Press Release

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March 24, 2008

Football icon Jerry Rice and veteran TV newscaster Leslie Griffith will be among the main attractions when the Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation hosts its annual fund-raising gala April 5 at the Lafayette Veterans Building.

The theme of the April 5 event is "Jazz on the Boulevard, New Orleans Style" featuring the smooth sounds of vocalist Suzanna Smith with the Kelly Park Trio.

Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation (CCRHF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to raise community awareness and funds for Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and its local Health Centers. The Medical Center and Health Centers are a division of Contra Costa Health Services, the county health department.

Rice, retired star for the San Francisco 49ers and Oakland Raiders and the greatest pass catcher in football history, will be present during a reception to begin the April 5 gala. Griffith, an author and award-winning newscaster, will be the celebrity host for the rest of the evening, which includes dinner and live and silent auctions.

"We are excited to have such fabulous talent for our gala, because the Medical Center needs us now more than ever," said Lynda Gayden, CCRHF Executive Director. "Jerry and Leslie have reached the pinnacles of their professions, and they recognize the importance of supporting public hospitals."

Contra Costa Regional Medical Center is recognized as a national leader in a number of areas related to patient safety. The hospital has been singled out by Stanford, Harvard, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and others for achievements in quality and safety.

"This is a year in which we can appreciate many accolades earned and improved standing with federal regulators for CCRMC," said William Walker, M.D., Director of Contra Costa Health Services and a member of the Foundation Board. "Our Board is looking forward to celebrating and supporting the Medical Center’s continued excellence."

"We have one of the most modern, seismically safe medical centers in the East Bay," said Gayden. "We invite the community to come enjoy a spectacular night in support of this gem of a public facility."

For more information, visit ccrhf.org or to purchase tickets for the event, call Lynda Gayden, Executive Director of Contra Costa Regional Health Foundation, at 925-957-5424.

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