Fifth annual Skiff Gala raises more than $50,000

Delectable desserts, friendly conversation and formal attire are just a few things that could describe the fifth annual Skiff Gala Saturday evening.

The fundraising event’s goal is much more meaningful than getting dressed up and partaking in a three-course meal, it is centered around raising money to positively impact the lives of the patients and staff at Skiff Medical Center. More than 200 attendees did just that by raising $58,000.

The Skiff Auxiliary and Foundation began gathering sponsorships in the fall and nearly sold out of $50 tickets a month prior to the event.

All funds raised will be used to support the purchase of a new infant warmer for the Obstetrics department at Skiff. The estimated cost is $51,000.

The evening kicked off with a social time and silent auction followed by a dinner and dessert auction. One lucky table won a dinner upgrade for eight, which included a fillet and lobster tail, a baked potato and beans with onions and bacon. The dinner upgrade went to one lucky bidder for a competitive rate of $1,700.

The regular menu included beef with mushroom sauce, three cheese chicken, garlic mashed potatoes and green beans with onions and bacon. The meals were catered by Chef Dale Miller and Khristine of Newton Hy-Vee.

The dessert auction also brought friendly competition for bidders as multiple tables bid for a chance to pick the first dessert of the evening. All desserts were donated by businesses and individuals. Some local businesses included Bun in the Oven, The Bake Shoppe and Pretty Little Crumb Coat.

Auctioneer Alan Good and Emcee David Goos announced the live auction items up for bid, some packages included a Minneapolis Getaway, Hy-Vee Gourmet meal, Taste of Newton, Colorado getaway, Hometown Favorites, Craft Brewery Tour and Iowa Speedway.

To top off the night, Gina Gedler and the Vista Jazz Orchestra performed.

"We are so appreciative of the support and generosity of the community, which again allowed us to raise a record amount of money at the Skiff Gala, which will be used to purchase new infant warmers for our Obstetrics department," Leisa Zylstra, Foundation and Mission Manager at Skiff Medical Center said. "Our dessert auction continues to be a fun and a unique part of our evening and this year raised an amazing $23,650."

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6513 or klangmaid@newtondailynews.com