agreeable date!

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Marlee Piette

 

1814.    3 hours of Babysitting with the Team of Branch/Bishop-Moser

Weekends and Wednesdays are offered for 3 hours of babysitting from this entertaining team of Michelle Branch and Emma Bishop-Moser.  Valid through June 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Michelle Branch, Emma Bishop-Moser

1815.    Babysitting After School or Weekends with Clio McConnell & Natalie Bigelow

Babysitting after school or weekends for 10 hours (at least 2 hours at a time)!  Wow! Maximum of 3 kids in one family, no Thursdays or Saturday mornings.  Valid until April 1, 2007.

Middle Schoolers Rock!

Thank you Clio McConnell, Natalie Bigelow

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