No nudity but plenty of elegance at annual cancer society gala

Around Southeast Missouri, there aren't crazy antics, costumes or a calendar to pose for when it comes to raising money for charity causes. In Cape Girardeau, the major fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society takes on a more elegant air.

For 18 years, the local cancer society has been hosting a benefit gala to raise money for cancer prevention and education. This year's event is Feb. 28 at the Bavarian Halle in Fruitland.

Guests who attend the gala will be transported from Southeast Missouri to "A Night in Venice" when they arrive for the black-tie event. Tickets are $150 per couple and are available at the American Cancer Society, Schnucks and the Bank of Missouri in Jackson.

To complete the Venetian theme, decorators intend to build a canal with a bridge inside the building.

Past gala themes have been "Puttin' on the Ritz" and "Camelot." Each year's event has a central theme.

Attendance has slumped in the past, but organizers hope for between 400 and 500 people this year. Last year's event raised $50,000 and drew 225 people.

Because there so many different fund-raising events in the region, people are often spread thin when it comes to charity causes, said Gina Bader, a Cancer Society volunteer.

But the gala has always been a nice event with entertainment, a meal and a silent auction, she said.

This year should be no different -- a gourmet meal from Celebrations restaurant is being planned, and the Benders will perform.

"It's always an elegant affair," Bader said. "We want it to be something that everyone looks forward to."

She's been attending the gala for the past six years and knows it is a monumental event to plan.

Organizers work all year on the gala, meeting monthly to talk about the basics and then weekly to iron out all the last-minute details for the food, entertainment and invitations.

With several people assigned to specific tasks, the work seems to go smoother, Bader said. She likes knowing that her work is helping a worthy cause.

"It's nice to get dressed up, and it's something fun and different to do, and it's worthwhile that you're raising money for a cause at the same time."