Contact: Cindy Ardis Jenkins

Title: Communications Coordinator

Phone: (309) 687-7205

November 24, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

CHILDREN’S HOME AUTUMN GALA HONORS LOCAL BUSINESSMAN

Peoria, IL —  At its 8^th Annual Autumn Gala held on November 20, 2004, the Children’s Home honored Mike Dalton, President and COO of Maui Jim, and his staff for their generosity, enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to the children and families served by Children’s Home.  In 7+ years, Maui Jim, under the leadership of Mike Dalton, has raised nearly $1 million for Children's Home!    

Held at the Country Club of Peoria and including dinner, a silent auction, a live auction and a $100/ticket raffle, John Williams from WGN-Radio emceed the evening which raised $140,000 for Children’s Home, an increase of almost $50,000! 

The recognition was a surprise to Mike and most of the Maui Jim staff who were in attendance.  Joining in the celebration were Senior PGA Tour Pros Dave Stockton, Don Pooley and Morris Hatalsky as well as Walter Hester, CEO of Maui Jim, who flew in from Maui as an additional surprise to Mike.   

The Children’s Home was thrilled to have the opportunity to honor Mike Dalton and the staff at Maui Jim for their outstanding example of giving back to the community in such a special way.  Maui Jim in not involved exclusively with Children’s Home, but has also raised significant support for other community agencies including Friendship House, South Side Mission and several other organizations and events in the community. 

For further information, please contact Stephanie Pickett at 687-7213. 

              CHILDREN’S HOME

ASSOCIATION OF ILLINOIS

      GENERAL INFORMATION

                               309.685.1047

                      309.687.7299 FAX

                             www.chail.org