MARCO ISLAND EAGLE

Goodland hospice benefit
Raises more than $14,000

By ROGER LALONDE
Staff Writer

  The Buzzard Lope dance was just one of the ways "The Celebration of Life" was recognized Saturday at Stan's Idle Hour to benefit the Hospice of Naples. More than 200 people danced, sang and donated a total of $14,334.45, surpassing 1997's contributions of $10,000. "It was amazing how much money was raised in six hours, along with all the good will," said  Sally Fitch, hospice development director. "The money is great and the public support is critical. We are very happy that Goodland has adopted us," she said.

 Hospice of Naples volunteers stand before the more than 200 people who attended a benefit at Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland on Saturday. From left, Stan Gober, entertainment coordinator, Bonnie Hamburg, overall coordinator, Larry Scheetz and Kathy Hughes who served as business coordinators.

  Goodland's Bonnie Hamburg coordinated the event. Stan GoberOwner of Stan's Idle Hour organized the donated entertainment that included well known Goodland, Marco Island and Naples entertainers. Marco Island's Larry Scheetz and Kathy Hughes of Accu-Care Nursing Service of Naples took care of the business aspects. Accu-Care also matched the first $3,000 raised on Saturday. Television personality Joe Klimas served as master of ceremonies. Kevin Thomas of Marco Island served as music coordinator, with entertainers changing every 20 minutes. In between Gober performed his version of a telethon, and told jokes, danced and sang, while attendees handed him money. He also auctioned many items, including stays at the Radisson Suite Beach Resort of Marco Island and Marriott's Marco Island Resort.
"Hospice of Naples cares for anyone in Collier County with a life-limiting illness, regardless of their ability to pay," Fitch said. Scheetz added that "working with Hospice through our home health service, I have come to realize its importance. They not only help people die with dignity, they also provide support to the family. That's what we like and support."
The next Goodland hospice event is the annual Mardi Gras Goodland Boat Parade on Feb. 20. "We know that the Goodland community will again mobilize to support Hospice and we are very thankful," Fitch said.

 


Back to Home Page Back to About Menu  Back to Community Services