Sashaying Down The Runway For Hospice

SPRING HILL - Tickets are almost all gone.

But there is still plenty of space for vendors.

Organizers of the third annual fashion show to benefit Hernando-Pasco Hospice hope to attract a lot more businesses - and money.

Last year, they raised $10,000.

"One dollar more than what we raised last year would be fine," said co-organizer Lois Dias, who borrowed a phrase often used by Jerry Lewis.

Dias and Janet Shuller are owners of Fine Lines Boutique, located at 1361 Kass Circle in Spring Hill. The show will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, March 1, at the Palace Grand.

Approximately 400 people watched last year's fashion show. All the proceeds went to benefit the local hospice center, an organization often overlooked, according to Dias.

"In the beginning, we wanted a charity that didn't get a lot of support," she said.

This year, there will be 25 models, the most Fine Lines has ever had.

One of them, Cindy McDonald, volunteered because she is both friends with the owners and a supporter of the cause.

"They are all real people modeling," said McDonald, who pointed out there are people of all ages and sizes who will be donning the outfits.

Mostly all of the sponsors are small businesses. The largest donor is the Black Swan Spa in Spring Hill, which is shelling out $1,000.

"These are not big corporations, these are the little guys doing this," Dias said. "It shows you how dedicated people in Hernando County (are). They're still supporting good causes."