A few flurries in the forecast were one reminder.  The announcement of the 24th annual "Festival Of Trees" (FOT) fundraiser for the Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) was another.

Christmas is coming soon.  

And that will be evident, maybe more than ever at a "Festival Of Trees" gala, when the event arrives November 21 at the Heritage Inn with a theme of "Oh Santa". 

"This committee has never done a Christmas-type theme," explained FOT chairperson Laurie Kosior, who has been on the committee for nine years. "This year is going to be a modern take on Santa's workshop, and (we'll) bring a little bit of Christmas into the room.  We're going to use a lot of colours that maybe aren't traditional Christmas colours...maybe a little more fun this year."

Funds raised at the dinner, dance and auction will go towards the MJHF fall fundraising campaign, which has a goal of raising $2.3 million dollars.  That money will be allocated for the expansion of the new Dr. F.H. Wigmore regional hospital so that it can accommodate the hyperbaric chamber, which had been housed at the Moose Jaw Union hospital.  The money will also cover the refurbishment of the 15-year old hyperbaric unit, plus allow for the purchase of new, state-of-the-art medical equipment for the new Wigmore hospital. 

Last year's FOT raised about $270,000, thanks in part to JGL Livestock contributing $100-thousand, as they announced a 5-year, $500,000 pledge to the MJHF. 

"I'm continously in awe of people in this community and surrounding communities that support (FOT) each and every year," said MJHF Executive Director Kelly McElree. "Festival Of Trees really touches the heart of everyone in this community."

Tickets for this year's Festival Of Trees are available from the Moose Jaw Health Foundation office in the new Wigmore hospital.  You can call the office at 306-694-0373 to obtain yours.  The cost is $200 per person.  

In addition, there is a Festival Brunch on Sunday, November 22 at the Heritage Inn. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children.  You can also purchase those at the MJHF office. 

 

.