Sponsored by Scenic Mountain Medical Center, the luncheon will help spotlight a month-long effort by the American Heart Association to help fight heart disease, the No. 1 killer of women in the United States.

“The Heart Association has sponsored this luncheon for many years,” said Kim Howell, marketing director and Healthy Woman coordinator for SMMC. “When we launched our Healthy Woman program, we thought it would be a great thing to make this luncheon our first Healthy Woman monthly program.”

Traditionally, the AHA has sold tickets to the luncheon, but this year's event is free, Howell said. However, persons wishing to attend should contact her at 268-4842 for reservations. Almost 200 women have registered for the event as of Tuesday afternoon, she noted.

Aside from enjoying a “heart-healthy” lunch, attendees will also learn more on how to avoid heart disease, Howell said.

Drs. Sue Roberts and Cynthia Rutledge, local family practicioners, will present the program, “A Light-Hearted Approach to a Serious Topic.”

Thursday's luncheon is the first of two major events this week focusing on the AHA's fight against heart disease. The organization will host its annual Heart Gala from 8 p.m. until midnight Saturday at Big Spring Country Club.

Gala tickets are $20 per individual and will be available at the door and at Thursday's luncheon.

Music, dancing and a live and silent auction will be the highlights of Saturday's event.

Contact Staff Writer Steve Reagan at 263-7331 ext. 234 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it