Ford Field Hosts Successful Cardinal's Gala 2006
Paul W. Smith emcees event, headlined by comic Bob Newhart

Friends of Sacred Heart Major Seminary showed their strong support for the seminary by attending the Cardinal's Gala 2006, "The Heart of It All," on Wednesday, June 21, 2006, the first day of summer. This year's Gala was held in the atrium of Ford Field in Detroit, offering a bright and spacious venue with dramatic views of the Detroit skyline, while the guests enjoyed an evening of great dining, entertainment and fellowship.

Gala co-chairs Lois and Kevin MacFarland, Sr., Michigan Knights of Columbus state deputy, along with honorary co-chairs Alice and James Padilla, president of Ford Motor Company, combined their efforts to make the annual benefit event a grand success.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by Mr. Bob Newhart, whose comical insights filled the Atrium at Ford Field with much laughter. Master of Ceremony Paul W. Smith of WJR radio directed the evening with smooth professionalism.

Also joining the Gala this year was Joseph DuMouchelle, president of Joseph DuMouchelle International Auctioneers. Mr. DuMouchelle led guests in a live auction of items, including a package for four at the Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass, a Comerica suite to see the Detroit Tigers play the Texas Rangers, and a Top Gun Experience—a private jet ride in Mr. Bob Lutz's Aero L-39 ZO "Albatros" jet, among other exciting items.

New to the Cardinal's Gala was a silent auction, including artwork, personally autographed sports memorabilia, a great vacation getaway to the Grand Hotel on Michigan's historic Mackinaw Island, and much more.

Another first was the raffle for not one but three great prizes. Winner of the 2006 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150 truck, donated by Ford Motor Company, was David Schertzing of Lansing. The 2006 Harley-Davidson FLSTFI Fat Boy motorcycle, also donated by Ford Motor Company, was won by Dave Peruski of Bad Axe. Winner of the Ladies Marco Bicego Santorini Collection diamond and 18-karat white gold necklace, earring and bracelet ensemble, donated by Edmund T. Ahee Jewelers, was Leonard Sobieray of Pinconning.

Two of the three winning tickets were sold by members of the Michigan Knights of Columbus, who have long been strong supporters of the seminary. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to all who supported the Cardinal's Gala by selling or purchasing raffle tickets!

On behalf of the seminarians, faculty and staff at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, thank you to all who supported the Cardinal's Gala 2006 through their prayers, contributions and financial support. Special thanks go out to Ford Motor Company, title sponsor for this year's Gala, and the Michigan Knights of Columbus, serving as event sponsor.

We look forward to seeing you all at the Cardinal's Gala 2007!