AUGUST 5 – 8, 2021 | NAPA VALLEY, CA
SPONSORED BY WHAT’S INSIDE
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Wine Fund-A-Need: Virginia Vine Celebration Immunotherapy Research
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Sonoma Behind the V Leading the V Epicurean
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Vintner Wine Celebration Upcoming Grant Honorees Ambassador 2021 & Events Volunteer Grant Honoree V WINE CELEBRATION EVENT HIGHLIGHTS V Family, After navigating challenges and disruptions the Thursday / August 5, 2021 pandemic caused last year, and through the collective • Hall of Fame Luncheon belief in our motto, “Don’t Ever Give Up,” our dedicated Perry Lang’s, Yountville Board of Directors and committed staff, along with the determination of our strongest supporters, reimagined • Humanitarians & Founders Dinner our annual Wine Celebration event in 2020 and raised Winston Hill Vineyards $3.8 million for cancer research last August. • Dinner with the Docs We were able to celebrate together and generate funding Far Niente Winery for promising V Scholar Grants that will advance critical research using state-of-the-art technologies in order to • Reception & Private change the game for life-threatening disease. Concert Performance Alpha Omega Winery We had momentum through an altered year, and now it is time to join back together and show perseverance in our continued fight. We will be working hard to create Friday / August 6, 2021 a safe environment for us to gather again in August, • Presidents & Vintner Grant and we can hardly wait for our annual celebration in Honorees Luncheon Napa Valley – because I know when we gather together Louis M. Martini Winery as one team for one cause that we are unstoppable! • “Rock The V” Party I am delighted to be back as host for the 14th time during The Pavilion, The Estate Yountville the 23rd Annual V Foundation Wine Celebration on August 5-8, 2021. I will be joined by my fellow V Board members, ESPN Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas and Saturday / August 7, 2021 “SportsCenter” Anchor Sage Steele, with a special • Answer for Cancer guest appearance by CNN Commentator Paul Begala. Research Symposium This year’s Fund a Need will focus on immunotherapy, The Social, The Estate Yountville which harnesses the power of a person’s own immune • Sonoma Epicurean Marketplace system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy shows promise The Social, The Estate Yountville as a cancer treatment, but more work is needed to learn which cancer patients would benefit the most, how we • Gala & Auction at Nickel & Nickel can keep the immune system from overreacting and how some cancers are learning to hide from the immune - Showcase Auction & Reception system. Immunotherapy has the potential to eradicate - Gala Dinner & Program cancer cells without harming healthy tissue – a total Featuring Chef Michael Mina game changer. We need your help! Duke Head Coach Men’s Basketball My wife, Mickie, and I look forward to seeing you Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski back in Napa Valley, where we will persevere, with ESPN Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas an unrivaled passion for a new year and a brand ESPN “SportsCenter” Anchor new mission ahead. Let’s do this TOGETHER. Sage Steele Retired Executive Chairman of ESPN, Inc. George Bodenheimer
- Liv e Auction with John Curley
- Do lce Lounge Featuring DJ Lucien, The Courtyard
• Corona Nightclub The Social, The Estate Yountville
01 THURSDAY, AUGUST 5
n HALL OF FAME LUNCHEON Hosted by Mickie & Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski Chuck & Anne McMinn, Vineyard 29 Chef Adam Perry Lang, Award-Winning Barbecue & Meat Master Adam Perry Lang’s second eponymous restaurant will showcase his one-of-a-kind dry aged beef and seasonally driven, produce-forward dishes alongside the elegant wines of Vineyard 29. By Private Invitation Only
n HUMANITARIANS & FOUNDERS DINNER Hosted by 2021 Vintner Grant Honorees Rich & Leslie Frank Mickie & Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski Chef Christina Machamer Frank Family’s story began with a patriarch who laid the foundation for three generations to become a part of a historical winery. Rich and Leslie have a passion for Napa Valley, reflected in the hand-crafted wines they produce every vintage. Quality wine requires constant love and attention, and making great wine is their labor of love. Chef Christina Machamer will prepare a decadent dinner, paired along side the portfolio of wines from Winston Hill Estate Vineyard. By Invitation Only — Giving Club Membership
n DINNER WITH THE DOCS Hosted by Proprietress Beth Nickel ESPN “SportsCenter” Anchor Sage Steele Chef Alejandro Ayala, James Beard Award Honoree Don’t miss this fabulous opportunity to dine with the world-class doctors of the Scientific Advisory Committee at the Far Niente winery, thought by many to be among the most stunning landscapes in the Napa Valley. Chef Alejandro Ayala will prepare a sumptuous dinner paired with a superb selection of highly acclaimed wines.
