Childhood Cancer Foundation draws 1,000 to dinner, auction

The Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation had its 15th annual Profiles of Courage dinner and auction on Nov. 22 at The Mirage Events Center, with more than 1,000 guests in attendance.

Vocalist Linda Woodson, with piano accompaniment by Millard Jackson, entertained during the reception while guests, including Nevada's first lady Dawn Gibbons, Heather and Jim Murren, Teri and John Daly, Janie and Jeff Gale, Nancy and Scot Silber, Gia Primo, Sharry and Tim Quillian, Donna and Michael Levy, Dianne Eddington, Colleen Alenik, Andrea Rapanos, Rosie and Curt Harsch, Robert Sidell, Arlene Tan and Victor Bordinhao, Dave Suder, Carol and Wally Kolberg, Lara Kolberg, Michelle Bruce, Amanda Ware, and Bess and Rick Huebner with their children, Joseph and Michael, socialized while placing bids on the vast collection of silent auction items.

Masters of ceremonies were KTNV-TV, Channel 13 news anchor Casey Smith and Kim Sherwood of KVBC-TV, Channel 3.

As guests were seated for dinner, a video, titled "Champions Run for Life," was narrated by honorary board member Danny Gans. Scot Silber, chairman of the board, welcomed all and presented the education program video.

President and CEO Jeff Gordon presented the Foundation's Special Ambassador honor to Brett Torino, who has given the use of his ranch to the foundation for Camp Cartwheel. This past year, he funded the Torino Classroom in Sunrise Hospital for critically ill children.

Lenny Ware, director of education, and Torino presented the Student of the Year Award to 16-year-old Valerie Cruz, recognized for her 3.5 grade point average for the past two semesters.

Dr. Tonie Valesano, director of ARK (Aids & Resources for Kids), presented the Health Care Professional of the Year Award to Dr. Jamil Ali. Ken Alber and the Penta Building Group received the Community Angel Award.

The Teen Spirit Award went to Jasper Biggs, and Barbara and Ken Gunn were named Volunteers of the Year. The Child of Courage Award was presented to Kylie Stenlund by Kimberly Smith, and Dr. Ronald Kline made the presentation to Joey Huebner. Dr. Jonathan Bernstein gave the Special Angel Award in the name of the late Kayla Spencer to her family.

Auctioneer Christian Kolberg conducted a live auction, raising more than $129,500 for nine packages that included two of Gans' motorcycles and vacations in Montana and Napa Valley.