Jackson, CA…The 23rd Annual Hospice of Amador & Calaveras “Celebrate Life” Art Auction, the agency’s signature event of the year, raised just over $100,000 this year, making it the second consecutive year the event has reached that important marker. The event was held September 16 at the picturesque Karmère Winery and Vineyards, where it has been located for many years.

Art displayed on the lawn prior to guests’ arrival.

The evening began with guests enjoying appetizers prepared by Luka’s Restaurant and the sounds of vocalist and guitarist Manny Sosa, while they perused the beautiful artwork donated by local artisans. Following dinner, also provided by Luka’s, and wine donated by Karmère, auctioneer Frank Halvorson livened up the evening alongside Jack Mitchell, who narrated the details of each piece. New additions to the auction line-up this year included a cooking class with wine and beer food-pairing for 16 guests at the Volcano Union Pub + Inn, and a private, behind-the-scenes tour for eight guests at PAWS’ ARK 2000. The evening closed with its signature “Last One Standing” appeal.

Long-time hospice supporter, Stan Lukowicz, leading the “Last One Standing” appeal.
All proceeds of this event go toward core hospice services and programs to the two-county area served by the agency. Executive Director Ariane Debien said, “From business sponsorships, auction donations, gift basket donations, people volunteering their time and talents, and of course guests who purchase tickets, it takes an entire community giving of themselves so generously to make this event a success. We could not provide the kind of exceptional hospice care we are known for without our community’s support on this night.”

This year’s successful Art Auction was made possible through the donations of time by dozens of volunteers, artwork donations, and major sponsorships from the following organizations: Karmère Winery, Buena Vista Community Fund, Mark Twain Medical Center, Jackson Rancheria Casino & Resort, Sutter Amador Hospital, Amador Arts, Toma & Associates, American Legion Ambulance Service, Horizon Oxygen & Medical Equipment, Aces Waste Services, Matich-Vukovich Insurance Services, Diebold Funeral Holdings, Mountain Merchant, Forgen and The Estate Law Planning Center, Gwendolyn K. Christeson, Attorney at Law, and many other sponsors.

Hospice of Amador & Calaveras has been serving the community continuously since 1982, and in the 36 years of operation, has never turned away a patient for end-of-life services because of inability to pay. For more information, please call 209-223-5500.

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