2006 Annual Signature Fundraising Event

A Taste of Napa

Alex Wallau, Honoree | Presenting Chefs | Dinner Commitee | Supporters | In the Press | Photos

Alex Wallau, Dr. Judith Gasson and Bob Iger

In a vibrant evening of entertainment and allure, the Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation at UCLA celebrated A Taste of Napa on May 20, 2006, at the elegant Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Alex Wallau, President of ABC Network Operations and Administration, was honored with the 2006 Gil Nickel Humanitarian Award for his humanitarian efforts and commitment to philanthropy. Many of Mr. Wallau's close friends came together on this special evening including Robert Iger, President and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, and his wife, Willow Bay, who served as co-chairs of the Dinner Committee.

In keeping with the Napa Valley-inspired theme, Event Chair Barbara Fairchild, editor-in-chief of Bon Appétit magazine, brought together a few of Napa Valley's top chefs including Ken Frank (La Toque), Cindy Pawlcyn (Mustards Grill and Cindy's Backstreet Kitchen) and Eric Torralba (E.T. Kitchen), to prepare the extraordinary meal. Exceptional wines from Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel and Dolce wineries complemented the exquisite dinner.

More than 500 guests attended, including celebrities, entertainment industry leaders and business and community notables. Beginning with a VIP pre-reception wine tasting featuring some of Napa Valley's most noted wineries, the evening progressed from a silent auction of unique items to a remarkable live auction conducted by comedian Jimmy Kimmel. The evening culminated with a special live performance by Chris Martin of Coldplay whose musical talent was enjoyed by all.

More than $830,000 was raised for vital cancer research efforts at UCLA. To view UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center video played at A Taste of Napa, please click here.

Jimmy Kimmel, Sarah Silverman, John Tucker and Dr. Judith Gasson