Signature Events

There will be a Silent Auction at Club Casino for spectacular Signature Events. Lots 1 thru 13 will be available for bidding on May 5th.

Lot 1: Fun in the Mexican Sun

Before December 22, 2007, excluding November  17-24
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

7 nights accommodations at a beach bungalow at Casa del Corazon for two couples
NOT INCLUDED: airfare, airport transfers, auto rental, meals

Bask in the sun for seven glorious days in your own private beach paradise, and enjoy all that the east coast of Mexico just south of Cancun has to offer…and more.

Two lucky couples will get to call Casa del Corazon “home away from home” for one week. Casa del Corazon is just an hour and a half south of Cancun, but a world away in tropical tranquility. The two couples will stay in one of the romantic beach bungalows at this romantic hideaway on Soliman Bay. You are surrounded by tropical greenery . . . that is, until you venture a couple steps out to the beach. Then it’s the wide blue spaces of Soliman Bay and the Caribbean! This is a quiet, peaceful location, perfect for those who want to kick back in a gorgeous spot without the crowds.

You can lounge around the swimming pool or go kayaking and snorkeling right from your beach-side front door! Casa del Corazon has sea kayaks for paddling around Soliman Bay. Snorkeling the coral heads is another favorite activity for the energetic. This is a delightful and romantic place to spend a week!

Your hosts, Andy and Rosa, are legendary in Soliman Bay and are some of the nicest people you could hope to meet. They take care of their guests like they’re old friends and want them to feel welcome, so they provide kitchen essentials and usually a couple bonus items until you have a chance to get to the area market (nearby Akumal or Tulum). Haity and Jose are the daily caretakers and keep the gardens and bungalow interiors in tip-top condition. If you don’t want to cook, there’s a nice little beach restaurant within easy walking distance on neighboring Paradise Bay, offering lobster, the catch of the day, and a cold cerveza!

The beach-front bungalow has a full kitchen, living room, and two bedrooms. Amenities include TV, DVD, Internet WiFi; 24-hour electricity; ceiling fans; towels and linens; maid service six days a week; shade palapas on the beach; and night-time security.

Lot 2: Pamper Yourself at Meadowood

Before June 1, 2008, excluding September and October 2007
For Sunday through Thursday booking

2 nights accommodations for 2 couples at Meadowood Napa Valley
Four sixty-minute spa treatments
Dinner for 4 in The Restaurant (four courses paired with wines)
NOT INCLUDED: airfare, ground transportation, additional meals, other club amenities and services

Relax, rejuvenate, and feel utterly refreshed . . .
 
at famed Meadowood Napa Valley.  It’s a mecca of fun and relaxation combined, an idyllic place for your getaway any season of the year.

Two lucky couples will spend two nights at the quintessentially elegant Meadowood Napa Valley.  This dream get-away package includes four 60-minute spa treatments and dinner for four in The Restaurant (four courses with wines paired).

Set on a private estate, Meadowood is a center for social, cultural and viticultural life in Napa Valley.  This is a place where the pace of life moves with the seasons; where the traditional values of simple pleasures, physical well-being, cultural enrichment and spirited mealtime conversation with family and friends are a way of life, says founding partner Bill Harlan.
 
For the ultimate in personal pampering, you will find the spa treatments both invigorating and calming.  The exquisite meal with wine pairings will top off this fabulous treat.

It’s a great way to have fun and feel better too!

Lot 3: Escape to Puerto Vallarta

Between April and December 2007 or April and December 2008
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

7 nights accommodations at a two-bedroom condo in Conchas Chinas for 4 (two couples)
Maid service, access to swimming pool
NOT INCLUDED: airfare, auto rental, meals

Steal away for a dream week in sunny Mexico.  

Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful beaches and charming Old Town ambience.  Add to that  1000 wonderful restaurants!!  Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, where charm and culinary delights await you.  There is everything from the simplest family-owned cenadurias to world-class sophisticated dining,all at reasonable prices.

Puerto Vallarta has expanded the Malecon (boardwalk) to the entire central area and there are plenty of things to do.  Sit on the beach and people-watch.   Soar through the jungle trees, horseback ride over the hill to a bird sanctuary, swim with the dolphins or sea-lions, scuba or snorkle, rent a ponga (outboard motorboat with sun cover) and go to the beaches down south. Shop till you drop. (You won’t be able to resist the reasonably-priced jewelry!)   There is an exciting nightlife, as well: music and entertainment along the Malecon, fireworks, plays and concerts, and club activity of all types.

