PELL CITY — The Eastern Health Foundation Gala 2008 was held in Pell City for the first time Friday night.“The money raised here will actually go to the new St. Vincent’s St. Clair facility,” said Terrell Vick, CEO of St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital. “We are delighted that the foundation selected St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital as their Gala project for 2008.”
The gala, which has always been held in Birmingham, was moved to Pell City this year, sparking excitement, organizers said.
Matt Holdbrooks, executive vice president of the Eastern Health Foundation, said he was impressed with Friday’s turnout, explaining that there were 350-plus people in attendance.
The foundation raises money each year with its gala, supporting a variety of outreach and endowment programs, including the shuttle car program at St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital.
“This year it is to benefit this new facility here,” Holdbrooks said. “These are the people who want to support it and are excited about this project.”
The new hospital is still in the planning stage, but it is only a matter of time before construction of the facility, near Jefferson State Community College, begins.
Holdbrooks said it’s apparent the local community supports construction of a new hospital.
“I think it shows by the turnout here,” he said.
Holdbrooks said he expected about $70,000 to be raised from Friday night’s gala, which included a reception, silent auction, dinner and entertainment.
Roy Long, chairman of the Eastern Health Foundation, said the event is organized by a volunteer committee each year.
“A lot of people from your community were on that committee,” he said, adding, “There seems to be a lot more excitement this year. … Something good is going to come out of this.”
The event not only helped raise money for the new hospital, but also showcased the new Pell City Center facility. Visitors from across the state, along with many visitors from Birmingham, attended the gala.
“It is an honor to host the gala here in Pell City,” Mayor Adam Stocks said. “I believe this is the first time ever the event has been held outside of Birmingham, so for Pell City to host an event like this truly speaks volumes for what Pell City and the Eastern Health Foundation want to accomplish together.”
Bill Hereford, who was honorary chairman of this year’s gala, said Deanna Capps of Pell City spearheaded efforts to make the event a success, helping set up a beautiful dining area. The gala dinner was held inside the large gymnasium of the Pell City Center.
“She has a great imagination, and she is such a hard worker,” Hereford said.
He said he too was pleased with the turnout.
“We have a wonderful crowd,” he said. “To have a long-time, traditional gala, which is always held in Birmingham, come here is an honor for our city and for our hospital.”
