Olympic Spirit Embraces Patron Benefit

The 2008 Patron Benefit is one for the record books.  The theme of this year’s “Summer Olympics” was celebrated throughout the benefit and festival. Patron Benefit guests kicked off the gala weekend with gourmet food provided by “A Taste of Excellence,” fun and music under an elegantly appointed tent.

“We have captured the spirit of the Olympics by using the five rings to symbolize the elements of characters and service that bring the Olympic commitment to St. John Medical Center, its physicians, nurses, staff and volunteers every day,” said President Coker as he welcomed guests.  “These elements include, ‘Justice,’ ‘Respect,’ ‘Courage,’ ‘Compassion’ and ‘Collaboration’.”

Media personalities Connie Dieken, Dan Coughlin and Trapper Jack brought humor and fun to the proceedings as they welcomed the night’s special guests:  Gold Medal figure skaters Carol Heiss Jenkins and husband Hayes Jenkins, figure skater Tonia Kwiatkowski, distance runner Katie (Class) Marquard, speed skater Dennis Marquard and hurdler/sprinter Mamie Rollins.

Many lucky partygoers went home as winners of generous raffle highlights. Lurrie Cavano, RN at St. John Medical Center was the proud winner of the Gold Metal Prize: A $2,000 cruise and $1,000 cash.  Patron Benefit net proceeds go toward the St. John Medical Center Community Outreach and Wellness Ministry programs, the Graduate Medical Education Program as well as the purchase of cardiac monitoring equipment.

“I would like to express my appreciation to Patrick Garmone, Eileen Hayes, Ardis Radak, Carol Sterba and Sr. Judy Weirick who served as Patron Benefit Co-Chairs, as well as special thanks to Ardis Radak, who also served as the Festival of the Arts Weekend Chair,” said President Coker.  “Also, many thanks to our Sponsor of Ceremonies, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.”

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