A beautifully decorated Puerto Vallarta condo can be yours for a full week.  It is located in Conchas Chinas, the “Beverly Hills” of Vallarta.  There is a gorgeous view of the entire Bay of Banderas, Los Arcos, the Marieta Islands and the delightful Conchas Chinas beaches below.  Walk to town along the beach!  Relax with a glass of good wine and enjoy the spectacular sunsets from the terrace!

The two bedroom (king-size beds), two bathroom apartment has every amenity: completely equipped gourmet kitchen, washer and dryer, large living room and dining room, big terrace, maid service, 24 hour security, on-site manager and swimming pool.  Water can be drunk from the tap:  it is tested monthly by the State of Colorado and is pure as Colorado water!

It’s a charming place for your dream week in sunny Mexico!

Lot 4: Tennis Round Robin

Friday, September 7, 2007

Tennis Round Robin event for 36 participants with Napa Valley Country Club Tennis Pro Sam Levy
Box lunch catered by Café Kinyon

Tennis Players!! Sign up for a great Round Robin organized by Head Professional Sam Levy at the beautiful Napa Valley Country Club.  Sam is a master at putting together good matches with players of various abilities.  Both men and women are invited to play. You don’t need a partner but, of course, if you prefer to play with someone special you can do that too.

Following the tennis we will enjoy a delicious box lunch on the tennis deck catered by the fabulous Kinyon, chef/owner of Kinyon Culinary Services.  His creative, yummy dishes and wonderful presentations are always a treat.

Get a group together or sign up individually NOW.  Only 36 lucky players will be able to attend.  

Lot 5: A Feast for the Senses: From Fine Food and Wine to Flowers and Song

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Dinner with specialty wines for 8
Concert for 8
Floral arrangements for 4 couples

Here’s a ready-made dinner party that you and your friends will long remember! 

A gorgeous up-valley estate overlooking Lake Hennessey.  Napa Valley’s own Melissa Teaff creating an unforgettable feast just for you and your guests.  Your own private musical salon:  Soprano Deborah Tonella and friends singing a mix of operetta and opera tunes.   Your own floral magic:  Florist Susan Carr of Artiste Fleuriste will not only create stunning centerpieces for the table, but will also provide you and your guests with special floral arrangements to take home.   

Four couples will join Don and Barb Niemann at their beautiful estate on Saturday, November 10, 2007, for a fabulous gourmet dinner.  Melissa Teaff and her staff will prepare your sumptuous repast and the Niemanns will share some outstanding wines from their private cellar to add to this splendid feast.

Much-sought-after as a florist for Napa Valley signature weddings and events, Susan Carr will lend her creativity to your evening with floral arrangements that will add to the beauty of the evening’s elegant setting and will include arrangements you will take home. 

Deborah Tonella and fellow classical music singers will treat you to a private concert of favorite opera and operetta duets and solos from such favorites as Lehar’s “The Merry Widow” and Puccini’s “La Boheme.”

Lot 6: Fore! for Four

Before November 5, 2007
Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays after 12 noon
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and Mitch Johnson.

Enjoy a golf lesson with PGA Head Golf Professional Mitchell Wade Johnson of Napa Valley Country Club, and then enjoy a round of golf on the Club.

Four lucky golfers will meet Mitch at the club for a private golf lesson and afterwards, enjoy a round of golf on this excellent course. 

Nestled in the hills of the Napa Valley this 6,148-yard, par 72-layout rolls through the countryside in grand fashion.  Napa Valley Country Club is the only entirely private country club in Napa County.  Opening its doors in 1916 and incorporating in 1923, we have a rich history in the Valley.  Four lucky golfers will have a chance to enjoy one of the best kept secrets in Napa Valley.
 
A joint one-hour golf lesson for 4 with Napa Valley Country Club Head Golf Pro Mitch Johnson.  One round of golf (18-holes) with carts for 4.

