CMH ball will make a big splash Nov. 3
Proceeds to benefit Infusion Therapy Center expansion

Prince Frederick, MD (Aug. 25, 2007) - Satisfy your senses with an "Enchanted Evening Under the Sea" on Saturday, Nov. 3 from 7 p.m. - midnight at the College of Southern Maryland in Prince Frederick. The spectacular setting will once again play host to the 19th annual Chesapeake Harvest ball.

But don't wait to buy your ticket. Last year's event, the most successful ever, sold out early. Proceeds from the annual fundraiser, sponsored by the Calvert Memorial Hospital Foundation, will be used to expand and renovate the CMH Infusion Therapy Center. The center cares for patients with cancer and other chronic conditions that require intravenous (IV) medications and treatments.

"I cannot think of a more worthwhile cause," said Pat Petricko, who is co-chairing the ball with Julie Cornellier. "I've helped with the golf tournament for 18 years and I see the positive results of our efforts every time I visit the hospital. I like knowing the funds we raise help so many in our community. It's a good thing. It's also a fun time."

The ticket price is $500 per couple. Tickets can be purchased online at www.calverthospital.org or by calling the Foundation at 410-535-8178 or 410-414-4570. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted. Last year's ball-goers will appreciate the new tenting and hard floor that have been added to the venue.

As guests enter the main tent, a glittering rainbow of undersea life will surround them. Paintings of fish and other sea creatures bring color and drama to the atmosphere. Tables will be set in shimmering blues and silver with "bubbles" rising from each centerpiece.

Ken Upton of Ken's Creative Kitchen in Annapolis will provide a gourmet sit-down dinner with tableside wine service. Appetizers include sea scallops wrapped in bacon and a jumbo lump crab cake with parsley aioli - to name a few. There will be alternating salads of field greens and bib lettuce. The entrée is a filet of beef in a wine sauce with black truffles. The desserts are delectable surprises in keeping with the evening's theme. If a guest is a vegetarian or has other dietary concerns, we encourage them to contact the Foundation staff who can arrange other options.

Back by popular demand is Highway Star - a perennial favorite with those who like to dance. They perform a wide variety of music ranging from big band to current rock to top 40. The band, which features powerful vocals and sultry horns, will play until midnight.

Also returning to this year's event will be the Treasures of the Sea raffle for a fine piece of jewelry donated by Dickinson Jewelers. The winner will make their selection from five items provided by Dickinson's for the Harvest Ball. The jeweler will also have other items in the silent auction that will be ongoing throughout the evening.

A choice of six sponsorship packages is offered including reserved seating, special recognition and an exclusive pre-ball cocktail party at CSM. "We want to recognize those who have already committed their support," said Cornellier, "including main sponsors Curtis Showcase Homes and TSI Exterior Wall Systems as well as the Rod 'N' Reel, Constellation Energy and Wanda and Michael King."

"There are many ways someone can participate even if they are not able to attend," she said. "We are also accepting donations for the silent auction and selling ads in the ball program."

Click here to purchase tickets to the 2007 Chesapeake Harvest Ball.