WISH WALKER NEWSFLASH #5
(Post Event Update)
2011 Dollars Raised: $132,000
Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation® Walk Teams,
THANK YOU FOR HELPING GRANT WISHES!
We couldn’t make so many local children’s dreams come true if it were for all our dedicated walk teams and their fundraising efforts. YOU are the reason we bring hope, strength and joy into a child’s life. We are forever grateful for the generosity of your time, treasure and talent.
WALK TEAM PHOTOS HERE!
Take a peek at this year’s Walk Team Photos here! NOTE: Upload YOUR Walk photos to our Facebook Page, Twitter Page and send us team stories for our Blog! Our wonderful walkers and our local community partners help grant many wishes each year… Help us celebrate YOU by sending in your photos!
THERE’S STILL TIME TO FUNDRAISE!
Our 2011 Annual Walk for Wishes Pancakes and Pajamas is over, but teams have until June 1, 2011 to collect donations! This means YOU can still become a TOP TEAM FUNDRAISER!
SAVE THE DATE!
Saturday, May 14, 2011 (8am- 2pm) Quest Hosts Yard Sale for Make-A-Wish - Visit t 5721 Eugenia Court, Orangevale, CA (home adress) to pick up some great finds at a yard sale benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California!
FUNDRAISE WITH BUCA DI BEPPO- Extended!
Here’s an easy last-minute fundraising opportunity for Wish Walker Teams
1. Schedule a day and time for a Spaghetti Feed at your office.
2. Place an order with Buca di Beppo – Orders include complementary bread, plates, plastic cutlery and serving utensils.
3. Bucca will provide an estimate based on number of guests (example: a group of 40 would be about $5.95 per person incl. tax and delivery).
4. Based on the per person price, offices choose a set Spaghetti Lunch price (maybe $10-$12) for employees. Most companies provide drinks.
5. Buca Di Beppo delivers, the office enjoys, and the team raises additional money for their walk team!
If you would like a Spaghetti Feed at your office contact: Marjorie Perez, Buca di Beppo Sacramento, 916-922-6673, mperez@bucainc.com.
TOP 10 WISH TEAMS (As of 5.10.11)- Your team could be here… Continue your wonderful fundrasing efforts until June 1, 2011!
| Team Name | Amount Raised | Team Leader Name |
| Sutter Health – Caring for Kids | $16,800 | Margie Mott |
| ~SUPER NEEL~ | $7,655 | Kulwant Pannu |
| Dream Walkers | $6,458 | Jessica Schmitz |
| Team Buzz Oates | $4,325 | Bonnie Allerhand |
| Team Wells Fargo | $3,533 | Mella Vives |
| Team Les and Marcy | $3,500 | Les Passuello |
| Team Mark III | $3,435 | Jen Cooley |
| Team Drake’s HOPE | $2,869 | Amy Bazzaroni |
| Cisco: Friends and Family | $2,820 | Cheryl Sultan |
| FOX40 | $2,400 | Gina Grim |
Thank you all for your help and dedication!!!
Jackie Gaster,
Make-A-Wish® Event Captain
jgaster@sacnortheast.wish.org
(916) 437-0206, x208
Special Thanks to Our Walk Sponsors
POST-EVENT UPDATE!!!
2011 Goal: 45 wishes
Help us raise: $225,000
Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation® Walk Teams,
WE CAN’T THANK YOU ENOUGH FOR YOUR DEDICATION TO GRANT CHILDREN’S WISHES!
We couldn’t make so many local children’s dreams come true if it were for all our dedicated walk teams and their fundraising efforts. YOU are the reason we bring hope, strength and joy into a child’s life. We are forever grateful for the generosity of your time, treasure and talent. We sincerely appreciate your commitment to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. View 2011 Team Photos Here!
AND THE WINNERS ARE… KIDS! We’re still counting donations but our next Wish Walker News will reveal Winning Walk Teams AND the number of wishes we can grant this year because of your support! Keep checking your inbox for the next Wish Walker News!
THERE’S STILL TIME TO FUNDRAISE! While our 2011 Annual Walk for Wishes Pancakes and Pajamas is over, teams have until June 1, 2011 to collect donations! This means that you can continue your efforts to help your team become a TOP TEAM FUNDRAISER!
Baja Burrito, Elk Grove Gives to Make-A-Wish TODAY, Fri. April 22 (4pm- 8pm)- 9015 Bruceville Rd. #100 Elk Grove, Ca. Whether you prefer to dine in or take out just PRESENT THIS FLIER and Baja Burrito will donate 20% of your transaction to The Make-A-Wish Foundation.
NOTE: Upload photos Walk photos to our Facebook Page, Twitter Page, and send us team stories for our blog! It’s because of YOU (our wonderful walkers and our local community partners) that we grant so many wishes each year; THANK YOU!
Jackie Gaster,
Make-A-Wish® Event Captain
jgaster@sacnortheast.wish.org
(916) 437-0206, x208
A SPECIAL THANK YOU! We would like to extend a special “thank you” to Wish Dad, Jose Alfaro, with ADJ’s EXQUISITE SOUNDS, Complete Professional DJ Service. He donated ALL DJ services for our Walk for Wishes! His company name is short for Adrian, Diego and Jose and honors his sons while continuing their legacy of love. If you liked what you heard, book him for your next party! Jose, (209) 613-8843.
TOP 10 WISH TEAMS! (As of 4.22.11) YOUR TEAM NAME could be here on our next Wish Walker News; there’s still time left to fundraise!
| Team Name | Amount Raised | Team Leader Name |
| Sutter Health – Caring for Kids | $16,500 | Margie Mott |
| ~SUPER NEEL~ | $7,033 | Kulwant Pannu |
| Dream Walkers | $6,433 | Jessica Schmitz |
| Team Buzz Oates | $4,225 | Bonnie Allerhand |
| Team Les and Marcy | $3,400 | Les Passuello |
| Wells Fargo | $3,290 | Mella Vives |
| Cisco: Friends and Family | $2,770 | Cheryl Sultan |
| Mr. Sprinkler Wish Team | $2,183 | June Rovegno |
| SAFE Credit Union Walking for Wishes | $2,109 | Christine Barham |
| Riverstone Residential Group | $1,805 | Stephanie Salameh |
Thank you all for your help and dedication!!!
April 16, 2011
Registrations and Breakfast: 9am
Stage Program: 10am
Walk Start: 10:30am
Help us raise: $225,000REGISTER ONLINE NOW!!!
Dear Make-A-Wish® Foundation Walk Teams,
ONLY TWO DAYS LEFT! We are just 48 hours away from one of the BEST walks in Sacramento: the Annual Walk for Wishes Pancakes and Pajamas THIS Saturday, April 16th! Thank you for all your hard work.
A Reminder: Registrations and breakfast starts at 9am. The stage program starts at 10am. The Walk starts at 10:30am.
Parking Info:Garage located at 10th and L St.: $1.50/half hr. or $5 daily max. Metered parking on streets surrounding Capitol. City of Sac Parking Website.
Make sure you upload photos of your walk team on Facebook, Twitter, and send us your fundraising or team stories to publish to our blog! It’s because of YOU (our wonderful walkers and our local community partners) that we grant so many wishes each year; THANK YOU!
Jackie Gaster,
Make-A-Wish® Event Captain
jgaster@makeawish-sacto.org
(916) 437-0206, x208
DON’T FORGET- “WISHING FOR CHANGE”
Our Wish Chairperson, Chris Pilkington, has challenged ALL walkers to to bring all their spare change, and to ask families, neighbors, co-workers, church family, merchants, etc. to give to the walk. Help grant Chris’ birthday wish for change at the Walk for Wishes!
“Wishing for Change” buckets will be located at registration to drop off spare change (preferably in plastic bags). This will be the best birthday present Chris could receive, and the possibility of raising enough change to grant at least one wish would be awesome!!!
TOP 10 WISH TEAMS!!! (As of 4.14.11)
| Team Name | Amount Raised | Team Leader Name |
| Sutter Health – Caring for Kids | $15,802 | Margie Mott |
| Dream Walkers | $6,283 | Jessica Schmitz |
| ~SUPER NEEL~ | $5,665 | Kulwant Pannu |
| Team Buzz Oates | $3,875 | Bonnie Allerhand |
| Team Les and Marcy | $3,400 | Les Passuello |
| Wells Fargo | $2,880 | Mella Vives |
| Cisco: Friends and Family | $2,385 | Cheryl Sultan |
| FOX40 | $1,385 | Gina Grimm |
| Mr. Sprinkler Wish Team | $1,308 | June Rovegno |
| Woodcreek Walkers | $1,306 | Brianna Incardone |
FUNDRAISE WITH BUCA DI BEPPO- Last Chance!!
Here’s an easy last-minute fundraising opportunity for Wish Walker Teams
1. Schedule a day and time for a Spaghetti Feed at your office.
2. Place an order with Buca di Beppo – All orders include complementary bread, plates, plastic cutlery and serving utensils.
3. Bucca will provide an estimate based on number of guests (example: a group of 40 would be about $5.95 per person including tax and delivery.
4. Based on the per person price, offices choose a set Spaghetti Lunch price (maybe $10-$12) for employees. Most companies provide soda.
5. Buca Di Beppo delivers, the office enjoys, and the team raises additional money for their walk team!
If you would like a Spaghetti Feed at your office contact: Marjorie Perez, Buca di Beppo Sacramento, 916-922-6673, mperez@bucainc.com.
We would like to thank you all for hosting Walk Team Fundraisers throughout Sacramento over the past few weeks! Your hard work is paying off! The following photos are from a raffle held at Fitness 19, the Sutter Infusion Chicks bake sale and SAFE Credit Union’s Bowl-A-Thon! Email us photos from YOUR event!
Thank you all for your help and dedication!!!
Posted 4.12.11
At the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California, we’d like to share some upcoming community events with our friends and followers! Mark your calendars… Thank you for helping us grant wishes!
WED, April 13, 6pm-8pm: Dive Bar/Pizza Rock/ District 30 Event- Come to Dive Bar for the Charity Happy Hour. Dive Bar will be donating 15% of the events proceeds. Dive Bar, 1022 K Street, Sacramento. Pizza Rock will have a table before the happy hour (from 4-7pm) to register walkers for the Walk for Wishes Pancakes & Pajamas. Visit their Facebook Page for details.
SAT, April 16, 9am-1pm: 2011 Annual Walk for Wishes® Pancakes and Pajamas at the State Capitol (West Steps)!!! Join the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Sacramento and Northeastern California for the Biggest Pajama Party in Town. 5K Walk through Sacramento or a 1-mile shortcut around the Capitol. Registration and Breakfast: 9am, Stage Program: 10am, Walk Start: 10:30am.
April 23, 11am- 2pm: Go Fly a Kite at The Fountains- Every Tuesday and Saturday from March 15 through April 16, the community is invited to visit Fountains at Roseville and create their kite. On April 23, The Fountains in Roseville is hosting their official judging and kite flying party for the whole family. Each kite costs $2 and 100% goes to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento & Northeastern CA, whose mission is to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions. Visit the event page for more info.
WED, April 27, 11am-11pm: Rubicon Brewery Make-A-Wish Wednesday- Come join Make A Wish at Rubicon Brewing Company’s 501(c) Wednesday. Rubicon will generously donate a portion of the day’s proceeds to the Make-A-Wish Foundation! Visit their Facebook Page for details.
Ongoing: “LIKE” the Beauty Pyramid Facebook Facebook Page, Doctor Donates $1 - “Like” the Beauty Pyramid Facebook Page and Dr. Andrew Kaczynski from Advanced Concepts in Plastic Surgery will donate $1 per person . Let’s try to reach our goal of 1,000 people to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California!!! Please help by re-posting!
WISH WALKER NEWS EDITION #6
April 12, 2011
MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION® OF
SACRAMENTO AND NORTHEASTERN CALIFORNIA
April 16, 2011
9:00am
Dear Make-A-Wish® Foundation Walk Teams,
THE ONE-WEEK COUNTDOWN BEGINS!
We are in the homestretch leading up to our Annual Walk for Wishes Pancakes and Pajamas on Saturday, April 16th! Thank you for your hard work with hosting bake sales, raffles, bowl-a-thons and many community events to help reach your fundraising goals! There’s still time left for last minute fundraisers or to ask friends and family for support.
Please contact us if you need help with fundraising. Don’t forget to friend us on Facebook, Twitter, and send us your fundraising or team stories to publish to our blog!
It’s because of YOU (our wonderful walkers and our local community partners) that we can grant so many wishes each year; THANK YOU!
Jackie Gaster,
Make-A-Wish Event Captain
jgaster@makeawish-sacto.org
(916) 437-0206, x208
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!!!
WED, April 13, 6pm-8pm: Pizza Rock/ District 30 Event- Come to Dive Bar for the Charity Happy Hour. Dive Bar will be donating 15% of the events proceeds. Dive Bar, 1022 K Street, Sacramento. Pizza Rock will have a table before the happy hour (from 4-7pm) to register walkers for the Walk for Wishes Pancakes & Pajamas.
TOP 10 WISH TEAMS!!! (As of 4.5.11)
| Team Name | Amount Raised | Team Leader Name |
| Sutter Health – Caring for Kids | $12,468 | Margie Mott |
| Dream Walkers | $5,378 | Jessica Schmitz |
| Team Buzz Oates | $3,875 | Bonnie Allerhand |
| Team Les & Marcy | $3,100 | Les Passuello |
| Cisco: Friends and Family | $1,980 | Cheryl Sultan |
| Wells Fargo | $1,710 | Mella Vives |
| ~SUPER NEEL~ | $1,255 | Kulwant Pannu |
| Sacramento Rockers | $1,200 | Kristen Kelleher-Wong |
| SAFE Credit Union Walking for Wishes | $1,005 | Christine Barham |
| Nurses Walk for Wishes | $965 | Linda Winn |
FUNDRAISE WITH BUCA DI BEPPO!!!
We couldn’t have been happier when Buca Di Beppo Restaurant in Sacramento approached us with an easy fundraising opportunity for Wish Walker Teams. Here’s how it works:
1. Schedule a day and time for a Spaghetti Feed at your office.
2. Place an order with Buca di Beppo – All orders include bread, plates, plastic cutlery and serving utensils.
3. Bucca will provide an estimate based on number of guests (example: a group of 40 would be about $5.95 per person including tax and delivery.
4. Based on the per person price, offices choose a set Spaghetti Lunch price (maybe $10-$12) for employees. Most companies provide soda.
5. Buca Di Beppo delivers, the office enjoys, and the team raises additional money for their walk team!
If you would like to set up a Spagetti Feed for your office, contact: Marjorie Perez, Sales Manager, Buca di Beppo Sacramento, 916-922-6673, mperez@bucainc.com.
WALK TEAM FUNDRAISING PHOTOS!
We would like to thank you all for hosting Walk Team Fundraisers throughout Sacramento over the past few weeks! Your hard work is paying off! The following photos are from a raffle held at Fitness 19 fundraiser, the Sutter Health- Caring for Kids Team bake sale and SAFE Credit Union’s Bowl-A-Thon! Email us photos from YOUR event!
Thank you all for your help and dedication!!!
Contact Theresa Gerhart at (916) 437-0206 or
Take a peek at the upcoming events leading up to our Annual Walk for Wishes® Pancakes and Pajamas!
THURS, March 31, All Day, Raffle 6:30pm: Fitness 19 Member Raffle- Fitness 19 members at the 2020 Club Center Drive, Sacramento (Natomas) location are encouraged to bring donations for their monthly member raffle to win a new TV! For $1, members will get 10 entries in the TV raffle. ALL donations made on Thursday, March 31 will go to “Team Super Neel”- One of our official Walk for Wishes Teams! Get Directions.
FRI, April 1, 10am-1pm: Bake Sale at Sutter Cancer Center- Our “Sutter Infusion Chicks” Walk for Wish Team from the Sutter Cancer Center will be having a bake sale to raise money to meet their team goals. Our special Walk Ambassador, Neel, will be there to help out! Sutter Cancer Center Lobby, 2800 L Street, Sacramento. Get Directions.
FRI, April 1, 4pm-7pm: Walk Registrations- Make-A-Wish representatives will have a table set up to promote the walk and register walkers. Grocery Outlet, 8517 Bond Road, Elk Grove. Get Directions.
SAT, April 2, 3:30pm – 5:30pm: SAFE Credit Union Walk for Wishes Bowling Fundraiser- $20 includes shoe rental, 2 games of bowling, 20% off snack bar. Come spend an afternoon with friends and family in support of a great cause! RSVP by April 1st to Christine Barham, SAFE Credit Union, 916-971-2926, christine.barham@safecu.org. Mardi Gras Lanes, 4800 Madison Ave, Sacramento. Get Directions.
WED, April 13, 6pm-8pm: District 30 Event- Details TBD. Get Directions.
SAT, April 16, 9am-1pm: 2011 Annual Walk for Wishes® Pancakes and Pajamas at the State Capitol (West Steps)!!!
(Riverbank, CA, March 1, 2010)- Many of our friends and wish kids know that at Make-A-Wish every moment of the wish-granting process is special.
From all the details put into helping a child discover their dream-come-true wish, to the extra planning, travel and coordination to bring their wish to life, and even throwing a special party once we reveal that their wish is about to become reality– We do all we can to make the experience and the memories last a lifetime.
For little Sophia’s wish, we not only were able to give her this fantastic experience, but were able to work with an incredible team at a local restaurant who unofficially adopted little Sophia for one evening.
Thanks to the help and generosity of the Red Robin Gourmet Burgers restaurant and staff in Riverbank, CA (located about 5 minutes outside of Modesto), her wish granting party was made even more fantastic.
