Diamond Derby raises $330,000 for BuildCMH Expansion Project
Contact: Sarah Bello
Third annual event celebrated the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby
ASTORIA, Ore. — On Saturday, May 4, community members, caregivers, local volunteers and special guests came together to support the BuildCMH Expansion Project at the CMH Foundation’s third annual Diamond Derby fundraiser.
Thanks to auctioneer extraordinaire, John Curley, three-time emcee, Adam Bjaranson from KOIN TV, and the generosity of the community, over $330,000 was raised.
“We are very grateful for the generosity of the community,” says Mark Kujala, executive director of the CMH Foundation. “The fairgrounds looked amazing, and there were lots of smiles and laughs throughout the day. Thanks to all who helped make our third Diamond Derby such a huge success!”
More than 350 people dressed to the nines for the Kentucky Derby watch party, where they enjoyed a generous spread from White Cap Catering and tasty desserts from CMH’s own Nutrition Services department. Guests had the opportunity to bid on live auction items and experiences, as well as enter the “Winner’s Circle” raffle and (figuratively) throw their hat in for a chance to win a custom diamond necklace handcrafted by Holly McHone Jewelers in Astoria.
Those in attendance also got an exclusive first look at the most recent model and renderings of the expanded CMH facility as they learned more about the impact this will have for generations to come on the North Coast. There was a touching tribute to Dr. Bob Wayne, and it was announced that the surgical suites would be named in his honor. Local ceramic artist, Richard Rowland, presented signature wood-fired art pieces to the project’s major donors as a gift of thanks from CMH for their lead gifts.
Lead gifts for the expansion include:
- CareOregon: $2,000,000
- Shawn & Paula Teevin: $500,000
- Pierre Sundborg: $250,000
- John Crawford & Jody Stahancyk: $250,000
- Linda Moreland: $250,000
- Hampton Lumber Company: $250,000
- Constance Waisanen (Honorary Event Chair): $100,000
- Warrenton Fiber Company & the Nygaard Family: $100,000
- Englund Marine & Industrial Supply: $100,000
CMH Foundation Event Committee chair, Michelle Murray, and Briana Smith of Events NW led a dedicated team and worked closely with local vendors to transform the Clatsop County Fairgrounds in a way this county had never seen before. Thanks to all who donated their time, goods and services to make this day an experience to remember.
Learn more about the BuildCMH Expansion Project at columbiamemorial.org/buildcmh.