n RECEPTION & PRIVATE CONCERT Hosted by Proprietors Robin & Michelle Baggett ESPN Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas Executive Chef Nash Cognetti Tre Posti Established in 2006, Alpha Omega’s mission is to create artisanal wines drawing on Old World vineyard handcrafted practices and emphasis on unique terroir driven characteristics that reveal a sense of place combined with New World technology. The winery, located in Rutherford, at the heart of Napa Valley, exudes the utmost experience of hospitality in an authentic place reflective of the Napa Valley farming community. Presenting world-class wines in a convivial setting remains paramount to vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett. 02 FRIDAY, AUGUST 6
n PRESIDENTS & VINTNER GRANT HONOREES LUNCHEON Hosted by Proprietress Gina Gallo Featuring Special Guest Speaker CNN Commentator Paul Begala Chef Jeffery Russell, Former Chef Aureole & Charlie Palmer Group Executive Chef Nash Cognetti Tre Posti Presidents Club and Vintner Honorees will be treated to a special luncheon and world-class wines at the newly restored Louis M. Martini Winery, hosted by Proprietress & Winemaker Gina Gallo and featuring CNN Commentator, author and professor, Paul Begala. Paul Begala will entertain guests with a witty and highly informed perspective on today’s headlines. Paul has won both an Emmy Award and a Peabody Award. In addition to appearing on air, Paul writes commentary for CNN. Chef Jeffery Russell will showcase his culinary talent with a live-action reception on the Cabana Lawn, followed by a decadent luncheon in Louis Martini Park prepared by Chef Nash Cognetti and designed to complement the beautifully crafted wines. Guests will celebrate Rich & Leslie Frank, of Frank Family Vineyards, into our Vintner Grant Honoree family. By Invitation Only — Giving Club Membership
n “ROCK THE V” PARTY
WE’RE ALL FIRED UP FOR 2021! VINTNER BBQ SHOWDOWN You be the judge as Vintner Honorees Robin Baggett, Cyril Chappellet, Jeff Gargiulo and David Duncan are paired up with special V talent and surprise guests in the BBQ showdown. ESPN Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas will host the evening’s spirited cook-off, live music and festivities fit for an epic reunion.
WINE COUNTRY’S PREEMINENT VINTNERS You’ll have plenty of opportunities to chat with the vintners as you sample their latest vintages and perfectly aged selections. Enjoy handcrafted wines, prized varietals and new releases, as you sip and savor every drop.
CONNOISSEUR WINE AUCTION One-of-a-kind custom curated blends are yours for the tasting and possibly winning! The highest bidders could get hold of a some of the rarest and finest bottles of wine from world-renowned wine makers.
DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY End the evening under the stars and leave it all on the dance floor with DJ Lucien and the band, Cracked Ice. 03 SATURDAY, AUGUST 7
n ANSWER FOR CANCER SYMPOSIUM Hosted by Dr. William Nelson, Marion I. Knott Professor of Oncology and Director, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins ESPN “SportsCenter” Anchor Sage Steele The V Foundation Scientific Advisory Committee, comprised of some of the nation’s leading physicians and research scientists from prominent universities and cancer centers, discuss current advances in immunotherapy and discoveries in clinical applications, new diagnostics, targeted data and alternative treatments for cancer. By focusing on brilliant young investigators, the Scientific Advisory Committee works toward accomplishing the goal of the Foundation: achieving Victory Over Cancer!® The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $260 million for cutting- edge research and holds the highest possible 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities. It is among the top 2% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is also a GuideStar Platinum-rated charity.
