Auction Lot    Lot Page

2008 Auction Lots 600 - 624

• 600
The Hess Collection – Two Passions Under One Roof

 Two thousand feet above the Napa Valley floor, The Hess Collection Winery is dramatically situated on the slopes of Mount Veeder.  The historic stone building, formerly Christian Brothers’ Mont La Salle Winery and now home to The Hess Collection Winery and Art Collection, is the setting for a private tour of Hess’ priceless art collection for eight, followed by a private dinner prepared by the winery’s Executive Chef, featuring an array of current vintages including, The Hess Collection Napa Valley Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder, 19 Block Cuvée and Artezin Zinfandel.  Certificate expires 5/17/09.  This event must be booked a minimum of six weeks in advance and must be scheduled based upon availability.  This certificate is not valid 9/28-11/26/08.
donated by:

The Hess Collection


• 601
Calling All Anglers…to Puerto Vallarta

Hook the Cure is not your every day catch-and-release fishing tournament. This is a fishing event where not only do the participants enjoy one of the greatest fishing locations in the world but also enjoy first class all-inclusive accommodations, gourmet meals, relaxing spa treatments, live entertainment, celebrity guests, nightly social events and an action-packed fishing tournament. Enjoy a four-day, three-night stay at Villa Premiere Hotel and Spa, a deluxe beachfront hotel just a short walk from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Villa Premiere Hotel & SPA is Puerto Vallarta’s exclusive address where tranquility is guaranteed. YOUR CHOICE of a two-day angler tournament fishing package, two-day golf tournament package, “Angler & Golfer Combo,” “Angler & Spa Combo,” or “Golf & Spa Combo.” Whatever package you choose, this promised to be an unforgettable adventure and best of all, proceeds from Hook the Cure benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This event takes place October 23-26, 2008. Get ready for world-class fishing, world-class gold and a world-class spa.
donated by:

Hook the Cure
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

• 602
Primal Alchemy

Chef Paul Buchanan has worked with some of the top caterers in Los Angeles and Orange County. In his years of experience, Chef Paul has fashioned an intimate dinner for eight at the home of Billy Crystal and a 2,400 person dinner at the Emmys. In every case, only the freshest and finest quality foods are used to prepare your meals, while receiving excellent service from a highly trained staff. A wonderful experience awaits your party of eight when Chef Paul and Primal Alchemy Catering create a seasonal tasting dinner showcasing artisanal foods and wines from your local Food Shed. Chef Paul will plan a personalized gourmet dinner with wine pairings for each course. He will utilize his resources to obtain local, seasonal ingredients from artisanal farmers, wineries and food producers within 100 miles of your home, including his own personal kitchen garden. See how seasonal ingredients can be transformed into a beautiful and delicious dining experience while maintaining sustainable practices. Valid to 6/1/09, at a mutually convenient time (spring recommended).
donated by:

Primal Alchemy Catering

• 603
American Idol

There’s only one American Idol, the program that has become a phenomenon, seeking to discover the best young singer in the country through a series of nationwide auditions. Tonight’s lucky winning bidder will get four tickets to a live taping of the American Idol Season #8 for next season. Sit in on the action as record producer Randy Jackson, former pop star Paula Abdul and music executive Simon Cowell pick America’s next singing sensation. Past winners include Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and Jordin Sparks. Show date to be determined at a mutually agreeable date selected with the winning bidder closer to next season’s tapings. Not valid two weeks before the finale through the finale.
donated by:

Ryan Seacrest Productions,

• 604
A Special Invitation for One Lucky Girl from Self Esteem Clothing

Some years ago, a unique clothing company was created, one that would not only bring teenage girls the latest styles, but also promote their sense of inner self-confidence. Today, Self Esteem is a successful blend of hip, trendy clothes packaged with a positive message. The combination of up to the minute fashion designs and the company's upbeat philosophy has struck a strong chord with teenagers across the country and grown Self Esteem into a 150-million dollar company headquartered in a 65,000 square foot facility in Montebello, California.  The company also has showrooms in New York and Los Angeles.  Self Esteem takes a new and soulful approach to the junior market by offering a combination of style and substance. The company shops trends globally each season to come up with the concepts that will inspire the junior novelty knit tops line.  In addition to its Junior Sportswear line, Self Esteem produces, Belle De Jour , LA Kitty and Girls 7-16. Self Esteem is carried in over three thousand retail stores across the country including major department stores, specialty chains and specialty boutiques. Self Esteem gives teenagers what they need to look good and to feel good by remaining true to their mission: committed to creating the inspiration for individual style that expresses the inner self.
Tonight, Self Esteem partner Andrea Rankin-Waters invites one teenager to experience a factory tour plus an internship at this wildly successful company.  Also included: a shopping spree!!
donated by:
Self Esteem Clothing
Andrea Rankin

• 605
A Private Bungalow Dinner for Eight and an Array of Pax Wines

For over a century, The Fairmont Miramar Hotel Santa Monica has welcomed discriminating guests seeking privacy, luxury and pampering. The moment you arrive at this Santa Monica landmark you will notice the magical transformation that has taken place. From the exquisitely manicured grounds to the casual elegance of the stunning public rooms, you will enjoy an experience that has redefined luxury. It is in this setting that your party of eight will savor a gourmet dinner in your own private Fairmont Miramar Hotel Bungalow, especially prepared for you by Executive Chef Raymond Garcia. Chef Garcia will feed your senses and your appetite with his culinary artistry and unique California style cuisine. He will design a creative menu that features ingredients that are indigenous to the Southern California. A dinner as special as this one deserves to be paired with wines of the finest quality. Get ready to enjoy the wines from Pax Wine Cellars with a focus on Rhone-style wines, mostly Syrahs. A large number of Pax wines have garnered scores of between 93 and 97 from Robert Parker. As a special treat, a Pax Wine Cellars principal will attend the dinner to offer personal insights and professional commentary on each Pax wine. Valid to 5/31/09, at a mutually convenient time. You may choose between the Hotel Bungalow or the privacy of your home as the setting for this dinner.
donated by:

Executive Chef Raymond Garcia
The Fairmont Miramar Hotel Santa Monica
Pax Wine Cellars


• 606
The World’s Best Golfers Led by Tiger Woods

Four
Clubhouse passes to the Target World Challenge 2008 featuring Tiger Woods. This unique PGA Tour event at the spectacular Sherwood Country Club showcases 16 of the top-ranked players on the Official World Golf Ranking. With a limited field of contestants and an exceptional golf course, the spectators at Sherwood will enjoy a close-up view of the best professional golf competition while benefiting several worthwhile charities. These four Clubhouse Passes are valid December 19, 2008 and include breakfast and lunch.
donated by:

Dole Packaged Foods Company

• 607
Calling All Soccer Fans!

Marcia and Gordy Kanofsky offer four tickets and two parking passes to
each of the following six Major League Soccer Games at the Home Depot Center in Carson:
Thursday, June 19 at 7:30 p.m. – Chivas USA vs. Chicago Fire
Saturday, July 5 at 7:30 p.m. – Chivas USA vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 p.m. – Chivas USA vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Saturday, September 27 at 7:30 p.m. – Chivas USA vs. Kansas City Wizards
Sunday, October 12 at 5:00 p.m. – Los Angeles Galaxy vs. Colorado Rapids
Sunday, October 19 at Noon – Chivas USA vs. Colorado Rapids
You’ll enjoy these games in your Luxury Seats located in Row Q of Section 111, right at mid-field.

donated by:

Marcia and Gordy Kanofsky


• 608
Small Luxury Hotels of the World Present...the U.S.A., Your Way

Leaders in the hospitality business, Small Luxury Hotels have a unique character and independence personified by the personal touch, which entices guests to return again and again. Now, you have an exceptional opportunity to fashion your own six-day, five-night dream vacation in your own “backyard.” Select from any of the SLH properties in the United States. You might choose to visit the Napa Valley, where warm wine country hospitality and distinctive elegance come together in The Inn at Southbridge. Perhaps you’ll visit Manhattan and stay in the heart of New York’s historic Gramercy Park, where a landmark townhouse, The Inn at Irving Place evokes a bygone era of gracious living. How about exploring Jamestown Island and Colonial Williamsburg during a visit to Wedmore Place where history, art, culture, great food and wines are a way of life. Wherever you go, the choice is yours. Happy planning! Valid to 12/30/09, subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. This certificate covers stays at SLH member hotels at the time of travel, with a maximum of three room nights per request, per hotel. Membership changes annually, so hotel selection may vary slightly. Please allow for a minimum of two weeks notice.
donated by:

Small Luxury Hotels of the World

• 609
The “Jewel of Maui”

Situated on 40 meticulously landscaped acres, the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa opens onto Maui's beautiful Wailea Beach, voted one of the best beaches in America. The natural beauty of Maui is reflected in this unrivaled beachfront location with tranquil gardens and mesmerizing ocean views. While you are on your Hawaiian vacation, you will have the opportunity to experience the best Maui has to offer whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure. In addition to its beautiful location, the resort offers an array of Hawaiian activities. Indulge in Spa Grande, the largest Spa in Hawaii that blends Hawaiian, European and Eastern therapies. Or spend a day at the pools, or make plans for golf, tennis, snorkeling or visiting the many beautiful sites Maui, Hawaii has to offer. Get ready for a five-day, four-night Hawaiian vacation in an Ocean View room with feather duvets and pillows, a private lanai (balcony), Italian marble bathroom with oversized bathtub and separate glass enclosed shower, sitting area and writing desk, high speed internet access, plush robes and twice daily housekeeping services. Includes tax and resort fees. Valid to 5/17/09, excluding holiday periods. Please book no more than 60 days in advance. Space availability.
donated by:

The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa

• 610
Celebrate Earth’s Finest Aroma’s in the Napa You’ve Imagined

The Carneros Inn and PlumpJack Winery combine to offer an unforgettable Napa Valley experience for two. Spectacular vineyard venues within the famed Carneros wine growing region – fruit orchards and flower gardens to meander through – surrounded by both Napa and the Sonoma Valleys. This is The Carneros Inn, crafted to respect and reflect its agricultural surroundings. Experience all this newest jewel of the wine country has to offer with a three-day, two-night stay in a spacious Garden Cottage with vaulted ceilings, Brazilian cherry wood floors, your own private deck and garden, wood-burning fireplace and outdoor heater, flat-screen TV with DVD/CD player and luxurious bathroom with soaking tub, heated slate floor and private alfresco shower. Also, enjoy two Warm Goat Butter Massages in The Spa. During your wine country visit, you’ll enjoy a private tour and tasting at PlumpJack Winery where you’ll receive a 3.0L of PlumpJack Cabernet Sauvignon Estate at the end of the tour. Valid Sunday through Thursday until 5/1/09. Space availability.
donated by:

The Carneros Inn
PlumpJack Winery

• 611
Autographed Basketball from John Wooden - A Coaching Legend

John Wooden has been called the greatest coach ever -- in any sport, not just college basketball. He is a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player (class of 1961) and a coach (class of 1973). He was the first person ever enshrined in both categories. His 10 NCAA National Championships while at UCLA are unmatched. He concluded his 40 years as a head coach with a 885-203 overall career win-loss record (a percentage of .813) that is unequalled. A large part of that success was at UCLA. In 27 years as Bruin coach, his teams registered 620 wins, and only 147 losses while earning far more national honors than any other university. Under Wooden, UCLA won an unprecedented 10 NCAA championships, including seven consecutive (1966-73). Included in the string is one of the most amazing win streaks in all of sports, 38 straight NCAA tournament victories. John Wooden is the only coach to compile four undefeated seasons of 30-0 and his Bruin teams captured 19 conference championships (the record of which Wooden is most proud). Wooden celebrated his 97th birthday on Oct. 14, 2007. This prized autographed basketball is a true treasure beyond compare.
donated by:

Pam and Gary Jaffe

• 612
The True Heart of Luxury in Barnard, Vermont

Twin Farms centers about the quiet 1795 farmhouse that a Nobel Prize-winning author gave his journalist bride-to-be as a wedding present in 1928. This country estate has only 20 guest accommodations scattered thoughtfully about the estate’s three hundred acres, each unique in its own secluded environment. Every cottage has at least one fireplace and extraordinary amenities. They are spacious, imaginative and always supremely luxurious, inspired by Vermont and a love of indulgence. Enjoy a three-day, two-night romantic stay in an idyllic cottage, including all meals, wines, liquor and activities for two. Valid Sunday through Thursday to 5/17/09, excluding all public holidays and other blackout dates. Space availability.
donated by:

Twin Farms

• 613
A Gift of Paradise Awaits in Los Cabos

As its name implies, Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort, is a window to Paradise. One of the most acclaimed resorts ever, Las Ventanas has redefined luxury and pampering, reaching out with special touches that are the hallmark of refined hospitality. The desert resort captivates its guests with expansive suites, a world-class spa, inspired cuisine and an intoxicating ambiance. Richly appointed, all suites have marble showers and Conchuela limestone floors. At the end of the day share the warmth of a seaside fire, and be lulled to rest by the rhythm of gently washing waves. Or, turn your personal telescope toward the heavens to gaze at the shimmering stars. As spacious as they are luxurious, your Oceanview Junior Suite offers a stunning view of the sparkling Sea of Cortez. From your own spacious patio, enjoy quiet moonlit dinners, gaze across the Robert Trent Jones II 18-hole golf course or take in the majestic scenery of the sand and sea. Your three-day, two-night stay in an Oceanview Junior Suite is valid to 5/17/09, excluding 5/23-26, 7/2-5, 11/26-29, 12/19/08-2/2/09, 2/14-18, and 4/9-13/09. Space availability. Also includes taxes and service charges.
donated by:

Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort
League Marketing Group  

• 614
An Instant Dinner Party with Noteworthy Wines

This memorable dinner is meant for a party of six ultimate food and wine lovers. Chef Thomas Moran, Executive Chef of the prestigious Sheraton Gateway Hotel Los Angeles joins Cobblestone Vineyards Brand Director P.J. Ochlan for an evening of wine and food seduction in the privacy of your own home. What is better than a famous guest chef cooking a five-course meal and an engaging top-notch wine personality pouring great wines? Chef Moran will guide a custom epicurean adventure to match the outstanding wines of Cobblestone Vineyards. Among the most intriguing instances of music’s dance with wine is Cobblestone whose proprietor Saul Levine is also the owner of LA-based radio station Go Country 105 FM. Cobblestone Vineyards focuses on two wines: a Cabernet Sauvignon from Atlas Peak in Napa Valley and a Chardonnay that hails from Arroyo Seco, Monterey. Prior to opening his own restaurants, Moran, a recipient of the “Chef 2000 Award,” was an integral component of the five-diamond, five-star experience at The Mayflower Hotel in Connecticut, guiding the restaurant to its rating as one of New England’s finest. Now, he is a super star on the L.A. restaurant scene. Take home tonight 1 case of Cobblestone Cabernet Sauvignon and 1 case of Cobblestone Chardonnay! This is one dinner you won’t want to miss!! Valid to 5/17/09, at a mutually convenient time.
donated by:

Cobblestone Vineyards
Chef Thomas Moran

• 615
A Resort for All Senses

Rest beside the shimmering Sea of Cortez. Hear the waves, feel the wind, see the sunset. Come to Marquis Los Cabos and rejuvenate your body, soothe your mind and feed your soul. Here, in a land where the tranquil desert meets with the untamed waters of the Pacific Ocean, you will feel a sense of serenity, well-being and joy. This spectacular vacation package features a four-day, three-night stay in a Junior Suite with ocean view. Enjoy Marquis Amenity Breakfast delivered daily to your suite, Bulgari bathroom amenities, Frette bed linens and a down duvet and much more. Conde Nast “Gold List” 2007. Valid to 5/19/09, excluding Christmas and New Years and blackout dates. Space availability.
donated by:

Marquis Los Cabos

• 616
Hawaiian Hula

Visit the captivating islands of Hawaii where their beauty will stun you. Enjoy warm beaches, waterfalls and romantic sunsets as you explore the enchanting island of Maui. Three couples or a party of six are invited as guests of the Powell family to enjoy a seven-day, six-night dream vacation in a luxurious partial ocean-view condominium ideally located overlooking the golf course at the Grand Champions Villas in Wailea, Maui. This property is available during the following dates: valid 11/2-11/8/08. Limited to six people. ONE TIME WIN ONLY for these SPECIFIC DATES. Upon receipt of certificate, please call to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
donated by:

Rick, Debbie, Jeremy and Ashley Powell  

• 617
Unique…Even by Hollywood Standards

The Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas is a luxurious Four-Star, all suite hotel surrounded by three and a half acres of lush gardens complete with koi fish ponds and exotic birds. Situated in the heart of the entertainment capital of the world in West Hollywood and moments away from exquisite shopping and gourmet dining, you may very well choose never to leave this ultimate romantic retreat during a three-day, two-night stay. With guestrooms portraying a Zen-like quality and a modern representation of 1930’s and 1950’s décor, home will soon be forgotten. Your interlude includes: deluxe accommodations, one dinner for two at either of the hotel’s fine dining establishments, two 0ne-hour massages, a three-day Equinox pass for two, and a two-day Mercedes E-320 luxury sedan rental. Hotel valid to 5/15/09, space availability. Mercedes rental valid to 1/30/09, excluding August.
donated by:

Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas
Midway Car Rental

• 618
The Epitome of Grand English Style

For over a century, Claridge’s has enjoyed the patronage of the most illustrious families, leaders and dignitaries from all around the world. Today, it is committed to preserving its unique traditions while providing extensive new services for discerning guests. Claridge’s is ideally situated in the heart of Mayfair, London with easy access to Bond Street, Regent Street and Hyde Park. Enjoy an opulently decorated guestroom during a four-day, three-night stay. Valid to 5/17/09, excluding June and July. Space availability.
donated by:

Claridge’s

• 619
France Meets California in West Los Angeles

A delectable dinner designed especially for you and hosted by Bella Doshi and Chet Bhavsar, Karla and Russ Moore and Wendy and Mike Hahn. Your party of eight is invited to the beautiful Brentwood residence of Bella and Chet where you will savor a multi-course gourmet dinner paired with a selection of fine wines from France and California. Are you ready for this menu? Start with:
Appetizers

Non-vintage Krug champagne with mixed appetizers, including King Crab Tempura, Hamachi Roku, Seared Ahi Tataki and Puffed Pastry Tarts
1st Course

2004 Etienne Sauzet Puligny-Montrachet, Cru Les Perrieres
2005 Aubert Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard
Fresh Truffle & Hudson Foie Gras Flan
2nd Course

1999 Maison Leroy Volnay, 2005 Kistler Pinot Noir
Grilled Ginger-Teriyaki Wild Salmon
3rd Course

1989 Chateau Le Tertre Rotebouef, 1999 Bond Matriarch
Roast Muscovy Duck Breast 
4th Course

1989 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, 1999 Pride C.S. Reserve
Rack of Lamb, with sides
Dessert

1963 Sandeman Porto , Sauterene (TBD)
Cheese Platter and Mixed Dessert
The pleasure is all…yours!!! Valid to 5/17/09; at a mutually convenient time.
donated by:
Bella Doshi and Chet Bhavsar, Karla and Russ Moore,
Wendy and Mike Hahn

• 620
Andalusian Nights in Encino

Your party of six is invited to join Andrew Manning and Chef/Artist Steve Dubin in their stunning mountaintop home in Encino for an elaborate Spanish wine dinner. With strains of Spanish music in the background, Andrew and Steve will provide a tour of their show-stopping estate designed by award-winning architect Benton-Park. After a tour of the house and gallery, enjoy a panorama view of the city lights as you sit down to enjoy a multi-course feast paired with Spanish wines from Andrew and Steve’s extensive collection. Valid to 5/17/09, at a mutually convenient time.
donated by:

