| | Published September 14th, 2011
| Magic Library Bash Full of Surprises
| | By Cathy Tyson |  | | Lafayette Library and Learning Center supporters danced for fun, fundraising, and to keep warm last weekend. From left: Ginny Paulson, Ruthie and James Thornburg, Jane and Keith Kelson, Roxinna and Martin Jackman. Photo Doug Kohen
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Between the incredible Red Panda Acrobat Wayne Huey, wandering mimes and magicians along with music by the talented Acalanes Jazz Combo, Gold Coast Student Quartet and enchanting Gypsy Chix - hundreds of party guests helped "Celebrate the Magic" to support the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation. The impressive neighborhood block party event raised funds to support the library's current and expanded programs, events and open hours. The very ambitious, creative evening unfolded in the main library and wrapped up the night with dinner and dancing outdoors on the Reading Court/Amphitheater.
It was a night to break out the high heels and serious jewelry, and dig through the closet for a wrap to take the chill off - despite the valiant efforts of heaters and wind screens. The fantastic band, Martini Straight Up, did a terrific job of luring attendees to the dance floor to rock under the stars to a variety of upbeat tunes, helping guests generate their own heat.
With over fifty donated silent auction items, a handful of bigger ticket live auction items, prizes like a 2012 VW Beetle or Passat, and a custom-designed necklace from Ware Design - Lafayette citizens went all out to support the Library. "I'm tempted by the array of auction items," said Fred Caven as he perused the extensive list.
Long time resident Ed Katibah commented on the large turnout and many generous contributions from local artists and retailers, even in this down economy, and noted, "It's wonderful to see so many of my neighbors all dolled up, not in sweat pants," that he usually sees pals wear walking the dog or jogging.
The big surprise of the evening came with The Peter Pan Foundation, a non-profit youth group, that staged a flash mob - spontaneously singing and dancing to "A,B, C, easy as 1, 2, 3" that the crowd, mostly old enough to remember when the original Jackson 5 song came out, truly enjoyed. The fun continued as they led guests to dinner with more singing and dancing outside.
Starting with a selection of passed appetizers, local business SpringLoaf Catering provided a sumptuous feast for guests with something for everyone. From the Moroccan Chicken kebabs and curried carrot soup to divine desserts like mini-cheesecake bites and orange cointreau mousse, an army of staff made the moveable feast really move along. Diners savored a wide variety of offerings at themed food stations on the transformed terrace along First Street, everything from braised short ribs, smoked salmon mousse, and vegetable ratatouille to pomegranate glazed lamb kebabs and couscous.
"Celebration" Chairperson Leida Rodenburg along with Kathy Bowles, Kathy Merchant and Karen Mulvaney, and over a dozen Auction Committee volunteers and helpers, provided party guests with a gala for a great cause, near and dear to Lafayette residents.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA