Home > Social Butterfly > Archives > 2007 > October
October 2007
Need Hannah Montana Tickets?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
S.B.’s going out on a limb here and predicting record attendance at this year’s March of Dimes Northeast Signature Chef’s auction, planned for Nov. 8 at Gwinnett Center.
The event will feature fab cuisine and benefits a great cause, but it’s the after-dinner auction we’re expecting will cause something of a stir.
On the block: four nearly impossible-to-get Hannah Montana tickets, along with a pre-concert dinner and a limo ride to the show.
Event organizers say the tickets were donated by a gracious (and, for the moment, anonymous) couple who hold box seats at the Gwinnett Arena and were therefore able to purchase the tickets.
As has been the case around the country, tickets for the the Nov. 28 show at the Gwinnett Arena were snapped up in nanoseconds, and are now commanding top dollar on sites like eBay (try nearly $1,900 for four).
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 8 in the Hughes Ballroom. Tickets are $150 per person, $800 for a table of four or $1,500 for a table of eight.
Providing the nibbles will be the 1818 Club, Carino’s Italian Grille, Flowery Branch Yacht Club, Fresh Market, Kurt’s, Little Gardens Restaurant, Loafing Leprechaun, Lowcountry Barbecue, Proof of the Pudding and Sugo.
Dessert will be prepared by Vagn Nielsen, honorary Corporate Executive Chef for Proof of the Pudding.
After dinner, paddles hit the air. Other auction items include tickets to see the Blue Man Group and the Wiggles; jewelry from Tara Jewelers; a “Patriotic Package” to Washington, including airline tickets, a tour of the White House and lunch with U.S. Rep. John Linder.
This year’s sponsors include Gwinnett Medical Center; Andersen, Tate, and Carr; Scientific Atlanta; Stiefel; YES Media; and Gwinnett Magazine.
For more information or tickets see www.marchofdimes.com/georgia or call 678-546-0023.
So, might you consider attending the March of Dimes bash just to bid on Hannah Montana tickets? Have you already snagged them for top dollar on eBay? Or do you think the Hannah frenzy is a bit much?
Raise a glass
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Hey, what are you doing Sunday?
I’ll be driving back from Starkville, Miss. If I was in town I’d be at the Grape at Phipps Plaza, where the Ganter Family Foundation hosts a fundraiser from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
The event raises money and awareness for the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
The cost is $25 per person and includes a glass of wine and the opportunity to meet the fabulous Hillary B. Smith, who plays Nora Hanen on ABC’s “One Life to Live.”
You know, speaking of the Grape at Phipps, four-time PGA Tour winner Billy Andrade and wife Jody recently hosted “From Tee to Green to Grapes.”
The event, featuring Ernie Els wines, a Bobby Jones Golf Shop fashion show, and silent auction, benefited the East Lake Golf Foundation.
The League of extraordinary women
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Josh Fisher and Julie Bryant at the Charity Ball
About 500 people turned out for the Junior League of Atlanta’s recent Charity Ball, held Oct. 12 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill.
Chairing the event was Abby Bradford, and Ansley Forsberg is on deck for next year. League member and WSB-TV reporter Jovita Moore served as auctioneer.
Elaine Walsh is this year’s Junior League president.
Allison Rubinas won a raffle drawing for a handbag donated by Gucci at Phipps Plaza; Aimee Breed found a $1,000 gift card from Belk in her goody bag, and David Maynor won three magnums of Perrier Laurent champagne donated by Wine Gallery and Market (we’re guessing he has all sorts of new friends by now).
Want a crack at next year’s loot? See www.jlatlanta.org for info on this fun and charitable organization.
From left, Pam Smart, Alana and Harold Shepherd, and Juli Owens. Photo by Jim Fitts.
Legends in their own time
Pam and John Smart hosted the recent patron party for Metamorphosis:The Legend of the Butterfly, the 19th Annual Legendary Party benefiting the Shepherd Center.
Juli Owens is this year’s chair; Sally Dorsey is the 2008 chair.
This year’s gala is Nov. 3 at the Buckhead Ritz; patron tickets are $1,250 per couple. Call 404-350-7778 or email cara_puckett@shepherd.org for details.
Gala dinner offers food for thought
Have you ever heard of the “Cracker Club?”
