WHITE ROCK, B.C. – Centennial Arena brought back the endless summer of 1966 on Saturday, May 4 for the annual Peace Arch Hospital Gala, which raised more than $1.5 million toward a new MRI, part of the Foundation’s $10 million medical imaging campaign.

Guests were serenaded by California Surf, a musical ensemble made up of former band members of The Beach Boys while enjoying fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and good vibrations all night long.

Mark Woodall and Judy McKague made a generous $250,000 matching gift that kicked off the evening’s fundraising that included transformational gifts from Dave and Diane Balsor, Donna Dong and Xudong Liu, Vern and Helga Höing, and a philanthropic group of anonymous donors. Layne the Auctionista served as MC and Auctioneer.

“The generosity at this event is always incredible and humbling,” says Stephanie Beck, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s Executive Director. “Our community never fails to show up for their hospital, and the Peace Arch Hospital Gala is no exception. We are so grateful for every donation, large and small, that ensures our patients have access to the best care possible.”

Kokomo was organized by a 16-person volunteer committee led by committee chair, Erin Anderson of KA Creative, and took 11 months to plan. Lead sponsors were Neil and Lisa Yarmoshuk as Presenting Sponsor, and DMCL, EllisDon, IOM Property Group, Lark Group, and Preston Cadillac Langey as Gold Sponsors, Great Canadian Entertainment who sponsored California Surf, and Capulet Properties and Pacific Real Estate who were co-sponsors of the auction and Golden Ticket Raffle.

Looking for photos of this event? Check back soon!