“When our volunteers called to make the reservation at the restaurant and let them know our wish kid (Sophia) would be granted her dream wish that evening, we had no idea they would go out of their way to plan a last-minute party for her,” said Maria Jackson, Wish Coordinator.
Red Robin Riverbank #597 managers, Jimmy Eckstein and Michael Gonzalez gathered their team members the evening of Tuesday, February 22nd and began their preparations for Sophia’s arrival within a few hours. They went to the local office supply store and purchased photo paper and ink to give pictures from the party to the family, they inflated balloons, gathered all their extra pieces of flair, and picked out an extra-small sized shirt just for her!
“We don’t normally take reservations, but when we received the call that Sophia was coming, our team members rallied together to make her visit to Red Robin extra special, ” said Gonzalez. “We knew we needed to go above and beyond for this little girl.”
Upon her arrival, Sophia was greeted by the staff and presented with her gifts and surprises (in addition to her actual wish- to meet Jessie from the Toy Story movies in Disneyworld, see: Wish #5- “I wish to be Jessie from Toy Story” .
“One of our team members, Jennifer Foster, ran home and was able to get an extra lanyard she had (it’s one of the signature items worn by our staff) so Sophia could have a place to hold all the pieces of flair we gave her… She smiled so big when we gave it to her and refused to take it off,” said Eckstein.
Additionally, when Make-A-Wish Volunteers let Red Robin know that there was a budget for the dinner that evening, Eckstein refused, saying “Sophia’s family and friends can have all the appetizers, drinks, dinner, and dessert they can eat– all complimentary.”
Eckstein commented that he was “incredibly proud to be a team member and work for Red Robin.”
“I don’t have any kids, but Jimmy (Eckstein) has two daughters around Sophia’s age, and meeting her really touched our hearts. I’ll never forget when she hugged us and said ‘thank you.’
Sophia faces so much every day, it makes all our daily problems seem so small, ” said Gonzalez.
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
This is a BUSY weekend for us here at the Sacramento and Northeastern California Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Two events in Sacramento are sure to please even the most fashion savvy to the manliest of men- and the rest of us in between!
First up is Sacramento Fashion Week, held at various locations within Sacramento, which lasts all weekend long (February 24th-26th). This year the Make‐A‐Wish Foundation of Sacramento & Northeastern California will be the sole beneficiary of Sacramento Fashion Week .
This Friday (Feb 25th) will feature the Sac Fashion Week Launch Party at 7PM at Lounge On 20 (1050 20th Street)- no tickets needed; just enjoy a cocktail and mingle with other local fashionistas. Friday night is also the Emerging Artist Showcase at 8PM at the Elks Tower Ballroom (921 11th Street- tix required. Saturday is the Finale Designer Showcase at 8PM also at the Elks Tower Ballroom- tix required. Sunday wraps up the weekend with a Fashion Forum held at 1PM in Hinde Auditorium at Sacramento State University, and is dedicated to providing an educational workshop for fashion designers, merchandisers, models, and photographers.
All the hottest styles and fashion from Sacramento’s hottest established designers will be featured. Collections will include fall/winter 2011 as well as couture lines. Purchase tickets for Sacramento Fashion Week HERE. AND there is a SPECIAL DISCOUNT for Make-A-Wish Friends, use Promo Code: WISH to receive 20% off ticket prices.
The second event is hosted by our chapter: The 4th Annual Texas Hold’ Em Tournament at Morton’s The Steakhouse (621 Capitol Mall, Sacramento).
On Saturday, February 26th at 11AM enjoy Morton’s The Steakhouse cuisine, one of Sacramento’s most elite eating establishments, while winning a few hands and enjoying a cigar with friends and colleagues. The event is planned and organized by our Sacramento Advisory Council (which includes local ringers: Nate Cyphers, John Jackson, Treven Tilbury, Brian Boyd, Kevin Cole, Judah LaVine, Anthony Lombardo, Jake Mossawir, Aaron Stewart, and Uri Carrazco).
At the tournament, Morton’s The Steakhouse restaurant is transformed into a lively casino courtesy of Capitol Casino. The Sacramento Kings Royal Court Dancers assist with a fun raffle and make for an unforgettable event. View the one-of-a-kind tournament prizes here.
AND rumor has it that local UFC Fighter Urijah Faber is scheduled to attend… (pending a UFC fight that evening, of course). Other local celebrities will be in attendance, including our host: Mark S. Allen.
An estimated nine local wishes are granted thanks to our community of poker players who attend, play and support The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California.
Purchase tickets for the 4th Annual Texas Hold’ Em Tournament HERE.
We hope to see you at one of these two fabulous events this weekend!!! Thank you for helping us grant kid’s dreams and wishes!!!
The stakes are high at the 4th Annual Morton’s The Steakhouse Texas Hold’Em Tournament. The pot: raising money to grant the wishes of local children with life-threatening medical conditions. The game, the location, the food and cocktails, and especially the one-of-a-kind prizes can’t be beat. Players enjoy exciting games for a chance to win get-aways, sports memorabilia, fine wine, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The full list of prizes includes:
Prizes
(2) VIP Tickets to Observe the Final Table at the World Poker Tour At Bay Shooting Stars Tournament
1st Pitch at 2010 Rivercats Game & (4) Tickets Date TBD
Suite for 16 at a River Cats Game (Mon-Wed & Food not included) Date TBD
8 Senate Seats at a River Cats Game – Date TBD
8 Senate Seats at a River Cats Game – Date TBD
Private (10) Player Tournament (2) Hour Tournament includes appetizers, $100 added to prize pool & entry into a weekly tournament
World Series Of Poker Satellite Event at Capitol Casino – Winner to get $10K Seat at World Series Of Poker Main Event – Vegas
(1) Seat into the Lucky Casino’s Super Satellite Tournament which qualifies you for a seat into the 2010 WSOP Main Event ($250 value) May 22 at Lucky Derby Casino
Silent Auction Prizes/Experience Prizes
Dinner for 8 at Morton’s ($1,000) & 4 Hours with Top Notch Limo Service
Urijah Faber Autographed Shirt
Ski Weekend in S. Lake Tahoe – includes house (Sleeps 12) + (4) Lift Tickets
Ski Weekend in Truckee – includes condo & (2) Lift Tickets at Northstar
Sacramento Dinner Train Tickets for (4) – includes 3 Hour Trip & 3-Course Meal, Champagne, Beverages, rose for ladies. Value $450
Boys Night Out (8) Tickets to a River Cats Regular Season Game – Date TBD
Girls Night Out (8) Tickets to a River Cats Regular Season Game – Date TBD
Signed Toby Keith Guitar
Alex Pujols Autographed Jersey
Baseball Memorabilia
Skybar Hollywood- Access for 4; Hotel
Morton’s Cigar Party for 10 people
Mansion with cocktails and hor’s d’oeurves for 50 people
Raffle Prizes
Bottle of Silver Patron Tequila
Bottle of Anejo Patron Tequila
Bottle of Patron Patron Silver Tequila
Bottle of Patron Patron Silver Tequila
(1) Magnum Bottle of Magnificat
Round of Golf for (3) at Del Paso Country Club
Citizen Hotel- One night stay for two, plus $100 to Grange
2 Day Whitewater Rafting trip for two
(2) $20 bottles of wine from each member
Foursome at Granite Bay Country Club
6 Bottles of Magave Anejo Tequila Signed by Owner
Chevy’s on the River- Dinner for Two
2 Lucca Restaurant Gift Card- $50 each
Sharks Jersey Signed by Entire Team
Steelcase Leap Ergonomic Task Chair
Artist Cigars
Comartin Cellers – Signed Magnum
$50 Gift Certificate to Best Buy
$50 Gift Certificate to Best Buy
Unisex Absolut Jacket
Malibu Fleece Vest & Goggles
(3) Bottles of Wine from the Treven Tilbury Cellar
$100 Gift Certificate to Morton’s
(2) Nights Stay at the Palms in Vegas (Expires July 2010)
Kings Tickets (Should be Sec 102 Row AA, Value $330)
Mercedes Benz/Urijah Faber Experience
Winery Tour(s)
Custom 7 Deadly Zins Skis
On Saturday, February 26th enjoy Morton’s The Steakhouse cuisine, one of Sacramento’s most elite eating establishments, while winning a few hands and enjoying a cigar with friends and colleagues.
At the tournament, Morton’s The Steakhouse restaurant is transformed into a lively casino courtesy of Capitol Casino. The Sacramento Kings Royal Court Dancers assist with a fun raffle and make for an unforgettable event.
An estimated nine local wishes are granted thanks to our community of poker players who attend, play and support the cause: The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California.
REGISTER HERE FOR THE 4TH ANNUAL TEXAS HOLD ‘EM TOURNAMENT
This holiday season, Oto’s Marketplace (formerly Oto’s Japan Food) in Sacramento chose the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California as the beneficiary of their annual Christmas party celebration.
Oto’s Marketplace, a family owned and operated business celebrated the 2010 holiday season with their employees to raise funds because Make-A-Wish provides “Christmas” year-round to children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Each employee made a donation, qualifying them to participate in a company raffle, which among other prizes included a 40″ flat screen TV. Overall, employees raised $755.00! Owners Ted and Mollie Oto matched employee contributions dollar for dollar. And sushi chef, Ray Yamamoto (A Sushi Experience) also wanted to match employees’ contributions.
With all dollar matching combined and the employees contributions, Oto’s Marketplace raised a total of $2,265.00 for Make-A-Wish!!!
“Your organization is very heartfelt and we will continue to provide our employees the opportunity to “share the power of a wish,” says owners Ted and Mollie Oto.
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Name: Samuel
Age: 12
Illness: Leukemia
Wish: Nickelodeon Cruise
Wish Date: 5/28/10
Samuel described his Nickelodeon cruise to the Bahamas as, “ the coolest trip I have ever gone on!” One of his favorite experiences was, “The 3-D Spiderman roller coaster because we saw Spiderman get on our cart and save us.” He was thrilled to meet Sponge Bob Squarepants and LOVED getting slimed! Samuel even got to swim with the dolphins at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. Samuel’s parents said, “We can’t thank you enough for this wonderful experience! It was a great time for us to spend time together as a family and forget about the cancer that has seemed to rule our lives for the past year.”
Samuel Nunez and Family
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Today’s the BIG day.. It’s our Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest at the Sacramento Convention Center, and we couldn’t be more excited!!!
This event is our biggest fund and friend -raiser of the year. The proceeds from Sponsors, Auction Items, and Ticket Sales of this event alone help us to grant 100 wishes to local children throughout the year!
And while we won’t be counting down the days until this spectacular event any longer, we WILL continue to keep you updated periodically via our Blog, Facebook and Twitter page!!!
We would like to thank you for following us and for helping to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy!
We hope to see you all tonight!!!
-Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California
Name: Jalynn
Age: 17
Illness: Rhabdomyosarcoma- A malignant (cancerous) soft tissue tumor found most often in children.
Wish: Shopping Spree
Date: 12/22/2010
Jalynn’s wish for a shopping spree was granted once again by our fabulous Make-A-Wish volunteer, Bill. Thanks to Bill, her wishes were fulfilled with purchases from Best Buy, Pier 1 Imports, and several boutique clothing stores. As a result, she now has a new laptop computer, digital camera, and lots of new clothes!
Following the shopping spree, Carino’s Italian Restaurant provided dinner for Bill, Jalynn, and her parents and gave Jalynn an opportunity to meet Bill and thank him in person for his generosity. After dinner, she and her parents spent time visiting with Bill at the Wishing Place.
Jalynn’s mother exclaimed, “The Make a Wish establishment and the dinner was more than we imagined!”
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Meet Sophia. She is one very brave little girl. She loves Elmo, the color pink, playing with cars, play dough, painting and coloring.
Sophia’s bright spirit and hope is what gets her through her tough battle with brain cancer. And while this 5 year old’s battle has been difficult and arduous, she manages to keep focus on her very special wish. She hopes to one day become everybody’s favorite cowgirl, Jessie from the Toy Story movies.
This month Sophia will visit Disney World and meet all the Toy Story characters, including her favorite: Jessie. We can’t wait to hear all about her family’s trip and all the wonderful memories they are able to make!
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
We’ve shown you a few of our fabulous auction items available to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest this Saturday evening. But we couldn’t resist giving you, our dedicated blog and Facebook followers, a better look at the dream items YOU can win.
Remember, bidding on these items means you’re not only making your own dreams come true, you’re also granting local children’s wishes (some may even live in your neighborhood) with life threatening medical conditions.
And while a VIP Ticket will get you preferred seating and additional special treats, General Admission guests can bid on these items as well!!! Happy bidding!
L2- ROAR WITH THE MOUNTAIN LIONS
Enjoy pro football in Sacramento. This certificate is good for two (2) on-field sideline seats at the 2011 Mountain Lions Opening Night Game including a VIP experience. The Sacramento Mountain Lions cheerleaders will deliver to your table tonight, a magnum of chilled Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne! Founded in 1743, the house of Moët has been synonymous with luxury for over two centuries.
Restrictions: Game date and time to be determined.
Package includes: 2 VIP tickets to Opening night and magnum of champagne.
Donated By: Hilary & Michael La Tondre and Sacramento Mountain Lions
Value: $850.00+
L3- FROM FINNISH SEA TO HOWELL MOUNTAIN, LAIL 3.0 LITER
Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum founded Inglenook in 1879. During the ‘40s and ‘50s some of Napa’s most extraordinary wine was made at Inglenook under the leadership of John Daniel, Jr. Inglenook was sold to Francis Ford Coppola in the ‘70s, and he renamed it Rubicon. But the rich family tradition continues with Lail Vineyards high in Howell Mountain. Owner Robin Lail is the great-great grandniece of Gustave Niebaum and the daughter of John Daniel, Jr. She only uses sustainable farming practices in the vineyard and is truly a steward of the land and her family name. The J. Daniel Cuvee is made in honor of Lail’s father. Depending on the vintage, it is made of varying percentages of red Bordeaux grapes. This 2007 3L Lail Vineyards J. Daniel Cuvee Sauvignon is 1 of only 15 and scored 96+ points from Robert Parker.
Package includes: 3L 2007 Cuvee Sauvignon
Donated By: Lail Vineyards
Value: $600.00+
L6- MAKE-A-WISH BOARD OF DIRECTORS WINE CELLAR STARTER
The Directors of the Make-A-Wish Board have each donated a special bottle of wine to make this cellar starter lot. The Board’s donations include: 2006 Four Vines Heretic, Petite Sirah Paso Robles (magnum), 2006 Hewitt Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir, 2006 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot, 2004 R. Merlo Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Knoll (2 bottles), 2006 St. Francis Merlot, 2001 Plumpjack Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon (signed by winemaker), 2007 Sequum Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2009 Rombauer Chardonnay, and a four bottle vertical of 1997-2000 Arrowood Special Select Late Harvest Hoot Owl Creek
White Riesling
Package includes: a magnum and fifteen 750ml bottles of wine
Donated By: Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento & Northeastern CA Board of Directors
Value: $950.00+
L8- CONSULT AND CONSORT WITH JEANNE REAVES & FRIENDS
Cocktails and dinner for 8 in the home and garage of Jeanne Reaves with Chef Bernice Hagen, a Dining Diva and Ian MacBride, Executive Chef at Lucca restaurant preparing the delicacies. Sacramento celebrities Sandy Smoley, former Secretary of the Health and Welfare Agency for the state of California, and Jeanne Reaves, former CEO of River City Bank and past board member of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento & Northeastern CA, will serve your meal as well as some choice bon mots. Also included in this package is limousine service for 6 hours in an 8 passenger stretch limousine.
Restrictions: Dinner will be on a mutual agreed upon date. Expires 12/1/11. Subject to availability. Please contact John Neumann at least 60 days in advance to make arrangements for transportation. Gratuity not included.
Package includes: Cocktails and Dinner for 8 and limousine service for 8 for 6 hours
Donated By: Jeanne Reaves Consulting, BoyGirlBoy, Bernice Hagen,
The Sandy Smoley Group, Lucca restaurant and Neumann Enterprises
Value: $3,500.00+
L11- “WITH OR WITHOUT YOU” THIS U2 GUITAR SIZZLES
U2 is an Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 1976. The group consists of Bono (vocals and guitar), The Edge (guitar, keyboards and vocals), Adam Clayton (bass guitar), and Larry Mullen, Jr. (drums and percussion). U2’s early sound was indebted to post-punk but eventually grew to incorporate influences from many genres of popular music. This guitar is autographed by U2 and is in fantastic condition. Even if “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” is your theme song, you can “Rattle and Hum” with this guitar.
Package includes: Guitar autographed by U2
Donated By: Dave Easterla
Value: $2,900.00+
L13- “DON’T GIVE UP, DON’T EVER GIVE UP”
Those seven words captured the spirit of Jimmy Valvano and became the motto of the “V Foundation,” dedicated to finding a cure for cancer. Jimmy V passed away from bone cancer two months after his ESPN speech, but his spirit lives on today. This signature fundraiser for The V Foundation (www.jimmyv.org), brings sports, high tech and wine industry notables together for a two-day celebration in the Napa Valley. Last year it raised $2.2 million for critical cancer research and has raised approximately $35 million since its inception.
Restrictions: Restricted to event dates. 8/5-8/6/11
Package includes: Weekend tickets for 2 people, hotel accommodations for 2 nights in Napa Valley, Aug 5th & 6th 2011 and transportation to all hosted events so that guests can feel free to fully enjoy themselves and experience the magic of Napa Valley .
