Gala raising funds for United Way

Tuesday, December 26, 2006
The Walden Inn will host the New Year's Eve Premier Night Gala, which will benefit the Putnam County United Way. Hosts of the event include (from left) Walden Inn Director of Sales Bill Robbins, United Way Board President Amy Doan, United Way Executive Director Catherine Ensley, and Eitel's Flowers and Gifts owner Ken Eitel.

Comedy and music will be the feature package at the New Year's Eve Premier Night Gala at the Walden Inn Social Center at 7 p.m., Dec. 31.

The event is sponsored by the Walden Inn, Classic Flooring, Eitel's Flowers and Gifts and the Putnam County United Way.

Walden Inn Director of Sales Bill Robbins told the BannerGraphic that proceeds from the event will benefit the United Way.

"We were looking for something that would get us involved with the community a little more," Robbins said. "This is a gala to benefit the needs of Putnam County."

Robbins, also on the United Way Board of Directors, said planning for the event began before he became involved with the organization.

United Way Executive Director Catherine Ensley said the organization hopes to make the gala an annual event.

"I think it's an exciting opportunity to partner with local businesses to support a good cause," Ensley said.

Other annual events for the local United Way chapter include its golf outing in the fall, its annual dinner in February and its kick-off celebration in September.

Ensley said Robbins approached her about having the event.

"We've tried to do some different things," she said.

"We certainly have the intention of making this an annual event," Robbins added.

Putnam County United Way Board President Amy Doan said the organization was pleased to host the event.

"We definitely appreciate the support and collaboration," Doan said. "We're definitely excited."

Local blues musician Tad Robinson will perform at the event as will standup comedian Jim Wiggins. In addition, Dream Weavers Productions will provide music and a light show.

The premier package for the event costs $260 per couple, which will include overnight accommodations, the entertainment, dinner, commemorative photo, a midnight toast and continental and breakfast buffet.

The celebration package costs $160 per couple, which includes dinner, the entertainment and midnight toast and continental.

Valet parking will also be provided.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 658-1005 or 658-1000.

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