Lot 7: Relaxation, Tahoe-Style

First weekend of October, 2007 (three nights between October 4-7)
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

3 nights accommodations at Tahoe Taverns Unit 73, a two bedroom, 1 bath condominium that can sleep up to six (master bedroom plus room with queen-size bunks)
Access to Tahoe Taverns swimming pool and tennis courts

NOT INCLUDED: transportation, meals, golf

Lake Tahoe.  Golf.  Woodland or shoreline walks.  Biking.  Hiking.  Tennis.  Swimming.  Reading.  Relaxing.  Doing nothing.  Doing it all.  It’s your choice.  For three days.

Bring friends (up to two other couples) for a three-day party.  Or keep it all to yourself for a romantic getaway.  It’s your choice.  For three days. 

The winning bidder will stay in a beautiful forest-view retreat with your own fenced yard and garden.  Light streams in through skylights. Windows run the length of the dining area.  The wood-beam ceilings and original redwood details reflect your woodland surroundings. You can relax in the comfortable black leather sofa and chair next to the stunning burl-wood coffee table next to the natural rock fireplace.  The master bedroom set includes a California King, and the cozy sleep arrangements in the second bedroom feature unusual queen-size bunk beds. 

The lovely lakefront community of Tahoe Taverns is just ¼ mile south of Tahoe City.  Your “mountain home” will be within 30 minutes of Old Greenwood, Coyote Moon, Old Brockway and Squaw Valley golf courses.
 
Indoor entertainment includes a 50” big screen TV, CD and DVD players.  Outdoor entertainment—well, take your pick.  Tahoe Taverns has a swimming pool and tennis courts for your use.  The marvelous pier offers unparalleled lake views.   There are off-road bike trails that surround the lake, so bring your bikes for an invigorating ride.  And don’t forget the swimsuits, golf clubs, tennis racquets, and those books you’ve been dying to read!  Ah, for a few days of relaxation, Tahoe-style!

Lot 8: Winery Vertical Tasting, Cave Tour and Al Fresco Lunch

Before May 7, 2008
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

Winery cave tour and vertical tasting for 10
Lunch for 10

A perfect activity for your out-of-town guests, a group of dearest friends —or your book club.

Get out and experience first-hand Napa Valley wine country at Phelan Vineyard.  Ten very lucky guests will meet proprietors Gerald and Arlene Phelan, who will host a private wine experience few have access to.  After a tour of their winery cave, Gerry and Arlene will lead a special vertical tasting of outstanding Phelan Vineyard wines.  Then it is on to a pool-side lunch, complemented by more of Phelan Vineyard wonderful wines.

Phelan Vineyard produces outstanding estate-grown cabernet sauvignon wines which have received commendations in the wine press.  On the Vintage 2001 cabernet sauvignon, The Wine Exchange commented, “This is one to watch . . . as this is an impressive, fleshy, very nicely endowed effort from mountain fruit from a single vineyard in southeastern Napa."

Now here is your chance to experience the Phelan’s dream first-hand!

Lot 9: A One-of-a-Kind Napa Bubbly & Lobster Feed

Before November 30, 2007
Holidays are excluded; weekends are limited in availability.
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

Bubbly and lobster feed for 20

This is a party for those who love to party.  Take twenty good friends, throw in plenty of Mumm Napa Valley sparkling wine and plenty of lobsters, and voila, a good time is sure to be had!
 
Twenty fun-loving revelers will be guests of  Mumm Napa Valley and Pisenti & Brinker LLP for an unforgettable Lobster Feed paired with Mumm Napa sparkling wines.  With lots of lobster, shrimp, artichokes, potatoes, garlic, oven-fresh French bread. . . . they promise a veritable feast to savor and remember.  Bibs, of course, are provided at this fabulous evening!
 
Bubbly and lobster feed for twenty.

Lot 10: A Night at the Opera

Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Performance begins at 7:00 pm.  Dinner before performance.

$100 gift certificate for dinner at Jardiniere; advance reservations required
San Francisco Opera Center Box Q Seats 1 and 2 for the Sept. 18, 2007 performance of Tannhauser.
NOT INCLUDED: parking tip for valet parking

A romantic evening in San Francisco, with dinner and opera.

Enjoy Wagner’s Tannhauser from the comfort of box seats.  And not just any box seats—two of the most spectacular seats in San Francisco’s War Memorial Opera House.  Center Box Q, Seats 1 and 2 will be yours for a performance of Wagner’s resplendent Tannhauser.  You will have excellent acoustics and remarkable views of the opera house, orchestra, and stage. 