Donated By: V Foundation Wine Celebration
Value: $5,750.00+
L16- NEW YORK – NEW YORK – THE BIG APPLE
Enjoy a four (4) night stay at the Hilton Times Square Hotel in the heart of the city that never sleeps. Smack in the middle of all the action, get ready to hit the streets to experience the Theater District, Central Park, Restaurant Row, Rockefeller Center, Fifth Avenue shopping, the Empire State Building and many other incredible landmarks of NYC. Give my regards to Broadway when the curtains open for the Broadway show you pick to see in the Big Apple. Take your seats with American Airlines as they fly you and a friend to New York round-trip to enjoy this fabulous vacation get-away.
Restrictions: Based on availability and blackout dates apply. Non-refundable, non-transferable, non-replaceable if lost or stolen. Expires 1/29/12. No extensions will be granted. Airline tickets are subject to availability and will expire January 29, 2012. (Airline tickets are capacity-controlled and are based on availability at the time of reservation. Tickets are non-transferable. Fees, taxes, surcharges, and/or service charges are the responsibility of the passenger. American Airlines reserves the right to change blackout dates, embargo free travel, and change policies without advance notice.)
Package includes: Four nights accommodations, $250 gift certificate for a Broadway show and airfare for two.
Donated By: American Airlines, Hilton Times Square and Friends of Make-A-Wish
Value: $3,250.00+
L17- 6 OF THE GREATEST BORDEAUX PRODUCERS
In 1855 the top producers of Bordeaux were classified. Four were designated premier cru (first growth) and a fifth, Mouton, was promoted to first growth in 1973. Cheval Blanc (white horse) was a right bank wine and not included in the original classification but it is regarded as comparable to a first growth. For the 2000 vintage, Robert Parker scored Cheval Blanc 99 points and Mouton 97 points. These six 750ml bottles comprise the best producers in Bordeaux. Through Robert Boyle’s generosity this is a great opportunity to add some French beauties
to your collection.
1999 Chateau Latour
2002 Chateau Lafite Rothschild
2000 Chateau Mouton
2002 Chateau Haut Brion
1999 Chateau Margaux
2000 Chateau Cheval Blanc
Donated By: Robert Boyle
Value: $7,500.00+
L26- GLITZ, GLAMOUR & GAMING
Throw the must-attend bash of the year! This party for thirty (30) comes complete with authentic Vegas-style gaming tables including one Poker, one Craps and one Black Jack. Staffed with friendly professional dealers, ready to teach you the game of your choice or to just help you refine your playing, this event will be provided by “The Entertainment Team,” one of Sacramento ’s longest-running Casino hosts. To add to the fun, this package also includes a Margarita machine rental with flavor of your choice, cups and straws. For pulse-quickening excitement, don’t miss out on your chance to win this package and you and your friends will roll
like Vegas VIPs!
Restrictions: Valid for Sacramento only. Includes free delivery within 25 miles of Sacramento. Reservations must be made at least 14 days in advance and is subject to availability. Certificate expires on 11/30/11.
Package includes: 3-hour casino to include one Blackjack, one Craps, one Roulette table, four dealers in tux attire, all casino accessories, delivery and set-up. This package will serve 30 players at one time. Also included: Margarita machine rental with flavor of your choice, cups and straws.
Donated By: The Entertainment Team and Margarita Mama
Value: $1,190.00+
L33- CRUISE THE SF BAY WITH YOUR ALPHA FRIENDS
You and five of your friends will experience the best sailing in the world, a cruise on San Francisco Bay abroad the 47-foot classic sloop Alpha, the company of owner Rick Pfaff, former commodore of the St. Francis Yacht Club and his wife Laura.
Your bay experience will start with a tour of the St. Francis Yacht Club, including its extensive America’s Cup and model collection, personally guided by Rick. Then cast off for a sail like no other, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, San Francisco, Angel Island and Alcatraz. The sail includes a gourmet lunch with rare wines.
Time on the water gives one an appetite, so back on shore you will be treated to a gourmet dinner at Balboa Cafe, paired with six bottles of exclusive wines from Jess and Jayne Bedore’s wine cellar, the co-chairman of this event. After living such an indulgent lifestyle, you and your friends deserve a few nights of rest at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, where three rooms for two nights await. Sailing date is subject to mutual availability. May or October dates are suggested for the most favorable weather and winds. Lizzy Byrn, the auction and special events manager for the Make-A-Wish Foundation will assist you with scheduling this once in a lifetime event.
The wines to be provided for your dinner will be: 2009 Crocker & Starr Sauvignon Blanc, 2006 Mayacamas Chardonnay, 2003 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley), 2006 Londer Estate Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley), 2002 Cafaro Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003 Araujo Altagracia Red Wine
Restrictions: Room & tax only. Based on availability. Expires 9/30/11.
Package includes: San Francisco Bay cruise on 47’ yacht for 6, dinner for 6, 3 rooms for 2 nights at the Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf, and 6 bottles of wine
Donated By: Laura & Rick Pfaff, Jayne & Jess Bedore, Balboa Café,
Hyatt at Fisherman’s Wharf and Friends of Make-A-Wish
Value: $11,500.00+
L37- EXTREME KITCHEN MAKEOVER
Makeover your kitchen with this amazing enhancement package! This incredible makeover includes two pre-fabricated granite counter tops and up to 16 feet of six-inch backsplash, including normal installation. Also included in this wonderful package is a stainless steel under-counter mount 32” x 22” Sterling by Kohler Double Basin sink and a Kohler Fairfax kitchen faucet with brushed nickel finish.
Restrictions: Does not include plumbing, or demolition of existing countertops. Does not include installation of sink and faucet.
Package includes: sink, faucet, granite countertops, backsplash and installation of granite.
Donated By: Ferguson Enterprises, Pace Supply and Warehouse Interiors
Value: $2,860.00+
L39- SAY HEY, THE SF GIANTS ARE WORLD SERIES CHAMPS
What major league baseball team has more victories than any other franchise? Yes, the Giants. But since they moved from the Polo Grounds of Manhattan to the City by the Bay they had never won the World Series, that is, until November 1st, 2010. We have three great mementos from the San Francisco Giants. First a Willie Mays autographed official baseball including the PSA/DNA COA for authenticity. Willie Mays, the “Say Hey Kid,” played with enthusiasm and exuberance while excelling in all phases of the game. His staggering career statistics include 3,283 hits and 660 home runs and two MVP awards. He accumulated 12 Gold Gloves and played in a record-tying 24 All-Star games. His catch of Vic Wertz’s deep fly in the ‘54 Series remains one of baseball’s most memorable moments. And, 1954 was the last year that the Giants had won the World Series. Fast forward 56 years and we have an official Rawlings baseball autographed by San Francisco Giants catcher, Buster Posey. While Willie Mays won rookie of the year in 1951, Buster Posey won rookie of the year in 2010. In his college career, Buster won the Golden Spikes Award, which is given to the best player in amateur baseball as well as the Johnny Bench Award for best catcher. The third item is a San Francisco Giants 2010 World Series Championship baseball. Limited edition and includes a certificate of authenticity (COA).
Package includes: 3 baseballs and a display case
Donated By: Friends of Make-A-Wish
Value: Baseballs and acrylic valued at $300, autographs – priceless!
L43- OPUS ONE TWILIGHT & TERRA VALENTINE TWO NIGHTS
Opus One Winery was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of Chateau Mouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi, by combining the great winemaking traditions of both families, the founders’ singular goal was to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley. Tonight’s winning bidder gets a private reception, twilight tour and tasting at Opus One for six guests. This is reserved exclusively for charity donations. Guests begin this late afternoon experience in the winery’s salon with caviar and a flute of fine champagne. A private tour follows: The Mezzanine, Cuvier, Gallery and Grand Chai. The tour culminates in the Grand Chai with a tasting of two vintages of Opus One.
In addition, a two night stay at the private vineyard estate of Villa Valentine, and a tour and tasting for four people of Terra Valentine. Terra Valentine is committed to producing wines with mountain intensity and balance that express the character of the Spring Mountain appellation and vineyards. Guided by the belief that great wine begins in the vineyard, the vineyard management team oversees every aspect of farming from planting to harvest. You will have the entire 75-acre estate at your leisure to explore the vineyards, harvest fruit in the orchard, or just take a peaceful stroll through the forest. Upon arrival, you will be treated to a tour of the winery grounds with a tasting of the best estate cabernets that Terra Valentine has to offer paired with artisan cheeses. You will then be escorted down to your private villa overlooking the entire Napa Valley. Here you will experience an exclusive side of the Napa Valley far above the hustle and bustle of the valley floor.
Restrictions: Opus One: Must call for reservations. Three weeks notice requested. Reservation pending availability. Expires 1/29/12. Villa Valentine is available from March through November only and is subject to availability. Three months advance booking is recommended, especially for weekend visits. Expires January 2012. Transportation not included.
Package includes: Opus One tasting and tour for six plus Terra Valentine tour, tasting and lodging for four.
Donated By: Opus One and Terra Valentine
Value: $3,400.00+
If you would like to bid on these items and more, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Last week, Folsom Lights, a Christmas light show synchronized to the music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, came to The Wishing Place and dropped off a donations totaling almost $2,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California!
The light show held by the Gayman family at 131 Vierra Circle in Folsom, CA runs every year from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Viewers and passers by are encouraged to leave donations for the Make-A-Wish Foundation in a collection box at the show.
This year however, was especially challenging for the Gayman family and their infamous light show. Two vandals took and destroyed much of their hard work and even tried to steal donations from the Make-A-Wish donation box. But with some smart thinking, the family had set up security cameras and were able to catch the vandals in the act.
Click below to see the full story that ran on KCRA 3.
If you are interested in supporting Folsom Lights, please become a fan of their Facebook Page. We thank the Gayman family for their dedication to Sharing the Power of a Wish with kids facing incredible illnesses and the entire community!
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto .org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
We’ve recently updated the list of food, wine and beer vendors that will be participating at our Winter, Wine and Food Fest next Saturday. We are so excited to share with you some of the Sacramento regions finest eating and drinking establishments! Below is a full list of all the vendors you can visit while celebrating with us as we raise money to grant 100 local wishes this year!
2011 Participating Wineries, Restaurants and Breweries
4th Street Grille
Aioli’s Bodega Espanola
Amador Foothill Winery
Asante Catering
Astoria Wine Group
Bandera Restaurant
Barsetti Vineyards
Blackbird Vineyards
Bocas Brazilian Restaurant & Lounge
Bogle Vineyards, Inc.
Borjon Winery
Buckhorn Grill
Capital Confections
Chef Ray Duey
Classique Catering
Cleavage Creek Winery
Cliff Lede Vineyards
Colibri Ridge Winery & Vineyard
Corte Riva Vineyards
Crocker & Starr Wines
Culinary Specialists/Mulvaney’s
Cupcake Craving
Dasani Water
DeGrande’s – Lodi
Dos Coyotes Border Café
Duckhorn Wine Company
E & J Gallo Winery
El Pueblo
Event Architects Catering
Farella-Park Vineyards
Farm Fresh To You
Fat Cat Scones
Frank Family Vineyards
Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant
Gekkeikan Sake
Gonul’s L Street Café
Hawks Restaurant
Heitz Wine Cellars
Henry’s Steakhouse – Red Hawk Casino
Honing Winery
Hoppy Brewing Company
J P Harbison Wines
Kelli’s Cookies
Kenwood Vineyards
King Andrews Vineyards/ Sunset Cellars
Konditorei Austrian Pastry Café, Inc.
L Wine Lounge
Laraine Winery
Lucchesi Vineyards & Winery
m2 Wines
Mandango’s Sports Bars & Grills
Mayacamas Vineyards
McConnell Estates Winery
Michael-David Vineyards
Mini Burger
Moniz Family Wines
Most Wanted Winery
MT Catering
My Chocolate Affair
Nevada City Winery
Nugget Market
Oakstone Winery
Obscurity Cellars
Opa! Opa!
P.F. Changs
Paul Martin’s American Bistro
Pedroncelli Winery
Peju Province Winery
Piatti’s
Pilot Peak Winery
Pyramid Alehouse
River City Brewing Company
Rominger West
Ruth Chris
Sacramento Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Inc.
Schweiger Vineyards & Winery
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery
Silkwood Wines
Slocum House Restaurant
Spoto Wines
Terra d’ Ore Winery
Thai Basil Restaurant
The Melting Pot
The Sudwerk Brewery
Tower Café
Trader Joe’s – East Sacramento
Truchard Vineyards
Two Moms Catering Services
Vicarmont Vineyards & Winery
Village Cake Shoppe
Vina Robles Winery
Vino Noceto Winery & Tasting Room
Vintner’s Cellar Custom Winery
Wasabi Sushi Inc
Wend-Tyler Winery
Wente Family Estates
Wines 4 Cures
Wofford Acres Vineyards
Wooden Valley Winery & Vineyards
If you would like to attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Have you heard the latest culinary buzz??? Food trucks are coming to Sacramento! Chef Tyler Florence would be proud! The best part? The latest (and greatest) food truck, Mini Burger, is making it’s grand debut at OUR Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest!!! How awesome is that??? Read the Sacramento Bee article below!
Burger truck to debut this month
By Chris Macias
cmacias@sacbee.com
Published: Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 – 12:00 am | Page 6B
Sacramento’s first gourmet food truck will be rolling through town starting Jan. 29, co-owner and restaurant industry veteran Davin Vculek said Friday.
Mini Burger will serve gourmet burgers and fries through its mobile truck, he said, while also satisfying a hunger from locals who have been craving gourmet food trucks in Sacramento.
Vculek is a former corporate chef with Guy Fieri’s restaurant chain and a silent business partner in Mini Burger. He and his partner are modeling Mini Burger after Kogi BBQ, a Southern California food truck that’s been featured in Bon Appetit magazine and tweets its location to more than 79,000 followers.
Like Kogi BBQ, Mini Burger will use both social media and its website (www.miniburgertruck.com) to update its location. Mini Burger will feature a menu of burgers such as the “cow town” and a “ninja” burger with Asian slaw and sriracha aioli. A two-pack of burgers costs $6, or three for $8, while sides cost $2 each.
Vculek’s business plan projects for a minimum of 100 customers daily with a $1,000 gross, and calls for service throughout the city limits, including midtown and north Sacramento. Successful gourmet food trucks can gross upward of $400,000 annually.
“This concept was actually designed many years ago, and we thought it would be great for a land-based restaurant,” said Vculek. “But when food trucks became popular in L.A., we knew this would be a great concept for a food truck.”
Food trucks emerged as one of the nation’s biggest culinary trends over the last year, serving such dishes as Belgian waffles, chicken adobo and escargot in cities including Portland, Ore., and San Francisco. The Food Network even launched “The Great Food Truck Race” in August and attracted 2 million viewers in its debut.
But in Sacramento, strict city ordinances, including a 30-minute limit before food trucks have to move at least 400 feet, have put the brakes on this trend.
Vculek and his partner expect the necessary paperwork, including a health permit from the county of Sacramento, to be wrapped up within a week. Even with the time limits, Vculek insisted that Mini Burger can thrive.
“The city isn’t so friendly with ordinances, but I’ve found some ways where you can work it out,” said Vculek. “In 30 minutes, we can serve a good amount of people. Mainly for us, we just want to be respectful of restaurants and won’t park in front of them.”
Sacramento city officials are meanwhile warming up to the idea of gourmet food trucks. Mayor Kevin Johnson told The Bee in August that he believes the City Council “can develop a plan that allows mobile food trucks to thrive alongside other businesses.”
Dafna Gauthier, business permit manager for the city of Sacramento, recommends that food truck entrepreneurs get well-acquainted with current ordinances.
“If someone came in and said they’d abide by the 30-minute rule, we’ll see what we can do to make it happen,” said Gauthier.
Mini Burger plans to debut at the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Winter Wine & Food Festival on Jan. 29 at the Sacramento Convention Center.
“We’re going to pioneer this thing and see what happens,” said Vculek. “We hope the city will catch on.”
© Copyright The Sacramento Bee. All rights reserved.
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Call The Bee’s Chris Macias, (916) 321-1253.
If you would like to attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Samantha always wanted to visit Walt Disney World and with the help of Make-A-Wish her dream would soon come true.
While continuing to battle a malignant neoplatic bone, Samantha was excited to forget about her condition for a while and take a much deserved vacation.
Accompanied by her older sister, the two girls boarded a plane for Orlando where a week of fun was awaiting. Once arriving in Orlando the sisters took a limousine to the Give Kids the World Resort and began planning their week of fun. Disney World and Epcot Center was a must visit for Samantha, but she also got to enjoy days at Animal Kingdom and SeaWorld.
It was so much fun for Samantha to have her sister along for the trip, and the two girls had a blast. Samantha received so many gifts and brought back tons of souvenirs. This was a fantastic experience for Samantha which brought her many great memories. She can’t thank the people of Make-A-Wish enough for giving her this great opportunity.\
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto .org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
It seemed like a normal day. Two happy kids running along the top of a hill top. 4 year old Zachary was in the lead, running confidently and smoothly. Right behind him laughing and giggling was little Haley. 5 and half, full of energy, lots of fun and she was wobbly. Haley’s mother noticed and from that moment on… those first wobbly steps as she ran down the hill to give her a hug, Haley’s life was changed forever.
In the emergency room her parents thought of every possibility, but it wasn’t until the CAT scan that they found out she had a brain tumor. Medulloblastoma, which is highly malignant. And its removal for now has taken away her speech and her ability to move consciously. Haley works hard and her family is seeing slow progress, but this is only the beginning.
The Make-a-Wish Foundation Chapter in Hawaii, where Haley and her family live, sent a wish volunteer to visit a year ago. Haley made her wish and was waiting until she was well enough to travel. Veronica from Make-A-Wish was very sweet and she sat down with Haley to help her discover her true wish. They spent an hour together talking, planning and giggling. She told her to wish big and she did, but she couldn’t decide between Disneyland and a real desire to see snow. Veronica left a very excited little girl to decide what she wanted to do over the next month.
