Boxing!  It’s not a sport that traditionally conjures thoughts of charity.  But for the 600 attendees of the 16th annual Ringside for Mercy’s Sake fundraiser boxing, charitable giving, and a wonderful evening all go hand in glove.  Production Plus was on the scene to support the event.

The Ring. Click to watch some of the boxing action!

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls is a long-term residential home for troubled and hurting young men and women.  They have a 119 year history in Chicago of helping troubled and disenfranchised teens through difficult periods.  According to Dick Smith, producer of Ringside for Mercy’s Sake for the past thirteen years, boxing “… has always been part of the program for boys over there.  In the old days, it was how the priests resolved fights between the boys – just put ‘em in the ring.”  It conjures images of old Bing Crosby movies about Irish Catholic priests running shelters for needy children.  The image is not far off from Mercy Home’s origin.  But, says Smith, the organization has grown since then.  “Now there are two campuses, one for boys, one for girls,” and the services there have been greatly expanded to include tutoring and career counseling.

Ringside for Mercy’s Sake is their biggest fundraiser of the year.  “Over $1 million net from this one benefit,” notes Smith, “and it’s always a great time.”  This year, the event reached new heights.  Their principal sponsor, Jaguar, donated a limited edition 2009 XF for auction.  There were only 5 of this car made; it’s estimated value was over $130,000.  Other high ticket items included a ten day packaged trip to the Olympics in Beijing, VIP tickets to the Kentucky Derby, and a 43 year old bottle of Glenlivet.

The Car.

And, of course, a chance to hang out with Smokin’ Joe Frazier. The former heavyweight champion of the world and the first man to defeat Muhammed Ali was on hand at the event to sign autographs and auction off a hand drawn portrait of himself done by sports portraitist Kevin John. “This event is good, it’s excellent,” said Frazier in response to being asked about Production Plus’ participation in the evening.  He complimented the young boxers in the ring, saying, “these kids are giving it all they got.”

The Champ.

Dick Smith praised the boxers as well.  “They are not getting a nickel for this,” he marveled, “but they go all out.”  The boxers seemed to enjoy the event.  Andy Olwell, back for his second year in the Ringside ring, commented, “I’m fighting the same guy.  It should be a good time.” 

All in all the event went seamlessly.  “I’m very pleased with the success of the show,” said Dick Smith.  “Production Plus is a professional team.  Nobody is better at getting into a room and getting stuff done.”  The event has grown over the years; Production Plus has been supporting it for more than five years now and has seen it expand every year.  Dick Smith predicts more growth for 2008.  “We’re looking to take the event up another notch,” he says, but withholds comment on any actual plans.  “But I do know that Production Plus will be up to the challenge.”