Jackson Free Press

Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS hosts its 20th anniversary benefit Feb. 11. The benefit, Mississippi's largest fundraiser for HIV and AIDS-related issues, is a live and silent art auction. Donated artwork such as paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry and pottery in different styles and broad range of prices will be available for purchase. Over 300 art donations given by well-known Mississippi artists are in the auction. Musicians, including Scott Albert Johnson, perform before and after the auction, and local restaurants cater the event.

Mississippi HeARTS Against AIDS is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization. Since 1993, it has raised more than $955,000 to help fight the disease. The virus, a global challenge, has claimed the lives of more than 20 million people to date, according to the Mississippi AIDS Advocacy Coalition.

In 2005, Mississippi had the highest rate of HIV-infected people receiving no care or services. Supporting treatment funding enables more people to receive care and reduces new HIV infections.

The event starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday downtown at Hal & Mal's (200 S. Commerce St.). Tickets are $40 in advance and $20 with a student ID. For information, contact Mary Ellen Snow at 601-750-5883 or visit http://www.mississippihearts.org.