It was a hard month for Haley. She was weak and got very sick, but she had hope and a plan. When she was well enough to travel she would be granted a special wish and that could 
be Disneyland or the the snow! Deciding was fun and each day she would look at the pictures and imagine herself in each place. It seemed every day was a different decision but each time it was exciting. It was news she could give to anyone who would listen.
Finally Veronica returned and Haley had her decision. Her family had no idea what Haley would decide, but with a big smile on her face she chose SNOW!!! She wanted to build a snowman and a snow dog. She wanted to throw snowballs at her brother and watch him throw a snowball at himself. She wanted to see snow falling from the sky and bake chocolate chip cookies. She wanted us all to be together as a family. What a wonderful wish and what a gift that wish has been.
“What’s that? Snow!!!!! It’s snowing!!!!” Haley’s little excited voice rang out. That’s how her family woke up during Haley’s wish. Looking out our window at the beautiful valley view from their lovely room at the Resort at Squaw Creek, Lake Tahoe, California. They still couldn’t believe they were there and they loved 
every minute. As they went to catch their shuttle to go skiing, her mother had to carry Haley down the stairs. Smiling and mouth wide open she had her head back and tongue out catching the snowflakes as they fell. It was beautiful.
They had wonderful instructors for us at Squaw Valley Ski school. Experienced, accomplished and just amazing… with us and the kids. The wonderful Katherine, a Recreational Therapist, gave Haley the time of her life. As Haley’s mother was going up on the ski lift, she looked down at her two kids, skis on, with these wonderful people in the snow and just cried. Who could believe they where they were this day after where we have come from? The family felt that this trip was a miracle and are so thankful for the memories created.
Haley’s family shared:
“Thanks to Make-A-Wish and all of these wonderful people who really care about our family and our journey, are just so precious and special, I can’t put it onto words. This time last year she was in a wheel chair. I have to look back to realize how amazing this is. It is amazing.
Thank you all.
Wendy, Pat, Haley & Zachary
Our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest Wish Ambassador is a special young lady named Samantha. She is a sweet, kind and incredibly generous 18 year old who is as loyal and thoughtful as she is beautiful. Samantha loves cooking and baking. She enjoys watching Giada Di Laurentiis on the Food Network and making her recipes!
When Samantha was 2 weeks old, she was diagnosed with Biliary Atresia, a rare condition where the bile duct between the liver and the small intestine is blocked or absent. The condition can lead to liver failure. Unfortunately, this was the case for Samantha.
She was just 5 months old during her first liver transplant, and 18 months old for her second. Throughout her life, Samantha has dealt with rejections and transplant issues. She gets her blood drawn frequently and takes anti-rejection medication twice a day. During her second transplant, an issue with the IV resulted in serious injury to her right hand.
Samantha’s medications cause her to have tremors, insomnia and make learning and taking exams very difficult. She also suffers from major allergic reactions. If she ingests nuts, seafood, or chocolate or if there’s mold in the air, she gets an anaphylactic allergic reaction. These issues frustrate her immensely because of her love for learning and gourmet cooking.
Samantha has always wanted to be a chef. She makes birthday cakes for all her friends. Because of her food allergies, Samantha cannot be a real chef, so when she was visited by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, she wished to take cooking classes in Italy. This wish was a dream-come-true for her!
Samantha’s family was so happy to see her excited about her wish and able to forget about her everyday challenges. Samantha even wrote us a letter explaining how much her wish meant to her… It shows how truly special she is.
I was extremely happy that I got chosen to have a wish. I am so fortunate that this foundation provides opportunities for children. For a chance like this to have a wish to go to Italy and cook is amazing because I will remember it forever with the people I love. My expectations don’t include anything special, I am just happy that I have a special chance to have a wish. Life is sometimes a hard struggle, but this wish made my life happier. I wanted to be a chef for a long time, but I’m allergic to so many foods. Cooking makes me happy and completely stress free, cooking in Italy makes me even happier and cooking with my family in Italy is the best thing that could ever happen to me. I never expected I would be so lucky to experience this.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart,
Samantha
If you would like to meet Samantha, please consider attending our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center. Click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Dave Thompson, Hosting Emcee
If you’ve attended Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California’s Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest in the recent past, chances are you’ve had the opportunity to hear from our Host Emcee Dave Thompson from Mix 96 Radio. He has generously hosted our event for the past few years. We are honored and excited to have him back for a return appearance to host our Silent Auction again this year!
Mix 96 is also giving away free tickets to the Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest!
Enter their eMix Rewards Program now!
Dave partners each weekday morning with Marilyn Nelson from 5 to 10 am on KYMX 96.1FM in Sacramento. He’s also on Saturday morning from 6 to 10am.
Dave first did radio at the Middlebury College station in Vermont then transferred to Emerson College where he majored in Broadcasting.
Dave’s First big break: Afternoon drive in New York City…”NEW YORK CITY?!!!” Yup! Playing the top 40 hits in afternoon drive. He also worked in Washington, DC, Philadelphia, Houston, Denver and Minneapolis. He’s been starting your day at “The Mix” since 1998.
He has hosted numerous events including the March of Dimes and Making Strides against Breast Cancer walks, The Winter Wine and Food Fest at the Sacramento Convention Center, Taste of the Little City at Safetyville USA, and numerous Mix 96 events including the annual Santa Parade in downtown Sacramento and the giant annual Mix 96 Kitefest.
Dave’s done commercials for DR Horton, 3M, Comcast, Sleeptrain, Nabisco, The Sac Bee, etc., etc… And Dave has interviewed Paul McCartney, Eddie Murphy, Rod Stewart, Jimmy Carter, Brian Wilson, and more!
If you would like to attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
The following is a very special auction item (one of almost 100) that you will have the opportunity to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine and Food Fest. Remember: This event helps us grant 100 local wishes each year. It’s great food, great wine, and a great auction… All for a great cause: Kids! See below for details about how you can win this trip of a lifetime to Cabo San Lucas
Winter, Wine and Food Fest 2011 Auction Item
ONE WEEK IN CABO SAN LUCAS
Sink into blissful abandon the moment you cross the threshold of your expansive, ocean-view Presidential Suite at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa. Enjoy seven nights in this fabulous 1,900+ square-foot suite that sleeps eight. Your choice of two weeks: bring in the New Year from Monday, 12/26/11 through Monday, 1/1/12. Or start the year off right Monday 1/2/12 through Monday 1/9/12.
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach is a luxury Cabo San Lucas, Mexico resort blissfully secluded on a private coastal bluff. Personalized service and warm hospitality complement their long list of full-service amenities, including an award-winning spa, gourmet restaurants, six swimming pools, meetings and wedding services & private beach access. Their prime location on the western tip of the Baja peninsula offers both tranquil seclusion and convenient access to the vibrant downtown corridor of Cabo San 
Lucas. Popular Los Cabos attractions including prestigious Cabo San Lucas golf courses, Los Cabos beaches, and the town of San Jose del Cabo are a short drive away. Or, simply enjoy a rejuvenating day of relaxation on the private stretch of pristine shoreline.
Restrictions: Must choose which week you’d like to stay tonight. Unit is on second floor with stair access only. Valid for specific week noted above.
Donated by: Glover Family Trust
Value: $6,300.00+
If you would like to bid on this item, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
If he had to choose one toy to play with, 4 year old Matthew would no doubt choose his LEGOS. He loves to build all type of creations with LEGOS including Batman and Star Wars themed concoctions.
So he was delighted when he found out that with the help of Make-A-Wish, both Matthew and his family would be taking a trip to San Diego to visit LEGO Land and other attractions beautiful southern California offers.
This was a special trip for a special boy who courageously battles Ventricular Septal Defect. Matthew was on cloud nine at LEGO Land and especially enjoyed seeing the Sea-Life Aquarium built of LEGOS where he stopped to pose for one of the numerous pictures taken throughout the trip. He gained much knowledge about LEGOS and also discovered some new ideas for future creations at home.
Along with LEGO Land, Matthew also enjoyed spending the day with wildlife at the San Diego Zoo. It was the perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with all the amazing animals the zoo has to offer. The trip was a dream come true for Matthew.
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto .org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Here at Make-A-Wish of Sacramento and Northeastern California, we are very excited to announce our new Emcee for the 23rd Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest: Marianne McClary!
Here’s a bit more about Marianne…
Marianne McClary is the co-host of “Good Day Sacramento”, the valley’s top-rated morning news and information program, which has been on the air since 1995.
She got her start in television news as an intern at Fox station KCPQ-TV in Tacoma, Washington. The college internship turned into her first television job, and included everything from being the “voice” of station promotions, to fill-in anchoring on the evening news.
From there, she moved to KNDU-TV in Eastern Washington — a funeral home converted to a television station — for her first full-time anchoring job; then on to the bright lights of Las Vegas as an anchor before landing in Phoenix for a four-year stint as weekend anchor on NBC affiliate KPNX-TV.
In July of 1995, all that changed when she flew to Sacramento for a job interview at Channel 31. Her motivation was to get out of the Phoenix heat for a day, but after hearing the plan for “Good Day Sacramento,” she signed on.
Marianne grew up in Seattle and is the oldest of three kids, all girls. In her free time (what little of it there is) she likes playing golf, and tries to get to Mexico at least once a year. Being a bridesmaid eight times, finally paid off! Marianne was married in April 2007. She and her husband Scott live in Carmichael.
Proceeds from Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Sacramento and Northeastern California’s Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest allow us to grant approximately 100 wishes throughout the year to local children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. The Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest is our largest fund-raising, friend-raising and wish-granting event!
On this very special Christmas Day, the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California would like to thank you for your generosity in helping us grant wishes to children who may be sick, in hospitals, or undergoing treatment. Our wish today is that we all remember the true meaning of the holidays: hope, strength and joy.
Wishes bring our children hope…
Magic to look forward to,
The light to dim the pain.
Wishes bring our children strength..
Strength to reach into the bottom of their souls,
To fight a battle they didn’t ask to fight.
Wishes bring our children joy…
A time to celebrate being a kid,
The unique experience just for them.
You can share hope, You can provide strength, and You can give joy.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!!
Make-A-Wish of Sacramento and Northeastern California
The following is a very special auction item (one of almost 100) that you will have the opportunity to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine and Food Fest. Remember: This event helps us grant 100 local wishes each year. It’s great food, great wine, and a great auction… All for a great cause: Kids! See below for details about how you can win this framed artwork from Princess Juliette who suffers from Leukemia.
Winter, Wine and Food Fest 2011 Auction Item
PRINCESS JULIETTE’S FRAMED ARTWORK
Enjoy this professionally-framed artwork masterpiece by 5-year-old Juliette. Her wish was to go to Walt Disney World Resort! Juliette wanted to meet every princess, and that she did! Juliette’s artwork is truly an inspiration to all of our wish kids and their families who deserve the hope, strength and joy that a wish can bring. Thank you to IntelliQuote for adopting Juliette’s wish which gave Juliette & her family a respite from dealing with her Leukemia, doctors and hospitals.
Donated By: Fast Frames & Wish Child Juliette
Value: Custom framing $175.00+, wish child artwork, priceless
If you would like to bid on this item, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Meet Miss Molly. She is the sweetest, tiniest, full of life little girl. She is the apple of her parents’ eye and continuously makes everyone around her smile and laugh!
At Molly’s 2 year checkup her doctor noticed that she had a “lazy eye.” She was sent to a pediatric ophthalmologist. That’s where her wish story begins.
Molly sat on her mother’s lap as the doctor looked into her eye for what seemed to be an eternity. Finally, the doctor said Molly’s right eye is perfectly healthy but there was a mass, a tumor, in the retina in her left eye. Her family couldn’t believe what they were hearing… They asked if it was cancerous. The doctor just nodded her head and said from the appearance of it, she has retinoblastoma in her left eye. It is a malignant tumor that usually affects children under the age of 5.
Since then, Molly has been diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma and a brain tumor. She has undergone countless surgeries, chemotherapy and had to have her eye removed. All too much for any little girl to have to endure.
That’s when hope came from a company who wanted to selflessly give to a family they didn’t even know. CarMax of Roseville chose to skip their annual festivities to grant Molly’s wish.
“Every year we typically have a holiday party for Associates. We’ve had a good year at CarMax and we’d like share our joy and happiness with a local charity and it was important to make an impact locally, ” says John Stokes location general manager of CarMax of Roseville.
“Overwhelmingly, our Associates wanted to have a charity event instead of a holiday party for themselves,” says Stokes. CarMax began looking at area non-profits.
In early December, Make-A-Wish of Sacramento was contacted by CarMax and asked to hear the wishes of local children that needed granting. One of the CarMax managers, Steve Berry, visited 
The Wishing Place in Natomas. After hearing and sharing Molly’s story with fellow Associates, they knew she was the one!
“She just grabbed the hearts of all the employees, so we invited Molly to meet the Associates. We held a holiday party just for her,” says Stokes. The store team got her presents and extra special Disney gifts to add on to her wish to visit Give Kids the World Resort in Disneyworld. Molly was a bit shy (she’s only three years old) because she was meeting over 100 new people. But after seeing the presents and balloons, she was hugging everyone and giving and high-fives.
The following is a letter about the experience from Molly’s mother:
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the employees at CarMax in Roseville. Not only for choosing to adopt Molly’s wish as part of your holiday party but for making her feel like such a special little girl when her and Patrick came to visit yesterday. Again yesterday the kindness and generosity of strangers was shown at its finest. Please know that you all helped give Molly and our family the trip of a lifetime we will never forget. Sometimes it’s hard to express in words the gratitude our family feels for the blessings that have come our way, but please know your kindness and generosity is appreciated beyond words. Happy Holidays to you all.
It was incredibly rewarding for Stokes and entire store. “We knew it was a good thing to adopt a wish, but after meeting Molly and her dad, it was more rewarding than we thought possible.” says Stokes. “We hope to continue our new tradition of paying it forward, and look forward to our ongoing relationship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California.”
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto .org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
The following is a very special auction item (one over 55 live auction items) that you will have the opportunity to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine & Food Fest. Remember: This event helps us grant 100 local wishes each year. It’s great food, great wine, and a great auction… All for a great cause: Kids! See below for details about how you can win this once in a lifetime experience to visit the Tonight Show with Jay Leno!
THE TONIGHT SHOW WITH JAY LENO
The “Tonight Show with Jay Leno” is one of the most watched late-night television shows and for 19 seasons news-making guests – such as leading actors, entertainers, athletes, politicians and “ordinary news makers” of the day have sat on Leno’s couch. You and 3 lucky guests will be escorted with the guest list to the studio like VIPs without having to wait in line hoping to get in & will receive guaranteed, reserved seating to “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”. This package is completed with two nights in a classic room at the Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills & four one-day tickets to Universal Studios!
Restrictions: Seating is guaranteed, however location is based on availability. Please call at least 2 weeks in advance to make arrangements. Certificate is valid Monday through Thursday only. Must be 16 years or older with photo ID. Hotel blackout dates apply & expires 10/1/11.
Package includes: 4 VIP tickets to attend the Tonight Show in Burbank, CA, 2- nights accommodations & 4 one-day tickets to Universal Studios.
Donated By: Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills, the Tonight Show with Jay Leno & Universal Studios Hollywood
Value: Hotel & Universal Studios tickets valued at $896.00, Jay Leno experience, priceless!
If you would like to bid on this item, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
The following is a poem written by the very special and talented, Mattie Stepanek. He was one of our most famous wish kids… Getting to meet Oprah, Jimmy Carter, Larry King and others. You can learn more about Mattie and how he touched so many lives here.
We’d like to share a very special poem Mattie wrote in his book called Journey Through Heartsongs and hope you will pass along to others.
About Wishing
Some people think that
Wishing is childish.
But, wishing is for everybody.
Wishing can help the
Old feel young, and
Wishing can help the
Young grow into the
Wisdom of age.
Wishing is not
Prayer or magic,
But, somewhere in between.
Like prayer and magic,
Wishing brings optimism,
And wishing brings hope.
And like prayer and magic,
Wishing brings new ideas,
And sometimes,
The touch of new life.
And that, is essential
For our future.
January 2000
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
The following upcoming events are great opportunities to get introduced to, support and keep connected with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California! Mark your calendars or register now!
January 29th, 2011- Annual Winter Wine & Food Fest
A truly elegant wine and food tasting affair, featuring 120 of our finest wineries, breweries, and eating establishments. This evening is complete with an exciting VIP live auction, a silent auction featuring trips and cool autographed memorabilia, along with live music courtesy of some of Sacramento’s hottest talent.
Click here for more information.
February 26, 2011- Morton’s The Steakhouse Texas Hold’em Tournament
The stakes are high at the annual Morton’s The Steakhouse Texas Hold’em Tournament! The pot? Raising money to grant wishes of course! You can’t beat this game, not the location, not the food, and definitely not the cocktails. Here is your chance to enjoy Morton’s The Steakhouse cuisine, one of Sacramento’s most elite eating establishments, while raising money to grant local children’s wishes. For one day, this fabulous restaurant is transformed into a lively casino courtesy of Capitol Casino. Players enjoy exciting games for a chance to win get-aways, sports memorabilia, fine wine, and more. The Sacramento Kings Royal Court Dancers assist with a fun raffle and makes for a fun-filled event you won’t forget. Click here for more information.
April 16, 2011- Walk for Wishes, Pancakes and Pajamas
Join the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeaster California for the Biggest Pajama party in town!
• 5K Walk through the streets of downtown Sacramento or a 1-mile shortcut around the Capitol grounds
• Yummy Pancake Breakfast
• Fantastic Live Entertainment
• Wish Kids Best Pajamas Contest
• Interactive Kids Zone
• Thousands of walkers supporting the cause in the pajamas!