NEW EVENT
MARKETPLACE Enjoy vintners and chefs representing the new V signature event series: The Sonoma Epicurean, launching in March 2022 in Healdsburg, CA. The event series will feature curated and hands-on experiences with Michelin-star and award-winning chefs, local artisans and world-class vintners with focus on lifestyle, wellness and sustainability.
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n GALA DINNER & LIVE AUCTION Hosted by the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history, Mike “Coach K” Krzyzewski, ESPN Basketball Analyst, Jay Bilas, ESPN “SportsCenter” Anchor, Sage Steele and Retired Executive Chairman of ESPN, Inc., George Bodenheimer. Guests will enjoy an elaborate multi-course dinner prepared by celebrity Chef Michael Mina and paired with exceptional Nickel & Nickel wines. They will also have the opportunity to raise a paddle for uniquely cultivated wine and experiential packages while raising critical funds for immunotherapy research.
n DOLCE LOUNGE n CORONA NIGHTCLUB Fountain Courtyard at Nickel & Nickel The Social, The Estate Yountville featuring DJ Lucien
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Immunotherapy Research Immunotherapy harnesses the power of the immune system and trains it to recognize cancer cells and eliminates them- forever! It is a hope in the fight against cancer.
n Treatments like chemotherapy attack the cancer, while immunotherapy trains the body to help find and attack the cancer. 01. n Immunotherapy treatments can be used in many different APPROACH Cancer types of cancer in children and adults. It may be used by T cell cell itself or in conjunction with other therapies. approaches T cell cancer cell n Immunotherapy shows promise as a cancer treatment, but more work is needed to learn: which cancer patients would benefit the most, how we can keep the immune system from overreacting and how some cancers are learning to hide from the immune system.
n This can be done in a couple of ways: 02. - Stimulating, or boosting, the natural defenses of your ATTACK immune system so it works harder or smarter to find T cell and attack cancer cells attacks cancer cell - Ma king substances in a lab that are just like immune system components and using them to help restore or improve how your immune system works to find and attack cancer cells.
03. DESTROY Cancer cell destroyed
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COVID-19 Safety Protocol
The V Foundation takes event safety seriously. As you know, COVID-19 has been declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization and is contagious. As a result, federal, state, and local governments and health agencies recommend social distancing and increased personal protection efforts, In the last few decades, immunotherapy has including frequent hand washing and wearing become an important part of treating some types face coverings at all times in public settings. of cancer. Immunotherapy treatments are being tested and approved, and new ways of working with the immune system are being discovered We have put in place precautionary measures at a very fast pace. aimed at preventing and reducing the Our immune system is a collection of organs, spread of COVID-19 among attendees of our special cells, and substances that help protect you signature events. All of the events will have the from infections and some other diseases. Immune ability to move outside with shade canopies cells and the substances they make travel through and socially-distanced tables. All food and your body to protect it from germs that cause infections. They also help protect you from beverage servers, staff and volunteers will cancer in some ways. be wearing face coverings at all times. Many vaccines can also prevent transmission, but it The immune system keeps track of all of the substances normally found in the body. Any will still be important for people to continue new substance that the immune system does not wearing masks and practicing physical recognize raises an alarm, causing the immune distancing, even after being vaccinated. system to attack it. For example, germs contain substances such as certain proteins that are not As developments continue to evolve, so will normally found in the human body. The immune system sees these as “foreign” and attacks them. our approach to keeping you safe. We thank The immune response can destroy anything you for your patience and flexibility and look containing the foreign substance, such as germs forward to welcoming you to one of our or cancer cells. signature events! The immune system has a tougher time targeting cancer cells, though. This is because cancer starts For those who wish not to travel to the Wine when normal, healthy cells become changed or Celebration, we will be producing a live/virtual altered and start to grow out of control. Because cancer cells actually start in normal cells, the hybrid event. Guests will have access to the immune system does not always recognize them Answer for Cancer Symposium and Gala as foreign. Auction at Nickel & Nickel from their home To overcome this, researchers have found ways to and participate in the fundraising efforts help the immune system recognize cancer cells and through mobile bidding. strengthen its response so that it will destroy them. In this way, your own body is actually getting rid of the cancer, with some help from science.
07 APRIL 24, 2021 JOIN US NEXT MONTH The sixth annual Virginia Vine will be a virtual fundraiser unlike any other. This year, we will bring Virginia’s finest wines to you. Join us for a heck of a day as we fundraise for immunotherapy research.
Register at v.org/virginiavine
n BROADCAST FROM GREENHILL WINERY & VINEYARDS 10:30 a.m. EST/7:30 a.m. PST The day kicks off with Voices for Victory, a dynamic panel of cancer researchers sharing their work in immunotherapy and how V Foundation funding is driving them toward Victory Over Cancer.® Following the panel, guests will enjoy a
conversation featuring ESPN on-air talent and V Foundation DERECK WHITTENBURG RALPH SAMPSON Board Member Jay Bilas, basketball great and V Foundation Board Member Dereck Whittenburg and sports legend Ralph Sampson—covering everything from sports to FIND US ON @THEVFOUNDATION how cancer has affected them.
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n BROADCAST FROM STONE TOWER WINERY Hosted by Proprietors Kristi & Mike Huber, Stone Tower Winery
5:30 p.m. EST/2:30 p.m. PST | VIRTUAL COCKTAIL RECEPTION 6 p.m. EST/3 p.m. PST | PROGRAM & AUCTION 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST | AFTER PARTY The evening will start with an entertaining combination of mission and music, followed by an exhilarating live auction. Guests will experience an intimate, acoustic show from two award-winning Nashville songwriters who will share stories behind their hit songs. Our fundraising will support immunotherapy research.
PAUL OVERSTREET NEIL THRASHER Overstreet has written or Thrasher’s songs have co-written 27 Top-10 songs. been recorded by some of Chart-topping artists who music’s most successful have recorded his songs acts, including Jason include Randy Travis, Aldean, Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Blake Luke Bryan, Rascal Flatts, Shelton, Baird Paisley, Tim McGraw, Reba Carrie Underwood and more. McEntire and many more.
JAY BILAS JOE THEISMANN This year, Jay Bilas, The virtual Auction Gala will legendary ESPN sports be hosted by Joe Theismann, broadcaster and entrepreneur, and former star V Foundation Board Washington quarterback. It will member, will be our feature exquisite Virginia wine, guest speaker. culinary delights, and exclusive auction items, all in support of Virginia’s renowned cancer research centers and growing wine industry.
*There will be two ways to experience this event. Guest can watch the live stream on the V Foundation YouTube channel through any device. Guests can simultaneously join us in the virtual room through a platform called Remo (on a PC). This option allows you to mix and mingle with your friends, your table, and others in the room, including our featured guests.
09 MARCH 31–APRIL 3, 2022 NEW V SIGNATURE EVENT IN 2022 The Sonoma Epicurean is a signature series of events that will feature curated and hands-on experiences with Michelin-star and award-winning chefs, local artisans, and world-class vintners with focus on lifestyle, wellness and sustainability.
MONTAGE HEALDSBURG will be the home of the three-day event, a transformative hideaway that reflects the natural serenity of Sonoma Wine Country and offers wellness experiences inspired by the land.
