Donors pucker up to honor pig

American Diabetes Association event flies above goal

Two out of the 11 candidates who raised funds for the American Diabetes Association won the chance to plant a peck on a pig named Angel March 9 at the 11th annual Kiss a Pig Gala.

The gala, which was themed “Time for Pigs to Fly,” raised more than its $500,000 goal for the American Diabetes Association’s local office, said Krista Coffee, director. She said this was the top-grossing gala for the American Diabetes Association nationwide. Funds raised will go toward local programming, mission delivery, advocacy and research initiatives, she added. The gala at the John Q. Hammons Center included dinner, a silent auction, a live auction and a performance by REO Speedwagon.

The gala was co-chaired by Steve Wolf, American Diabetes Association Northwest Arkansas Leadership Board member, and Deb Rudzik. Charles Redfield, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer for Sam’s Club, was the honorary chairman, and Neile Jones and Jon Williams were masters of ceremonies.

The evening paid tribute to the pig, which was the first source of insulin for diabetics. For the event, 11 candidates representing large and small businesses raised money through donations and live and silent auction items. The winners of both the large and small businesscategory got to pucker up with the pig.

Ben Thankachan of Sam’s Club won the large business category with $122,566.

Chuck Fehlig of Blue Ocean Innovative Solutions raised $108,000 to win the small business category. Karen Gray of Arvest Bank was given the High Hoof award, which recognized a candidate’s creativity, sphere of influence and commitment to the cause, Coffee said.

The other candidates were Justin Boeving of Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Dr. Randall Feezell of New Directions Physician Weight Loss, Todd Hudgens of MARS Advertising, Meritt Hutchison of the Clorox Company, Scott McCall of Walmart, Dr. Heath Stacey of Northwest Arkansas Center for Plastic Surgery, Dax Weindorf of Lighthouse Financial and Dustin Williamsof Precision Fitness.

Marie and Jim Vermillion were named Volunteers of the Year during the event.

After dinner and a speech by the honorary chairman, guests gathered near thestage to hear REO Speedwagon. Some of the popular songs played included“Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Keep On Loving You,” and “Time for Me to Fly.”AT A GLANCE

Kiss a Pig Gala Who: American Diabetes Association When: March 9 Where: John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers Amount raised: More than $500,000 Information: 464-4121 or diabetes.org

Northwest Profile, Pages 40 on 03/17/2013

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