Registration is FREE!!! Click here for more information.
December 6, 2010
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Sacramento and Northeastern California Chapter
I send my warmest greetings to everyone honoring the annual Season of Wishes celebration.
Since your foundation’s inception in 1980, you have enriched the lives of countless children suffering from life-threatening illnesses. Thank you for your many years of hard work and dedication. The programs and services you offer bring positive experiences to the whole community. Your selflessness and generosity has earned you the respect and admiration of your peers and beyond. You have my full support in your mission and purpose.
On behalf of all Californians, please accept my wishes for a joyous celebration season and success in all future endeavors.
Sincerely,
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Three wish children from across the continent will receive their very special wish this afternoon: To meet California’s Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger!
The California Correctional Supervisors Organization (CCSO) and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), has joined together in support with the Sacramento “Make-A-Wish Foundation” of Sacramento and Northeastern California will help coordinate the children’s wishes.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted three kids their one wish, to meet Governor Schwarzenegger at the State Capitol. As you can imagine, the medical criteria/condition for these children once they reach Make-A-Wish is truly life threatening. Here’s more about our very special wish kids:
David Stewart is a 16 year old from, Fairless 
Hills, Pennsylvania. He suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. His wish is to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger, “I want to hear him in person say I’ll be back.”
Antonio Meneses is and 18 year old from Toronto, ON. He suffers from Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome and he says “I just want to meet him and talk with Arnold.”
Lastly, wish child Thomas Stephenson is a 15 year old also from Toronto, ON. His wish is to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger, “I would like to meet the Terminator Schwarzenegger and see how he likes being a governor now.”
All “Public Safety”/First responders i.e. firefighters, Law Enforcement, are invited to please join the wish kids, today, December 16, 2010, at 2:00 pm, in front of the Hyatt Regency, Sacramento, 1209 L St, to simply 
show their support and presence by escorting these children across the street to the State Capitol doors and help make their wish day a wonderful reality!
Keep checking back, we will post photos from their meeting!
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
We would like to introduce you to wish child, Neel. He is our Ambassador for the Annual Walk for Wishes® Pancakes and Pajamas event held on April 16, 2011 at the State Capitol. Save the date and meet Neel below!
2011 Walk Ambassador Super Neel’s Wish Story…
Four-year-old Wish child Neel is a very happy and energetic little boy with eyelashes a mile long. Since Neel’s diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, he is not able to walk for long distances and tires easily. He also has a hard time balancing himself and tends to fall easily. When Neel is playing with other children, his family watches carefully over him. Neel’s family wishes he could experience what it is like to just be a normal kid.
“We wish he did not have to worry about his daily stretches and massage or having to take steroids or his vitamin supplements. Neel is very understanding and cooperates with us and all of the doctors during his visits,” says Neel’s Mom.
Neel’s wish is to go to the Nickelodeon Resort in Florida. He wants to stay in the Sponge Bob Room and see the shows. He would like to meet Sponge Bob, Patrick, and Dora the Explorer. Neel would also like to see his sister get slimed!
Neel has talked about the Nickelodeon Resort since he made his wish and he gets super excited thinking about it. His eyes light up and his arms start flapping. That joy is what our mission is all about.
“Having Neel’s wish fulfilled will make him feel so special, and that makes us excited. And to see Neel happy will be worth so much,” says Neel’s Mom.
To form a team and join Neel at the Walk for Wishes, Pancakes and Pajamas event click here.
Like a lot of 15-year-olds, Cole enjoys playing video games, Star Wars and spending time with his family.
Unlike most 15-year-olds, Cole has a condition that most people have trouble pronouncing: dermatomytosis. Unfortunately due to his condition he had to have an extended stay in the hospital that left him separated from his family for awhile. Which is why his wish was so important: he got to make happy memories while spending time with his family.
Cole’s wish was to go to Disney World, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation was more than happy to grant this wish. Cole and his family got to stay at the Give Kids the World resort in Orlando, and received passes to all the major parks associated with Disney World. They spent days enjoying Epcot Center, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom just to name a few. Right next to the Tower of Terror, the best part for Cole was getting to spend time with his family.
When asked about his experience Cole said, “It was awesome! I had a blast! I will never forget it!”
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Shopping in the city one lives in can get old. That’s why Wyatt decided he wanted to venture outside of his Sacramento stores and hit the malls down south in beautiful Atlanta, Georgia!
Sadly, Wyatt (14-years-old) suffers from Chron’s Disease, which causes inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea and even malnutrition. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease often spreads deep into the layers of affected tissue. Crohn’s disease can be both painful and debilitating and sometimes may lead to life-threatening complications. But that didn’t stop Wyatt from living his dream!
Along with his parents, Wyatt received the southern hospitality while in the “ATL” spending a few days shopping and sightseeing the beautiful city. Make-A-Wish provided Wyatt with a shopping spree which he chose to spend at Best Buy. As a video game lover, Wyatt bought numerous video games and accessories for his XBOX 360 and Nintendo Wii.
The highlight of Wyatt’s trip came when he got to swim with sharks at the Georgia Aquarium. Being in the water with these amazing creatures was an unforgettable experience for Wyatt. After spending a few wonderful days in Atlanta, Wyatt and his family have a clear understanding of the meaning “southern hospitality” and will always remember the many great memories they shared during this vacation.
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Maureena is a twelve-year-old with a smiling face, a cheerful outlook on life and a medical condition that is several syllables long: Wagner’s granulomatosis. It is an uncommon disorder that causes inflammation of blood vessels, which in turn restricts blood flow to various organs. Most commonly Wegener’s granulomatosis affects the kidneys, lungs and upper respiratory tract. Too much for a twelve-year-old to endure!
As a sign of her strength and generosity, Maureena wished for two Chihuahua puppies so she could train them to go to visit hospitalized children. She wanted a boy and a girl and definitely had to have two since there are usually two children in each hospital room! Make-A-Wish found a breeder that was close by, so Maureena could have the pick of the litter.
Thanks to PETCO, Maureena’s puppies were treated to everything a puppy could want. Maureena was so excited that she could bring joy to other children dealing with illness….the same joy she felt upon receiving her very own teacup pooches!
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Today is Macy’s and Make-A-Wish’s National Believe Day!
We’re celebrating by hosting a Double Donation Day. Bring your Santa letter to any Macy’s TODAY ONLY and we’ll double our donation to $2 per letter!
For every letter collected on Friday, Dec. 10, Macy’s will donate an extra $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, in addition to the up to $1 million goal.
To write a customized letter to print out and bring in to Santa, visit http://bit.ly/e4Lf5B
Together, we can collect MORE than a million reasons to believe!!!
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Did you know Sacramento has one of only THREE Wishing Places in the entire United States!?!?
And the ONLY Wishing Place on the West Coast!
You may not know exactly what happens at the Wishing Place… It’s where children’s dreams take shape and where imagination takes over. It’s a truly magical place for our wish kids to make their wish known, and to celebrate with friends and family when their wish gets granted!
Imagine a special, magical place where children can escape the rigors of treatment, transplants and never-ending tests. Imagine a place where fear is replaced by hope. Imagine a place where dreams can be discovered and wishes become reality. Imagine “The Wishing Place.”
Take a virtual tour of Sacramento’s Wishing Place here! Make sure you click on all the rotating photos to see the full experience!
Our Chapter’s vision for The Wishing Place has become a reality. It’s a building created especially for wish children. The magic begins the moment a child enters the front door. A “Galaxy of Stars” shines above with colored stars each commemorating a special wish child. The child then proceeds to “The Wishing Room” where wish decisions are made. The child is asked to imagine who they want to meet, where they want to go, who they want to be, and what they want to have. Once their one true wish has been selected, they are given a magical key to open a door to “The Wishing Tower” where they get to submit their wish on a piece of parchment. A light and music show commences as they drop their wish into the special box.
When that wish has been voiced, our Wish Coordinator magicians begin working diligently to make their wish a reality. Soon a proclamation is sent to the family to announce that the wish is ready. The wish child and family and friends are invited to return to “The Wishing Place’s Celebration Hall” where they can celebrate with their family as their wish is unveiled!
So what is “The Wishing Place?” It is a place like no other. It’s a gathering place where the power of a wish transcends the limitations of a life-threatening condition. It’s an inspiring place where special children and their families are enriched by the joys of love and laughter. And finally, “The Wishing Place” gives wishes a place to call home.
If you would like to schedule a visit, partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Where’s the best place to hang out during the summer? According to Eduardo, it’s the beach! 
Eduardo, who is six, was afraid he’d be unable to go to the seashore this summer because of his Burkitts Lymphoma. Luckily, that would not be the case. This lover of Sponge Bob and the Discovery Channel was soon able to have his own ocean experience, as his family was sent off to visit some of the best beaches in the world while enjoying the luxury of the Hyatt Regency in Honolulu.
With his swimsuit on and towel in hand, he headed for Dolphin Quest where he had the most exciting experience a six-year-old could have. He got to swim with the dolphins, an experience that even adults find amazing. From beaches, to a luau to dolphins, his wish couldn’t have been more magical!
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Ashlie, who is eighteen, has a dream: She wants to be a renowned chef! 
She is bound and determined not to let her lupus stand in the way. So when her wish granters arrived, she knew that her wish would be to go to France and attend a culinary school for a week. It had actually been her wish long before Make-A-Wish came along as she’d grown up spending her days in the kitchen cooking and baking.
So with a sprinkle of magic, off Ashlie went to “On Rue Tatin” a wonderful cooking school outside of Paris. Her classes included everything from making bread to preparing small dishes for a picnic lunch to learning everything there is to know about cheese. Her days were filled with lessons and amazing food. As Ashlie says, “It was an unbelievable experience. You made my dream come true!”
Who knows? Maybe someday she’ll even own her own restaurant!
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
It can get a little boring shopping in the small city of Corning, CA. Same stores, same people not much changes.
So when 13-year-old Corning native Jake was allowed to have his wish granted he wanted to make it a memorable one. He not only wanted to go on a shopping spree but, rather a shopping spree in New York City!
Jake suffers from a condition not known to many called Hirschsprung’s disease, it arises when certain nerve cells in the gut (called ganglion cells) fail to develop and mature correctly. He’s handled his disease with great strength, and was given a very unique yet, deserving opportunity presented to him by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
One of the highlights for Jake on his shopping spree was going to the Apple Store where he bought himself a new iPod iTouch. Jake couldn’t wait to put music on his new iTouch to make the cross-country flight home much more desirable. Visiting New York was an experience Jake will never forget and is extremely thankful for the opportunity.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
When 8-year-old Daniela found out she was going to Disneyland it was a dream come true. 
Daniela suffers from Metabolic Disorder, but her condition doesn’t keep her from living life to the fullest. She has the ability to light up a room with her vibrant smile. This smile was continuously on display while on her week-long vacation to Disneyland, courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
On her first day at Disneyland, meeting all the characters was top priority. She was so excited to spend the day with Mickey and the gang, which became the highlight of her trip. With her family by her side, Daniela experienced all the magic Disneyland has to offer. Along with Disneyland, Daniela spent days at California Adventure, Knott’s Berry Farm and Universal Studios. It was a magical week for a young girl who battles so hard everyday.
This was a vacation Daniela will never forget.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
There’s travel by land and travel by air but, arguably the most fun way to travel is by sea. 
Eight-year-old Logan wanted to experience travel by sea so his wish was to go on a cruise. The Colusa resident suffers from a subaortic membrane which can obstruct blood flow to the heart. Logan and his family were treated to a cruise to the Caribbean. One of the main activities Logan wanted to partake in while in the Caribbean was to swim with the dolphins. Logan had a smile from ear to ear after interacting with the gorgeous mammal. That became the highlight of Logan’s trip and, was a memory that will last a lifetime.
Logan spent hours on the ship swimming, eating and having fun with all the activities a cruise ship has to offer. Logan and his family were extremely grateful for the vacation and will cherish the experience forever.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
At 5 years old, Justin Garcia already has a passion. He wants to go fast, real fast. Just as in his favorite Disney movie Cars, Justin’s passion is for race cars and to one day become a race car driver. It requires courage and determination to take the checkered flag at 170 mph but, those are traits Justin was born with and have helped him during his battle with Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a form of leukemia.
Understanding Justin’s passion and dream, Make-A-Wish put the peddle to the metal and accelerated Justin down to Madera Speedway in Merced, CA for a day filled with fun and exhilaration. With his mother and father at his side, Justin received the ultimate race car driver experience with a limousine ride to the track and a weekend filled with all things racing. Justin’s speed filled weekend included hanging out with professional drivers in the pit, riding in the pace car, and waving the checkered flag to top off his weekend at the racetrack.
Although Justin has a little longer before he can get behind the wheel, his experience at Madera Speedway strengthened his dream of becoming a racecar driver and is something he will treasure for the rest of his life.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Fresh from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, the “official” Santa Claus will be touring across the country to visit local children and hear their wishes. Sacramento and Modesto are two of the lucky stops on his tour!!!
Santa Tour makes a stop at Macy’s Vintage Faire in Modesto and The Wishing Place in Sacramento TODAY!!!!
Santa Claus is coming to Sacramento and Modesto TODAY! Giving the reindeer time off for good behavior, Santa will arrive on a shiny Macy’s tour bus as he stops to visit children of all ages in Modesto and Sacramento. Welcoming one-and-all to join in the festivities, Santa will remind everyone about the magic of the Christmas season with a special reading and a few magical moments with the jolly old elf. Santa will arrive at the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Wishing Place in Natomas to meet wish children and the students of Natomas Park Elementary School before his appearance later that evening at Macy’s Vintage Faire.
WHERE / WHEN:
SACRAMENTO- Thurs. December 2, 2010 at 10:30 am
All children in the Sacramento Area and Wish Families are invited to come meet Santa!
The Wishing Place
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California
2800 Club Center Drive
Sacramento, CA 95835
MODESTO- Thurs. December 2, 2010 at 5:00 pm
All children in the Modesto Area and Wish Families are invited to come meet Santa!
Macy’s Vintage Faire Mall in Modesto
500 Vintage Faire
Modesto, CA 95356
MORE:
Launching his national tour last year as part of Macy’s popular “Believe” campaign, Santa’s National Tour will once again take him on a whirlwind trip to visit 26 cities in 26 days across America. Motoring from New York City (where he will have just finished Macy’s Parade), Santa’s National Tour started on November 27 in Sioux Falls, SD, and concludes on December 22 in Indianapolis, IN. All along the way, Macy’s National Santa Tour will give children from coast to coast the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the man himself!
As it has for the past two years, Macy’s “Believe” campaign invites children to mail letters to Santa using Macy’s Santa Mail Letterboxes. Macy’s donates $1 for each letter mailed in store, up to $1 million, to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Click HERE TO WRITE YOUR OWN LETTER TO SANTA!
Visit Macy’s to track Santa on his journey across the U.S.!
WHO:
Santa Claus was first introduced to his home-away-from-home at Macy’s on 14th Street in 1862. As time passed, Macy’s expanded, moving Santa to the store’s new location on 34th Street in 1902. In 1924, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® stepped off for the first time to usher in the season and bring Santa to the store to unveil Macy’s famous Christmas windows. In 1947, Santa was immortalized in the classic film “Miracle on 34th Street,” and his home at Macy’s was proclaimed. Many decades later, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® has become the official start of the holiday season each year, bringing the one-and-only Santa Claus to town.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Sometimes we can take the simplest things in life for granted. Elijah had never been to an actual beach. He’d seen one on television but never had the opportunity to put his toes in the sand and see the reflection of the ocean with his own eyes.
The 6-year-old who suffers from Hodgkin’s disease wanted to go to San Diego for his wish. In San Diego, he got to spend a lot of time at the beach and had a blast. Elijah also has a passion for LEGO. He loves all things LEGO. So the best part of his trip to San Diego came when he got to spend the day at LEGO Land. It was a dream day for the young boy.
Everywhere he turned there was LEGO. Seeing all the extreme creations around the park was a highlight for Elijah. He couldn’t wait to get home and start building. Until then however, he played with all the LEGO’s offered at the park. Nothing could take the bright smile off this charming young boy.
This was an amazing trip for Elijah. One that created memories he and his family will have for years to come.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
For 7-year-old Justin visiting Disneyland was a dream come true. When asked what he would like his wish to be he knew right away spending a week at the “Happiest Place on Earth” was exactly what he wanted. Justin suffers from a form of cancer called Histiocytosis, but the strong young boy continues to live everyday to the fullest. Justin and his family headed to Southern California where a week of fun was awaiting them.
While on his trip Justin received the VIP treatment. At Disneyland he had a one-on-one meet and greet with Mickey and then later spent time with rest of the Disney characters while eating at Ariel’s Grotto and Goofy’s Kitchen. He even received a toy from Snoopy. Justin’s VIP service continued at Universal Studios where he was given a Priority Front Line Pass and at Knotts Berry Farm where a “VIP ribbon” was awaiting him. Both gave Justin front line privileges.
One of Justin’s favorite experiences was the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. Justin and his family watched knights battle while having a four-course meal served medieval style. Justin was very honored to be a wish kid, and hopes to help future wish kids when he grows up. This was a dream come true.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Fresh from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, the “official” Santa Claus will be touring across the country to visit local children and hear their wishes. Sacramento and Modesto are two of the lucky stops on his tour!!!
Santa Tour makes a stop at Macy’s Vintage Faire in Modesto and The Wishing Place in Sacramento
Santa Claus is coming to town! Giving the reindeer time off for good behavior, Santa will arrive on a shiny Macy’s tour bus as he stops to visit children of all ages in Modesto and Sacramento. Welcoming one-and-all to join in the festivities, Santa will remind everyone about the magic of the Christmas season with a special reading and a few magical moments with the jolly old elf. Santa will arrive at the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Wishing Place in Natomas to meet wish children and the students of Natomas Park Elementary School before his appearance later that evening at Macy’s Vintage Faire.
