Fundraiser brings French countryside

On Saturday afternoon, Buffalo Creek Retreat in Seville was transformed into a pastoral scene from the French countryside.

The Free Clinic of Medina County held its annual fundraiser, a “Celebration of Caring,” with a catered dinner from Serenite Restaurant. Guests had their choice of three entrée selections, including the chef’s specialty Beef Burgundy, with traditional French side dishes. The décor featured blue checkered tablecloths, picnic baskets, and hosts wearing black berets.

After two years of Covid-related restrictions, the sold-out event raised more than $96,598 for the clinic’s annual budget of $100,000 through business and individual sponsorships, games, raffles, and auctions. A mechanical chicken named “Clucking Cindie” dispensed golden eggs that held gift certificates and other prizes. Live auction items included choice tickets to professional and college sporting events as well as a gourmet dinner for six, prepared by master chef and clinic volunteer Dr. Jonathan Funk.

Dr. Kim Bowen, who founded the clinic 18 years ago, expressed his gratitude for the way the community has supported the clinic.

“It’s remarkable how this community has supported us financially,” Bowen said. “But we need more patients. We need people to spread the word about us. We also need more volunteers, not just doctors and nurses, to make us run better.”