“The best event ever!” and “This was definitely the place to be!” were just two of the comments heard over and over about the Third Annual Giving Tree Festival to support The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW).

“This was the first year we were actually sold out,” said Carol Rothman of CROW’s Development Office.

While the Dec. 6 event at The Sanctuary Golf Club featured a silent action of themed trees, wreaths and garlands, the centerpiece was the Giving Tree.

Dr. PJ Deitschel and Dr. Amber McNamara greeted guests and offered information on special needs for the new hospital that recently opened. Former Board President John Schubert took over the microphone and initiated some serious on-the-spot bidding for wishlist items that included a laser acupuncture unit.

“The Giving Tree Festival raised $35,000 this year,” said event chair Daniel Moore-Thompson. “It was a huge success because of the generous support of Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, the sponsors, designers, volunteers and of course the special community that celebrated and donated to CROW.”

On behalf of CROW, a very big thank you was offered to their Presenting Sponsors The Sanibel Captiva Trust Co., Ice Crystal Sponsors Philip and Roberta Puschel, Silver Sleigh Sponsors Steve and Mandy Greenstein, and Twinkling Star Sponsors Bank of the Islands, Coral Veterinary Clinic, Suncatcher’s Dream and Susan and Bob Tucker.