Payson Roundup | Payson, AZ

Rim Country residents are putting aside their jeans and boots for a glam night of fine food, dancing to great music and a chance to help their neighbors.

The ball gowns and cocktail dresses, suits and even a few tuxedos are coming out of storage Saturday, Jan. 29 for the 2011 Black and White Ball, presented by the Mogollon Health Alliance.

The chef and kitchen staff of the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino will pull out all the stops with a delicious dinner featuring a salmon and filet mignon entrée and a chocolate raspberry mousse dessert.

Sonoran Swing, featuring big band sounds and the vocals of Mary Gilbert and Gary Cordell, will provide music for the evening’s entertainment.

The 23-piece group was originally the Motorola Dance Band and played charity events throughout the state. It became a nonprofit in 2000. The group has performed in Payson numerous times, frequently providing the music for the Black and White Ball; participating in the summer Concert Under the Stars series in Green Valley Park; and entertaining revelers at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Everyone who attends will have a chance to win a Payson Jewelers’ donation of an exquisite 14-carat gold and diamond ring.

There will be awards for the best dresses, best shoes and best dancers.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6 p.m., dancing and silent auction will follow the dinner.

The event raises money for area residents undergoing dialysis treatment who may need some extra financial assistance. It does not pay directly for an individual’s care, but rather for the extra medical necessities a diagnosis of renal failure often brings to the person and their family.

This is the sixth year proceeds have been designated for dialysis patients and the 11th year the event has taken place.

Tickets are still available for $200 per person and table sponsorships are $1,500 per table of eight. Contact the MHA office at (928) 472-2588 for more information.