HUTCHINSON ISLAND, Florida/ December 12, 2006- The Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross has proclaimed the 19 th Annual Red Cross Ball a huge success. The gala held on December 2, 2006 at Willoughby Golf Club in Stuart drew more than 200 attendees and netted an estimated $100,000 for the local Red Cross operations.

This year's Red Cross Ball featured a mouthwatering three-course dinner underwritten by Martin Memorial Health Systems, along with dancing to the energetic Fifth Avenue Band. Those attending the Ball also started their Christmas shopping by bidding on a variety of special auction items including a custom designed piece of jewelry, donated by Just Gold Jewelers. The $6,000 custom-made bracelet was won during a live auction by Lorie Jurkowski of Jensen Beach.

The Exclusive Crown Jewel Sponsor for the event was Toyota of Stuart, the Diamond Sponsor was Big Five Tours and Expeditions, and the Ruby Sponsors were Seacoast National Bank, Expert Shutter Services, Beach Front Mann Realty, and Mrs. Barbara Trimble. According to Mary Sawyer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter, "The Ball was also a tremendous success due to the hard work of our Ball Committee. I am especially thankful for their untiring work in making this year's Red Cross Ball a tremendous success." The 19th Annual Red Cross Ball Committee was chaired by Carla Eby-Corrigan and Shannon Mann. Plans are now underway for the 20th Annual Red Cross Ball. "The 20th anniversary of our Ball is going to be very special. It will be the event of the 2007 social season," concluded Sawyer.

Your Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is funded by local dollars. The chapter receives no federal, state, or local tax dollars to support its local operations. To donate your dollars or time, contact the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 or visit the Chapter headquarters at 2750 South Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, 34994.

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