Bassett Valentine's Soiree Raises $170,000

More than 300 guests attended the Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network's third annual Valentine's Soire at the Otesaga Hotel & Resort on Feb. 9. The soire and auction raised $170,000 in support of Bassett Medical Center's Arts in Health Care program, an evidence-based initiative that is designed to reduce stress and promote healing among patients, their families and providers through artistic engagement. Flis and Andy Blum were recognized for their commitment to Bassett Medical Center and the arts. As a nod to the Arts in Health Care program, the evening included special components of the program. Cupid's Craft Corner offered guests a unique opportunity to make Valentine's cards for patients. Musical acts, Joe Siracusa's Trio, Glimmerglass Festival's Young Artists and the Edgewater duo of Emily DeSantis and Toby Wilcox, offered a taste of the entertainment they currently provide on Bassett's campus through the program.

William F. Streck, MD, CEO of Bassett Healthcare Network, observed, "It was a delight to honor Flis and Andy Blum for all of their contributions to the community. We are very appreciative of the continued support from our sponsors for Bassett programs and initiatives. The proceeds of this year's event are an investment in Bassett's Art in Health Care program, which helps to improve outcomes for patients. We thank our volunteers for their dedication and commitment. They made the Valentine's Soire the success that it was."

The Friends extends a special thank you to lead sponsor, SEFCU; corporate sponsor: NYCM Insurance; supporting sponsors: Fidelis Care New York, KPMG LLP, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., The Table Rock Group at Morgan Stanley - Oneonta, The New York Susquehanna & Western Railway Corp., Preferred Mutual Insurance Co., and Thuillez, Ford, Gold, Butler & Monroe LLP; and participating sponsors: Bank of Cooperstown, Care Logistics, Casella Waste Management of NY, Inc., EPIC Landscapes, Inc., Halliday Financial Group, Medline, Mirabito Energy Products, Northern Eagle Beverages, Inc., O'Connor First-Attorneys at Law and StatStaff Professionals.

Sheila LeMaster, special events and corporate sponsorships manager, credited the efforts of members of the soire committee, volunteers who worked tirelessly with the Friends' staff throughout the year. The 2019 soire committee was led by co-chairs Rachel Damroth and Betsy Jay and included members Angie Eichler, Marilyn Garman, Cara Gennario, Wendy Kiuber, Jen Kubis, Robin Lopez, Erika Prouty, Rachael Shaughnessy, Gayle Smith, Jean Stabinski and Ronette Wiley.

The Friends would also like to extend a special thank you to Bassett Site Environment, Mohican Flowers and the Otesaga Resort & Hotel.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities or for inclusion in next year's invitation list, call Sheila LeMaster at the Friends of Bassett Healthcare Network office: 607-547-4799.