WHERE / WHEN:
SACRAMENTO- December 2, 2010 at 10:30 am
All children in the Sacramento Area and Wish Families are invited to come meet Santa!
The Wishing Place
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California
2800 Club Center Drive
Sacramento, CA 95835
MODESTO- December 2, 2010 at 5:00 pm
All children in the Modesto Area and Wish Families are invited to come meet Santa!
Macy’s Vintage Faire Mall in Modesto
500 Vintage Faire
Modesto, CA 95356
MORE:
Launching his national tour last year as part of Macy’s popular “Believe” campaign, Santa’s National Tour will once again take him on a whirlwind trip to visit 26 cities in 26 days across America. Motoring from New York City (where he will have just finished Macy’s Parade), Santa’s National Tour started on November 27 in Sioux Falls, SD, and concludes on December 22 in Indianapolis, IN. All along the way, Macy’s National Santa Tour will give children from coast to coast the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the man himself!
As it has for the past two years, Macy’s “Believe” campaign invites children to mail letters to Santa using Macy’s Santa Mail Letterboxes. Macy’s donates $1 for each letter mailed in store, up to $1 million, to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Click HERE TO WRITE YOUR OWN LETTER TO SANTA!
Visit Macy’s to track Santa on his journey across the U.S.!
WHO:
Santa Claus was first introduced to his home-away-from-home at Macy’s on 14th Street in 1862. As time passed, Macy’s expanded, moving Santa to the store’s new location on 34th Street in 1902. In 1924, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® stepped off for the first time to usher in the season and bring Santa to the store to unveil Macy’s famous Christmas windows. In 1947, Santa was immortalized in the classic film “Miracle on 34th Street,” and his home at Macy’s was proclaimed. Many decades later, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® has become the official start of the holiday season each year, bringing the one-and-only Santa Claus to town.
We know this weekend is one of the busiest holiday shopping weekends of the year! So, we’ve decided to share all the ways you can shop AND still support the Make-A-Wish Foundation at the same time! We hope you are able to help grant your loved one’s wishes as well as some of our Wish Kids’.
Macy’s Believe 
Beginning November 7, Macy’s invites customers of all ages to deposit their letters to Santa in the Mailbox in every Macy’s store and for every letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 (up to $1 million) to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. For more information, visit www.macys.com/believe.
Yes, Virginia
This holiday season, Macy’s will give customers the opportunity to bring home the story that inspired the Believe campaign with the Yes, Virginia animated special on DVD, also featuring a behind-the-scenes peek at Taylor’s wish to be in a movie. A book based on the story is also available. 10% of the purchase price from both the book and the DVD will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® (for items purchased in Macy’s stores and at macys.com). To find a store near you visit macys.com.
Macy’s Thanks for Sharing
Macy’s Thanks for Sharing program began Sept 15 to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation® . For each Thanks for Sharing enrollment fee of $25 charged to a Macy’s card, Macy’s will donate $10, up to a total of $15 million, to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and other charities. In return, Macy’s cardholders will accumulate rewards equal to 10% of most of their Macy’s card purchases through Dec 31, 2010. To learn more, visit www.macys.com/thank
Disney Store
From November 1 – November 30, Disney Stores will be selling a reusable holiday shopping bag to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. $1 from the sale of each bag will be donated to the Foundation, up to $50,000. To find a store near you, visit www.disneystore.com.
Avis Offers Make-A-Wish® Friends Discount
Avis is extending a minimum 5% discount and up to a 25% discount to Make-A-Wish Friends that book their rental car needs with Avis using the Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD) number H749900. For each rental booked using this number, Avis will donate 5% of the base rate to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® and will match the first $25,000. To learn more, visit www.avis.com/wish.
LATISSE® Make-A-Wish Promotion
Allergan, the makers of LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03%, launched the LATISSE® Wishes Challenge campaign to kick off the second year of their sponsorship with the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Fashion CEO Kathy Ireland, professional ballroom dancer Chelsie Hightower and style guide Bobbie Thomas will each lead teams of LATISSE® users from across the country to raise more than a quarter of a million dollars for the Make-A-Wish Foundation! Each team’s goal in the online campaign is to raise the most funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation by encouraging consumers to join their team and donate a minimum of $20.
Supporters can join a team at www.LatisseWishesChallenge.com by donating a minimum of $20 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. LATISSE® will double each individual’s donation, up to $250,000, between now and November 30, 2010, and the first 10,000 participants who make this minimum donation will receive a LATISSE® free trial certificate, which they can then take to a doctor to determine if LATISSE® is right for them.
Learning Care Group Schools Host Fall Festival Events
Between October 18 and November 19, 2010, Learning Care Group hopes to raise more than $1 million to help make wishes come true. To help reach this goal, La Petite Academy®, Montessori Unlimited®, Tutor Time® and Childtime® schools are hosting their annual Fall Festival events in support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
To find a Learning Care Group school near you and find out how you can help reach their $1 million goal, visit www.learningcaregroup.com.
US Airways Miles of Hope®
Since 1998, US Airways customers have donated more than 600 million miles to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® through the Miles of Hope® program. This holiday season, US Airways is encouraging Dividend Miles members to be a part of the tradition and share the power of a wish® by donating more of their miles to the organization. For every 5,000 US Airways Dividend Miles donated from November 29 – December 31, 2010 the airline will match 1,000 miles, up to 25,000 miles. Visit www.usair.com/donatemiles to donate your US Airways Dividend Miles today.
Creative Memories Promotion
Creative Memories is continuing its sponsorship of Make-A-Wish Foundation® through its specially created scrapbook line. The new Wishful collection will be available through the Creative Memories Web site and Mini Catalog beginning May 1, 2010. These products, inspired by the hope, strength and joy of Make-A-Wish® families, include traditional and digital products. For every Wishful product purchased, Creative Memories will donate between $1 and $2 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. To date, with your help, Creative Memories has raised more than $400,000 in North America to help make wishes comes true. For more details visit http://www.creativememories.com.
Discover® Card
Use your Discover® Card to earn Cashback Bonus® that can be redeemed as a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Nearly $17 million has been donated to the Foundation through the Cashback Bonus Program. If you are interested in contributing your Cashback Bonus to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, please visit http://discovercard.com/.
Frigo® Cheese Heads®
Since 2005, Frigo® Cheese Heads® has helped share the power of a wish® by donating $200,000 annually to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® to help make wishes come true for children across the country. Frigo® Cheese Heads® cheese snacks come in lots of great Mom-approved varieties, including Original, Swirls™, Light and Variety Pack string cheese. For more information about Frigo® Cheese Heads® products, and for fun Cheese Heads® games and activities, visit www.frigocheeseheads.com.
GameStop Promotion
You can support the Make-A-Wish Foundation® when you shop at 
GameStop this holiday season. From Nov. 1 – Dec. 12, Game Stop will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for each Make-A-Wish® gift card purchased up to $100,000. The special holiday Make-A-Wish gift card featuring wish kid art is available in GameStop locations nationwide.
Marquis Spas
Marquis Spas has created a brand new WishTM spa. Between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2011, Marquis Spas will donate $25 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every WishTM spa sold to a Marquis dealer. Visit the Marquis Spas Web site to take a virtual test soak and learn more! http://www.marquisspas.com/spa_Wish.asp.
Things Remembered Promotion
Things Remembered has designed 10 engravable gifts that will benefit children facing life-threatening medical conditions this holiday season. For every purchase of these ornaments, jewelry pieces and collectibles, Things Remembered will donate $2 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® . Since the start of our relationship in 1997, Things Remembered has raised nearly $6 million for the Foundation, touching the lives of more than 830 wish kids. To find a Things Remembered location near you, or to shop online visit thingsremembered.com.
Black Bear Diner Promotion
All Black Bear Diner locations across the western states will sell wish stars from November 15 through December 31 AND 10 percent of all sales made on December 15 will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. For location information, visit blackbeardiner.com.
Safety 1st Promotion
From March 2010 to March 2011, Dorel Juvenile Group’s Safety 1st® brand is donating $200,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® to help make wishes come true for children across the country. Specially marked products, including the Easy Care Booster Seat, Potty-n-Step Stool, Comfy CushyTM Potty, Beagle Buddy Potty and Snack & Scribble Booster will feature the Make-A-Wish® logo. For additional information about Dorel Juvenile Group and the Safety 1st brand’s relationship with the Foundation, visit www.safety1st.com.
E! Online Promotion
In celebration of its first 20 years on air, E! has set a goal to sponsor 20 wishes through a combined campaign featuring online donations and a corporate gift, supported by on-air promotion by E! talent in the form of PSAs that will air through the end of the year. For more information, go to www.eonline.com/20years.
Helzberg Diamonds Teddy Bear
During the holiday season, $5 from the sale of each Limited Edition I Am Loved® Bear will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. Visit helzberg.com to shop online or find a store near you.
Parents Magazine
From July 15, 2010-August 31, 2011, Parents Magazine will donate 20 percent of the subscription price from renewals purchased through the Make-A-Wish® promotion, with a minimum guarantee of $50,000. Visit www.parents.com to find out more about Parents Magazine.
Snapfish Promotion
Snapfish’s mission is to help preserve, enjoy and make the most of memories, while providing the best value at the same time. Through their mission, Snapfish has the ability to capture and preserve the hope, strength and joy of a wish. From Oct. 21, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2010, Snapfish will donate 30 percent of the purchase price to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every WISH! photo book sold. Snapfish will also support the Foundation by providing 27,000 customizable, in-kind photo books to capture wishes for wish families and to use as thank you gifts/recognition pieces for donors and sponsors. For additional information about Snapfish and their relationship with the Foundation, visit www.snapfish.com/wish.
TSS Photography
TSS Photography is proud to sponsor the Make-A-Wish Foundation® this holiday season by offering one-of-a-kind holiday cards. For each pack of 24 cards ordered, TSS Photography will donate between $1 and $3 to the Foundation. When you order your cards through the program, you can choose from seven designs featuring photos of wishes and art drawn by wish kids. And you can include a custom message and custom company logo. For more information on how to order cards and pricing, visit www.tssphotography.com/wish.
Make-A-Wish® Treats from Cheryl’s
Cheryl’s supports granting children’s wishes by donating approximately 20 percent of the purchase price of several Make-A-Wish® gifts to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®. For more information, visit cheryl’s.com.
Giftcraft Promotion
Giftcraft’s Eden’s Angels™ Collection premiered in 2007 and includes 21 full-sized sculptures. Each Eden’s Angels piece in the collection features a hand-carved appearance and is hand-painted in a soft pastel palette with a wash finish. Eden’s Angels™ has developed special sculptures dedicated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the “Joy” and “Strength” angels. The “Joy” angel features a child and mother embracing a star. And the “Strength” angel features a family with a child holding a star-shaped balloon. All angels in the collection make great gifts for any occasion.
To symbolize the collection’s dedication, Eden’s Angels™ will donate $2.50 of the wholesale price from the specially designed “Joy” and “Strength” angels to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In addition, for all other pieces in the Eden’s Angels™ collection, a donation from 20 cents to 55 cents of the wholesale price will be made. To find an Eden’s Angels retailer near you, please visit http://www.edensangels.com.
Harland Clarke Corp. Promotion
Harland Clarke Corp. will donate 50 cents to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every Watercolors check order. The Watercolors line features four scenes, each rendered in beautiful pastel shades. For more information, please visit www.harlandclarke.com.
Scrapbook Adhesives by 3LTM
Creating Memories for Wish Kids While Preserving Your Own
SCRAPBOOK ADHESIVES BY 3LTM will donate $25,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® to help grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. SCRAPBOOK ADHESIVES BY 3LTM manufactures a wide array of adhesives that satisfy any scrapbooking and paper crafting need. They not only put their hearts into designing easy-to-use adhesives so stories will last throughout the ages, they also put their spirit into their community through corporate sponsorships. To learn more about SCRAPBOOK ADHESIVES BY 3LTM , visit www.scrapbook-adhesives.com.
Speedco
From November 1 – December 31, stop into any Speedco location nationwide to help “Stuff the Stocking for Wishes” by making a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®.
Window Genie is Cleaning Windows to Grant Wishes!
From June 1, 2010 – May 31, 2011, Window Genie will donate $5 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every new customer (at participating locations). Window Genie is a professional window cleaning franchise and offers a variety of home care services. To find a location near you, visit www.windowgenie.com.
Saab Drive to Give
From November 22 – January 3, 2011, Saab will donate $50 for each new test drive at Saab dealerships to the Make-A-Wish Foundation®, up to $250,000 (with a minimum donation of $50,000). Find your local dealer at www.saabusa.com and Drive to Give.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California would like to thank all our amazing volunteers, staff, and donors for all your support and generosity over the past year. We are so thankful to know you all, and that out of the many opportunities you have to give throughout the year, you still choose Make-A-Wish Foundation.
We are thankful to the Wish Families and Wish Kids to let us Share the Power of a Wish and we hope that we help make all of your dreams come true if only for a moment, an hour, a week and hopefully give memories that last a lifetime.
WE THANK YOU for letting us grant the wishes of children in Sacramento and Northeastern California with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
The following is a letter we received from a Wish Mom about her family’s experience while her son’s wish was being granted…
“Dear Make-A-Wish,
My family and I want to sincerely thank you for giving us such a wonderful gift. The trip (Disney Cruise) allowed us to rest and relax and enjoy each others company as a family. It allowed us to escape from some of our medical worries for Zachary and watch him have fun. We will never forget watching him splash and play in the beautiful Bahamian waters and how carefree our children seemed to be.
We enjoyed watching the kids expression with new adventures. The kids splashed and played in the Mickey Mouse Pool most days and we loved having family dinners together. Our overall wish experience far surpasses any expectations we had prior to the trip. Zachary absolutely loved the many adventures he had: swimming with dolphins, riding bikes on Castaway Cay, even the little treats our Wish Coordinator left for him in the cabin. All the details made a wonderful trip just so special for our family.
At times, Zachary’s condition has robbed him of some of his innocence as a child- Our Make-A-Wish trip gave him back some of his child-like charms and allowed him the freedom to just play and have fun. Make-A-Wish created a dream-come-true experience for our family. And with each passing day that our son continues to be healthy our wishes, dreams and prayers continue to come true.”
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Kayla is an athletic and outgoing 18-year-old from West Sacramento. When she visited Make-A-Wish, she already knew what her wish would be: A trip to Maui. Unfortunately, Kayla is diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma but she doesn’t let it stop her from playing on her high school softball team and hanging out with her friends.
Kayla chose Maui because she’d never been there and she wanted to learn to surf and snorkel. The highlights of the trip we when Kayla and her family took surfing lessons and went to a luau with delicious Polynesian food and entertainment.
“The trip was wonderful and a dream come true. I’m super happy that I got to experience this with her,” said Kayla’s sister, Samantha.
Kayla and her family had a great time and will never forget their fabulous trip!
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
The following is a very special auction item (one of almost 100) that you will have the opportunity to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine and Food Fest. Remember: This event helps us grant 100 local wishes each year. It’s great food, great wine, and a great auction… All for a great cause: Kids! See below for details about how you can win this once in a lifetime experience to stay on a yacht in Costa Rica with 5 of your closest friends!
Winter, Wine and Food Fest 2011 Auction Item
7-Day Luxury Yacht Expedition to Costa Rica for Six
This auction item includes a 
one-week stay on a gorgeous 90’ yacht, the Solstice 1, in Costa Rica! Includes a 4 person staff (Captain, maid, stewardess & chef), fuel for 100 miles. The trip is for 6 people in 3 staterooms each with it’s own bathroom. The yacht will be based in Quepos Costa Rica at the brand new Marina Pez Vela http://www.marinapezvela.com.
The yacht web site is: http://chartersolstice1.com/ there you will find a description of the Yacht. The Solstice 1 is a luxurious yacht to take you on your charter yacht holiday. This magnificent yacht has a four man crew and invites you to experience ocean adventures in complete comfort. Sleeps 6 comfortably. Your gateway to a fabulous holiday experience where your every need is seen to by our 4 person crew.
Updated and remodeled in 2009/10 Solstice 1 has been refreshed and renewed inside and out. Total exterior repaint, new teak decks on the flybridge a
nd aft deck levels, new gas grill, new LED exterior lighting, total replacement of the air conditioning system, remodeled and refurnished saloon, new LED flat screen TVs through out, with a HD 52″ surround sound unit in the saloon with Blue Ray player, HD media players in all rooms with a 600 plus selection of movies available to all, Syrens WiFi system for wireless connectivity through out the boat (where available), new snorkel and fishing gear, two clear kayaks are just some of the recent improvements and upgrades.
The West Coast of Central America is a wonderful cruising area with secluded bays, islands, and destinations such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Los Suenos Resort and Marina, and much more.
Experience retail value at $30,000.
Restrictions: Dates are subject to availability, expires 1/29/12. The trip is for 6 people in 3 staterooms each with 
it’s own bathroom.
If you would like to bid on this item, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
When asked what his favorite stores are, five-year-old Alex quickly shouted “Toys R’ Us and Wal-Mart.” A young boy who loves Spiderman, Alex’s wish was granted and took a trip to both stores with $1,000 in his pockets and the chance to get whatever his sweet heart desired.
This was an opportunity for Alex, who has been courageously battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia to forget about his disease and purchase all the toys he’s been dreaming about. Accompanied by his mother, father, brother and sister, Alex quickly ran to the Big Wheels and selected a Kawasaki ATV. Sitting tall and proud in his new ride, he raced up and down the aisles with a smile that lit up the store.