Begin the evening with a romantic dinner at Jardiniere Restaurant, across the street from the Opera House.  You can valet park there, and you’ll be able to get out easily after the performance.  After dinner, you won’t need to move the car or walk several blocks.  Just take the easy walk to the Opera House, settle into your comfortable box seats, and enjoy the music.

Irresistible impulses – the lure of carnal pleasure and the yearning for spiritual redemption – battle for one man’s soul in Wagner’s tale of tragedy and transcendence.  German tenor Peter Seiffert, praised by New York Magazine for his “vocal finesse and expressive shading”, gives a passionate portrayal of a 13th-centry poet torn between his love for the pure Elisabeth and his lust for the sensual goddess Venus.  The first new production of the David Gockley era will be directed by the bold and innovative Graham Vick and conducted by the Company’s acclaimed Music Director, Donald Runnicles. (Description from the San Francisco Opera subscription brochure.)

Lot 11: Exclusive Original Art

"Downtown" by Donna Broder

You could be the proud owner of the 2003 monotype "Downtown" by Napa Valley artist Donna Broder by being the winning bidder on this stunning original piece.

Donna graciously donated this piece in support of the Opera House and had this to say about her creation:

"I created this monotype by laying ink down on a zinc plate with a roller, and then transferring the ink to paper using an etching press. When I felt that I had enough undertone of color, I applied more ink directly on the paper with the roller and used paper stencils to add blocks of color. I scratched other marks onto the surface with a sharp tool. My impression of the image was of looking down onto city blocks from an airplane or balloon, thus I named it "Downtown"."

Donna has been an artist for most of her life. She started exploring various mediums in 1991. They have included painting in oil, watercolor, acrylic and wax.  She has done printmaking using wood cut, monotype and encaustics. She has also done dry point etching and ceramic sculptures.

She has been represented in many art shows and galleries over the years, particularly in Hawaii where she lived for many years.  In 1999, 2002, and 2003, she was an artist-in-residence at the Vermont Studio Center as a printmaker.

Donna says travel has been a big part of her art experience.  Many of her ideas have come from visiting exotic places, including India, Nepal, Africa, Southeast Asia, and MIcronesia.

Lot 12: A Perfectly Pampered Party: Bocce Ball & Poolside Fun at an Amazing Estate

August-September 2007
Date to be mutually agreed upon by the winning bidder and donors.

Bocce Ball Party for 8
Lunch for 8
Wine tasting for 8

Here’s your chance to enjoy throwing your own party at the stunning Noble estate located high above Lake Hennessey. Gorgeous views from this 120-acre property are unmatched. From both the terraces and “curtain rooms,” you can see several close-by wineries, including Chappellet, Kuleto Estate, and Bryant Family. Awe-inspiring views of the lake and the Napa Valley beyond are truly breath-taking.

The Nobles, Harrises, Vences, and Peebles will be your hosts for an unforgettable afternoon of wine tasting, bocce playing, swimming, and lunching. Your afternoon will include enjoying yummy hors d’oeuvres while soaking up the sun by the pool, or playing an informal round of bocce ball. Scott, George, Tom, and Bob will fire up the outdoor kitchen, creating a memorable lunch of their specialties: grilling, wood-smoking, and pizza-making. To add to your perfectly pampered private party, you’ll get to sample wines from your hosts’ private labels - Noble Vineyards, Skellenger Lane, and Vence Vineyards - as well as enjoy some special surprises from your generous hosts’ private cellars.

What a perfect way to spend a perfectly pampered Napa Valley afternoon!

Lot 13: Signature Events House & Garden Tour 2007

Date TBD, 2007.

Exclusive tour of a private estate's gardens and exquisite "barn" for 20
Al fresco lunch for 20

This year’s spectacular Signature Events tour for twenty fortunate guests will take them to an exclusive estate never before shown on a house tour in the Napa Valley. This gem, nestled in its own private valley in the Stags Leap area, boasts exquisite gardens and an Edwardian-style “barn” the likes of which you will never see again. Design icon Thomas Bartlett has decorated this astounding space to welcome in the gorgeous gardens while still succeeding in creating a sumptuously elegant, antique-filled vision from another era. Mr. Bartlett will personally lead this once-in-a-lifetime tour of this very private estate and then join our guests for a lovely sit-down lunch al fresco.

Get a group together or sign up individually.  Only 20 guests will be able to attend.