ORWIGSBURG - Seats are sold out for the first-ever MDA Black-N-Blue Ball at the Schuylkill Country Club.
The event is hosted by Schaeffer's Harley-Davidson and will be from 6 to 11 p.m. today at 877 W. Market St.
"It's going to be the inaugural event, so it's going to be awesome," said Denise Calderone, co-chairwoman.
Joanne Parulis, also co-chairwoman, said 225 people will be in attendance. Proceeds from the event go to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Those attending will have the chance to bid on 2012 FXDC Dyna Super Glide Custom Harley-Davidson Motorcycle, a variety of gift baskets, a Movado Master Watch, a vacation package and other items. A signed, framed lithograph of Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Chase Utley and a Yuengling mirror signed by Dick Yuengling are also up for grabs.
Those who want to try for the silent auction items and the sealed bid for the motorcycle should stop by, organizers said. All items were donated. You do not need to be present to win. Mimimum bids are required for silent auction items and the motorcycle.
WBRE-TV sports director, Phil Schoener will host the event. The Little Ragu Blues Band will provide entertainment.
"The money raised here in Schuylkill County stays here in Schuylkill County," Parulis said.
The funds raised could benefit those like MDA Good will Ambassador Brandon Harris, 12, with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
"Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It is one of nine types of muscular dystrophy. DMD is caused by an absence of dystrophin, a protein that helps keep muscle cells intact. Symptom onset is in early childhood, usually between ages 3 and 5. The disease primarily affects boys but in rare cases it can affect girls," according to the Muscular Dystrophy Association's website at mda.org.
Brandon was all smiles Tuesday as he sat next to his mother at Schaeffer's Harley-Davidson. Members of the committee were there preparing gifts for the event.
Brandon was diagnosed when he was 6 years old.
"We actually only went to the doctor when his gym teacher said about his motor skills being slower than other people," said Julie Harris, Brandon's mother.
A blood test and DNA test confirmed the diagnosis, she said.
Brandon is in good health and has checkups frequently. He attends seventh grade at North Schuylkill Junior/Senior High School.
Brandon said he likes to play video games and enjoys sports.
His sister, Nicolette, 15, said her brother displays a very positive attitude.
"He's very nice to everybody and always happy," she said.
Bob Harris, Brandon's father, said events like the one today matter a lot to him.
"We'd like the people to know this is what gives us hope," he said.