July 18, 2008

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation today announced its plans for the 2008 Jingle Ball, to take place at the Michigan Historical Museum on Saturday, Nov. 22. This annual gala to kick off the holiday season - held the night after Lansing's Silver Bells in the City - raises funds to help more than 80,000 students each year learn and explore Michigan's history.

The festivities will include musical entertainment, an array of food and beverages, a silent auction and the presentation of the 2008 Odyssey Awards honoring exceptional Michigan history teachers. Through the Michigan History Education Fund, the Jingle Ball supports the award-winning education programs of the Michigan Historical Museum. The cost to attend is $75 per person if reservations are made before Nov. 1, and $100 per person after Nov. 1.

"We're planning an unforgettable evening of elegant holiday fun that benefits Michigan kids by helping them discover our state's rich history," said Pat Clark, director for the Michigan Historical Center Foundation. "It's also an opportunity find some early holiday shopping deals on our great silent auction items, including some beautifully unique, fully decorated holiday trees."

The silent auction will include items such as vacation packages, sporting event and theater tickets, golf and restaurant gift certificates, jewelry and much more.

For more details or to make reservations for the Jingle Ball, visit www.michigan.gov/jingleball or call (517) 373-2565.

The Jingle Ball 2008 steering committee members include Jane Aldrich, Terrie Allen, Martha Bloomfield, Sharon Burrell, Pat Clark, Denise M. Drake, Linda Fliehman, Linda Gerdes Grigg, Ashley M. Heinig, Kent Love, Dawn Marie Manuel, Deb Muchmore, Vicki Paski, Carol Payne, Colleen Pero, Colleen Reid, Cristin Reid, Bobbie Roberts, Arlene Sierra, Patrick Spyke, Jim Wardlaw and Loretta Zumbaugh.

Michigan History Education programs are made possible, in part, by the support of generous sponsors such as Art Craft Display; Chemical Bank; Classic Wines; DeRoy Testamentary Foundation; Dickinson Wright, PLLC; W.J. and Lillian Kemler Foundation; Meijer, Inc.; Michigan State University Federal Credit Union; David and Betty Morris; National City Bank; and Edgar and Mary Ploor.

Steering committee members are also seeking individuals, businesses and corporations interested in becoming sponsors or donating goods, services or gift certificates to the silent auction at the 2008 Jingle Ball. To learn about the benefits of sponsorship, visit www.michigan.gov/jingleball.

The Michigan Historical Center Foundation provides opportunities for the private support of the work of the Michigan Historical Center. The center includes the Michigan Historical Museum, 10 regional museums, the Archives of Michigan, Records Management Services, archaeological and historic preservation programs, and publications, including Michigan History magazine.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).