On Saturday, June 8, philanthropic Coastal Georgia residents raised nearly $340,000 for Dancing Stars of Coastal Georgia. The event took place at the Savannah International Trade and Convention Center and mirrored the popular TV show, pairing local Coastal Georgia residents with professional dancers to raise money by gaining votes in a one-night gala dance competition. The money raised funds Alzheimer’s care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.

Star Jim Meyers with pro Catherine Grant took home the People’s Choice Award for raising the most money, totaling over $70,000. The 2019 Judges’ Choice Award was awarded to Star dancer Morgan Crolley and professional dance partner Alfredo Horna with a perfect score of 30. 

“This has been one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences”, said Star, Morgan Crolley. “I am so grateful to have been a part of this year’s Dancing Stars of Coastal Georgia. We had the most incredible and committed group of people who worked so hard raising awareness and money towards this important cause, and I am just so proud to be a part of it”, Crolley said.

Dancing Stars of Coastal Georgia included Kellie Fletcher, Jim Meyers, Krista Weeks, Jay Massey, Butch Broom, Phillip Haug, Heather Booth, Jennifer Paige, Nicole Mason, Morgan Crolley, Jennifer Restivo and Cameron Scott.

The event was hosted by WSAV’s Ben Senger and Kim Gusby. Celebrity judges included Sara Kate Greene, Akil Jackson and Nancy Senner.

Margaret Adler this year’s co-chair, states "It was a great pleasure to co-chair the Dancing Stars of Coastal Georgia Gala, for a second year in a row, with Susie Macmillian. Our group of Stars really shined brightly this year. They put in a tremendous effort fundraising and making sure we met our goal, and on top of that, they all preformed some of best dance routines I have ever seen. I was really blown away!  It was such an honor to work with such a talented and dedicated group of Stars.  I want to thank them, and the community, for all of their support of the Alzheimer's Association.  I am already excited for Dancing Stars 2020!"

With the recent release of the Alzheimer's Association's 2019 Facts and Figures Report, it is estimated there are 150,000 Georgians living with Alzheimer's disease with 533,000 family caregivers. Alzheimer’s deaths in Georgia increased by 245 percent from 2000 - 2017. With seven offices statewide, the Georgia Chapter provides vital education, support and services in all of Georgia's 159 counties.