Heart and Soul rocks for St. Edward foundation

story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg

The 42nd annual holiday dinner and dance featuring live and silent auction items benefitting the St. Edward Mercy Heart Center was held Friday night at Holiday Inn City Center.

"All the proceeds from the event will benefit the St. Edward Mercy Heart Center for equipment," said Jill Barrie, co chair of the event with Kellie Slade.

The goal at St. Edward Mercy Heart Center is to keep heart-care patients and their families close to home while providing state-of-the-art facilities, physicians and staff.

"Why travel when the best care is available right here in Fort Smith?" asked Jeff Johnston, St. Edward CEO. "Seven years ago, St. Edward Mercy established the Centers of Excellence, which included a Heart Center. It has established itself as one of the leading Heart Centers in the country. We want to build upon that foundation of excellence and caring."

Live auction items at the “Heart and Soul” included a French garrison home for a week in Cancon, lot-et-garonne donated by Peter and Margot Lippincott. The highest bidder was Phil White.

The Running Razorback, commissioned and donated by John Mays Jewelers, is now proudly owned by Andy Neal. Dr. Victor Coloso was the highest bidder for a $7,500 shopping spree at Newton’s Jewelers.

The silent auction had a wide variety of items. The silent auction included jewelry, University of Arkansas paraphernalia and tickets, toys (for kids big and small!), food & beverage treats, entertainment options, spa treatments and more.

Full House, a 10-piece band from northwest Arkansas finished out the evening with rock-n-roll dance-band music.