Alex’s siblings also joined him during the spree after each being given a small amount of money to make a purchase of their choice. The whole day of shopping made the family hungry, so they ended the day at his favorite restaurant, La Fiesta Taqueria. Alex was beyond happy that his wish came true and the family was very grateful to Make-A-Wish for granting it!
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Alex, 15, and his brother Dominic, 13, both suffer from a very rare condition called Malabsorption Syndrome. Their condition has no clear diagnosis and no known cure or treatment. In their spare time, the brothers from Yuba City like to play video games, love baseball, gummy bears and animals. The boys selected a wish to share so they could have their special memories together with their family. They decided to go on a shopping spree!
They started the day with a limo ride with the entire family to their favorite store: Best Buy. There, they bought a 26″ TV and video games to go with. The boys mentioned that the people at Best Buy were SO nice especially Steve Brown. He even put Geek Squad into their computers.
“Wish Volunteers Amy and Carol were fantastic and so funny, ” said Alex. “The best part was when we started picking out what we wished for, it was great!”
Their next stop was Abercrombie and Fitch where they geared up with new wardrobes for school! Next up, the boys visited IKEA to get Dominic a new bedside table. Then the boys headed to the Roseville Galleria to get new shoes from Vans. Finally, they finished their shopping spree with a delicious lunch at Red Lobster.
The boys had a great time and were grateful for their once in a lifetime wish to come true! Their mom said it was the best day of the boy’s lives.
“It was an awesome and unforgettable day,” said Dominic.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
The following is a very special auction item (one of almost 100) that you will have the opportunity to bid on at our Annual Winter, Wine and Food Fest. Remember this event helps us grant 100 local wishes each year. It’s great food, great wine, and a great auction… All for a great cause: Kids! See below for details about how you can win this once in a lifetime experience to visit polar bears!
Winter, Wine and Food Fest 2011 Auction Item
7-Day Classic Polar Bear Expedition Trip for Two
Donor: Natural Habitat Adventures
Experience Polar Bear Watching in the Polar Bear Capital of the World – Churchill, Manitoba!
Trip Overview
- See the world’s greatest concentration of polar bears, just outside Churchill, Manitoba
- Experience the frozen wilderness on Hudson Bay from the comfort of warm tundra vehicles
- Discover the challenges and joys of life in the far north in the outpost town of Churchill
Looking out onto the vast ice floe, we spy them, white on white. Alternately regal and whimsical and always awe inspiring, polar bears in the wild offer a natural encounter charged with drama and magic. Yet a warming climate and melting ice sheet are affecting Arctic ecosystems, threatening the future of all polar bears. Natural Habitat Adventures is responding with measures like our carbon offset program, and we have faith that humanity will rally to protect the frozen home of these engaging beasts. There’s no better time than now to see polar bears in their natural habitat, and no one better to take you up close than us. Come face to face with these kings of the north on a polar bear tour with Natural Habitat Adventures. Retail price for this package is valued at $10, 595.
Location of Adventure 
Churchill, Manitoba, Canada
Group Size Limit: Approximately 15 Travelers
A very important feature of our polar bear expeditions is the limited group size. Nature is always best experienced in smaller groups and it is particularly important on this expedition so our guests have plenty of room on board the tundra vehicles.
Included
R/T flight from Winnipeg to Churchill, accommodations, all meals (except either lunch or dinner on your final day in Churchill), services of NHA’s professional Expedition Leaders and assistants, all activities/entrance fees, evening wildlife and cultural presentations, all taxes and service charges.
Not Included
Travel to and from Winnipeg, lunch or dinner on your final day in Churchill, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, travel insurance, items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, etc.).
Important Information about This Trip
This flagship polar bear tour has been our most popular adventure for over 20 years. Its longstanding success is due to the extraordinary polar bear viewing opportunities afforded our guests as well as the broad introduction to life in the North over the course of a six- or seven-day adventure. Two tundra vehicle day trips and a night trip are complemented by time spent exploring this subarctic outpost, all in the company of our professional and experienced Expedition Leaders. Regarding polar bears in general: Polar bears are typically in the Churchill area all year round. The highest concentration occurs in Oct. and Nov. Sometimes the best viewing is in the beginning of the season, sometimes the middle and sometimes the end – we never know for sure. The bears are waiting for Hudson Bay to freeze, and when it does, many of them depart. Historically, this has been in early December, but an unusually early cold spell may occur, hastening their departure.
If you would like to bid on this item, please attend our 2011 Winter, Wine and Food Fest on January 29, 2011 at the Sacramento Convention Center, please click here for ticket information. We hope to see you there!
Sometimes it’s the smallest things we take for granted in life. For 16-year-old Dominique the idea of having a bedroom makeover had been a dream for a long time.
Dominique suffers from Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a condition that occurs when parts of the left side of the heart do no develop completely. Since Dominique spends a lot of time in her room because of her condition, her wish was to go on a shopping spree and be able to buy items that would transform her room into her own sanctuary.
If there was one thing we found out about Dominique through granting her wish, it was that she loves the color pink! Pink walls and bed linens donned her new room which is now a relaxing place for her to rest and enjoy.
After her shopping spree, Dominique was all smiles and her smile continues today every time she walks into her new room. Dominique is so grateful for the opportunity the Make-A-Wish Foundation gave her and cannot thank the foundation enough.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
In November of 1991 at the age of five I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphositic Leukemia also known as A.L.L. Unfortunately, I also had a relapse in 1999 at the age 12. But thanks to God I am completely healed and enjoying my life.
My make-a-wish was granted I believe in 1993 and it wasn’t until I completed my two years of protocol chemotherapy that I was well enough and strong enough get my make-a-wish. I remember a lady coming to my house and just talking to me about everything I wished to be, or places I wanted to go. One place I kept telling her was Disneyland . Make-A-Wish granted my wish, they sent myself, mom , dad, brother and sisters to Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm and Universal Studios. 
I remember most of that trip , the white limo picking us up from the house taking us to the airport. The hotel that we stayed in that looked like a castle. The characters I got to meet, Mickey Mouse, Minne, Goofy, and Snoopy at Knotts Berry Farm. The best part about it was no more doctors , and no more hospitals. Just a happy little girl having the time of my life at Disneyland with my family.
I am now 24years old, I am now a make-a-wish volunteer, and I am thankful to God for life, and my family everyday. I am grateful to Make-A-Wish for granting my wish but especially grateful for taking us out this environment of in and out hospitals stays, the tough days of being sick all the time, and bringing us together making us happy and taking are mind off all the bad and reminding us of the good things in life. The most important thing that we have each other through the good and the bad, we a strong family, and to cherish every moment. Make-A-Wish has created a memory that will forever be a part of my life.
Thank you for your time,
Sarina Mendoza
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
NAME: Cesar Chavez
WISH: To Attend Wrestlemania
DATE: March 26, 2010
Cesar had a lot of fun on his trip to Wrestlemania XXVI in Phoenix, Arizona. He and his family enjoyed the various activities associated with the event, such as meeting some of the wrestlers at a private autograph signing and a pizza party hosted by a surprise World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar. In addition to the main event at University of Phoenix Stadium, the wish experience also included “Fan Access” featuring various booths including Undertaker’s Graveyard, WWE Memorabilia, and Championship Titles Memorabilia. Cesar also had a good time on the limousine ride to the airport and enjoyed the flight to Phoenix. According to Cesar’s parents, “. . . it was amazing seeing Cesar’s wish come true and we enjoyed being together as a family. . .”
-Cesar Chavez and Family
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
Gail Dyba has worked at the Make-A-Wish Sacramento and Northeastern California Chapter for the past 11 years. Although much of her work is done behind the scenes as our Bookkeeper, every once in a while Gail gets to meet our Wish Kids firsthand.
A few weeks ago Gail was at Grocery Outlet in Granite Bay. She was wearing her Make-A-Wish jacket. A 19 year old girl named Jessie, who was bagging Gail’s groceries asked “Do you work for Make-A-Wish?”
“Yes I do,” replied Gail.
“Well, I’m a former wish child!,” said Jessie.
Gail gave her a big hug and asked to hear her story. Meanwhile, the checkout guy stood and stared as these total strangers shared their connection through Make-A-Wish.
In 2005, at the age of 13, Jessie was diagnosed with a rare liver disease. Only her father was a match, as she needed an immediate liver transplant. While she was in the hospital and preparing to receive the transplant from her father, an unexpected organ donor was found AND they were a match for Jesse! Her father didn’t have to undergo the surgery!
Jesse recovered and did very well. Her wish was to go to Oahu, Hawaii, and since she had no siblings, she was able to take her best friend Janae and her parents Kelly and Nicole.
While meeting Gail, Jessie said she would love to volunteer in the future for Make-A-Wish. As he was watching Gail and Jessie’s meeting, the checkout guy was all teary eyed and everyone watched in amazement at their immediate friendship. The two ladies couldn’t stop laughing and hugging.
“I tell everyone I meet that I’m a Make-A-Wish Kid,” said Jessie.
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
NAME: Kiah Teague
AGE: 11
WISH: To meet Miley Cyrus
DATE: April 27, 2010
Kiah’s wish to meet singer and actress Miley Cyrus was granted in conjunction with the first World Wish Day on April 29, 2010. Wish-granting celebrations were held on that day in the United States and in thirty-five other countries to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the wish that inspired the creation of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Kiah and her family described the wish experience as “the best fun ever.” In addition to meeting Miley Cyrus, the star of the “Hannah Montana” television show, Kiah enjoyed meeting other members of the cast and Dora the Explorer. Additional highlights included going to the beach, shopping, and eating ice cream. According to Kiah’s parents, “We had the best time, nothing we do will ever top it. Thank you!”
-Kiah Teague and Family
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
NAME: Jee Lee
AGE: 4
WISH: Disneyland
DATE: May 24, 2010
Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation-
Jee had such a wonderful time! Her favorite activity was the ‘Grizzly River Run’ and the ‘Mickey Mouse Fun Wheel’. Having breakfast and meeting all the Disney characters was very exciting for her. She really liked meeting Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Shrek and Donald Duck! Everyone at Make-A-Wish were friendly and helpful, which enabled Jee to have a great time on her trip to Disneyland and California Adventure. We were happy with the trip. Thanks a lot for your help!
Jee & the Lee Family
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
NAME: Armando Cortez
AGE: 12
WISH: Shopping Spree
DATE: July 17, 2010
Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation-
I really enjoyed my shopping spree! Going to Best Buy to get all my games was fun! Visiting all the other stores such as Wal-Mart to get a Wii game and camera and buying shoes and clothes at Ecko, Justice and DC shoes made the day even more fun. Everyone was great and I loved the Limo and going to all the places to shop and having lunch with my family. I had so much fun that by the end of the day I just wanted to keep shopping! Everyone was very nice. I am truly blessed to be able to go on this shopping spree. It was perfect! Thank you!
Armando and the Cortez-Manzo & Larios-Valencia Family
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity!
A letter from one of our Wish Volunteers who has a special story to share…
” I have always wanted to be part of the Make A Wish foundation, but always found a road block to being able to volunteer my time. It was a little thing called a “JOB”. Well not so little, but after years of wanting to be involved in 2008, I took stock of my life and my future and decided that it was time for a major change! So, with the support of my family and friends I quit my job and decided to devote my life to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
I went full force and since 2008 I have become a Wish Volunteer, Office Volunteer, Chairperson, Fund Raiser and donor. It has been a challenge at times during this down economy and I have made adjustments to my life. But after my first wish experience, I knew I made the right decision.
My first wish allowed me to visit a little girl named Daishana. She was 6 years old and because of her condition she was unable to verbally communicate. I wasn’t aware of this at the time and panicked as to how I would find out her wish. She lived in a small apartment with her 2 sisters and parents; I decided to go to her room and look at her living environment. I discovered that when I showed her books and toys and colors, she would smile and give me a high five sign when she liked something. She would grunt at me and scowl if she didn’t. Through this process I found that she loved Dora the Explorer, the color pink and interactive toys. The girls didn’t have much space to play. With the parents approval, we swapped bedrooms and decided to put the 3 girls in the master bedroom.
We did a complete room makeover! We gave Daishana a beautiful bed of her own and her sisters had bunk beds. We did the whole room in Pink with Dora the Explorer accents. Since Daishana loved movies, we put a TV and lots of DVD’s for her to watch. We also gave her lots of interactive toys to help with her developmental skills. On the day of the room reveal Daishana walked into her room, she looked at me, gave me a big smile, a hug and her signature “high five” sign. I knew we had succeeded in our quest to grant her special wish!
Then her Grandmother had us all form a circle in the living room and she gave the most beautiful prayer of thanks I have ever heard. She thanked God for sending Angels to their home to provide hope and joy to their family. I knew at that moment that I was destined to continue my work and could take on any challenge or experience that Make-A-Wish could provide.
Thank you for reading my story. “
- Chris Pilkington
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity.
NAME: Anthony Primrose
AGE: 17
WISH: Meet Dream Theater
DATE: July 1, 2010
Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation-
I enjoyed meeting the band and actually playing Mike Portnoy’s drums. I got to spend time with him (Mike Portnoy) and he even played the drums with me. I also found out we had a lot in common. It has been my wish for years to meet Dream Theater and to be able to play the drums made my wish a ton better. After the sound check I got to meet all the band members and they all signed my Dream Theater Biography. Many times during the concert Mike pointed up to me each time they started a song I had selected to hear. Overall, this was the best four days of my life. I had a ton of fun and I know my family did also. Thank you to everyone that helped my wish come true! My family also wanted to express their thanks by saying... “Make a Wish did an amazing job with Anthony’s wish!! They took care of all our needs from beginning to end!”
-Anthony and the Primrose Family
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity.
One of our many extraordinary volunteers, Bill Uhrig, wanted to share with you his thoughts about his wish to help grant children’s wishes. He made lasting friendships and has brightened the days of many of our Sacramento employees in the process. Here’s Bill’s story:
Why Did I Become a Make-A-Wish Volunteer?
I first heard about the organization right after it first started back in 1980. At the time I thought that there must be a lot of really caring people in the world to go out of their way to grant wishes to children they didn’t know. Little did I know just how many there are and how selfless they are. Back in 1980, I was busy trying to help raise two teenagers and manage a career which left little time to get involved.
Several years ago, after retiring and after my wife died, I found myself with a few extra dollars, and I remembered the Make-A-Wish program. I had no idea if there was a chapter in the Sacramento area, but I did a bit of research and found it, whereupon I started a small, regular donation of money. As a donor, I received the newsletter, and about three years ago, I read in the newsletter that there was going to be a volunteer orientation a couple of weeks from then.
By this time I figured out that I had more time on my hands than I knew what to do with, so I came to the orientation, where I met my new boss, Diana. She convinced me there were things around the office where I could be of use, so I started. What I found was the greatest group of women you could ever hope to meet. They all have their jobs and do a great job of fundraising to help grant wishes. I get to “work” in the office one morning a week and I get to associate with these wonderful women. I call them “my girls” and I love them all.
Volunteering gives me a feeling of doing something good and helping children and families I don’t even know. It is well worth the time.
-Bill Uhrig, Make-A-Wish Volunteer
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity.
Come celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with Fountains at Roseville’s First Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Special Honored Guest, four year-old Wish Child Jacob Remis and his family of Sacramento, will be joining local news anchor Walt Gray to light the tree!
Fountains at Roseville has partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation for this holiday season so all “wish” coins in the show fountains as well as any monetary donations collected during the event will be donated to Make-A-Wish. Also, any donors giving a monetary donation through Guest Services or Make-A-Wish directly that evening, will be entered to win a $50 gift card from Fountains at Roseville, to be announced at the end of the event.
Guests will also enjoy a festive holiday performance by the Northern California Children’s Chorus and an appearance by characters from Placer Theater Ballet’s Nutcracker. Holiday treats and refreshments will be provided by Whole Foods Market.
WHO: Walt Gray, KCRA/KQCA Anchor, Special Honored Guest, Four year-old Wish Child Jacob Remis and his family of Sacramento, Kennan Bridge, CEO and Lea Ann Carlisle, Director of Development- Make-A-Wish Sacramento and Northeastern California
WHEN: Sunday, November 21
5:00 p.m. in the center area near The Berry Factory
WHERE: Fountains at Roseville, 1182 Roseville Parkway, corner of Roseville Parkway and Galleria Boulevard
FOR MORE INFO: 916-437-0206
If you would like to partner, volunteer or adopt a wish call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us at: kbridge @ makeawish-sacto . org. If you would like to help grant more wishes, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Thank you for your support and generosity.
This weekend wish is so special it deserved two days on our 100 Wishes in 100 Days Countdown!
If you had the opportunity to attend our sold-out Wishmaker’s Ball last night in Modesto, you were introduced to a very special girl named Alivia. One of our volunteer-donors helped produce the following video to help us tell her story. If you missed the event last night, you can watch the following video to see just how special little Alivia and her family are.
And make sure you keep checking our website for more information about next year’s Wishmaker’s Ball.
Here’s the link to the video (we recommend having tissues on hand); it’s very inspiring!
Thank you for all you do to help grant wishes to local children!
Jesse is a pretty typical 18 year old from Sacramento. He enjoys watching TV and playing video games. His favorite foods are spaghetti and meatballs, cheesecake and Doritos. He enjoys going to Best Buy and watching the Dark Knight and Family Guy. However, Jesse is very special in that he has Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy.
According to Mayo Clinic, Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy is the most severe form of dystrophinopathy. It occurs mostly in young boys and is the most common form of MD that affects children. Signs and symptoms of Duchenne’s MD may include: Frequent falls, Large calf muscles, Difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position, Weakness in lower leg muscles, resulting in difficulty running and jumping, Waddling gait, Mild mental retardation, in some cases. It’s a very serious and debilitating disease.