Apparently, that term describes teenage girls who eschew lunch, opting for just a few saltines, to keep their weight down.
Members of GERLS (Girls Empowered for Relationships, Leadership and Service) at Westminster Schools mentioned it during our visit at Beyond the Looking Glass, the Oct. 21 benefit for Eating Disorders Information Network. The group meets weekly to discuss all sorts of issues facing young people.
“Our main mission is to try to empower young girls to make the best decisions,” said Ali Waldron, 16.
Other young ladies representing the group at “Beyond the Looking Glass,” held at the Biltmore Atlanta, included Ishita Chordia, 16; Sarah Crosier, 16; Imani Franklin, 17; Grace Granade, 16; Mary Caroline Hunt, 17; Nabilah Jiwani, 16; Emily Linder, 17; and Caroline Meyer, 17.
CBS 46 reporter Jennifer Mayerle, a network board member who spoke movingly of a dear friend who died after struggling with anorexia, served as hostess.
Speakers included network founder Dina Zeckhausen and program director Kris Shock, along with activist-mom Sydney Shipps and South Forsyth High school teacher Matthew Thompson, who advises members of a student group focusing on positive body image.
For information on the Eating Disorders Information Network, see www.myedin.org.
Music for a mission
Do y’all know Francine Boudewijn?
The chair of Dare to Share, which raises money for charities that help children, she can charm the bark off a tree.
Her latest coup is arranging a concert featuring classical concert pianist Sergey Pashkevich. It’s planned for 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3 in Pearce Auditorium at Gainesville’s Brenau University.
Gainesville, you say? I’m telling you, if anyone can rally Atlanta’s philanthropic army for the march north, it’s Francine.
General admission to the concert is $35, or $15 for students. At the $50 VIP level, guests can enjoy reserved seating and a reception featuring a silent auction and opportunity to meet Pashkevich.
For tickets or more information email Dtshare@windstrem.net, call 770-868-8319 or see www.Dare-to-Share.org.
Permalink | |
Susansnaps: A Good Thing
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Laura Stachler, Martha Stewart and Susan Stachler.
Talk about a survival story.
Laura Stachler lost her sister, Sue, to cancer in 1977. A generation later, Laura sat with her husband and daughter, as both went through 28 rounds of chemotherapy.
Ken Stachler began his chemo in the spring of 2003. A year later Ken and Laura’s daughter Susan began treatment for Hodgkin’s disease. There were days when father and daughter would sit side by side, receiving treatment.
A tireless supporter to her family, Laura came up with a sweet way to combat the enervating nausea that chemo produces: homemade gingersnaps, rolled in sugar crystals. (Ginger is a natural way to assuage nausea.)
It didn’t take long for word to spread of this special family business, Susansnaps - www.susansnaps.com. The sweet treats have garnered all sorts of ink, including a mention in Paula Deen’s Christmas magazine.
Last month, Laura and Susan were honored at the “Martha Stewart Living’s Dreamers Into Doers” gala. A 250-word essay that Susan penned told their story and earned the two a trip to the gala over the weekend of Oct. 22-24.
Laura Stachler was awarded a $1,000 gift from Stewart and $1,000 from Bank of America to put toward the business and a $250 Talbot’s gift card.
A portion of snaps proceeds benefit the Susan Carver Foundation, a non-profit organization benefiting cancer research that is named for Laura Stachler’s late sister. Their motto: “A Snap Today, A Cure Tomorrow!”
Francouer, McCann share a pet project
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Francoeur and Brody, a King Cavalier Charles Spaniel. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Braves.
Braves players Jeff Francoeur and Brian McCann are on deck for the upcoming third annual “Bets for Pets” event, benefiting the Homeless Pets Foundation.
The casino-themed event, planned for 8 p.m. to midnight Nov. 17 at the 755 Club at Turner Field, is hosted by Atlanta Braves Manager Bobby Cox and his wife, Pam.
Guests will enjoy black jack, dice and roulette and a silent auction and a live auction of memorabilia from Francoeur, John Smoltz, Chipper Jones and others.
Tickets cost $100 and can be purchased online at www.949thebull.com. For more details, e-mail coxpawsbecause@yahoo.com or call 404-274-1651.
Brian McCann and Jeff Francoeur and their best friends. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Braves.
