David R. Roefaro, Mayor

City of Utica, New York

Mayor Roefaro Announces 2008 Charity Ball to Benefit the Utica Public Library

Utica, NY (January 8, 2007) -- There are just over three weeks to get your hands on tickets for the 2008 Mayor's Charity Ball, which takes place at 6 pm on Saturday, February 2 at the Utica Public Library.

This is the first of what will be an annual event, and promises to be an evening not to be missed. There will be music from Playin’ Again, and The Utica Symphony, floral displays, heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails donated by local vendors. The event will also feature a Chinese Auction with a wide range of items.

This year, all proceeds from the tickets and auction will be donated to the Utica Public Library, which provides a wide variety of services to the residents of our area. The Library welcomes over 175,000 visitors, loans more than 200,000 items and answers some 35,000 reference questions annually. As the central library for the Mid-York Library System, which is comprised of all public libraries in Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties, the Utica Public Library serves as a regional resource center with one of the largest and most extensive collections in the tri-county area.

Executive Director Darby O’Brien said, “This is really good news. The proceeds from the ball not only help us fulfill our mission, but in a very practical sense it also gives us the chance to raise awareness about our programs, services and our landmark building.”

The purpose of the Charity Ball is to improve the quality of life in Utica by bringing together business and nonprofits through fundraising efforts to support organizations that serve families, youth and senior citizens.

Mayor Roefaro explained, “Supporting our community is a key part of governing, and I am especially honored to be partnering with the Library as the first beneficiary, because literacy is so important to all aspects of life.” “In addition to this, it’s an event of this kind that starts us on the path to a renaissance city.”

The recommended dress code for the evening is cocktail attire. Tickets for the event are $50 each and are limited. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. More information can be obtained by calling 315.735.2279