Charity Ball set for March 9

DU QUOIN - The 31st Annual The Du Quoin Youth Club Charity Ball is quickly approaching. The event is set for Saturday, March 9 at the exhibition hall on the state fairgrounds. Theme for the event is "A Night at The Derby."

"We have a fun night planned with Downstate Music Company providing the entertainment along with raffles, auction items, and awesome food which will introduce new side items from St. Nicholas Brewery," said Nicole Heape, one of the event organizers. "Here is a sneak peek at a few of our live auction items. Turn back time with Cher in St. Louis; a weekend getaway in Nashville; two golden tickets to all of SIU's athletic events for 2019-2020; one-of-a-kind indoor/outdoor homemade bar cart; Orlando vacation; Cardinal tickets and much more!"

The festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. on March 9 with hors D'eouvres, silent auction and raffles, followed by dinner. The live auction begins at 8 p.m. with items available to the top bidders. Live music and dancing will be ongoing throughout the evening. There will also be an open bar. Patrons are encouraged to wear their derby hats.

Cost is $50 per person.

Raffles this year will include the Shotgun/Cross Bow raffle, the ever-popular "Pick of the Litter" raffle (your choice of any live auction item), "Taste of Du Quoin" (valued at $500) raffle.

Shotgun/Cross Bow and Taste of Du Quoin chances will be available at the Youth Club or from committee members who will have them available for purchase before the Charity Ball. Raffle drawings will be held the night of the event.

This year's sponsors have provided the foundation for a memorable evening in support of the Youth Club. For many years, businesses and individuals have been generous with their support and provided many wonderful items for the live and silent auctions. Committee members will again be contacting and collecting for the event.

The Du Quoin Youth Club is a 501c3 corporation and all donations are tax-deductible.