The 15th annual Gala Evening was sold-out, with 350 guests enjoying a truly fabulous evening. "The Greek community did an absolutely outstanding job of working with St. Mary's, and the result was a truly wonderful and authentic Greek dinner," said Ross Fisher, Executive Director of The Health Foundation.
In addition to a fabulous menu, the decorations were outstanding. As you entered St. Mary's you were greeted with potted trees and columns. When you walked into the hall you were greeted with a sea of white and blue, the national colours of Greece. The table settings were highlighted with tall centerpiece columns filled with lemons and Calla Lilies. White chair coverings were draped over each chair and had blue sashes arranged around the back of the chair. The tables were covered in white tablecloths with blue runners and mirrors under the centerpieces.
There were columns and pillars on the stage and around the hall, a large white and blue drapery backdrop was set behind the stage and large posters and pictures of Greece were placed throughout the hall.
The effect was stunning when you walked into the hall.
Proceeds from the evening will help to purchase surgical equipment needed in the operating rooms of the Yorkton Regional Health Centre. The Health Foundation is trying to raise $300,000 to buy new equipment the hospital doesn't have, that our doctors' want, as well as upgrading some of the equipment currently in use.
Diane Rusnak, Chair of the Gala Committee presented a symbolic cheque for the $34,000 raised at Gala to Suann Laurent, Interim CEO of Sunrise Health Region. Once the $300,000 is raised, then The Health Foundation will purchase the needed equipment.
Over the 15 years of Gala a total of $325,000 has now been raised. All of those funds have been invested into our local healthcare through the purchase of equipment for the regional health centre.
Ross Fisher, Executive Director of The Health Foundation, thanked the community and the guests for the tremendous support the Gala receives. Many businesses support the Gala by donating an item for sale in the Silent Auction. The Silent Auction is limited to 40 items. This year $11,755 was raised by the silent auction portion of the Gala.
Gala guests receive complimentary portraits and a temporary photography studio is set up in a room adjacent to the hall. Photography by Mitch is the annual Photography sponsor for Gala and once again did a fabulous job.
As well, Bev Belinski of All About Flowers created the fabulous centerpieces that were at each table.
Bryce and Lorna Sherring of Sherring Gold Jewellers donated a beautiful Greek Key gold necklace, with matching bracelet and earrings to the Gala. This beautiful set was raffled and all of the 150 tickets available were sold; raising $3,000. Doris Kopelchuk of Canora won the draw for the jewellery.
Gala always has a live band, and this year the band Carnival of Regina, entertained the guests with a wide range of music that kept the dance floor busy all night.
The Members of the Gala Evening in Greece organizing committee were: Chair, Diane Rusnak, Debbie Blommaert, Bridgitte Carl, Ritsa and Ted Karachalios, Mary Anne Trischuk, Sandra Ruff, Ross Fisher, Simos Michalos, Ashley Martinson, Carrie Powell, John Stamatinos, George Stamatinos, Cimos Stamatinos, Barb Stamatinos, Manos and Carrie Tsagouris, Vange Vallaster, Kristin Weber, Maxine Woodward, and Wendy Zaporosky.
