It's an important annual fundraiser an excellent evening out all rolled up into one.
The 16th annual Gala of The Health Foundation is lated for Saturday, October 22 and this year's theme is Ukrainian!
"It is hard to believe but in all the years of Gala we have never had a Ukrainian Night and we thought it was about time. This evening will obviously have a lot of significance for our community, and we are looking forward to making this a very authentic evening," says Diane Rusnak, Chair of the Gala Committee.
"The last several Gala Evenings have been a tremendous hit, and we are determined to improve and build on that success by making Gala better every year."
This year's Gala Night will feature traditional and authentic Ukrainian cuisine, local dancers, pertinent decor and two bands. As well, local photographer Mitch Hippsley will be back to take complimentary portraits of couples in a special studio. Sherring Gold Jewellers has once again donated a piece of jewellery for the auction. Bev Bielinksi and Stephanie Buckle from All About Flowers are providing table centre pieces, and many businesses are donating to the Silent Auction.
"This year we wanted a band that could play many of the traditional songs and dances as well as popular music that will keep the dance floor full all night. This year the band Crawdaddies will help our guests dance the night away," adds Rusnak.
"A Ukrainian evening is about the food, the dancing, the music and the people. Because we want this to be an authentic Ukrainian evening, the menu will feature some dishes people haven't had, however, they are all dishes that we know our guests will love."
Rusnak says the foundation is also pleased to have Morris Industries return as the Presenting Sponsor.
"Morris Industries has been very supportive of our Gala Night, and have been our Presenting sponsors for six years now."
In addition to Morris Industries there are a number of businesses that also sponsor elements of the evening, and the foundation also receives tremendous support from the 40 businesses that donate items for our Silent Auction says Rusnak.
"Gala is held on a Saturday as we find that makes it easier for our guests to attend," she continues.
"It also means we can start a few things earlier, like the portraits that Mitch Hippsley of Photography by Mitch takes of each guest or couple who attends, without charge. That means the evening itself is free for enjoying cocktails, a wonderful meal and a great dance band."
For guests' enjoyment local dancers will be in attendance to entertain and demonstrate some of the traditional Ukrainian dances.
"It is possible that guests may find themselves on the dance floor participating in a demonstration."
Over the years, the Gala events have purchased more than $330,000 of important medical equipment for the region's healthcare facilities. This year the proceeds of Gala will go toward the purchase of medical equipment for the Regional Health Centre in Yorkton. Seating for Gala, which takes place at St. Mary's Cultural Centre, will be limited to 350 people and the evening has sold out in past years.
"We suggest that those planning to attend should get their table organized and order their tickets now," concludes Rusnak. Ticket order forms are available in person from The Health Foundation office at 41 Betts Avenue in Yorkton. Please call 786-0506 - or order from The Health Foundation website: www.thehealthfoundation.ca.
