Below is a complete release:
On Thursday, July 9, Newport Hospital held its 2015 summer gala, A Night in Provence, at Ochre Court in Newport. The event brought together 363friends and supporters of the hospital to honor the contributions of philanthropists Jay and Suzie Schochet while raising $471,436 to benefit Newport Hospital programs and improvements with the most pressing funding needs. Of the total raised, the live auction and fundraising blitz generated $141,200 towards the much-needed purchase of a new CT scanner.
“It was an honor and privilege to recognize the selfless contributions of time and treasure that Jay and Suzie Schochet have made to help make Newport Hospital what it is today, which is an incredible resource for the community that delivers the highest-quality of care available,” said Crista F. Durand, president of Newport Hospital. “Their continued generosity has not only furthered our mission, it has also impacted the lives of thousands of their neighbors—we could not be more fortunate to have their unwavering support.”
As guests arrived at Ochre Court, Newport’s second largest mansion, they were welcomed by the music of the Michael Walsh Group and passed delicacies inspired by southern France’s Mediterranean heartland. Following a tribute video of Jay and Suzie Schochet, auctioneer C. Hugh Hildesley of Sotheby’s presented the event’s live auction and fundraising blitz to help fund the purchase of a new, state-of-the-art CT scanner.
Eager to support the cause, guests engaged in spirited bidding, with bid numbers raised high and often, including several guests who raised their bid cards at the $10,000 and $5,000 levels to directly support the purchase of a new CT scanner. In keeping with the France theme, one lucky guest bid $8,500 for a 7-night stay for 6-8 people in a historic town house in Uzès, France that dates back to the Middle Ages. At the conclusion of the auction, guests enjoyed a dinner of culinary delights prepared by Russell Morin Fine Catering and then danced to the sounds of chanteuse Linda Calise.
“Thanks to the collective generosity of the community, a new CT scanner for our hospital is now within reach,” said Peter Capodilupo, Chair of the Newport Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees. “The success of this event truly captures the true power of a caring community.”
The event’s honorary co-chairs were Oatsie Charles and Happy van Beuren, and the many corporate and individual sponsors included Presenting Sponsor The Schochet Companies, Jay and Suzie Schochet and Richard Henken, CEO; and Silver Sponsors Dorrance H. Hamilton, Michael and Pat Kidder, Judy Clagett McLennan, Newport Hospital Auxiliary, Jack and Linda Purdy, James and Virginia Purviance, Happy van Beuren, and Diane B. Wilsey.
About Newport Hospital
Newport Hospital was founded in 1873 and is Newport County’s only acute care hospital. Located on Powel Avenue in Newport, it is a community hospital with a broad spectrum of health services, including an emergency department, an award-winning birthing center, a behavioral health unit, surgical services, a renowned rehabilitation division, and a full array of outpatient services. Newport Hospital holds Magnet designation for excellence in nursing care. The hospital became a partner in the Lifespan health system in 1997. Follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/newporthospital) and on Twitter @NewportHospital.