Memphis Heart Gala February 7, 2009

Press Release

Parisian Glamour Featured at Memphis Heart Gala

(MEMPHIS, Tenn., January 13, 2009) - Pack your bags as your boarding pass waits for an "Evening in Paris" at the American Heart Association's 33rd Annual Memphis Heart Gala at the Peabody Hotel on February 7. Promising an evening of entertainment, a gourmet dinner and elegant décor, this year's gala is chaired by Sherry Aaholm, Executive Vice President of Information Technology at FedEx Services, and is presented by FedEx Corporation.

An exciting element to the 2009 Heart Gala will be the online auction prior to the evening's festivities. Beginning January 19, the auction will feature an exciting array of luxury items including beautiful jewelry by Mednikow at www.memphisheartgala.org up for bid through February 6. The Heart Gala will also auction a complete book set signed by author John Grisham on eBay.

On February 7, guests will arrive to a display of the latest luxury vehicles from Mercedes Benz of Memphis. The customary cocktail hour will begin at 6:30 p.m. where guests will enjoy the Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Heart Heroes Gallery and have the opportunity to peruse the Verizon Wireless silent auction in the Continental Ballroom. The evening's events will hit a high note as featured headliners, The Memphis Dance Orchestra with special guests Susan Marshall and Tom Prestigiacomo, will entertain with an upbeat and smooth musical style.

After dinner, patrons will have the opportunity to bid on live auction items featuring a Thomas & Betts Heart Quilt of artwork from Le Bonheur Healthcare children who have been affected by heart disease. Other items include a practice session with the Memphis Tigers thanks to Fidelity Investments, fresh water pearls from Mednikow, a Michael Maness painting and a wicker patio set and pergola from Watson's, just to name a few. One of the Mid-South's premier party bands, Dr. Zarr's Amazing Funk Monster Band, will cap off the evening in the City of Lights with energetic rhythm.

The premier social event has raised millions for local heart disease and stroke research and will honor Mark George, President and CEO of Intermodal Cartage Company, with the 2009 Big Heart Award. The Big Heart Award recognizes leaders in the community who have made significant contributions in the fight against heart disease and stroke.

As expected, community interest is exceptional and tables for the black-tie event are selling out quickly. Tickets are $500 each. For more information or to reserve tickets for this festive kickoff to American Heart Month, call 383-5411.