Second Singer Joins Hospital Gala Concert

Music lovers who have already bought tickets to Florida Hospital Heartland Division's Gala benefit concert and expected to hear only Michael W. Smith should be happy to know that another wildly popular singer has joined the bill.

Steven Curtis Chapman will also grace the South Florida Community College Auditorium stage Nov. 6. Chapman is a five-time Grammy Award winner and has nabbed 51 Dove Awards.

Chapman is a late addition and comes at no added expense to the hospital for its biggest fundraiser of the year. Both Smith and Chapman are touring together on "The United Tour."

Jamie Bateman, executive director of the Florida Hospital Foundation, said Chapman agreed to pitch in at the last moment after he realized the concert proceeds will benefit a foundation.

"It's their gift back to the community," said Bateman. "Now we could sell this out twice over. They chose us to be part of the United Tour. It's such a boost for our community."

Cathy Albritton, hospital director of marketing and community relations, talked about the benefits for residents.

"(Chapman and Smith) see what the hospital and foundation are doing for the community," said Albritton.

Florida Hospital raising funds for a cardiac care center in Sebring, an operating room in Lake Placid and an emergency room in Wauchula.

The gala events benefit several other hospital projects. Patrons may earmark funding for the facility of their choice - to Sebring, Wauchula or Lake Placid.

Tickets for other gala events are selling briskly. The black tie dinner is nearly sold out. Held just prior to the concert, a seat at the dinner is also good for admission to the concert and inclusion in the 5K race.

The Gala 5K Race is set for Sunday, Nov. 9 at Florida Hospital Heartland Division. The first 300 registrants receive a long sleeve Dri-FIT shirt and a race belt.

All age group winners will receive trophies and the overall male and female champions will each get $200 in cash. The cost to enter is $15 in advance, and $25 the day of the event. Children under 12 are free.

New this year is the Gala Winners Choice Drawing.

A single winner will choose between a new Club Car golf cart or a new 2008 Sea-Doo personal water craft and trailer. The contest is limited to 500 entries, with a minimum donation of $25.

Entries are still available for the gala's Nov. 7 golf tournament at Sun 'N Lake Country Club. The event regularly sells out.