On Saturday, June 9th, the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation hosted our biennial Gala, raising funds for a new Digital X-Ray unit for the medical imaging department at the Clinton Public Hospital.  This year’s theme was “Vintage Circus” and the Central Huron Community Complex transformed nicely into a stunning Circus Big Top!

Foundation Fundraising Chair Una Roy presented the Vintage Circus theme this past fall and tickets went on sale at the beginning of December.  Decorating began the week prior to the event and consisted of a group of amazingly talented people, which included Irene Dykstra, Selena Hazlitt, Vicki Colquhoun and Cheryl Hesselwood.  These ladies took Una’s vision and made it come to life.  Steve Duizer, his team and The Municipality of Central Huron spent many hours setting up for the event and were so great to work with.  The foundation wishes to thank each of these individuals and all of the volunteers that assisted with planning, set up and throughout the night of the event.  Volunteers make a huge impact on running events like our Gala and we really couldn’t do it without their help.

When arriving to the Gala, guests were greeted by volunteers who handed out programs and registered them for their evening of entertainment.  Once inside the Big Top, they enjoyed some entertainment by skilled aerialists and contortionists from Zero Gravity Dance Company, along with a specialty Manhattan by Canadian Club and delicious hors d’oeuvres from Pineridge Barbecue Co.   Guests also enjoyed perusing the silent auction tables during this time and had an opportunity to attend the PicMeUp Photobooth for a fun photo opportunity.

Once seated, the MC for the evening, Neil Aitchison entertained the crowd with his humor, followed by an amazing dinner by Pineridge Barbecue.  After dinner and a few more laughs with Aitchison, the live auction began with Ben Lobb MP Huron-Bruce, our auctioneer for the evening.  Both auctions were comprised entirely of donated items from generous organizations, businesses and individuals.  The support of donors and bidders alike was astounding.  There was something for everyone.  The evening went on with live entertainment by Whiskey Jack Music Company and the volunteer bartenders mixed favourite beverages for guests.

A lot of planning, organization and hard work went into this year’s gala.  It’s amazing what a community can do when they come together in support of our local hospital.  We received many sponsorships, financial donations and donations for our live and silent auctions, all of which are truly appreciated.  And of course, we owe a great deal of gratitude to all of those in attendance.  Each of these individuals, businesses and organizations are responsible for the success of this year’s Gala.  Thank you all so much!

To date, this year’s CPH Foundation Gala raised approximately $138,000, which will be used towards the purchase of the new Digital X-ray machine.  The CPH Foundation Board of Directors wish to extend their sincere appreciation to each and every person who played a role in making the Gala such a success!  The Foundation is planning their next Gala for 2020.  Stay tuned…you won’t want to miss out!