On February 13, 2010, the Progressive Business Group will host its 8th annual Valentine’s Ball at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria to benefit The Center for Prevention of Abuse. Shades of Blue, a St. Louis-based band, will provide the evening’s entertainment. The black-tie optional event will include a champagne reception, martini luge ice sculpture, sit-down dinner, silent auction and open bar.
Founded in 2002, the Progressive Business Group is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that fosters long-lasting relationships among professionals in central Illinois and supports other local nonprofits through its collaborative efforts. Speaking on the history of the Valentine’s Ball, Progressive Business Group President John Gillies explained, “My wedding anniversary is Valentine’s Day…I wanted to create an event to honor my wedding anniversary where we could all have fun, while at the same time raising money for charity.”
Last year, the Progressive Business Group presented a check in the amount of $22,200 to The Center for Prevention of Abuse. In total, the Valentine’s Ball has raised nearly $200,000 for the Center. Other events hosted by the group throughout the year include its annual Golf Classic to benefit Catholic Charities and its Wine and Experience Auction to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Illinois.
Tickets for the Valentine’s Ball are $300/couple. For more information or to reserve tickets, please contact John Gillies at (309) 671-0460 or Laura Torres at (309) 370-3015. Additional information is available at pbgpeoria.org. a&s
