Greenwich Time Article 2-27-09

Greenwich Time
Fairfield County Scene
The Advocate Staff
Posted: 02/27/2009 05:31:44 PM EST



The Second Congregational Church Just for Men Chorus and Men's Fellowship treated ladies of the congregation to a musical review, home-cooked dinner and reception at the Sixth Annual St. Valentine's Gala Feb. 7.

More than 100 people attended the event, which raised $62,000* for Greenwich-based Heart Care International. Founded by Riverside resident Robert Michler, the organization offers diagnostic care and surgery for children with life-threatening heart conditions in developing countries.

The show featured a United Service Organization theme, with songs including "Oh! How I Hate to Get up in the Morning," "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Sentimental Journey" and "Bring Him Home" from "Les Miserables." The program closed with a sing-a-long of classic patriotic songs, including "God Bless America," while a church member dressed as Uncle Sam tossed peppermint candies to the audience.

 

Alexander Constantine, director of music at the Second Congregational Church, directed the production. Chris Combe, founder of the Just for Men Chorus and a member of the Health Care International board, organized and performed in the show. Guest of honor was Luis Martinez, a Salvadoran doctor who is being supported by Heart Care International in his training as a pediatric cardiac anesthesiologist at Hospital Bloom, San Salvador.

Funds raised at the gala will support a Heart Care International mission trip to El Salvador in May. For information about Heart Care International, call 552-5343 or visit www.heartcareintl.org. For information about Second Congregational Church, call 869-9311, ext. 120; or visit www.2cc.org.

*As of 3/18/09 the fundraising total has increased to almost $100,000.  Donations are still being accepted for this event.