When Jesse was asked by Make-A-Wish what he might be hoping for… Read more…
When Sara French arrived at The Wishing Place in Natomas to volunteer, she had no idea what was about to happen…
Sarah was inspired to volunteer at Make-A-Wish Sacramento and Northeastern California because of a young man she knew, Michael, who was granted his wish to visit Hawaii.
This is Sarah’s story:
” In 2004, a very dear friend of mine, Michael Poteran, was diagnosed with Neuroendocrine Carcinoma. On October 7, 2007, after 22 rounds of chemotherapy, he lost his valiant fight against cancer. He was 19. Just a few months prior, Michael was able to travel to Hawaii with his family, where he got swim with the dolphins. His trip was made possible by the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
When I was recently given my community service project at school, the first organization that came to my mind was Make-A-Wish, because of all the wonderful things they do for children whose lives are consumed with doctor visits, hospital stays, painful procedures, and just having to live with an illness. I wanted to learn more about how the people at Make-A-Wish are able to make so many dreams come true.
Through the website, I was able to get in contact with Joanie, who offered to give me tour of their new facility in Natomas, The Wishing Place. When I arrived I was in awe. It is such a warm, welcoming environment; I can only imagine what a special experience this must be for the children who come there to select their greatest wish. After showing me where they help the children decide their wish, and the wishing tower, Joanie showed me where children are presented their wishes, once they have been granted. As we walked into the entry of party area, I noticed a collection of ten pictures hanging on the wall. Each picture was a photo of a child whose wish was granted. And there in the right lower corner was Michael!
I instantly was overcome with emotions, and I began to cry, and Joanie knew that my dear friend was one of those pictures on the wall. On this day, I had my 16 month old son with me, and as I cried, I whispered in his ear that that was mommy’s friend and his guardian angel. My son smiled and babbled and pointed to his picture. I believe in my heart that I was meant to visit The Wishing Place, and I am so thankful to the staff for allowing me the opportunity to come a tour their amazing foundation.
I also believe that on that day, my friend Michael was letting me know just how magical Make-A-Wish is, and that he was saying hi. “
If you would like to take a tour of The Wishing Place, volunteer or adopt a wish like Michael’s, call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 OR email us to Adopt A Wish. If you would like to help grant more wishes like Michael’s please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California,
Meet Evan, a smiling, fun loving student at Roseville High School. 
It all started with a simple visit to the dentist. Then a week later his whole life turned upside down. A week after that, he finally heard the word ‘cancer’. The preliminary diagnosis is mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. Although this is preliminary, the doctor feels this will be the final diagnosis after consulting with the pathologist. According to the report from the docs, “These are rare, but clinically aggressive tumors. About 30% of them occur in the jaws and a large proportion of them are seen in teenagers and young adults”. Needless to say the family was devastated.
After months of treatment, Evan came to visit us here at the Wishing Place in Natomas.
Here’s an excerpt from his family’s blog about his visit: Read more…
Jackson is a 5 year old from Sacramento. He’s such a cutie! His favorite colors are both blue and red, he loves to watch Elmo Live and plays with puzzles. Jackson also likes to play with his younger brother Wyatt, eat gummy candies, french fries, fruit, and pet his doggy Sammi!
Sadly, Jackson also suffers from a brain tumor and is consistently in and out of hospitals and receiving treatments. In order for us to take some of the stress this cancer has put on the family, Jackson wished to visit Winnie the Pooh and Tigger in Disney World.
Here’s a little about the family’s experience: Read more…
NAME: Diego Gomes
AGE: 15
WISH: Attending the 2010 Winter Olympics
DATE: February 11, 2010
Diego’s wish was a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity… He attended the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver! Diego attended the Opening Ceremonies as well as two special competitions; the Men’s Mogul Freestyle Skiing competition at Cypress Mountain and the hockey match between Canada vs. Norway. Another highlight of Diego’s trip was receiving his very own personalized Olympic jacket! In the words of Diego and his family:
“I had an amazing time! The opening ceremony was great. I especially enjoyed the special effects that encompassed the whole stadium which included audience participation. We could not have been more spoiled and sometimes felt overwhelmed by it all!! We had the time of our lives and a unique experience! We will never forget Make a Wish for this wish and we are forever grateful. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to the Olympics and I am very thankful to Make-A-Wish for making it possible.” – Diego & the Gomes-Trigoso Family
NAME: Jyllian Hunt
AGE: 8
WISH: Disneyland
DATE: October 4, 2010
“Dear Make-A-Wish Foundation-
We are so very grateful as a family as a whole, for how happy Jyllian was during her wish. Experiencing Jyllian’s excitement, as she rode each ride, saw the characters, enjoyed the food, lights and attractions was absolutely priceless. During her wish, Jyllian’s limitations disappeared. She was able to go on every ride everyone else did. It was so amazing and emotional to witness Jyllian’s empowerment. Every step of the journey we were made to feel special. Her favorite rides where ‘Soaring over California’ where the whole family was able to experience the feeling of flying and the ‘Grizzly Rafting’ ride where we all got drenched. She laughed and laughed afterward. ‘Space Mountain’ was also a favorite, but truly everything was very magical and amazing, from start to finish we were blown away! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!” -Jyllian & The Hunt Family
If you would like to help grant more wishes like Jyllian’s please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California, call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 to volunteer OR email us to Adopt A Wish.
NAME: Donovan Russell
AGE: 9
WISH: Meeting Michael Jordan
DATE: January 21, 2010
“My wish trip was the greatest!! It changed my whole life! I feel better about myself and I am happier. The entire trip was so great that Mr. Jordan was good at spending time with us and I thought we would only see him for a few minutes. I am so glad Mr. Jordan loves kids! My family and I can’t stop talking about it, especially since we had a limo and Ms. Jessica made sure we had everything we needed. Everyone including Mr. Brent and Mr. & Mrs. Williams made us feel like celebs. This trip was more than we ever dreamed of. We are so thankful to all who played a part in making Donovan’s dream come true. Mr. Jordan and his staff were amazing. The Hotel was amazing, Sarah and Tamika were wonderful! Thank you for taking good care of kids with illnesses” - Donovan
“Thank you Make a Wish, you helped change our lives!” -Donovan & The Russell Family
If you would like to help grant more wishes like Donovan’s please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California, call the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 to volunteer OR email us to Adopt A Wish.
The following is a speech given by Wish Mom Christi, who spoke at our “walk for wishes” kick-off lunch a few years ago.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento has impacted our life in many ways.
For a child who has been hospitalized more in her 4 years of life (than her dad and my lives together) it has made a huge difference.
Hannah was hospitalized many times, while the doctors did exploratory surgery on her heart, to find the reason she kept fainting, and having seizures. The doctors decided to implant a pace maker, after many months of tests, to avoid future episodes where her heart would stop beating. This is what made Hannah eligible for her wish!
Hannah’ s wish was to meet Jasmine at Disneyworld. As we arrived in the airport, the airport greeter showed us through the airport to our luggage and rental car. He put Hannah on top of the luggage pile.
She turned to me and said “ I get to sit up here because I am special!”
This child had repeatedly asked her father and I “ why me?” many times the past few years. This was one time she was proud to be “ her” as she was paraded through the airport by the greeter.
Our last day in Disneyworld, she was able to meet Jasmine, and share a few hugs with her favorite princess. On that last day of our
trip, I was in a very somber mood. I was sad to be leaving such a happy place, where we were treated like royalty, and there were no hospital visits, or blood tests to take. We knew that no amount of money could buy a repeat vacation like this one, where we met some incredibly giving people, and were able to stay in a place that seemed like a dream.
During our slow walk out of the park, the fireworks were lighting up the sky, and Jiminy Cricket was narrating the show. His last words were “ May all your wishes come true.”
Hannah tugged on my sleeve and said, “ Mom, did you hear that?”
She repeated what he told her and said “ That is funny, because all of my wishes just came true!”
I couldn’ t have asked for a better ending to our fairytale vacation. Those words made my eyes tear up as I had gone over the last 2 years of Hannah’ s life in my head. I will never forget that moment when Hannah was not asking “ why me?” and instead felt special being herself.
If you would like to help grant more wishes like Hanna’s please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California OR email us to Adopt A Wish.
Kaiden is such a strong and happy little man! He’s a smiley and happy-go-lucky three year old from Sacramento. Sadly, when Kaiden was born he was given a less than 1% chance of survival. He was born without functioning kidneys.
Kaiden’s been on peritoneal dialysis since he was 8 days old. He wasn’t getting adequate oxygen supply, has undergone over 13 surgeries, sees more than 10 specialists, endured nightly hemo dialysis, and been connected to too many tubes and IV’s and catheters for any one person to endure. Because of his condition and treatments, he’s incredibly small for his age and has o
nly ever eaten through tubes.
Last Spring, things looked grim. Kaiden was in critical condition and actually coded at one point. He needed a new kidney, and FAST! He waited 3 weeks on the kidney transplant list and in August of this year, he received a healthy kidney from an 18 year old donor (another hero in our books).
Since Kaiden’s transplant, his health has improved dramatically. He’s grown 2 inches, gotten most of his color back, gained 3 lbs. and can now receive formula!
Because of the many hours he’s spent in bed watching Disney movies, Kaiden knew exactly what to wish for when he came to The Wishing Place in Natomas. After placing his wish in the official wish box, the room lit in his favorite color (blue) and “Celebration” started playing. Kaiden couldn’t help himself from laughing, clapping and dancing to the music!
Once his immune system improves, he hopes to share a laugh or two with Mickey and Minnie in Disneyworld. Kaiden’s transplant along with a loving, supportive family (a mother whose worked in the medical profession for years), and the hope of his wish coming true has helped him overcome a grim outlook with a beautiful spirit. He’s still has many challenges ahead of him, but he is making great progress and his story inspires us to live life to the fullest and always remember to smile!
If Kaiden has inspired you to smile, please consider giving to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Sacramento and Northeastern California. Kaiden’s wish was generously adopted by one of our AMAZING volunteers, Bill Uhrig. Thank you Bill for your time and generosity!!!
Sweet Trinity lives in Loomis. She’s six years old, her favorite color is green and she loves chicken quesadillas, Sponge Bob Square Pants, and chocolate cake!
Sadly, Trinity suffers from a Posterior Fossa Tumor, a type of brain tumor located in or near the bottom of her head. It has been a difficult time for Trinity and her family. She’s had to spend much of her time in the hospital, use a wheelchair, oxygen mask, have a tracheotomy and doctors removed her tonsils and adnoids. Trinity also endured daily radiation treatments for six weeks.
In July 2008, Trinity was able to begin to speak again after 2 months of silence. According to our Wish-Makers, Pat Loewen and Lisa Campodonico, when they arrived at her home to help her pick her wish, Trinity (at that time 4 yrs. old) stood up to greet them and her mom said it was the first time she stood up in months.
“The little sweetheart has had her trials with steroids- in addition to a swollen face and body, she also had an itchy rash. But in spite of her limitations and difficulty speaking, she was amazingly spunky and chatty,” said the wish team.
Pat and Lisa helped Trinity open little gift boxes with the themes: “I want to be,” “I want to have,” and “I want to meet”- all with little trinkets and goodies to help her pick her favorite wish.
When she opened the “I want to go” box, there was no doubt in her mind. She shared her wish to meet Mickey and Minnie and have tea with all the Disney Princesses!
Fortunately, Trinity’s wish to visit Disneyland has been adopted by Auburn Autohaus and local Auburn businesses! A benefit will be held for Trinity on November 7th, 2010 from 10am- 4pm at Auburn Autohaus- Hwy 49 and Bell.
If you’d like more info. about attending, volunteering or vending at this event to grant Trinity’s wish click here OR visit the Facebook Event Page for Trinity’s Benefit!
We hope granting Trinity’s wish will help make her feel like a normal (albeit a very special) little girl again!
This story is courtesy of KRCRTV in Redding, Calif.
Singing It Forward
POSTED: 7:34 pm PDT October 22, 2010 UPDATED: 10:43 am PDT October 23, 2010
TO VIEW THE ONLINE VIDEO OF THIS STORY CLICK HERE.
REDDING, Calif. — Kevin Sharp took the stage at the Win River Casino in Redding Friday night, singing his heart out to raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation.
Sharp is the first and only Make A Wish child who has become someone else’s wish.
In 1989, Sharp was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, an aggressive type of bone cancer. He was 18-years-old and right out of high school, when doctors told him that he only had six months to live.
“I graduated from high school thinking I had the world at my fingertips and there wasn’t anything I could do,” said Sharp. “It was all just taken away.”
Sharp wished for the opportunity to meet the emmy winning songwriter and producer, David Foster.
Ever since he was a little kid, music has been Sharp’s life. Sharp said that whenever he would come across a song that he liked, he would check to see who actually wrote and produced the music. More often then not, it was Foster.
“But I don’t think there’s a single one of us who can’t chronologically look at our lives and kind of say, and here’s a song for what happened during this point in my life,” said Sharp. “We all have our own soundtrack to our lives.”
In 1991, after chemotherapy, radiation and surgeries, doctors couldn’t find any trace of cancer.
Sharp credits the Make A Wish Foundation for granting him the wish that saved his life, the gift of music. He said that meeting Foster, and getting a chance to share his passion for music with his idle, was treatment for his heart and soul.
Foster even helped Sharp move up in the music industry. After they met, the two became friends. When Sharp signed his first record deal in 1996, Foster helped get his demo into the right hands.
Sharp is now an award winning singer, performing with his band, and raising money for Make A Wish Foundation.
Sharp’s advice: indulge in whatever you’re passionate about because it makes life that much easier.
“I think that’s the key to anyone’s survival in life, regardless of a disease, depression, whatever it may be, those are the things that keep us in the game,” said Sharp. For more about Sharp, visit his website.
Kayla, 4, had no doubts about her wish – she wanted to meet all the Disney princesses at Disneyland. Kayla adores all the princesses and spends most of her time at home in Grass Valley pretending to be just like them. Thinking about the princesses often helps Kayla get through painful treatments for her autoimmune neutropenia, an illness where antibodies destroy white blood cells, increasing the risk of infection. The illness has kept Kayla from experiencing much life outside her home because of her poor immunity.
But for five days in December, Kayla, her parents, two sisters and brother didn’t have to think about her condition, doctor’s appointments or treatments. Kayla rode several rides and spent time sitting with every Disney princess. Kayla’s dad Joe said, “If there was a princess in the park, we found her.” Lori, Kayla’s mom, said she couldn’t believe how well-planned and relaxing the trip was: “This trip was a much needed respite for the whole family.”
If you or your company is interested in helping make a local child’s (like Kayla) wish come true, please contact the Sacramento Chapter office at (916) 437-0206 or (888) 828-9474 or email kbridge@makeawish-sacto.org. Click here to make an online donation now OR consider attending our Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest which allows us to grant 100 wishes each year!
Meet Tyler. He’s 8 years old and lives with his family in Lincoln, CA. Tyler is an avid football fan and he enjoys playing football with his 3 older brothers.
Unfortunately, Tyler suffers from Wilm’s Tumor, rare kidney cancer that primarily affects children; 
approximately 500 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. annually. According to Mayoclinic.com, symptoms of Wilm’s Tumor include: Abdominal swelling, An abdominal mass you can feel, Fever, Blood in the urine, Reduced appetite, High blood pressure, Constipation, Stomach pain and Nausea.
With the help of Make-A-Wish Foundation, Tyler selected his official wish: To attend the Pro Bowl 2011 in Hawaii this February!
UPDATE: Tyler’s Wish has been adopted by the Hyatt Place in Roseville. Their employees will be donating time and resources to grant Tyler’s wish. Stay tuned for more ways how YOU can help make Tyler’s wish come true!
Today marks the first day of our 100-day countdown to the Winter Wine and Food Fest!!! This is our biggest yearly event and allows us to grant approximately 100 wishes throughout the year to local children… Hence our 100 Wish Countdown!
Wish#100: Our wish today is that you will visit and share our new blog with friends to help us promote the 100 Wishes in 100 Days Countdown!
100 Wishes in 100 Days- A Countdown to the Winter Wine and Food Fest
Proceeds from Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Sacramento and Northeastern California’s Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest allow us to grant approximately 100 wishes throughout the year to local children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. The Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest is our largest fund-raising, friend-raising and wish-granting event!
In celebration of this accomplishment, we are counting down the 100 days until the 2011 Winter Wine and Food Fest with 100 wish stories to inspire. We’re also offering special gifts to our online friends and promoting the wonderful sponsors and vendors who make the event a success. AND… You’ll get a sneak peek of our auction items for the evening!
Keep checking our blog for updates! Also visit our Website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
Thanks for helping us Share the Power of a Wish!
SAVE THE DATE!
23rd Annual Winter Wine & Food Fest – Sacramento
January 29, 2011
Food and Wine Tasting: 5:00 pm- 7:30 pm
Silent Auction 5:00 pm- 7:45 pm
Program 7:45 pm
Exclusive Live Auction 8:00 pm- 10:00 pm.
$85 per person, and $185 for VIP tickets per person
A truly elegant wine and food tasting affair, featuring 120 of our finest wineries, breweries, and eating establishments. This black tie evening is complete with an exciting VIP live auction, a silent auction featuring trips and cool autographed memorabilia, along with live music courtesy of some of Sacramento’s hottest talent. This year, the Make-A-Wish Foundation Sacramento and Northeastern California chapter will grant approximately 230 wishes. Our Annual Winter Wine and Food Fest funds approximately 100 wishes for local children.
Don’t miss one of the biggest philanthropic events of the year. Mark your calendar now!
