2006 Service to Humanity Award Gala
September 30, 2006
 The Saint Paul's RiverCentre was the place to be September 30 for the 2006 Service to Humanity Gala. It was the most successful and largest fund-raising event in the 21-year history of the United Hospital Foundation. Nearly 1,500 people attended and raised a record $1.2 million to benefit the United Family Practice Health Center.
This year’s recipients of the Service to Humanity Award were Victor Corbett, MD, and Jack Ritt. The award, presented by United Hospital Foundation, recognized Dr. Corbett and Ritt for their selfless leadership in improving the health and welfare of Saint Paul and the surrounding communities.
The evening began with a fabulous reception, butter passed hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction, chaired by Vicki Tigwell and a committee, of more than 400 items graciously given by hundreds of donors and companies. Guests mingled, placed bids, drank martinis and enjoyed viewing a Ford Mustang convertible, which was raffled off and a donated Corvette!
 At 7:30 p.m., the grand ballroom doors opened to a décor of a New York night club with Tiffany blue and black linens, floating canopies, fabulous clear cylinders filled with water and floating orchids and custom french lamps. Guests were treated to a delicious scallop and green bean salad with pancetta appetizer newly created by the chef of Wildside Caterers, followed by a field green and radicchio salad and filet mignon that was outstanding. Putting everyone “over the top” was the chocolate trio paradise dessert. The legendary music group, the Sevilles, performed an unbelievable evening of entertainment and dancing.
 The live auction this year was a smashing success! Guests were invited to bid on an Alaskan cruise, St. Croix cruise on a 121-foot yacht, Minnesota Wild Suite, Arizona travel package, golfing, Skating to Center Ice, Human transporter “Segway,” Twins batting practice buddy package and a Corvette. Many items were auctioned off and donated back to make the auction very “lively.”
The evening wrapped up with the raffle of a new Mustang convertible. The winner, Helene Houle, donated the car back to the hospital, and it was auctioned off to add even more excitement to an already unbelievable affair.
 This year’s Gala was chaired and emceed by Houle and Merry DeCourcy. Both are board members of United Hospital Foundation and worked countless hours to ensure a successful and fun event. Special guests at the event included Senator Norm Coleman and Allina’s CEO, Dick Pettingill. We would be remiss if we didn't single out the efforts of John Nasseff and Houle. The event would not have been as successful if not for these two dedicated individuals. Both worked tirelessly, and the Foundation is grateful for their continued support.
Again, thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and to the Saint Paul community for supporting United Hospital Foundation.
The 2007 Service to Humanity Gala is scheduled for Saturday, September 29 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. We look forward to having you once again participate in a remarkable and unforgettable event!
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