One weekend per year and always in September, the Mendocino Coast District Hospital becomes the epicenter for positive energy in our coastal community. That is when WineSong! also known as "A Feast for the Senses" takes place. What does that have to do with our hospital? It's because WineSong! is a fundraiser for our hospital. This year was the 27th annual event.The setting, in the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and located in Fort Bragg was perfect for a day of enjoyment. With beautiful flowers, enchanting music, delicious food and wines from many of the most exquisite restaurants, wineries and establishments that our area has to offer, how could it not be perfect? The event culminates in a Charity Auction, like no other. Locals and travellers from all over the world, alike, bid on an impressive compilation of exotic wines, original artwork and fabulous trips.
This year's event, which was held last Saturday, September 10, did not disappoint anyone. In front of a sell-out audience, over 70 lots were sold. The total gross proceeds from the auction exceeded $500,000 once again this year. The net proceeds will not be known for some time until all of the expenses are paid, but I think that I speak for all of us when I say that we are extremely humbled and grateful for that level of support for our hospital. When the proceeds are available, we plan to use this year's funds to purchase a Nuclear Medicine camera for our Imaging Department.
Equally impressive is that fact that nearly $60,000 was raised on Saturday to help rejuvinate our hospital patient rooms. Due to our WineSong! friends and guests, we will be able to completely renovate several of our patient rooms with new flooring, wall covering, drapes and new furniture (including new beds). I would like to thank everyone involved in this wonderful event. Especially our event staff at the Mendocino Coast Hospital Foundation offices and our volunteers who work so hard to make this event into such a marquee event. I also need to thank our donors who donate lot offerings and our guests who travel near and far to be here. Thank you all. You are making a difference on the Mendocino Coast! We hope to see you all again next year for the 28th Annual WineSong! on September 7, 2012.
