'Blue suede shoes' is the theme of annual gala at Arena Building

This year's American Cancer Society Annual Gala theme is "Blue Suede Shoes." While the theme appeals to rock and rollers, the song incorporates elements of blues, country and pop music. With such a wide appeal, the event's goal of raising more than $50,000 should come easy. Tina Weber, event co-chairwoman, said the event raised $46,000 last year with more than 350 people in attendance.

Mike Erzfeld of Custom Events will be decorating three days prior to the gala. About 5,000 yards of black fabric uplit in blue light will dramatically transform the Arena Building into a party atmosphere. Silver Elvis silhouettes, white roses and blue blooms will adorn the stage and bleachers while blue suede shoes will serve as part of the floral arrangements atop tables strewn with royal blue velvet.

The evening gets underway at 6:30 p.m. Saturday with cocktails followed by dinner served by Cape's finest restaurants and their signature dishes at the Arena Building in Cape Girardeau. The presenting sponsor, Cape Radiology Group, joins Hildebrand Jewelers, Mississippi Radio Group, LBB Sales & Service and the Southeast Missourian.

New this year is the live auction of a 1994 Honda four-wheel-drive mini truck valued at $6,500, donated by G & R Imports Inc., in memory of Mike Rampley's father and mother-in-law, Raymond Rampley and Terue Fukumitsu.

The light duty vehicle is ideal for farmers and hunters, with features including a lift kit, camo package, drop sides and tailgate.

Some of the other live auction items, equally appealing, include a NASCAR trip to Bristol, Tenn., a red leather sofa from Hutson's Fine Furniture, Lasik Eye Surgery donated by Dr. Shawn Parker and a sapphire and diamond convertible necklace from Zickfield Jewelers.

Another new element to the event is an attendance prize of a cabinet built by Beussink.

Mid Life Crisis will provide the musical entertainment.

Tickets may be purchased at the Bank of Missouri in Jackson, 243-9300 and the American Cancer Society, 334-9197.