2007 Service to Humanity Gala sets record
 The Saint Paul's RiverCentre was the place to be September 29 for the 2007 Service to Humanity Gala. It was the most successful and largest fund-raising event in the 23-year history of the United Hospital Foundation. More than 1,600 people attended the sold out event and raised a record $1.6 million to benefit the United Hospital Emergency Department expansion and the Peter J. King Family Health Center, the new home for the United Family Practice Health Center.
This year’s recipients of the Service to Humanity Award were Kenneth Baran, MD, and Peter King. The award, presented by United Hospital Foundation, recognized Dr. Baran and King for their selfless leadership in improving the health and welfare of Saint Paul and the surrounding communities.
This year’s Gala was chaired and emceed by Lyn Foley and Nancy Rosenberg. Rosenberg is a board member of United Hospital Foundation and Foley has been associated with United for several years. Both worked countless hours to ensure a successful and fun event. We would be remiss if we didn't single out the efforts of John Nasseff, Helene Houle and Merry DeCourcy. The event would not have been as successful if not for these three dedicated individuals whom worked tirelessly, and the Foundation is grateful for their continued support.
The evening began with a fabulous reception, butter passed hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction of over 600 items coordinated by a 20 person committee comprised of community volunteers. The auction items were graciously given by hundreds of donors and companies. Guests mingled, placed bids, drank martinis and enjoyed viewing a BMW Z4 Roadster convertible, which was raffled off at the end of the evening!
 At 7:30 p.m., the grand ballroom doors opened to a “back to the big gala’s” décor with green tiffany kiwi and black and white flocked linens, baroque patterned stage panels, fabric chandeliers and fabulous round green lanterns on black river cane in a champagne vase with a floating orchid and custom black candelabras. Guests were treated to a delicious Roasted Portobello mushroom with Buffalo mozzarella on crostini appetizer newly created by the chef of Wildside Caterers, followed by a Pear with fried wonton, pea shoots and bleu cheese salad and filet mignon that was outstanding. Putting everyone “over the top” was the sinful chocolate dessert of poached pears dipped in chocolate with white chocolate and chocolate mousse and dense chocolate torte. The legendary music group, Synergy, 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 luxury cruise, St. Croix River cruise on a 125-foot yacht, Minnesota Wild Suite, Target World Challenge, The Masters, Skating to Center Ice, Human transporter “Segway,” Twins batting practice buddy package and other Twin’s sporting items and a Caribbean vacation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The evening wrapped up with the raffle of a new BMW Z4 Roadster convertible.
Again, thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and to the Saint Paul community for supporting United Hospital Foundation.
The 2008 Service to Humanity Gala is scheduled for Saturday, September 27 at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. We look forward to having you once again participate in a remarkable and unforgettable event!
2007 Gala Images 2006 Gala
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