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April 30, 2013

Wichita Business Journal

A popular fundraiser that has raised more than $1.5 million to benefit people living with HIV and AIDS is coming to an end.

Founders Tod and Linda Ernst, owners of Planet Hair, and Graham Ross said in a news release that the event has grown too large to manage. It started in 1993 as a small runway show with about 150 attendees, but it has grown to include silent and live art auctions and a complex show with more than 100 models, dancers, actors and acrobats.

Tod Ernst described it in the news release as “Wichita’s must-attend annual gala.”

The project included many business leaders, including marketing agency the Greteman Group and its founder, Sonia Greteman.

Ross and the Ernsts say they still plan to be involved in helping people with HIV and AIDS but in a different way.

ArtAID has benefited organizations including C-CAP, Connect Care, Donna Sweet Emergency Fund and Positive Directions.

© Wichita Business Journal, 2013