For more information visit sonomaepicurean.org | Follow us @EpicSonoma
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n WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30 VIP WELCOME RECEPTION Hosted by Stuart Bryan, Pride Mountain Vineyards Chef-Owner Kyle Connaughton SingleThread, Michelin Award Winner n THURSDAY, MARCH 31 WINERY DINNERS Aperture Cellars, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Pride Mountain Vineyards, Silver Oak Cellars, Williams Selyem n FRIDAY, APRIL 1 CULINARY ARTISAN SERIES Guests will enjoy a fully immersive edible forage and culinary journey with Master Chef, James Corwell, Michelin Award Winners, Kyle & Katina Connaughton, James Beard Award Winner, Charlie Palmer, and winner of Food Network’s, “Chopped”, Dustin Valette.
EPIC PARTY AT MAYACAMA Your artisan exploration culminates at the stunning Mayacama Golf Club where 30 of the world’s most notable vintners will pour their stunning wines alongside the gourmet delights from award winning chefs with a special culinary showcase featuring Certified Master Chef James Corwell. n SATURDAY, APRIL 2 EPICUREAN SYMPOSIUM Scientists and researchers will discuss cancer wellness and the need to prevent cancer disparities in minority ethnic groups with higher cancer risk.
EPIC FEAST & AUCTION Hosted by ESPN “SportsCenter” Anchor Sage Steele Guests will enjoy a spirited auction and decadent feast, prepared by Chef Jaron Dubinsky, at the Montage Healdsburg.
11 n BEHIND THE V | HOSTED BY: AJ HARRIS In this groundbreaking new series, join host AJ Harris and channel your inner epicurean as we dive further into the unique culture of food and wine behind the scenes of the V Foundation’s most exclusive events and experiences—all while raising critical funds for cancer research. Join the adventure as we savor world-class wine, experience culinary adventures and discover inspiring stories from our dedicated community of vintners, chefs, artisans, celebrities and beyond, as we go Behind the V.
“It’s about bringing people together, it’s about raising some funds, and helping to raise awareness around “As part of the V Family, you are a shining example the world for cancer research.” of the resilience of the Napa Valley, and I am so –Cyril Chappellet, Chappellet Winery proud to partner with the V Foundation.” – Leslie Odom, Jr., Broadway Actor
“There is no greater cause to be a part of than the V Foundation… as a recovering athlete, the seven greatest words ever uttered, “Don’t Give Up, “It’s a great cause, great people and great supporters, Don’t Ever Give Up”, are the words to live by if and we’re honored to be involved.” there ever were.” – John Anthony Truchard, – Clay Mauritson, Mauritson Wines John Anthony Family of Wines
FIND US ON @BEHIND.THE.V
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STAY TUNED! n JEWELS & GEMSTONES With Michael Mina & Gemstone Vineyard Join us Behind the V, with James Beard Foundation “Who’s Who of Food & Beverage” inductee, and Bon Appétit Chef of the Year, Chef Michael Mina, alongside President & Proprietor of Gemstone Vineyards, Amy Marks Dornbusch! Chef Mina brings together the best of his Middle Eastern heritage with the finest of Mediterranean ingredients and techniques to create a completely unique culinary adventure and he continues to dazzle the culinary world with over 45 bold dining concepts across the globe. In this episode, he will prepare his globally- inspired Yeminite American Wagyu Short Rib, complemented by the 2011 Gemstone Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the proprietor’s private library. Gemstone Vineyard is a unique 16 acre vineyard site with a rich history of producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon for over 25 years. The vineyard is sustainably farmed and meticulously maintained, pruned and harvested by hand. Diverse Bordeaux varietals grown from this intimate estate in Yountville produce a depth of flavors and textures that are sure to complement the rich journey of flavors Michael Mina is famous for.