Braves Manager Bobby Cox and his four-legged pals. Photo by Colby Kidd
Crystal Ball a Smash
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Leslie McLeod, Mayor Shirley Franklin and Kristen Gibbs at Saturday’s Crystal Ball. (credit: Jim Fitts)
Oh, that clever Kristen Gibbs.
A few years ago, to celebrate a special birthday, her husband, Duncan, arranged for a video tribute that combined photos, music and remembrances from friends.
This year, the couple signed on as chairs of the Crystal Ball, benefiting the Arthritis Foundation’s Georgia chapter.
The ball honored Dr. Hugh McLeod and wife Leslie for their years of dedicated support, and Kristen knew just the special touch to highlight the evening. She arranged for the same videographer to compile a tribute to the McLeods as a surprise.
The ball, by the way, set a fund-raising record, bringing in $535,000 to help fund research efforts, community awareness, education, programs and services for people with arthritis. The black-tie affair, held Saturday at the Ritz-Carlton Buckhead, included a seated dinner and live and silent auctions.
Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin was among the luminaries in the sell-out crowd.
Permalink | |
Gala benefits Africa’s Children’s Fund
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
There’s still time to sign up for Saturday’s eighth annual “Taste of The World,” which raises money for raise funds to support, tutoring, mentoring, affordable housing and HIV/AIDS prevention programs for underserved children and their families in the United States and Africa.
Organized by the board of the Africa’s Children’s Fund, the event starts at 6 p.m. this Saturday at the World Trade Center, 303 Peachtree Street.
Chairs are Kathleen Bertrand and Curtis Hicks, and honorary chairs are Archbishop Desmond Tutu (also the honorary chair of the organization), Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Roy Collins and Joe Hindsley.
Organizers hope to exceed the $50,000 last year’s event brought in. Tickets start at $75. Email gloverette@bellsouth.net or call 404-272-1732.
Permalink | |
At the hop!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Amy Helton with Ava Beaty and Dr. Susan Estep. Photo courtesy of Meg Reggie
You’ve heard of “black-tie optional.” How about “socks required”?
Poodle skirts and Hula Hoops were the order of the day at the 1950s-themed sock hop benefiting Cool Girls, a group dedicated to the self-empowerment of at-risk Atlanta girls.
The event, hosted last month by Drs. Laura and Mark Beaty, raised $13,000.
The crowd joining in the fun included Janis Adams, Kimberly Brewster, Jennifer Curtin, Casey Enfield, Dedra Evans and daughter Kendall, Drs. Nancy and Jeffrey Gallups, Maureen Hermann, Jayne Herr, Jodie Huiet, and Chris and Michelle Quay.
Dedra Evans with daughter Kendall at the Cool Girls event. Photo courtesy of Meg Reggie.
‘Dream Big’ delivers big
More than 400 guests attended “Dream Big. Bid Big,” held Oct. 13 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre to benefit Georgian Bank’s Transplant Recovery Unit at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
The event, which featured a silent and live auction, raised $300,000.
A highlight of the event was a performance by singer-songwriter Edwin McCain, accompanied by members of the Cobb Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Rudi Schlegel. McCain sang “I Could Not Ask for More” and “I’ll Be” before belting out a by-request rendition of “Georgia on My Mind.” (He received a standing ovation for that one.)
The crowd included Georgian Bank Chairman, President and CEO Gordon R. Teel and wife Sharon; Eugene A. Hayes III, president of the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation; Dr. Thomas Heffron, head of the transplant unit at Children’s Healthcare, and Steven Wagner, development director at Children’s Healthcare; Charlie Arp; Yetty Arp; Kim Gresh; George Hartzop; and Wayne and Ann Mason.
Permalink | |
An Assist from Miss Maroon and White
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Morehouse student body president Stanley Onuoha, a senior of Boston, escorts Miss Maroon & White Kera Street, a senior of Richmond, Va., as they walk to the stadium before the Oct. 20 homecoming game against Clark Atlanta. Following Street are her attendants and their escorts. JASON GETZ / STAFF
Strolling through the Morehouse College campus before Saturday’s homecoming game against Clark Atlanta University, we suddenly found ourselves in the presence of royalty.
There she was, Miss Maroon and White Kera Street, a Spelman College senior from Richmond with a smile as brilliant as her tiara.
