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Charity Ball to benefit hospital health center

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By Eric Robinette, Staff Writer 8:37 PM Sunday, November 22, 2009

The clock is ticking to make reservations for this year’s Charity Ball.

“A Moment in Time” is the theme for the 89th annual event that will take place starting at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at the Manchester Inn in Middletown.

This will be a dinner-dance that begins in the hotel’s main lobby at 6 p.m. with cocktails and holiday music performed by Marilyn Ifcic. A sit-down dinner starts at 7 p.m. followed by dancing until midnight.

The cost is $50 per person or $100 per couple. Contributing as a Grand Patron is $150 and includes dinner, a listing in the event program, plus two admissions to the ball.

College-age students may attend evening festivities at the Junior Patron admission of $25. Checks should be sent to: Tammi Thompson, 110 Old St., Monroe, OH 45050. The check will serve as the reservation.

Funds raised from the Charity Ball will benefit the Maternal Child Health Center at the Atrium Medical Center. This program helps children and families who need medical support.

The Middletown Area Federation of Women’s clubs has donated more than $985,000 to various projects since the first dance at the Elks Temple, formerly on Main Street in 1920, according to Frances Sack, the publicist for the event.

“We’re getting close to the 90th anniversary of having this, and that in itself is unique. Not a lot of organizations can look back at 89 years,” she said.

Ruth Cassidy, president of Middletown Area Federation of Women’s Clubs, announced that Dave and Carole Schul would be this year’s honorary chairmen.

They both have been active in numerous community organizations.

Asked how the event has lasted so many years, Carole Schul said, “People are supportive of the hospital and feel very strongly about it. Middletown people feel very strongly about community projects.”

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2836 or erobinette@coxohio.com.