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Sonoma stars come out to dance

 

Sonoma Valley Hospital Foundation's "Fall Frolic: Dancing with our Stars" returns this year on Sunday, Sept. 18. Inspired by ABC's popular "Dancing with the Stars" television show, the event puts an interactive spin on fundraising.

The highlight of the evening is the dance competition featuring eight recognizable Sonomans paired with professional or veteran dancers. This year's line-up includes: Michael Brown, M.D. and Elaina O'Malley; Sue Albano and Ed Dufault; Gayle Jenkins and Patrick Jude; Vinny Pacheco and Gabrielle von Stephens; David Pier and Phyllis Gurney; Denny Lane and Rhonda Guaraglia; Holly Kyle and Craig Atwood; and Rebecca Hengehold and Dennis Goss. Reigning champions, Julie Atwood and Ed Dufault, will also perform.

Choreographer Gene Russo once again brings his skills to the production, coaching the dancers as they prepare for the performance.

The couples are "in it to win it" and have put in numerous hours in the dance studio perfecting their steps. Guests are in for an diverse show featuring the waltz, Argentine tango, disco, salsa and more.

The event will include a buffet dinner by Bea Beasley & Company, cocktails and Sonoma wines, a dance lesson by Gene Russo followed by dancing to the Richard Olsen Orchestra. There will be a silent auction as well as a handful of live auction lots, including: two Rod Knutson oil paintings from the General's Daughter collection; a one-week stay at Datura Villa in Jamaica, a rare 9L etched bottle of 2003 Kendall-Jackson Highland Estates Hawkeye Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley; a six-night getaway in a Tahoe-Donner cabin and a signed Karel Appel lithograph. For more information about the lots and a proxy bid form, visit svh.com/foundationnews.

Proceeds from the event, including a fund-a-need, will help replace a 26-year-old X-ray system. One of the hospital's two X-ray machines was installed in 1985, and after nearly three decades, it has reached the end of its life. Funds raised at this event will be used to purchase a new, state-of-the-art digital X-ray machine and help ensure the hospital is able to continue offering this life-saving diagnostic service to the community.

"Fall Frolic: Dancing With Our Stars" kicks off at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 18, at the Sonoma Valley Veterans Memorial Building, 126 First St. W.

Admission is $185 a person before Aug. 18 or $200 after.

For information or reservations, contact Harmony Plenty at 935-5070.