Below is a reprinted article from the March 20, 1997 edition of the "Queens Ledger" announcing Strawberry Fields participation in a benefit for the Patricia Manning Memorial Fund.

Strawberry Fields Performs For Childhood Cancer

For all you Beatles fans, there is a great performance being held by "Strawberry Fields" on Sunday, April 13. Strawberry Fields is a band that perform only Beatles' songs. Not only does this Beatles tribute band sing the songs, they perform in full costume and make-up to make themselves look like the real Beatles in every way you could imagine.

The concert is sponsored by the Patricia Manning Memorial fund-care for childhood cancer. All proceeds benefit children with cancer. The Patricia Memorial Fund started in June 1987 in memory of an 11-year-old girl named Patricia who passed away in December 1986.

Archie Mauromatis, the President of the Patricia Manning Memorial, said, "A very important aspect of the Patricia Manning Memorial fund is that we're all volunteers. All the money collected goes straight to the children. One hundred percent of the money goes to the kids."

They do not receive funds from any government source or agency. They depend solely upon public support. "What we really try to do is make life a lot easier for the kids," said Mr. Mauromatis.

The Patricia Manning Memorial Fund tries to help the children in every way possible, not only by helping cover medical bills but also with travel and lodging expenses for the parents with hospitalized children. Assistance is also available to give parents access to all forms of financial assistance including available government services. They assist with comprehensive care of a child with chemotherapy, special food supplies, prosthetics, wigs and more.

"We're the only unit in the city that is totally dedicated to the children," said Mr. Mauromatis. Its prime fund raising effort is through public support and special events and projects. "We had an Italian night in which we raised seven and a-half thousand dollars," said an enthusiastic Mr. Mauromatis, "We are hoping this event will be similar in success. It will be a real fun night, Strawberry Fields is great."

Strawberry Fields have been around for over a decade entertaining audiences of all ages and for all sorts of occasions. They have performed in many venues and nightclubs in the Tri-State Area. They will make you fell like you're a teen during the 60's with their look-a-like singing and appearance.

Strawberry Fields has selected about 50 songs in all to be performed in three sets of about 50 minutes long.

As a costume they will be wearing the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band suits along with Black suits/moptop wigs. The performance will be from the 5 pm to 9 pm Sunday, April 13 at the Waterfront Crabhouse, 2-03 Borden Avenue, Long Island City.

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