Escorting her majesty was Morehouse senior and Student Government Association president Stanley Onuoha of Boston.
Completing the retinue were first attendant Ashley Mackel, a Spelman senior from Shaker Heights, Ohio, escorted by Morehouse senior Ryan Shepard of Los Angeles; and second attendant Victoria Beeks, a Spelman senior from St. Louis, escorted by Terron Ferguson, a Morehouse senior from Miami.
After chatting for a few minutes, the charming homecoming queen asked “Do you mind if I fix these?” and straightened S.B.’s pearls — the clasp had worked its way forward. Y’all, this gracious young lady was raised right.
Celeb Chef Wolfgang Puck, center, with Rutherford and Laura Seydel. Photo courtesy of GCI Group.
The Green Scene
Eco-fabulous Laura Turner Seydel joined Pike Family Nurseries founder William Pike for the opening of Pike’s new Lindbergh location on Sept. 29. Pike donated 10 percent of opening day sales to the Captain Planet Foundation, which Seydel serves as chairman and president.
The Lindbergh Pike store uses an underground water retention system and permeable surfaces such as concrete paths and gravel beds to limit the use of asphalt — seeing how we’re about out of H2O in North Georgia.
On Oct. 16, Seydel and husband Rutherford hosted a luncheon for CARE, the global humanitarian organization, at their home, Eco Manor.
Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck prepared an elegant organic meal beginning with sweet corn basil “cappuccino,” a Maine lobster salad, miso soy glazed butterfish, slow roasted organic chicken and a refreshing organic fruit tart.
Barbara Roos oversaw the decor, including a verdant grass table runner.
The guest list included Beth Gluck, Steve Hollingworth, Phil Mazzara, and Theresa Rhodes with CARE; Ted Turner, the hostess’s father, with Elizabeth Dewberry; hip hop producer Dallas Austin; and
Great food, great price, great cause
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Love a bargain? Here’s a super ‘Fly tip for you.
Creations, the teaching dining room of the Art Institute of Atlanta’s culinary arts program, is a lovely spot for cut-rate cuisine. Budding chefs whip up their finest at prices far below what they’ll be charging once they graduate into pro kitchens.
Diners enjoy a smashing view and solicitous service, too. Six-course dinners, offered Wednesdays and Fridays, are $33 per person, while a la carte lunch ranges from for $9 to $18 , and is served Thursdays and Fridays. For details and reservations, see www.artinstitutes.edu/atlanta/creations.
Alright, ready to stick a crowbar in your wallet?
The Art Institute hosts “Cook for the Cure” on Nov. 10. The evening starts with a sparkling wine reception and silent auction at 6 p.m., followed by a five-course dinner with wine pairings, themed “Autumn Tour of France,” starting at 7 p.m.
The dinner will be prepared by upper-level bachelor’s degree students in the culinary arts management program. The event benefits both the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the family of Denae Meadows Ottman, a member of the culinary arts faculty who died in December 2006 from breast cancer.
A portion of the proceeds will benefit the trust fund for her daughter’s education. The cost is $65 per person plus tax and gratuity— hey, that’s still a bargain. Reservations are required.
Call 770-689-4851 or email aiacreations@aii.edu.
Golf, then gala
Saturday’s charity golf tourney benefiting True Colors Theatre Company is sold out, but tickets remain for the gala that night.
The “Blues in the Night” bash, featuring a dinner buffet, cocktails, a live auction and blues entertainment, starts at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Ansley Park home of Drs. Lisa and Brad Bootstaylor.
Event co-chairs are Stephanie and Jerome Russell, Karyn Greer and Tony Johnson. Laura Kurlander is the host committee chair. Cocktail attire.
Tickets are $250 per person or $400 per couple. During the day, Kenny Leon, artistic director of True Colors, hosts a group of entertainment, sports, and media celebs for a day of entertainment and golf.
The weekend raises money for theatre company’s education programs. For info and tickets to the Saturday night event, call 404-588-0308 or email Events@TrueColorsTheatreCompany.com.
Splash bash
The Big Splash, benefiting the Marcus Institute, will be Nov. 10 at the Georgia Aquarium.
The evening starts with cocktails at 6:30 p.m. and dinner at 7:30 p.m.
