Holidazzle raises more than $20,000

More than $20,000 was raised during the MCH Auxiliary and MCH Foundation’s Fourth Annual Holidazzle at Central Court on Nov. 17. Close to 180 people enjoyed dinner, dancing, a silent auction and a live auction.

According to Holidazzle Co-Chair Billie Renelt, there were more than 70 auction items donated by local businesses and individuals. “Auctioneer Scott Olson of Tekamah and host Tim Hoffman conducted a live auction with 15 of the larger donations,” Renelt said. “They did a fantastic job, raising close to $10,000 during the live auction.”

Kevin Wiemer of Herman won the raffle for a $1,000 gift certificate to Nebraska Furniture Mart.

Chris Hoffman, Holidazzle co-chair, said funds raised from this year’s event will go toward beautifying the new garden area the hospital will have once the building project is complete.  “This garden will be a place where patients and family members can experience the therapeutic benefits of open, natural spaces while healing the body, mind and spirit,” Hoffman said.

Both co-chairs expresses their heartfelt appreciation to the individuals and businesses who donated items for the auction, the many sponsors and the exclusive wine sponsor, Silver Hills Vineyards and Winery of Tekamah.

“We are also grateful to everyone on the Holidazzle Planning Committee and the more than 70 MCH employees and spouses who volunteered to cook, serve as wait staff and helped us transform the gymnasium into Holidazzle,” Renelt said.

Holidazzle planning committee members were Hoffman, Renelt, Mariann Andersen, Stephanie Beckman, Rebecca Bockhart, Jen English, Sandy Haack, Amy Murray, Julie Murray, Angie Myers, Marilyn Neff, Carla Snyder, Annette Spooner, Cathy Stahl, Ruth Warrick and Laura Willey.

Hoffman said the committee plans to organize for next year’s event in January. Anyone interested in serving on the committee or donating items for auction should call the MCH Foundation office at (402) 426-1464.