July 1, 2010 - Friends of Children's Hospital (Friends) announced today that over $760,000 was raised at the 2010 fundraiser, "An Evening with the Mannings, Presented by BankPlus," bringing the four-year total to $2,460,000. The proceeds from this event will benefit Friends and the Eli Manning Children's Clinics at the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children.

"Abby and I always look forward to returning to Jackson for An Evening with the Mannings," said Eli Manning. "It is rare that my parents, brothers Cooper and Peyton and our wives are all able to attend an event together, making this event even more special. We are honored to partner with BankPlus and Friends of Children's Hospital to help raise money for the Eli Manning Children's Clinics."

"I was pleased that I could make it to Jackson for 'An Evening with the Mannings' this year, to support an event that is important to Eli, my family and the children of Mississippi," said Peyton Manning.

The event was held Saturday, June 19, 2010 at the Jackson Convention Complex in downtown Jackson. Archie, Cooper, Peyton and Eli Manning were in attendance with their wives. A Father's Day Weekend appropriate highlight of the event included on-stage commentary from all the Manning men on being a part of football's "first family," and growing up "Manning."

Also in attendance was renowned chef and restaurateur Emeril Lagasse. All of the event's catering was overseen and prepared by Chef Emeril Lagasse's staff.

"I was very happy to return to Jackson to help my friend Eli and the Manning family in this worthwhile cause for the children of Mississippi," said Emeril Lagasse. "What a wonderful night dedicated to raising funds to improve the healthcare for children in this area."

CBS Sportscaster Tim Brando served as the event's emcee, offering guests anecdotes from his own entertaining experiences with the Manning family from over the years.

"I can't imagine spending Father's Day weekend with any other family besides the Mannings," said Brando. "Congratulations to Eli and Abby, Archie and Olivia on their work for this worthy cause. Cooper's involvement and Peyton's presence were invaluable to the Evening. My wife and daughters were tremendously impressed, and I was flattered to be asked to take part in what was a wonderful program."

Other event highlights included a live auction, as well as a silent auction composed of signed sports memorabilia, Viking appliances, spa packages, trips, and fine jewelry.

"BankPlus has a longstanding relationship with the Manning family," said Bill Ray, BankPlus President and CEO. "It is gratifying to know that this relationship has allowed BankPlus to help bring this project to fruition, ensuring a world-class healthcare facility for all of Mississippi's children."

"Part of the event's success can be attributed to Emeril Lagasse's talented culinary staff that worked all week to ensure we put on a first class event," said Sara Ray, Chair of "An Evening with the Mannings" and in-coming Friends Chairman. "With the help of Emeril Lagasse, his staff and the Manning family, we were able to coordinate a unique event that generates a great deal of support for Friends and the Eli Manning Clinics."