Plans for new hospice unveiled at annual wine and cheese fundraiser

Locals gathered to celebrate and raise funds for the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice at the 27th Annual Wine & Cheese Festival at Water Wheel Farm in Fredon on Sunday, Sept. 18. The lineup for the annual fundraising event included the wine tasting, live music, an antique car exhibit, a 50/50 drawing, and live and silent auctions. There were 19 separate stations where participants could sample an average of six different wines at each, while enjoying the grounds of Water Wheel Farm. “It’s been a beautiful day,” said Randy Burke of Burke’s Wine & Liquors in Sparta. “People have had a wonderful time trying the older vintages.” What differed at this event versus those in the past, was the announcement of the plans that the hospice has planned to open a facility overlooking the grounds of Water Wheel Farm. A sign was placed leading down to the event, where the facility will be built. The planned hospice building on nine-acres of land will house 10 private rooms, a kitchen, family room, meditation room, children’s play room, and butterfly garden. “We’ve provided an excellent service,” said Julia Quinlan, President and Co-founder of the Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice. “The environment will be peaceful, and safe. We’re very excited about it. We will be there to support them in any way, and to support their needs.” Quinlan said the group needs to raise $5 million to build the hospice facility. The non-profit Karen Ann Quinlan Memorial Foundation provides hospice, bereavement and home health care services, and adult and children’s support groups.