A Thursday morning "kick-off" for the 2007 Lights of Life Campaign at Hopkins County Medical Plaza on Thursday "set the stage" for the Holiday Season in Hopkins County. Hospital Foundation Director Jackie Thornton welcomed guests and revealed that the 2007 Campaign had already received a $10,000.00 check from the Hopkins County Hospital Volunteer Auxilary, to begin this year's effort. Then, she announced that the Mickie McKenzie Family and GSC Enterprises had contributed an additional $10,000.00 to this year's campaign!

 

Thornton introduced Hospital CEO Michael McAndrews, who addressed the patrons and exclaimed that he was marking his 6th anniversary with the hospital. He praised the efforts of the Foundation and related that the volunteers at Memorial Hospital were "unpaided" for their efforts, "because the contributions they made to the facility and community were priceless!"

 

Thornton next introduced Wanda Galyean, the 2007 Chair of the Lights of Life Gala, that will be featured on December 8th. Last year's gala, raised over $100,000.00 and provided the "seed" money for the new Gardens at Memorial project. Both Thornton and Galyean expressed their hopes that this year's tree lighting ceremony on November 29th, could be held at the Gardens site, as construction is already underway!

 

 

Thornton denoted that the Hopkins County Auxilary has contributed over $60,000.00 to the Lights of Life Campaign in the past 12 years and they are such a vital part of the hospital and the Hospital Foundation.

 

 

Local vocalist Lisa Preuss "got the crowd motivated" with her renditions of "Mary, Did You Know" and "Winter Wonderland."

 

The reception ended with patrons visiting and enjoying light refreshments provided by the Hospital Foundation. Anyone donating $25.00 or more to Lights of Life can dedicate a light on the Lights of Life Christmas Tree in honor or memory of someone special. The donor may designate where they want the gift used. All donations to the campaign are tax deductible. "Give the gift that keeps on giving!"

Meanwhile, two birthday boys, Bob Weaver and James Hulen, who both celebrated their birthday on Thursday, November 1st, were ushering in the Thanksgiving Season from a remote location!

 

 

Happy Holidays!!!!

 

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