Live Auction Preview...2009 Creating Magic Gala

Food & Wine Tasting Party Sheryl Grover, former owner of Creative Cooking of Hudson, will host a private event for 8 in your own home! Each featured gourmet food will be accompanied by a perfectly suited wine. All wine for this item has been kindly donated by Solo Vino on Selby Avenue in St. Paul, online at www.solovinowines.com.

Private Mendota Heights Golf Experience Play a round for three golfers at two of the area's most exclusive private courses in 2010: Somerset Country Club and Mendakota Country Club.

Cruise on the St. Croix River Depart from the Bayport Marina aboard a beautiful 42-foot Searay boat called "Goes Around" and take in the scenery. This relaxing cruise for 4-6 guests comes complete with drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and dinner.
Learn more about the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway here.

Guided Bass Fishing on the Mississippi River A unique outdoor trip for two, based out of Wabasha, Minnesota. The tour will be expertly led by personal fishing guide John Stears of Riverfan Fishing. This catch and release trip includes everything you need; experienced anglers and beginners are all welcome.

Historic Saint Paul Staycation Get away from it all without the hassle of traveling... Take in a show at The Ordway Theatre, have dinner at Kincaid's Fish, Chop and Steak House, and stay overnight at The Saint Paul Hotel, consistently ranked among the country’s top hotels.

Downtown Minneapolis Staycation Begin your evening with an elegant dinner at Palomino, followed by a show at Illusion Theater, whose mission is to 'illuminate the myths and realities of our times and to catalyze personal and social change'. Finish off a perfect night out with a stay at the renowned Chambers Hotel, "The Luxury Art Hotel".

Charming Condo Escape in Beaver Creek, Colorado Enjoy a week away for 4-6 guests, while staying in a spacious luxury three bedroom, three bath condo in The Highlands. Just a short walk from the Beaver Creek village shops and restaurants, this fully furnished home features a complete kitchen, underground parking, private balcony and wood-burning fireplace. Amenities for the property include a beautiful outdoor pool and outdoor hot tubs. Some area attractions: hiking, golfing, art galleries, shopping, whitewater rafting, theater, spas, fly fishing, horseback riding and more.
Includes a two-and-a-half hour Signature Spa Package at The Bachelor Gulch Spa at The Ritz-Carlton! Start with a soothing 60 minute facial, manicure and pedicure. Relax afterwards in the the Spa's luxurious Grotto or take in the resort's scenic mountain views.
Available for a vacation anytime June 22nd through October 31st, 2010. Transportation not included.

Around-the-World Cuisine for a Year Appreciate all the Twin Cities has to offer in fine dining and atmosphere. This item features a baker's dozen of certificates for the best eateries in the area including: Barbette (French), Black Forest Inn (German), Nicollet Island Inn (American), Christo's (Greek), D'Amico (Italian), Fogo de Chao (Brazilian, pictured left), Gasthof Zur Gemutlichkeit (German), Jax Cafe (American), Ichiban (Japanese), La Cocinita (Mexican), The Liffey/The Local/Kieran's Pub (Irish), McCormack & Schmick's (American) and Mediterranean Cruise Restaurant (Middle Eastern). Taste them yourself or divide as gifts throughout 2010! Restaurant information at http://www.mspmag.com/dining/restaurantguide/default.asp

Holiday Music & Theater Package Take in three shows at three wonderful venues over the holidays, or use as gifts. See 'Straighten Up and Fly Right! An Unforgettable Tribute to Nat King Cole' on 11/14 at Hopkins Center for the Arts. Explore Cole's career from 1939-1962, enjoying 19 beloved hits such as Route 66 and Unforgettable. Hear 'Treasures of the Italian Baroque' performed by The Saint Paul Orchestra at The Ordway on 12/4, featuring concertos and sinfonias by Vivaldi and his contemporaries. Conclude the series with 'The Music Show' and dinner at The Women's Club of Minneapolis on 12/12.
Brewing Adventure Brew your own beer with the Vine Park Brew Club in St. Paul. Two brewers will receive two nights of fun. The first night you learn to brew your own beer and on the second night you learn to sample, bottle and cap it! Six different types of beer will be yours to take home, for a total of 3 cases. Must be 21 years or older.
More about the 2009 Gala