HOSPITAL BENEFITS FROM GAME PARTY

Good food, good friends, good cause that's the best way to describe the "Championship Sunday" football fund raiser at the Bavarian Halle, held to benefit the Southeast Missouri Hospital Foundation.

No football game is complete without a tailgate party and that's what Chuck Stotz, foundation executive director, created at the Halle, complete with a tailgate on the new truck provided by Ford Groves.

Through the donation of sponsors who helped with everything from decorations to big-screen televisions, the foundation raised from $3,000 to $5,000, Stotz said. "Some of the people who would have come today are at the game," said Stotz.

The crowd definitely seemed to be for the Tennessee Titans as hoots and hollers abounded as the Titans won their championship against Jacksonville Jaguars.

Eddie Rhodes of Cape Girardeau found Sunday's furnishings to his liking. "It's almost like being at home," he said as he lounged in one of the recliners provided by Hutson Furniture while watching the game on a big-screen television set up for the event by Shivelbine's Music Store. "It's a festive, fun thing for a good cause."

Kohlfeld Distributing's football player cutouts provided great sideline decorations. Snacks and drinks constantly appeared on tables thanks to the courteous service of staff members. The buffet overflowed with everything from bratwurst to shrimp, platters of fresh vegetables and mouth-watering brownies.

Those who weren't lounging in the chairs watched the game on a "really big" television. The Foundation made arrangements with the Show Me Center for its screen for "Championship Sunday."

Sara Heuer tried her hand at a game of strategy while waiting for the Rams' game to begin. Her 6-year-old son has diabetes. "We've received good support from the hospital and its programs," she said.

Carla Glaus, a diabetes educator for the hospital, was answered questions about the hospital. One program, Camp DAY (Diabetes And Youth) Break, focuses on education and support for diabetic children.

Football fans were kept on their toes as trivia questions were asked throughout the day.

JCPenney was able to secure Rams T-shirts and sweatshirts, which were awarded as prizes for questions asked by KZIM's Mike Legg and Erik Sean.

"We had about 70 paid patrons and another 25 to 30 volunteers," said Stotz. "We're hoping to make this an annual event."