The Pioneer Valley Friends of Alzheimer’s Association will be holding its fifth annual Alzheimer’s Benefit Gala at the Log Cabin on Saturday, April 13, 2019 at 5:30 PM. The festivities will include live entertainment, great food, and wonderful raffles. Entertainment will include Sarah the Fiddler, Decades and Now’s the Time Jazz Sextet. Our host for the evening will be the lovely Ashley Kohl.

We will also feature the sale of artwork created by residents of Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Communities that are located throughout Western Massachusetts. This part of the program—“Painting the Face on Alzheimer’s”—will include art that was created using the “memories method.” This method focuses on the process of creating by encouraging self-expression through art among those facing dementia. For these individuals, the axiom that “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings true as their ability to communicate in traditional ways may decrease but the need to communicate remains.

This year we are honoring Beth Cardillo for the impact she has made in raising awareness about the effects of dementia on individuals, families and entire communities in Western Mass. Over the past 14 years Beth’s efforts have resulted in significant funds for the Alzheimer’s Association as well as the development of programs and initiatives including the Virtual Dementia Experience and Dementia Friendly Westfield. The Dementia Friendly initiative opened the doors for the rest of Massachusetts to follow suit. The evening’s proceeds will fund various educational programs for the local Alzheimer’s Association Chapter, Walk to End Alzheimer’s, and referral services for families who have loved ones with the disease.

Tickets are $60 per person or $570 for a table of 10. For online ticket orders, go to www. Eventbrite.com. Tickets may also be purchased by contacting Claudette Swaby at 413-636-5462 or [email protected]. Please make checks payable to: PVFAA (Pioneer Valley Friends of Alzheimer’s Association) at P.O. Box 78, Agawam, MA 01001.