Saturday, October 20th 2007 8 p.m.

It is that time of year again, when toes start tapping and I take a long look at my wardrobe.

What shall we do this year for our annual fundraising formal event?
After such a dreary winter and year, scarred and marred, how about something glamorous?
We made a slight obsequious reverence to the music master last year - why don't we go all out and throw decorum to the wind?

A glamorous, almost decadent evening of fun, champagne and laughter.

Oh come on, just one night: for old time's sake.

We will supply the atmosphere.

We have planned a black and white tribute to the old films with all of the paraphernalia that we can beg, borrow or steal.
Old cars, swiveling spotlights, a red carpet, photographers galore, impeccable service, smarmy greeters, obsequious hangers-on, a casting couch, honky-tonk piano music in the bar area, Tilt your head to one side as you listen to the soundtrack of your favourite films of the 30's while the images are played on the walls and especially placed screens for your enjoyment.

The menu is to do die for - how is it that hotels have such good kitchens?

I am amazed at the Marriott kitchen's versatility and their professionalism.
The orchestra of Fallo Mñoz will be there to make sure that you dance the night away - if you thought that you danced last year-
wait until you hear my friends, Claudia and Fallo and their orchestra!

Please come and enjoy the gala event with all of your friends.

We cannot call the ball a charity event this year as we will be fundraising for the Association.

We have given so much in donations this year, whether to one or another of our charities that we find ourselves
in a bit of a financial bind.

We have given over $10,000.00 in cash, spent on food and goods, to the earthquake relief in Chincha

Alta which is wonderful and we will continue to support the soup kitchens that have been organized
but... this is hard on the coffers.

So, we cannot call our Ball a charity event, in the strictest sense, and I hope that you understand and support us nonetheless.

We feel that we fill a need of the expatriate community in Lima, are a viable resource, are a focal point of the extended group and we would like to be able to continue to exist.

Please join us.

The cost of the tickets is $60 per person and the tables will include some scotch and wine for your pleasure, although the evening is corcho libre.

Corporate tables for 10 are $1,000.00 please.