The Martin Memorial LifeSavers Goombay Bash was still a month away, but on June 19 committee members for the popular annual charity event had a chance to practice their party skills at MusicFest Downtown Stuart.

The LifeSavers committee manned the concession booths at the monthly music event, held the third Friday of every month at Gazebo Park in Stuart, with concession gratuities going directly to the LifeSavers. As a result of their efforts - and thanks to the generosity of the community members who attended MusicFest - the LifeSavers brought in $2,000 in sponsorships, $1,500 in ticket sales and $555 in tips for a total of $4,055.

"We're thankful to the LifeSavers for their hard work in what was our biggest MusicFest turnout so far," said Chris Frambes, owner of Edelweiss Café and Deli, which presents MusicFest Downtown Stuart. "We're excited our event could help raise money and awareness for the Goombay Bash, which has proven to be a valuable resource for the community through the years."

Since its inception in 2002, the Goombay Bash has brought in $364,530 for the Martin Memorial Foundation. Those funds are used to purchase technology, equipment and renovations at the Martin Memorial Maternal-Child Department. Last year's event attracted 348 people and raised $78,000, which was used to purchase a variety of equipment ranging from a fetal monitoring system for a delivery room, to cribs and sleeper chairs.

This year's event takes place July 18 from 7-11 p.m. The tropical-themed event will feature live reggae music from "Sweet Justice," raffles, food and libations. And the 2009 Goombay Bash will also feature a new, bigger location to accommodate the growing number of guests: Four Fish Marina, located at 2225 N.E. Indian River Drive in Jensen Beach.

Tickets are $75 if purchased by June 30, $100 after that date. To purchase tickets for the Goombay Bash or for information on sponsorship opportunities, visit Martin Memorial's Web site at mmhs.com, or call the Martin Memorial Foundation at (772) 223-5634.

Martin Memorial Health Systems is a not-for-profit, community-based healthcare organization. It offers a continuum of care including preventative, primary and acute hospital care, as well as cancer and cardiac care, wellness and rehabilitation services. Its approximately 2,900 Associates and 375 affiliated physicians operate 12 different locations serving Martin and St. Lucie counties. To learn more, visit mmhs.com.