Hello Highland Park neighbors: Happy holidays! I know this is a busy time of year for everyone, but after the hustle and bustle of December passes, we'll be entering the quiet month of January! Here's a perfect activity to spice up the month - for kids off all ages!!!! If you have kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews, you won't want to miss out on the upcoming 10th Annual UPMC Children's Ball. This event is exactly what it sounds like it's going to be - a dress-up ball for kids ... and one they will never forget! The 10th Annual Children's Ball will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2006 from 6 - 9:00 p.m. Not only is the ball turning 10 this year, but it's switching homes - to the Carnegie Science Center, "an interactive learning and play place" for children of all ages! What better place to host an event for young folks than in a place that is filled with children's activities, exhibitions and performances? FYI, here's more info on the Children's Ball: * UPMC's Children's Ball is a unique opportunity for families to dress in their Sunday best for a night of entertainment and fun - all while giving back! The Children's Ball has been touted as the region's family event of the year. We anticipate that nearly 1000 parents and children will attend this magical evening as we celebrate 10 wonderful years and look ahead to the future. * The theme for the 2006 event will revolve around the Science Center's traveling exhibit, "Action Filmmaking!" As in the past, we plan to dazzle children and their parents with activities, entertainment and food -- this time focused on "all things film." The only way to experience the sparkle, creativity, and birthday magic is to mark your calendar and plan to attend! One thing's for sure, guests of all ages will enjoy watching the balloon artists and magicians, visiting with their favorite characters, dancing to music, and participating in the new and creative activities and performances that coincide with the Science Center offerings. * Proceeds from the Children's Ball will, once again, benefit UPMC Braddock's Summer Camp Program. The UPMC Braddock's Summer Camp Program, which began in 2003, is a camping experience for children and young adults from kindergarten - 10th-grade. The overall focus of the camping experience is the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Young folks enrolled in the program (at no cost) receive instruction in art, reading/writing/math, career exploration, nutrition, and life skills education. If you are interested in more information or would like to receive an invitation please contact: Jennifer M. Scanlon 6119 Callery Street 412-647-8462 work 412-661-2299 home 412-983-1269 cell The surplus wealth we have gained to some extent belongs to our fellow beings; we are only the temporary custodians of our fortunes. Let us be careful that no just complaint can be made against our stewardship. ---- Jacob H. Schiff Jennifer M. Scanlon Major Gifts Officer University of Pittsburgh/UPMC Medical and Health Sciences Foundation 3708 Fifth Avenue, Suite 400 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 412-647-8462 work 412-647-8300 fax 412-983-1269 cell The surplus wealth we have gained to some extent belongs to our fellow beings; we are only the temporary custodians of our fortunes. Let us be careful that no just complaint can be made against our stewardship. ---- Jacob H. Schiff