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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Twinkle-toed Charity Performers Sparkle at United Way’s 9th Annual Blossom Ball

Community volunteers raise money by ‘Dancing Under the Stars’

TORONTO, June 25, 2007 - Ten-year-old Billy Kwan and his eight-year-old dance partner Carol Liouboumirskai — 2010 Olympic medal hopefuls in ballroom dancing — were just two of the many ‘stars’ who dazzled over 600 guests with their performances at United Way’s sold-out Blossom Ball gala on Saturday night. Inspired by “Dancing with the Stars,” both professional and novice dancers sashayed to Latin, jazz, hip-hop and ballroom music in celebration of a long-standing partnership between United Way of Toronto and the Chinese community.

“This year’s event was spectacular ­ from the wonderful dance routines and one-of-a-kind ballroom dance costumes to the sumptuous cuisine and unique raffle prizes, including a Mercedes Benz, diamonds and elaborate pieces of art ­ the evening was a true success,” said United Way Blossom Ball Co-Chairs Hugo Lam and Reed Ong. “Together as community leaders, sponsors and donors, we are making a significant difference in the lives of Torontonians ­ and we had so much fun doing it!”

In keeping with the theme “Dancing Under the Stars,” a troupe of 16 professional dancers from across Ontario performed alongside six novice dancers who raised money through pledges for the honour of performing their routines with the masters. University of Toronto doctor Ada Man, who studied jazz dancing as a teenager took a break from her day job to strut her stuff. Real estate executive Cynthia Lai also showed some fancy footwork, the kind she normally saves for her business negotiations. With such energetic feature performances, the Grand Ballroom at the Sheraton Centre was truly the most dazzling place to be this weekend.

The gala has become one of the top social events in the Chinese community and has raised well over $1 million over the past nine years for United Way’s network of 200 health and social service agencies, including 46 specifically serving Toronto’s Chinese community.

“I’m thrilled to have been part of this wonderful event ­ to work with an organization that has a great vision for our community,” said Genuine Lam, son of Hugo Lam and Co-Chair of the United Way Blossom Ball. “People of all ages volunteered to help make this evening the sensation that it was.”

“The success of United Way’s Blossom Ball is a result of individuals and businesses from the community coming together for a common cause,” said Lyn Whitham, Vice-President of Marketing and Communications, United Way of Greater Toronto. “We are so grateful for the support the Chinese community gives us and because of them, the impact we are able to make to significantly strengthen our neighbourhoods.”

About United Way of Greater Toronto

Established in 1956, United Way of Greater Toronto is a registered charity and community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening neighbourhoods across Toronto. United Way identifies needs and takes action to create a better, safer, stronger city through research, partnerships and support of a network of 200 health and social service agencies.

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