Everyone knows all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
Just over a year ago the Cedar Valley Waldorf School enthusiastically threw open the doors of its new home on Westway Avenue in Valleycliffe, with the continuing goal of "igniting a life-long love of learning" in children. Now that the renovation dust has finally settled on the former church, the emphasis has shifted to building relationships within the community and, for tomorrow night (Nov. 28) in particular, showing Squamish a good time.
In previous years the school's major annual fundraiser has been a silent auction. With everyone dressed to the nines, delicious food and beverage and incredible entertainment, the event has always been a winner. However this year, event organizers promise the evening will be even more fun, more delicious and more rewarding.
On Saturday night at 7 p.m. a night to remember is on the auction block and Squamish is invited to the CVWS Gala Live Auction, at the Brackendale Art Gallery featuring live music by former Paperboys' Cam Salay, Shannon Saunders and friends.
"The emphasis on all of this is the word 'live,'" said Jennifer Thompson, key organizer and head of the parent initiative council at Cedar Valley. "We've retained the undercurrent of excitement a silent auction brings for the majority of our items, but this year, in addition to our more central location, we wanted to spice things up and have enlisted a live auctioneer to really get things going."
Thompson said there is approximately $15,000 in goods and services up for grabs, with two sessions of live auctioning on items that range in value, so everyone can get in on the fun. Another 100 plus items will be up for winning through the silent auction.
"This is definitely the way to do your Christmas shopping. Everything you spend will go back to the school to make it a better place for the children," said Thompson. "It's an incredible community-building event, but you can't forget that we've got chefs Jaime Grant and Masaki Yokoushi preparing stunning, unlimited appetizers, a free-flowing decadent chocolate fondue and great holiday beverages. This is one of the few nights you can really get dressed up in Squamish."
Thompson said there are a multitude of original items to bid on.
"The most unique item would probably have to be our 'carpenter for a day,' Al Modin. Al is the incredible man who has been such an integral part in our school's move to its new location. He has volunteered an incalculable number of hours to transform our school into what it is today just out of the sheer goodness of his heart. He doesn't even have children. He's a consummate volunteer, Squamish Search and Rescue, we're all better for knowing him," said Thompson.
For powder enthusiasts there are three days of Cat Skiing for two with Backcountry Snowcats a $3,000 value, season's passes to Callaghan Valley, Whistler Blackcomb five-day Edge Card, Salomon children's skis and Whistler accommodations on the block.
There are one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts including an original metal sculpture by Christina Nick, a painting by Wanda Doyle, and gorgeous textiles and art from the East Kootenay Collective. Handcrafted items include a Figg & Me Waldorf doll, natural toys, wooden dollhouses and adult-sized wood furniture.
Gastronomes can bid on a gourmet dinner party for six with food prepared by chef Jaime Grant or full high tea on bone china, also for six, both of which will be served in your home.
There's also a Peek Photography package, luxurious spa treatments and massage, jewelry, lingerie and more.
Tickets are $25 and include unlimited gourmet appetizers and two drinks and are available at Bean Around the World Brackendale, Billie's Bouquet and at the door. Call 898-3287 for more info or visit the school's brand new website at www.cedarvalleyschool.com.