Andrew Manning and Steve Dubin

• 621
To Tread the Earth Lightly

Singita Lebombo – one of the finest game preserves in Africa is situated within the Lembombo Mountains of South Africa. Enjoy an extraordinary and unforgettable bush and wildlife experience at a place like no other – a vast and pristine wilderness surrounded by the warmth of African hospitality. Singita Private Game Reserve, a member of Relais & Chateaux, invites you to enjoy four days, three nights in a luxurious suite – private, cool and spacious – with its own traditional understated elegance. Singita’s world-acclaimed executive chef prepares truly inspirational cuisine complemented by wines from the finest bush cellar in Africa. Your stay includes all meals, beverages and two open Landrover safaris each day. Unlike any lodge the continent has ever seen, Singita Lembombo extends the opportunity for an unparalleled journey into Africa. Children under 12 years of age are not accommodated. Valid to 5/1/09, space availability.
donated by:

Singita Lebombo

• 622
The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa

Discover one of the world’s most celebrated resorts. Surrounded by tranquil beauty in the high Sonoran Desert north of Scottsdale. Dramatic, sun-splashed boulders…enchanting everyone who steps within their spell. The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa. A legendary hideaway where time stands still. You are cordially invited to relax during a three-day, two-night stay in a Deluxe Casita sculpted into the ancient boulders. Enjoy the scent of fragrant mesquite nestled in the fireplace while savoring the mixture of desert simplicity and unbridled luxury. Your magnificent Sonoran Desert holiday also includes two rounds of golf at The Boulders Club. Valid to 5/17/09, excluding holidays. Space availability. Golf times valid after noon.
donated by:

The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa

• 623
Small Luxury Hotels of the World Present...the Cote d’Azur

Leaders in the hospitality business, Small Luxury Hotels of the World are setting the standards for service and luxury in the new Millennium. Now, you have the unique opportunity to fashion your own six-day, five-night dream vacation on France’s Cote d’Azur selecting from any of the Small Luxury Hotels scattered throughout the region. You might choose Auberge de Cassagne , just five minutes from Avignon. A renowned gastronomic stop-off point for the world’s gourmet, the Auberge de Cassagne’s award-winning Michelin-starred restaurant is matched in repute by only that of the hotel’s exquisite design and splendid gardens. Or perhaps the Hotel Juana, an art deco gem located on the edge of a pine grove at the entrance to the Cap d'Antibes in the seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins will capture your fancy. Or, what about a stay at the Hotel La Bastide, a luxurious oasis in the heart of glamorous Saint Tropez, where each room has its own terrace and private garden? Wherever you go, the choice is yours. Happy planning! Valid to 12/31/09, space availability. Blackout dates may apply. Hotels in Paris not included. This certificate covers stays at SLH member hotels at the time of travel, with a maximum of three room nights per request, per hotel. Membership changes annually, so hotel selection may vary slightly. Please allow for a minimum of two weeks notice.
donated by:

Small Luxury Hotels of the World

• 624
A California Sanctuary for Two

Infused with country club charm and superb amenities, CordeValle, A Rosewood Resort is tucked away in a valley of rolling, tree-covered hills, deep-set canyons and sprawling meadowlands in northern California’s oldest wine growing region. Open exclusively to resort guests, members and guests of members only, CordeValle’s features elegantly appointed villas and Fairway Homes just steps from the golf course. The resort’s talented chef creates delightful and contemporary American dishes influenced by the changing seasons and designed to pair perfectly with the region’s famous wines, especially those from the estate’s private vineyard and Clos LaChance, the on-site winery. Tonight, CordeValle invites two to experience this perfect wine country retreat with an overnight stay in a bungalow, breakfast for two, two 90-minute Classic Massages, one round of golf for two with cart and Forecaddie and one dinner on your private patio. Alcohol, taxes, resort fee and gratuities not included. Valid to 5/17/09, space availability.
donated by:

CordeValle, A Rosewood Resort
Clos LaChance Winery