Woodside Priory School stages 'Mad Hatter's Ball' Woodside Priory School stages 'Mad Hatter's Ball' (April 28, 2004)

Party-goers at the Woodside Priory School's "Mad Hatter's Ball" will step through the looking glass and into a Victorian garden that sets the tone for this year's fundraising auction Saturday, May 1, at the Hotel Sofitel in Redwood City.

About 350 people, in black tie or costume, are expected to pass through archways of flowers and crazy teapots into the party scene as if stumbling into the illustrations of Lewis Carroll's book "Alice in Wonderland. The benefit, sponsored by the Woodside Priory Parent Association, raises funds for next year's school budget, said Wayne and Cindy Davison, event co-chairs.

Headmaster Tim Molak will conduct an oral auction. One of the most sought-after items is likely to be a hand-crafted tall clock --the 20th in a signed series by Father Martin Mager, superior of the Benedictine community.

More hand-crafted items from the Priory community include: a canoe of variegated red cedar made by faculty, parent John Greswold and students; a gold illusion necklace set with tiny diamond chips, created by art faculty member Reed Easley; and two brightly, colored quilts by parent volunteers.

"Our volunteers have outdone themselves finding the rare, the coveted, the unique, the glamorous and the practical items for the silent and grand auctions -- something for every taste and price range," said Mr. Molak.

A week cruise on a Sabre 362 yacht, outfitted with luxurious accommodations, gourmet food and a personal skipper, along the Maine/New Hampshire coast is among the items at the live auction. More items include: A 1990 red Porsche Targa; a contemporary 16-inch teapot by Jono Pandolfi Designs in New York; a luxury vacation in a Bahamian villa that sleeps five, located at Treasure Cay, Abaco; and a chess set in a Wonderland theme.

Items on the silent auction tables will include high-tech gear, professional services from CPAs to garden designers, sports lessons and equipment, and certificates to restaurants, clubs and spas.

"This event is a tribute to volunteer spirit," says Father Martin. " It takes a terrific effort every year, but its purpose is not only to raise funds the school needs, but also to celebrate the Priory's community spirit."

For more information, contact Pat Reed at the school office, 851-8221.

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