The black-tie event, hosted by Bernie and Billi Marcus and honorary chairs Bob and Suzanne Wright, will feature entertainment by Michael Bolton.
It is chaired this year by Deborah Liss with co-chairs Mary Z. Johnson, Cynthia Hammond and Helen Carlos.
The fundraising goal is $1 million to help the Marcus Institute, which offers comprehensive diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities such as autism. For information and tickets call 404-419-4086.
Divas, Dames and Dudes
The Lenox Square Macy’s recent “Divas, Dames and Dudes” fashion show raised about $10,000 for local breast cancer related charities.
Attendees elected Carolyn Warren Gray, a breast cancer survivor representing the Doris Shaheen Breast Cancer Center, as Atlanta’s favorite diva. Survivor Harriet Grossman, representing Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Atlanta, was named Atlanta’s favorite dame. And Rick Westbrook, representing the PALS (Pets are Loving Support) organization, took honors as Atlanta’s favorite dude.
The recent event attracted a flock of local notables including Karyn Greer of WXIA-TV, Vikki Locke of STAR 94 FM, Monica Pearson of WSB-TV and Lisa Rayam of WAGA-TV
Partying in the Garden of Good and Evil
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
James Simons and Edmond Faget hosted the recent patron party for Jerusalem House’s upcoming Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” party.
The fun crowd included Jenni Bonura, ticket sales chair Rick Diehl, Eva Durham, Grey Durham, event chair Jorge Esteban, Rob Owen, Ann Skae, and sponsorships and raffle chair Lisa White.
Jerusalem House Executive Director Ellen McCarty was there, along with Board President Randy Stephens.
The event is Oct. 26 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill and will feature costume contests such as best “Good, ” best “Evil, ” and best “Gender-Bender.”
Judges will include the Lady Chablis of “Midnight” fame and Miss Georgia USA 2007 Brittany Swann. Call 404-350-0513 or e-mail info@jerusalemhouse.org for info and tix.
A Special Night for a Special Cause
The second annual fund faiser for the Acworth Special Needs Park is planned for 6-8 p.m. Oct. 22 at the Old Mill restaurant in Acworth.
The cost is $50 per person for wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
The park allows children who might not otherwise get to enjoy team sports a safe and fun facility.
Info: http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=acworthspecialneeds
Permalink | |
Do you work for a Miranda Priestly?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We want to hear all about it as “National Boss Day” approaches.
Derided in some quarters as a cooked-up “Hallmark Holiday,” the blessed event is observed annually on Oct. 16, to recognize the good and kindhearted people signing our paychecks.
So sure, we’d love your heartwarming tales of inspired leadership. And if you happen to have a funny horror story that could be out of “The Devil Wears Prada, send that, too!
Post your story here or email jbrett@ajc.com
Toasting Teen Journalists
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Sarah Nell-Walsh, Lauren Estrin, Whitney Munn and Debbie Segal.
The law firm of King & Spalding was the site of “Sip and Shop,” a wine tasting and silent auction to benefit VOX Teen Communications from 6 to 9 p.m. Nov. 14.
The event drew a crowd of about 100 people and raisedabout $17,000 for VOX, where Atlanta teens produce a monthly newspaper and Web site.
Hosts included Paula Frederick, Carolyn Forest, Lynda Greer, Carolyn LaRocco, Debbie Segal, Simit Shah, Carolyn Wingfield and Nancy Zintak.
Catering was provided by Dennis Dean, and the vino was compliments of Diageo, Ansley Wine Merchants, Sherlock’s Wine Merchants and Gallo.
The young people involved with VOX, a non-profit youth-development organization in downtown Atlanta, write articles, take pictures and create the layouts for the VOX newspaper and update its Web site, http://www.voxrox.org.
For information see www.voxrox.org.
Permalink | |
Fall Ball
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A busy and energetic group is organizing the Fall Golden Gala benefiting the William Breman Jewish Home.
The Barcelona-themed event, planned for Nov. 17 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, honors Sandy London and Fred Halperin. Guests will enjoy flamenco music and dancers, cocktails, a Spanish market, silent and live auctions, and a tapas-style dinner.
Chairing the event are Debbie Neese and Janet Selig, with co-chairs Candy Berman and Joyce Shlesinger.
