In keeping with the old saying, a good time was had by all.
That sums up the spirit of Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary’s third annual “Snow Day at the Emerald” Saturday Jan. 29 when nearly 100 festive souls shared social time, singing, dancing and a roaring bon fire, not to mention competition for the best chili and hot cocoa recipes.
The former was won by an entry by Galesk Tree Farm with Deedee Galesk taking the honors. The cocoa recipe was won by Ann Huffnagel who happened to be in North Carolina that evening, visiting her Marine son slated for a trip to Afghanistan.
Deedee Galesk and Ron Huard grasp trophies presented for winning recipes for chili and hot cocoa, respectively, during the third annual “Snow Day at the Emerald,” sponsored by Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary. Huard accepted the trophy on behalf of Ann Huffnagel who was out of state visiting her Marine son, Kevin. The winners are flanked by Robin Motz-Ingalls, left, first year’s chili winner and Kathie Clock, event chair.
Other chili contestants included Dean Mazzolini from Bruno’s, last year’s winer; Judy Miller, Sparrow Clinton Hospital; Nic’s Restaurant; Shirley Henning, Hitching Post Restaurant; Dave Hunt, St. Johns Big Boy; Swaney’s; The Wheel Inn; Jay Eccleton, The Emerald; Main Street Café; Anita Droog and Anita Rositas. Along with Ms Huffnagel, Ms Rositas and Ms Miller also entered the hot cocoa contest. Each contest winner was determined by the amount of dollars placed in containers before their entry. Obviously, proceeds ended up in the Auxiliary’s treasury.
Along with chili tasting, guests shared a hamburger and hot dog dinner with appropriate trimmings, open cash bar, Wii games and the ever popular bon fire, that drew a steady crowd all evening. As in previous years, music and entertainment was provided by the Bill Brown Band and the growing success of the event has prompted plans for next year.
“We’ve already discussed some new additions,” commented Kathie Clock, event chair. “Our members are excited about this winter-time event and the Emerald is an ideal location. We’ll have more details as plans take shape.”
As with all programs and promotions sponsored by the Auxiliary, proceeds are designated to hospital and patient benefit. Currently, the Auxiliary is assisting with the purchase of Emergency Room bedside monitors at an estimated cost of $18,000.00.