CANCER GALA LIGHTS UP `A NIGHT ON BROADWAY'

The local Cancer Society will celebrate "A Night on Broadway" during its annual benefit gala.

The benefit will be held Saturday, March 7, at the Show Me Center. Money raised provides treatment for cancer patients in the area, cancer education and supports cancer research.

The evening's activities include a dinner, dance and fund-raising activities. The dinner will be catered by the Outback Steakhouse.

"Inception," a show and dance band from Nashville, Tenn., will provide entertainment. The band has eight pieces, including a four-piece rhythm section and three horns, and performs music ranging from Motown to contemporary tunes.

More than 80 volunteers are working to produce "A Night on Broadway." The theme symbolizes the performances of many in the community who donate their time and talents for fund-raising efforts.

"It is due to the hard work of the ACS volunteers and the generosity of the donors that the medical field has made so many advances in the war against cancer," said Brian Yarbrough, development specialist of the Heartland Division cancer society. "I truly believe that because of the volunteers and donors, my mother who was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer, is alive and well today."

Serving as co-chairmen of the gala are Rita Crain and Rachel Beam.

The annual gala is supported by numerous corporations, small businesses, professionals and others. Area businesses have donated merchandise, collectibles and services for the evening's silent and live auctions.

Tickets for the gala are $65 each and may be obtained from the American Cancer Society office by calling 334-9197.