presented by Mission Valley Bank

This year's Heart of the West auction is peppered with more than one spicy way to go beyond the confines of the 5 and 14 freeways. Of course, there are lots of cool ways to make your everyday living space resort-worthy, too. Here are just some of the dozens of live auction items up for bid - and each dollar raised directly benefits the beloved equestrian therapy program, Carousel Ranch.

Autographed New York Giants "The Great Escape" Superbowl Football Signed by MVP Eli Manning and David Tyree. donated by the Mara Family
Big-dream Flat Screen This 42-inch Akai Plasma HDTV will put you well ahead of the Jones'. donated by Caston's

Wine Renovations You do have room for a wine cellar! This custom wine cellar, worth over a $3,500, can be installed into an existing closet. donated by Closet Wine Cellars

Trip of a Lifetime for Four to Hong Kong and the Philippines This exceptional package starts with a flight from LAX to Hong Kong, where you'll spend three days and two nights (hotel included). Then it's off to Cebu, Philippines, to an amazing private waterfront home. Included is airfare for four, daily massages for two, breakfast, lunch, four days of golf, island hopping and jet skiing. A $20,000 value! donated by Susan Handley of Beijo Bags

RSVP Wine Pairing Dinner in the Carpenter's Private Vineyard You and seven guests will enjoy an extravagant wine pairing dinner in the private vineyard of Chris and Jeannie Carpenter. Your evening includes a custom-created meal, premier wines, plus event accommodations like florals and invitations. donated by Jeannie & Chris Carpenter; RSVP - The Catering Company; and Celebrate
Cruise like a "Princess" You and a guest will partake in a seven-day Princess cruise to either the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera - in a stateroom with a private balcony. donated by Princess Cruises

Live "La Pura Vida" in Costa Rica You and a guest will spend seven nights in a two-story, one-bedroom Seaside Cottage, complete with master suite including king-sized bed, private bath and vaulted ceilings that open up to a terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Downstairs, enjoy a spacious living room with private patio, or relax in an outdoor, fully enclosed, private lava rock shower. donated by The Sanctuary Resort

Golf with Gore Three golfers will complete a foursome of golf with SCV's own PGA golfer, Jason Gore. Join him for 18 holes at the Tournament Players Club. donated by the Gore Family

Fulfill your Need for Speed Host a corporate party for 25 at MB2 Raceway and show your staff that the "Big Dog" can also handle a super-charged kart like a pro. donated by MB2 Raceway

"Holly Jolly Trolley" Christmas Lights Tour You and 29 guests will tour Santa Clarita's finest local holiday lights displays while riding in the City of Santa Clarita's nostalgic trolley! During your three-hour guided tour, you'll sip gourmet hot chocolate and nibble on exquisite holiday-themed desserts courtesy of Babe's Dessert Bar. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is perfect for kids of all ages! donated by the City of Santa Clarita and Babe's Dessert Bar

Loose Goose Wine Festival VIP Package Wine lovers from all across Southern California "flock" to this event - and you'll be one of the few receiving the ultimate VIP experience. Your VIP Package includes 2 player spots in the Loose Goose Golf Classic at Robinson Ranch (Thursday, October 2); 2 tickets to the ultra-exclusive Golden Goose Gala (Friday, October 3); 2 VIP passes to the Loose Goose Wine Festival (Saturday, October 4 or Sunday, October 5) plus 6 exquisite bottles of wine from Peter "The Goose" Goossens' "Privates" Collection. donated by Peter Goossens and the Loose Goose Wine Festival.

Heart of the West

When: Saturday, August 23, 5:30 p.m.

Where: the Blomgren Family Estate on Sierra Highway

What: gourmet Western dining; live and silent auctions; Old Town Casino; children's demonstration on horseback

Why: to support Carousel Ranch's goal of providing hope and miracles to families coping with childhood disease or disability

How Much: General tickets $85; VIP tickets $175

For more info: 268-8010 www.carouselranch.org