Organizers Prepare For 'Kiss A Pig' Gala
Last updated Saturday, January 6, 2007 3:40 PM CST in Our Town
By The Morning News
Some of the region's community leaders will vie for the honor of kissing a pig next month.
The Northwest Arkansas American Diabetes Association is preparing now for its fifth annual "Kiss A Pig" Gala to raise research dollars for a cure for diabetes. The identities of the "kiss a pig" candidates will be revealed in a Jan. 9 media kickoff.
Seventeen community leaders will take on being candidates and run the race in raising the most sponsorship dollars during the campaign period. Whoever wins gets to kiss the pig, on stage, during the gala.
"The little oinker is never in any danger, he actually enjoys all the attention in a way," said Krisi Young of Glucerna and the gala event chairwoman.
The theme for this year's event is "Pig in the City," with Glucerna presenting the gala.
The Feb. 17 festivities will be hosted by the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers and will include dinner, a live show, dancing and live and silent auctions.
"We are constantly trying to come up with ideas to create new and exciting ways for the community to become involved in helping us achieve our mission-to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes," said Allison Hickey, associate director for the American Diabetes Association in Northwest Arkansas. "'Kiss A Pig' has become very popular and extremely successful in raising money. This year we are expecting over 1100 volunteers and patrons."
Last year's event raised $174,000, and the goal for this year's fund-raiser is $225,000, Hickey said.
The American Diabetes Association hosts such events throughout the country as a way to "honor" the pig for aiding in the discovery of the effectiveness of insulin for people with diabetes, according to the organization's Web site.
A New York air will be added to the local event by a show called "New York Live" and offering a tribute to Elton John, Billy Joel and John Lennon. These impersonators will take the guests straight to Madison Square Garden for a concert they are sure not to forget. General Mills is sponsoring the spectacular show.
For more information about the gala, diabetes or if you are worried that you or someone in your family may have diabetes or want to know more about how you can volunteer for a special event for the ADA, contact the local office at 770-6402, visit the Web site www.diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (1800-342-2383).
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading voluntary health organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the association conducts programs in all regions of the country, reaching more than 800 communities.
Save The Date
Event: Fifth annual 'Kiss A Pig' Gala
When: Feb. 17
Location: John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers
Benefits: Diabetes research
Information: 770-6402 or visit www.diabetes.org
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