FIGHTING BACKStyle with

Heart disease and stroke are the number one killers in Minnesota and North Dakota. So on February 1, over 400 community members will gather at The Holiday Inn in Fargo and fight back with style at the 18th annual Red River Valley Heart Ball.

“The Heart Ball is an elegant, sophisticated gala event that celebrates lives saved and improved by the efforts and generosity of others in support of the American Heart Association’s mission,” said Corporate Events Director Tom Jones.

Guests at the black-tie affair will enjoy dinner and drinks, live and silent auctions, a message from a survivor and vibrant Pulse after-party featuring Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome.

The event is designed to connect survivors and their friends and family with business leaders and other community members, build awareness and fund programs that will benefit the community.

HEART DISEASE BENEFIT AIMS TO RAISE $105,000

BY ALICIA UNDERLEE NELSON

The event grows every year and the fundraising goals do too. Last year’s event raised nearly $90,000 and this year the organization hopes to raise $105,000 through individual and corporate giving. The money raised will support medical research, educational programs and grants to benefit the Red River Valley.

And while the event supports lifesaving programs, the Heart Ball is about much more than a fundraising goal.

“When I talk to attendees throughout the year, it’s not the dollars raised that they get excited about, it’s the survivor stories and the good times they had at the event with their friends,” said Jones. “For some it’s a good excuse to buy a new gown and dress up for the evening. For others, it’s a chance to dance the night away, celebrating a second chance at life.”

Tickets are $99 for individuals, $179 for couples and $1,000 for a table of eight. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available –contact Tom Jones at 605-787-8800 or tom.jones@heart.org. More at redrivervalleyheartball.org. [AWM]