By Denise Sloan Smart
Barton Memorial Hospital
Sweet 16. That's what the Barton Foundation's Gala is celebrating when dressed-to-the nines guests arrive at Harrah's Oct. 13 for this 16th annual fundraiser.
Now known as “The Gala,†Barton's black tie dinner dance has grown every year and is the largest event for the Foundation in both attendance and income.
Last year's event broke all records for attendance and fundraising. More than 430 locals and guests from as far away as Louisiana were responsible for the Foundation raising $109,805. Whether someone sponsors a table, purchases tickets, donates auction items or offers in-kind donations, all proceeds go to the Foundation's Endowment fund, which is used to purchase equipment for the hospital.
The attire is black tie optional. Suits and evening wear are suggested. Tickets are $150 per person ($85 is tax deductible) or $1,650 for a table of 10 with additional sponsorship benefits.
Elegant decorations will adorn the Convention Center at Harrah's. The silent auction, cocktail and hors d'oeuvres hour which begins at 5:30, leads into the 7 p.m. elegant dinner, followed at 9 p.m. by an entertaining live auction, dancing and live entertainment by Busta-Groove from the Bay Area.
Busta-Groove is a rip roaring party band playing hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s and today. With a searing combination of hot vocals, dynamic stage show and a tight rhythm section, Busta-Groove guarantees an electrifying great time.
This popular band performs soft music during the cocktail and dinner hours. Immediately following dinner, the mood changes to a high-energy presentation that promises to not only get people on their feet but then keep them there.
Help the Barton Foundation celebrate its sweet 16th annual Gala with a wonderful evening of fine food, wine, fabulous auction items and live entertainment. A hosted Martini Luge is featured during the cocktail hour. Wine is by Harrah's during dinner. A sumptuous dinner presentation featuring five courses will have guests feeling like royalty, while there'll be a full, no-host bar open throughout the night.
If you like a party, enjoy an elegant dinner out and like to get dressed up, this is a great event for you. Contact the Foundation for an invitation, to make your reservations or to answer your questions. Reservations must be made by Oct. 11. Foundation Coordinator Sue McLaughlin can be reached at (530) 543- 5614.