Hospice fundraiser a success

BY AMY BATE
FREDON — The weather was perfect and people came out in droves to support the Annual Wine and Cheese fundraiser for Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice.
The event took place at Waterwheel Farm in Fredon at the scenic property of Willard and Jeanette Klemm and also the location of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice Residences. The Klemms donated part of their property to the facility and it was opened in 2014.
The tasting took guests on a journey around the world with 18 tables showcasing more than 100 different wines as well as beer, cheeses, fruits and desserts. The wine and beer was donated by Burke’s Liquors of Sparta. Among volunteers from Friends of Hospice, special guest wine professionals educated patrons on the various types and flavor profiles of wine and how they pair with different foods.
“Helping with this event has always been a pleasure. It is a great organization and we are happy to do it,” said Mark Burke.
Guests also bid on a myriad of items donated by local businesses at the silent auction as well as a raffle for a Harley Davidson motorcycle.
All enjoyed the band, “Smooth Sailin’” who played summer favorites for the crowd.
2016 marks the 32nd year of this successful fundraiser. For over 36 years Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice has helped thousands of area families cope with the terminal illness of loved ones.
For more information visit <URL destination="http://www.karenannquinlanhospice.org ">www.karenannquinlanhospice.org