Robinwood Medical Center transforms to tropics

Antietam Foundation hosts "Sunset in the Caribbean" -- 14th annual Crystal Ball

April 26, 2008|By MARIE GILBERT

HAGERSTOWN -- With palm trees, steel drums, sand and seashells, all that was missing were the trade winds.

This could have been Jamaica, Barbados or any tropical island.

It wasn't.

It was Robinwood Medical Center.

The Antietam Healthcare Foundation hosted its 14th annual Crystal Ball Saturday night with the theme "Sunset in the Caribbean."

About 325 people attended the black-tie event, with proceeds benefiting the new Washington County Regional Medical Center.

Organizers expected to raise more than $100,000. The Washington County Hospital Auxiliary was a Diamond Sponsor, donating $25,000.

"This is both a celebration and a fundraiser," said Dr. John Newby, who has served as chairman for the Crystal Ball for the past 10 years. "We are celebrating because we have finally broken ground for our new medical center and there is significant progress. And the money raised from tonight's event will allow us to start equipping the facility."

Newby said Robinwood Medical Center "is probably the finest medical-care complex on the East Coast. To tuck the hospital next to it has such a synergy of form and function."

In addition to raising funds for the new regional medical center, Newby said the Crystal Ball also is a great party.

"This allows the community to celebrate a great institution in its midst and gives us a chance to thank everyone in the community for their support," he said.

Sandra Pollack, executive director of the Antietam Healthcare Foundation, said she is amazed each year at how many people step forward to lend a hand in making the Crystal Ball a success.

"This is a yearlong project," she said. "We have so many people who give of their time and so many sponsors working behind the scenes. The people in our community truly play vital roles in the ball's continued success."

Guests arriving at Saturday night's gala were greeted by the sounds of the Chambersburg Area High School Steel Drum Band.

A Caribbean dinner was provided by Nick's Airport Inn that included filet mignon and cashew-crusted grouper, red beans and rice, and mango upside-down cake.

The night included a live auction, with such items as a crab feed for 25, a room makeover and a Southern Maryland vacation.

A silent auction, which was called a gala gift surprise, included a chance to win jewelry, gift certificates and Pittsburgh packages that included tickets to Pirate, Penguin or Steeler games.

Over the years, the Crystal Ball has raised money to support the John R. Marsh Cancer Center, the expansion and renovation of the H.W. Murphy Community Health Center at Walnut Street, the Child Advocacy Center, Healthy Families and prenatal services at Washington County Hospital.

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