Grammy award winning saxophonist Kenny G will perform at Methodist Hospital Foundation’s 20th annual fundraising gala Crystal Ball event, “An Evening of Rhythm and Romance” on October 10.
Longtime Methodist Hospital volunteer, philanthropist and former Arcadia Mayor Jim Helms will be honored at this year’s event at the newly renovated Pasadena Convention Center for his remarkable record of volunteerism and fundraising for the hospital. A member of Methodist Hospital Foundation’s board of directors for more than 13 years, Helms currently serves as director emeritus. Jim Boli, who is co-chair of the event along with Patty Wondries, says Kenny G’s music that is all about rhythm and romance fits perfectly with the event’s theme. “I’m honored to be a part of this wonderful evening,” said Kenny G. “To be able to play my music and at the same time, help raise money for such a worthy cause is truly a blessing. And I’m sure we will all have a great time too!” Says Boli, “His remarkable ability to play smooth jazz music as well as spicy Latin sounds on his saxophone will add a note of elegance and class to the event. And the early feedback we’ve been receiving from the community has been outstanding, so we encourage people to get their tickets early as the Crystal Ball will likely sell out again this year.” “Jill and I were looking for something a little different for this year’s Crystal Ball and we felt that Kenny G was a great choice,” Wondries states. “He’s a top entertainer who has played with most of the greats, from Natalie Cole and Aretha Franklin to Frank Sinatra.” In fact, Kenny G’s career has included a succession of record-breaking albums with more than 75 million albums sold worldwide. Proceeds from the Crystal Ball will benefit the Campaign for Methodist Hospital, supporting the hospital’s plan to create The Next Generation of Care. A new patient tower is under construction that will house advanced medical technology and information systems to provide exceptional patient care in a healing environment. Individuals and companies wishing to obtain more information about sponsorships and tickets for “An Evening of Rhythm & Romance with Kenny G” can contact Gloria Rico, special events manager, at (626) 821-2340 or by e-mail: crystalball@MethodistHospital.org. The foundation anticipates a rapid sellout and encourages those who wish to attend to make early reservations. Methodist Hospital, founded in 1903, is a 460 bed, not-for-profit hospital serving the community. Services include comprehensive acute care such as medical, surgical, perinatal, pediatrics, oncology, intensive care (neonatal and adult), and complete cardiovascular services, including open heart surgery. Methodist Hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission. For more information please call (626) 898 – 8000.