Plans are under way for the 15th annual Regional Medical Center Foundation Gala, set for Feb. 27, 2010, at The Cinema in Orangeburg.

The event is being chaired by Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Frierson and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Tourville, and proceeds will again benefit patients and support operations of the hospital's Mabry Center for Cancer Care.

When asked why they were excited about co-chairing this year's gala, the couples said in a statement: "Cancer affects everyone. We would like to raise a substantial amount of money to benefit our community cancer center. Our goal is to produce funds to provide the most advanced programs and resources for our cancer patients. This year's committee is made up of enthusiastic and dedicated individuals who promise an exciting gala that will top all events from years past. We hope to bring a record crowd to the event with our theme of 'New York, New York!' With big city lights, special auction items guaranteed to bring excitement and celebrity spotting, we feel this event will draw people from all over the state! So don't miss out on this very special event for a really good cause."

The committee has selected "Start Spreading the News ... ," a lyric from Frank Sinatra's hit recording, as its slogan.

Last year's event netted more than of $100,000 for the local fight against cancer.

"To achieve our first six-figure net in a woeful economy was a real milestone for last year's team, and with the excitement and novel ideas being generated by the 2010 committee, I'm sure we'll have another great event," said Mac Burton, RMC Foundation executive director. "The foods, music and landmarks of the Big Apple give us a lot to work with. I think Mr. Sinatra might even make an appearance."

Previous galas, all but one benefiting the Mabry Center, have bought in more than a half-million dollars to help cancer patients in this area.

For information on the 2010 gala or to be added to the invitation list, call the RMC Foundation at 803-395-2321.

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