13 LEADING THE V n SHANE JACOBSON | CEO OF THE V FOUNDATION The V Foundation welcomes Shane Jacobson as the new Chief Executive Officer succeeding Susan Braun. Shane was the president and CEO of the University of Vermont Foundation and brings two decades of record-breaking fundraising experience. Combining his passion for sports and eradicting cancer, his new role will allow Shane to build upon the V Foundation’s tremendous growth over the past decade. “We are excited to welcome Shane to the V Foundation team,” said Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite and chair of the V Foundation Board. “He is a proven leader with a stellar track record in philanthropy. Jim Valvano challenged us to defeat cancer, and the V Foundation has had 28 years of exceptional leadership on the path to fulfilling that goal.” At UVM, Jacobson led a team that set an all-time record in fundraising through a highly successful $581 million campaign.
n EVAN GOLDBERG | CHAIR OF THE V FOUNDATION BOARD We are thrilled to announce Evan Goldberg as the Chair of the V Foundation Board, succeeding former ESPN CEO Steve Bornstein. As Founder and EVP of Oracle NetSuite, Evan was involved in a variety of projects, all focused on making powerful database technology more accessible to users. He founded NetSuite with Larry Ellison in 1998. NetSuite went public in 2007 and was purchase by Oracle in 2016. In 2014, Evan started the BRCA Foundation to support research on inherited cancer syndromes. That effort has evolved into the BRCA Initiative at the V Foundation.
“It is one of life’s greatest honors and pleasures to work with the outstanding Board of Directors that we have at the V Foundation. It would not be possible without extra- ordinary leaders. I believe Steve Bornstein is the kind of leader every board, company or team should have. We are now blessed again with great leadership as Evan Goldberg takes on the role as Chair. Evan’s great passion for the mission combined with his strong business background and delightful personality will help him lead to even more success for the Foundation.” –Susan Braun, former CEO of the V Foundation
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n SUSAN BRAUN | FORMER CEO OF THE V FOUNDATION Susan Braun has served as Chief Executive Officer of the V Foundation since 2012.
As a passionate advocate for people with cancer, Susan has spent more than 25 years working towards finding ways to diminish suffering caused by cancer and other conditions at the individual and global levels. While at the V Foundation, she has overseen the creation of essential programs such as the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund, the Robin Roberts Cancer Thrivership Fund, and the Canine Oncology Research Consortium. The V Foundation and Don’t Ever Give Up Boards, scientific advisors and staff have all benefited from Susan’s wealth of knowledge and commitment to bettering all our efforts in our fight for Victory Over Cancer.® We wish Susan the very best in her retirement and great success in her next chapter.
MISSION We fund game-changing research and all-star scientists STATEMENT to accelerate victory over cancer and save lives.
15 n RICH & LESLIE FRANK 2021 VINTNER GRANT HONOREES As longtime, active supporters of the V Foundation, Rich and Leslie Frank are honored to be selected as the 2021 Vintner Grant Honorees. In memory of Rich’s mother, Edythe Frank, this year’s honorees are joining the fight against lymphoma, a cause that is very close to their hearts. The Franks share an inherent passion for people, culture, and giving back, evident by their ongoing charitable work throughout Napa Valley and beyond. In addition to founding Frank Family Vineyards, Rich Frank is the former President of Disney Studios and is currently the Vice Chairman of the American Film Institute and a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Leslie Frank, who was awarded the Philanthropy Award from the North Bay Business Journal in 2019, is an Emmy Award–winning journalist who spent more than twenty-five years covering politics, crime, weather, calamities, as well as interviewing some of the biggest stars in Hollywood on the red carpet. Today, she joins husband, Rich as a Proprietor for Frank Family Vineyards, often awarded the best tasting room in Napa Valley and whose wines consistently receive highly acclaimed ratings.
