Samantha’s Friends hosted its 2025 “Winter Wonderland” fundraiser on May 3rd and 4th in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos has the recap.
Daytime actors Mike Manning, Kristos Andrews, James Preston, Eric Nelsen, Gregori J. Martin, and Jordi Vilasuso of “The Bay” were in attendance, as were “Days of Our Lives” actors Arianne Zucker, Kyle Lowder, and Camila Banus, as well as “General Hospital” actors Adam Huss and Kathleen Gati. It was hosted by Sammy and Alice Bozza.
There was a great fan turnout, and it featured Christmas songs (including “Santa Baby” sung by Hadley Composky) and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
It benefited many charities including the Dante’s Den Foundation and Valor Service Dogs, among others. It also featured trivia, a live and silent auction, performances, and a slideshow of clips. It was heartwarming to see all of these beautiful dogs in attendance.
On being a part of this “Winter Wonderland” event, 11-time Emmy winner Kristos Andrews remarked, “It felt great. It is always a nice quality environment with a lot of warmth and a lot of good cheer. It is just a meaningful, good time. I love everyone here.”
“It is nice to be a part of the charity component as well. The aspect of charity is a cherry on top of the warmth at the core. Being a part of Samantha’s Friends is a family, and it’s very meaningful and honorable. I am very appreciative; it is endearing and it means a lot. I am grateful to be a part of it,” Andrews said, effusively.
Remembering Johnny Wactor
This event was in loving memory of the late but great Johnny Wactor. A mimosa fountain was dedicated in his honor, as were short clips of him from prior “Samantha’s Friends” in-person fan events.
This below 14″ x 18″ portrait was painted and crafted by artist Michelle Depaolis-Wampner with love and deep respect “In Loving Memory of Johnny Wactor.” It was gifted to his family.
People like Johnny Wactor come along once in a lifetime. Nearly a year ago, on that tragic day—May 25th—we lost him to a senseless act of violence. Johnny had planned to be with us in person in Sarasota, Florida, for “Samantha’s Friends” but instead, we gather in his memory to honor a life that ended far too soon.
Johnny shone brightly in this world—brilliant and full of heart. He had a gift for making those around him feel seen, valued, and joyful. To know him was to smile in his presence. May his memory be forever eternal.
To learn more about Samantha’s Friends, check out its official homepage, and follow them on Instagram.
