MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY BALL

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, January 13th for the 20th Anniversary Museum Ball to be held at the Museum of the Rockies on Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 6-11 pm in the museum's newly renovated lobby and galleries.

"Museum Ball patrons make it possible for every school child - be it from public, private, home or tribal schools - from throughout Montana to visit the museum for free as part of our Opening Doors for Montana School children program," said Iris Model, event Co-Chair. "We even help schools with travel costs." Since the inception of the private fund to support this program in 2005, the Museum Ball has raised $195,475 and as a result welcomed 37,366 school children to the museum.

"We are delighted to pay homage to Klein and Karen Gilhousen as Honorary Chairs for this year's Museum Ball in recognition of their generosity in supporting not only the Museum, but worthy causes through the Bozeman community," explained Penny Hatten, co-chair of the event.

In keeping with the Valentine's Day theme, each ticket sold comes with a chance to win a diamond from Alara Jewelry worth $4,600. "It's one way for us to thank the people who support the museum and its mission," added Hatten.

The evening's buffet will be catered by Bountiful Table with entertainment and dancing provided by Jeni Fleming and the Glen Johnston Swing Band. The live auction features unique opportunities such as a behind-the-scenes tour at People Magazine with a chance to sit in on a layout of a cover story, a chance to be a DJ for a day at My 103.5, and dinner with Dr. Waded Cruzado, MSU's new president, in her home. A complete listing of silent and live auction items is available on the website and interested people can bid remotely without attending the event.

Open seating tickets are $150 per person for Museum members and $175 per person for non-members and includes dancing, food, and an open bar. A portion of the ticket price is tax-deductible. Childcare is available through the Ridge.

For more information visit the Museum of the Rockies website at http://www.museumoftherockies.org/