There will be dancing under the stars and mingling with celebrity guests at La Caille Restaurant on Thursday, Sept. 19. But entertainment is not the only purpose of this evening. It will also be a breath of life for the American Lung Association.
Proceeds from the benefit not only aid those with lung diseases, but provide community education and prevention services. While lung cancer, emphysema, tuberculosis, pneumonia and influenza receive the lion's share of public notice, the Lung Association also aids sufferers of asthma and chronic bronchitis.Each summer the American Lung Association of Utah sponsors a weeklong camp for children from 8-14 who suffer with asthma.
"This year the camp was at Snowbird," said special event coordinator Jocelyn Gehrke. "The program is designed for 40 to 60 children with asthma to help them with breathing exercises, but it also builds confidence and gives them a chance to meet other children who have to deal with asthma."
Local luminaries such as Gov. Norm Bangerter, Mark Eaton, Paul James, Melissa Marlowe, Tom Barberi, Rod Decker, Jackie Nokes, Shelly Osterloh, Kimberly Perkins and Rebecca Rehies will mingle with guests at the autumn garden party.
During the social hour that begins at 6:30 p.m. photographs will be taken of guests and the celebrities. Following the dinner, guests can purchase the photos as a donation to the American Lung Association.
Then there will be dancing to the sounds of the Joe Muscolino Band.
Staff members and volunteers coordinating the benefit are: Jocelyn Gehrke, Edna Anderson Taylor, Sharon Miller, Eric Stilson, Hugh Dickey, Edna Henshaw, Steve Love, Sherri Mildenberger, Lezlie Andrew, Marianne Beck, Leesa Gibbons, Sandy Hunt and Nesha Stilson.
Tickets to benefit this non-profit organization can be purchased by calling 484-4456 or by visiting the office of the American Lung Association at 1930 S. 1100 East.