"Six years old and still going strong," the annual Live & Love Affairgala continues to provide Seasons Hospice with a major and critical source of funding.
This year's fundraiser was held Nov. 12 at the Kahler Grand Hotelin downtown Rochester. Greeting guests at the event was Amy Jo Flaherty, a social worker with Seasons Hospice.
"I love seeing all the wonderful people who are here tonight to support us," she said. "We recognize that the final days are a sacred time. Hospice does amazing work and it is rewarding to make a big difference in people’s lives."
"We are excited to have a new event this year," said Carolyn Piepho, the director of development and marketing at Seasons Hospice. "Wine for All Seasons is a raffle sponsored by Andy’s Liquorfeaturing 100 bottles of wine representing the four seasons of the year."
Business was brisk at the wine raffle table with Vivian Williamsand Joye Goblirsch, both of Rochester, attending.
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"Glad to help. We are waiting to hear someone say they bought that $200 bottle," Goblirsch said.
A frequent volunteer at Seasons Hospice, Jean Glaser, of Rochester, was staffing a donation table.
"We lived near the Seasons Hospice house for over 10 years, and we continue our interest and support of their work," she said.
The four seasons of the year lent themselves to culinary interpretation, delighting guests with hors d’oeuvres from the entree stations in each corner of Heritage Hall in the Kahler.
Tim Hudson, of Rochester, was enjoying the seasonal offerings.
"Great food," he said. "All the choices are just great."
Dr. Tom Miller, the medical director of Seasons Hospice, and his wife, Pat, have enjoyed the gala every year.
"It is quite astounding the number of donated items for the silent auction," they agreed, looking at the long tables of items to bid on.
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High school students Riley Knudsen, of Rochester, and Brianna Olson, of Eyota, were volunteering for a second year at the event.
"It’s important to help out and fun to try all the food, too," said Knudsen.
This year's gala raised more than $100,000 for Seasons Hospice. Think Mutual Bankwas the major sponsor of the event.
