Group sets slate of benefits

Courtesy photo The ALS Association Arkansas chapter “Legacy Gala” on Aug. 18 will honor the legacy of the late Brian Graham (center, seated). A host of other events in the coming weeks will benefit the nonprofit organization.
Courtesy photo The ALS Association Arkansas chapter “Legacy Gala” on Aug. 18 will honor the legacy of the late Brian Graham (center, seated). A host of other events in the coming weeks will benefit the nonprofit organization.

Cards, cars, golf, a walk and a gala await ALS Association Arkansas chapter supporters in fundraisers set for this month and September.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as “Lou Gerhrig’s disease,” is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. Some 115 Arkansans are affected by ALS, according to Jennifer Necessary, chapter executive director.

The “Texas Hold’em Charity Poker Tournament” kicks things off Aug. 14 at Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Rogers.

The inaugural “Legacy Gala” on Aug. 18 at Record in Bentonville will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, fresh sushi, live music and live and silent auctions.

The gala is rooted in a promise to the late Brian Graham, who died last year of ALS at the age of 47. Graham asked Necessary and the organization to carry on his legacy, providing assistance for ALS patients and their families. “ALS is debilitating financially, as well as physically,” Necessary said. The nonprofit organization also supports research.

Brandy and John Furner are honorary hosts of the “casual, chic, white attire” benefit.

The ALS Association’s inaugural golf tournament in Northwest Arkansas is set for Aug. 25 at Lost Springs Golf Course in Rogers. A four-person scramble, the tournament will include prizes for the top teams. “Northwest Arkansas Walk to Defeat ALS” will take place the following day at Compton Gardens and Conference Center in Bentonville.

The 16th annual “Brits in the Ozarks” car and cycle show Sept. 15-16 will offer British car enthusiasts the opportunity to see more than 125 vehicles from manufacturers such as Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bentley and Rolls Royce.

Who: ALS Association Arkansas chapter What: Cards, gala, golf, walk, cars When: Texas Hold’em, Aug. 14; Legacy Gala, Aug. 18; Golf tournament, Aug. 25; NWA Walk to Defeat ALS, Aug. 26; Brits in the Ozarks, Sept. 15-16 Information: (479) 621-8700, als-arkansas.org

Upcoming Events