Roker & Roberts headline Near & Far Aid gala

Al Roker, co-anchor of NBC's "The Today Show," and his wife, ABC News journalist Deborah Roberts, will be emcees of Near & Fair Aid's Spring Gala on Friday evening, March 2, at Mitchells of Westport.

Near & Far Aid announced it has secured the celebrity broadcast couple for the event at the clothier's Post Road East Store. The theme is Chinese New Year, and Near & Fair Aid said the party's Asian theme would include traditional folk lion and dragon dancing, floral designs and Chinese foods.

In a departure from past fashion shows, attire from Mitchells line will be featured in a taped show projected on large video screens throughout the store. Past shows have featured live models.

Items to be auctioned during the evening include a trip to China, a trip to England for the women's final of the Wimbledon tennis championship and a selection of rare-vintage wines.

The event is scheduled from 7 to 10 p.m., followed by an after-party until midnight with food and music.

Proceeds benefit Near & Far Aid's charities, which provide services to Fairfield County's needy. Last year, the group donated more than $900,000 to various causes. Since 2000, it has donated more than $11 million. It funds about 115 agencies annually.

Near & Far Aid's philanthropic focus has been to provide food, clothing, shelter and educational opportunities to the needy.

Tickets are $300 for the gala or $400 for the gala and after party. They are available at nearandfairaid.org. For more information, email Lollie Mathews at: lollie@nearandfaraid.org.