The La Porte Hospital Foundation hosted its 19th Annual Holiday at the POPS concert on Saturday night. Proceeds will go to benefit those receiving VNA or hospice services by providing funds to cover certain needs like medications and oxygen.
Those who came were well rewarded for braving the cold and snow with wonderful performances by The La Porte Hospital Foundation’s own symphony, conducted by Philip J. Bauman, and guest singers including the local group Cripple Creek, Sarah Garthstone, Shania Povlock, and the Illumination choir.
Bauman said, “What makes Holiday at the POPS special for me is presenting our great orchestra to the community in a fashion that lifts spirits and raises money for good people and great causes.” Bauman has been the conductor of the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra since 1994.
G. Thor Thordarson, President/CEO of the IU Health La Porte Hospital, said, “You cannot have a strong house without a strong foundation. This event strengthens the foundation of the community by showcasing our local talent and supporting a good cause.”
Elizabeth Dekker and Katrina Langford, Co-Chairs of the POPS Committee at the La Porte Hospital Foundation, echoed Thordarson’s thoughts, saying “The large turnout from the community tonight can attest to the strong support that they have for this cause and the local talent. We are amazed that so many came out tonight, and think that the performances have been spectacular.”
Both the symphony and most of the guest performers were connected to the La Porte community or the hospital in some way. Langford’s husband, John Langford, is a member of Cripple Creek along with Steve Eyrick, Mitch Marhanka, David Applegarth, Lou Voelker. Shania Povlock, an eighth grader at Kesling Middle School, has volunteered the past two years to sing in the lobby of IU Health La Porte Hospital for patients.
“The concert was wonderful, and is a great way to keep the Holiday Spirit alive,” said community member and concert attendee Sue Hardman.
Her impression of the concert was reflected in the overwhelming applause of the crowd that the performers received after their final number, “Silent Night.” It was not a silent night, but one filled with wonderful music indeed.