THE CROWD:

For 42 years the good people of Newport-Mesa have joined forces to recognize, honor and raise money for one of the regions most vital and important organizations. The funds raised and the support offered is literally a matter of life or death.

The Christmas Carol Ball, hosted by The 552 Club of Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian welcomed a sold-out crowd in the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel ballroom raising in excess of $400,000 earmarked for Hoag’s Neuroscience Center.

A big portion of the financial success came from the live auction that brought in $120,000 for Hoag. A one-year lease on a new BMW 335i, courtesy of Newport’s Sterling BMW, was one of the coveted items. A trip to Georgia for The Masters Golf Tournament, and a wild weekend in Las Vegas with ultra-deluxe treatment also attracted attention.

Co-chaired by Amanda and Bob Hogan and Pam and R. Scott Shean. The 552 executive committee included John and Frances Applegate, Terry Callahan, Jocelyn Gilbert, Kathryn Glassmyer, Mark Hardke, Sandra Haskell, Ann Howard, Nora and Jim Johnson, Shail Lai, Ilona Martin, Debbie Simon and Pamela Young.

Bob Hogan commented, “This is the true spirit of Christmas. After 42 years Hoag supporters are still generously contributing.”

Scott Shean added, “What a great holiday gift. A thank you to all the underwriters who made this another successful year.”

Some of the generous folks included Patti and Jim Edwards, Sandi and Ron Simon and Eddie Fedishon in memory of Lena Fedishon.

Spotted in the festive holiday crowd were Court and Mindy Ensign, Suki and Randy McCardle, Billie and Bob Adams, and Marilyn and Bill Robbins.

In difficult times, the Newport-Mesa crowd is still front and center for Hoag. Quality health care is essential to the well being of the community in good times and in bad, perhaps even more crucial in tough economic times.

The generosity of The 552 crowd proves that in spite of everything, Hoag Hospital, its doctors, staff, and most importantly, its patients remain a top priority in Newport-Mesa.

THE CROWD runs Thursdays and Saturdays.