A black tie event aimed at advancing Parkinson’s disease awareness is set to take place on the high plains of North Central Kansas.
The Emerald Ball will be held on Saturday, November 21st, 2015. Proceeds will benefit the Emerald Foundation and the Davis Phinney Foundation, a national non-profit that focuses on improving quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s.
The event is being coordinated by the Emerald Foundation, a grassroots organization established by J. Basil Dannebohm, in order to advance Parkinson’s Disease awareness through the arts.
“It’s not uncommon for people with Parkinson’s disease to discover their artistic abilities after being diagnosed with the disease,” said Dannebohm. “Numerous medical reports have been written about Parkinson’s patients who suddenly discover they are painters, sculptors or writers at heart. While the cause is unclear, it seems to be related to the dopamine-enhancing medication prescribed to treat Parkinson’s disease. The Emerald Foundation’s mission is two-fold: to increase Parkinson’s disease awareness through the arts and to provide Parkinson’s disease patients with opportunities to engage in the arts.”
Dannebohm was diagnosed with the young onset form of the neurodegenerative disease four years ago and has since been a leading advocate for Parkinson’s research, treatment and awareness.
Hays, Kansas was selected as the host city for the ball. Dr. Mirta Martin, President of Fort Hays State University will serve alongside Dannebohm as co-host for what the Emerald Foundation hopes will become an annual event.
“We chose Hays for a number of reasons,” said Dannebohm. “We were especially impressed with Fort Hays State University’s Communication Sciences and Disorders Department and their work to improve the lives of Parkinson’s patients through the various programs offered at the Herndon Clinic. The event will offer an opportunity to showcase their work.”
The Emerald Ball will be held in the Schmidt-Bickle Training Center on the campus of Fort Hays State University.
Gentlemen are encouraged to wear black tie and ladies should wear an evening gown. Attendees can expect a cocktail social, silent auction, dinner, live auction, recognitions, and a dance.
Sierra Scott will serve as emcee for the gala. Scott is the co-host of The Brett & Sierra Show, a popular daytime talk show which is broadcasted at 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday on KSCW.
“Sierra is the perfect emcee,” said Dannebohm. “She’s incredibly elegant, charming, and a strong supporter of charitable causes. We are thrilled she will be joining us for the ball.”
Jenn Bates, co-anchor of KWCH Eyewitness News this morning will co-host.
Legendary performers Frankie Valens and Ron Neumann have teamed up to produce what promises to be a high energy, fast moving, foot stomping performance at the event.
Frankie Valens was a pop singer in the 1960s whose signature songs were “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and “This Magic Moment.” He also recorded “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” and “She Cried.” He toured the United States and Canada and was showcased in Las Vegas. Valens was an extra in the movies “Ice Castles” and Every Which Way But Loose.”
Ron Neumann was a member of The Diamonds, who launched to fame in 1956 with their first hit ”Why do Fools Fall in Love” followed by 15 more Top Hits that sold over 16 million copies. Their songs, including “Little Darlin”, “The Stroll” and “Silhouettes” have been featured in three movies and numerous television programs. Neumann and partner John Felton kept up the Diamonds tradition until 1982, when Felton was tragically killed in a plane crash. Neuman now carries on the nostalgic tribute as lead vocalist, joined by 1st tenor, Ken Johnson, 2nd tenor Mike Liddick, and bass Jim Dougherty.
While the event is still a few months away, the planning committee is lining out every detail to ensure an elegant and memorable experience for attendees.
“Every once in awhile you get this urge to get dressed up, enjoy a great meal, do a little dancing, and create a lasting memory,” said Dannebohm. “The Emerald Ball will offer that experience, while supporting a superb cause.”
Notable Kansas auctioneer, Larry Carr of Carr Auction and Real Estate in Larned, Kansas will serve as the “Emerald Auctioneer,” for the live auction which will include a rare bicycle, unique autographed items, and one-of-a-kind art.
The recognition portion of the evening will honor the Herndon Clinic as well as three individuals of an award for outstanding achievement in the Parkinson’s community. Author Allison Smith, cyclist Roy Roden, and educator Lisa Reser have been chosen as the inaugural award recipients.
Tickets to the Emerald Ball are $75 and must be purchased in advance via the event’s website. For more information about the gala including sponsorship opportunities, accommodations, and other details, visit www.myemerald.org.