2020 JOHN ANTHONY & MICHELE TRUCHARD 2011 ROBIN & MICHELLE BAGGETT
2019 PAT & JOE HARBISON 2010 CYRIL & BLAKESLEY CHAPPELLET, TERI KUHN 2018 LAUREN ACKERMAN, KAREN ALDOROTY, SUZANNE PRIDE BRYAN, GINA GALLO, 2009 EMILY MINER ROBIN LAIL, BETH NOVAK MILLIKEN 2008 FAR NIENTE PARTNERS 2017 KARY & DAVID DUNCAN 2007 ROBIN DANIEL LAIL 2016 LAUNNY & WEEZIE STEFFENS 2006 CHUCK & ANNE MCMINN 2015 ELAINE & RICK JONES 2005 LESLIE RUDD & TODD ZAPOLSKI 2014 NAOKO DALLA VALLE 2004 GAREN & SHARI STAGLIN 2013 FRED CONSTANT, JEFF GARGIULO, 2003 MARK BERINGER DICK GRACE, LOWELL HERRERO, FRED SCHWEIGER 2002 MITCH COSENTINO
2012 SUZANNE PRIDE BRYAN 2001 DICK GRACE, KOERNER ROMBAUER
P 2011 DR. NEIL ALDOROTY 2000 REN HARRIS, JR. AST VINTNER GRANT HONOREES
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n MICHELLE BAGGETT 2021 V WINE CELEBRATION AMBASSADOR We are thrilled to have the incredibly talented and passionate Michelle Baggett as our Vintner Ambassador for 2021. Michelle has been a tireless supporter of the V Foundation’s mission and fundraising efforts for cancer research. Michelle and Robin Baggett landed in the Napa Valley, in the heart of Rutherford, in 2006, and revolutionized the wine industry when they opened Alpha Omega based on a 90% direct-to-consumer business model. The successful vintners—he’s a former general counsel for the Golden State Warriors, while she began her multifaceted career in the development of hospitality brands before becoming a marketing whiz—are known for consistently turning out quality wines and for their hospitality. Watch Robin and his fellow vintners flaunt their skills on the BBQ grill at Rock the V in August! The philanthropic pair are V Foundation President’s Club members and previous vintner grant recipients. n FIORELLA O’NEILL | 2021 VOLUNTEER GRANT HONOREE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH Fiorella’s story– in her own words... Thirteen years ago, I became involved with the V Foundation because I had so many family members and friends who had battled cancer. My mother and father are both survivors, and now I am facing my own fight to survive. In November 2019, after an eerily familiar sequence of events and appointments, I was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer. Bad news and good news together. First the bad news: Diagnosed with a very aggressive type of cancer, from which one friend in the past had not recovered. But then the good news: many new therapies had since been developed. I learned a great deal from the many survivors I have met at the V Foundation. I have spoken to true experts in the field, such as Dr. Bast with MD Anderson Cancer Center. I have received excellent care from the team of doctors at the Queen of the Valley Medical Center. I have benefitted from chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and from the next generation of targeted immunotherapy for HER2-positive breast cancer. I have benefited greatly from the support and prayers of my community, friends, and family. I know my story is not unusual and I know far too many women and men who share at least a part of it. During my time volunteering at the V Foundation Wine Celebration, I have gained appreciation for the larger fight against cancer. I have seen the small army of researchers, donors, volunteers, and others, I know firsthand how important that work is. I am still undergoing treatment, but I already feel like a survivor! Come say hello at this year’s V Foundation Wine Celebration 2021. I will be there to take care of you at registration. See you this August!
17 Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Napa, CA Permit No. 147
1300 Main Street, Ste. 280 | Napa, CA 94559
April: VIRGINIA VINE Leesburg, Virginia THE V FOUNDATION AWARDS V SCHOLAR SUMMIT Virtual Event May: 100% DICK VITALE GALA OF DIRECT DONATIONS TO CANCER Sarasota, Florida RESEARCH AND PROGRAMS.
July: THE V FOUNDATION’S ENDOWMENT COVERS ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. ESPYS EVENT PROCEEDS BENEFIT August: CANCER RESEARCH FUNDED WINE CELEBRATION BY THE V FOUNDATION. Napa Valley, California
VICTORY RIDE Raleigh, North Carolina UPCOMING 2021 EVENTS
p 707.963.0611 | f 707.963.3329 December: winecelebration.org | v.org VICTORY GALA New York, New York
JIMMY V CLASSIC
Madison Square Garden, NY @vfwcelebration | @thevfoundation
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