The treasurers are Amy Arogeti and Carole Kirschner. Sponsor chairs are Stephen Berman, Gerald Horowitz and Steve Schwartz. Silent auction chairs are Sharon Corenblum, Dedi Jackson and Cheryl Kramer.
Market chairs are Brenna Serby and Arlene Taylor. In charge of the silent auction book are Deborah Goot and Laura Stein, and heading silent auction setup is Barbara Ducoffe.
Handling the checkout after all those fabulous auction items get snapped up will be Mark Greenberg and Isabel Gulden.
This is one formidable committee. Stick with me!
Tony Brewer and Barbara Roos are working on the ball’s interior design. Neese, Selig and Shlesinger are serving as hotel liaisons.
Invitations are the work of Susanne Schlaifer and Margie Stern, and Stella Firestone is in charge of mailing.
Guiding the ranks of volunteers are Sandy Coffsky, Sara Franco and Amy Selig. And Randi Levy is spreading the word as head of publicity.
Tickets are $200 per person, $100 per person for folks under 40. Info, tickets: www.wbjh.org.
Pretty in Pink and Black
The Decatur-DeKalb chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women is hosting the Pink and Black Affair, from 7 p.m. to midnight Nov. 3 at the Holiday Inn Decatur.
The black-tie fund-raiser, featuring food, live music and door prizes, will include a silent auction of various items including “Buddy Baskets, ” to be delivered to breast cancer patients and survivors. Tickets are $50 per person.
To nominate a breast cancer patient or survivor to be honored at the event and for more details e-mail pinkandblackaffair@yahoo.com or call event chair Danyle Dawson-Oglesby at 678-485-6700.
Gwinnett Gala
The American Cancer Society’s Gwinnett operation presents “One Enchanted Evening,” Oct. 20 at the Gwinnett Place Marriott.
Cocktails start at 6 p.m., with dinner and program beginning at 7:30 p.m. and dancing from 9:30 p.m. to midnight.
This year’s chairs are Becky Munteanu and Jody Reeves, and the event will feature remarks by survivor Laura Tate. Tickets are $150. Call 770-814-0123 or e-mail adrienne.rissley@cancer.org.
Odds and ends
The Fragile Kids Foundation has announced that restaurateur Raymond Schoenbaum, founder of Ray’s on the River, Ray’s Killer Creek and Ray’s in the City, will be honored as 2008 Child Advocate of the Year.
Schoenbaum has been involved with Fragile Kids Foundation for more than 18 years. Stay tuned for details of the Fragile Hearts Celebration, planned for Feb. 9 at Fernbank Museum of Natural History.
The American Cancer Society’s fifth Annual Cattle Barons’ Ball is set for Nov. 3 at RiverWood Studios, a working movie production facility in Senoia.
The event, “Reel Cowboys With a Real Cause,” will be a Western-style bash with barbecue, music, Vegas-style gaming and live and silent auctions.
Organizers hope to raise $200,000. Ernie Johnson Jr. of Turner Sports will serve as master of ceremonies, and Kelly Batcho is event chair.
Tickets are $125 per person. Call 770-631-0625 or visit www.baronsball.com.
Permalink | |
Jenna Bush Catches up With ATL Chums
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
First daughter Jenna Bush, in town promoting her new book, “Ana’s Story: A Journey of Hope,” had a chance to visit with some friends over dinner Monday night.
The newly betrothed Bush, along with book illustrator Mia Baxter, joined a group of buddies including Lauren Olsen, Tug Helmer, Allen Freisem and Charles Beard at the Capital Grille. Everyone had steak except for Bush, who chose fish.
“We had a rocking time,” the always ebullient Helmer reported. He knows Bush through family friends, and they’ve been pals since her college days.
“Ana’s Story” is based on Bush’s work with UNICEF in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is the tale of a young woman infected with HIV at birth and abused at home, but who struggles to break free of the cycle of abuse, silence and illness.
The book, aimed at younger readers, has fairly short chapters and includes large color photos, discussion questions, myths and truths about HIV and abuse, Web sites and help lines.
“The book is great,” Helmer said. “I highly recommend it.”
Walk This Way
PEDS’ eighth annual Golden Shoe Awards honoring 10 pedestrian-friendly projects is planned for 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25 at Savannah College of Art and Design, 1600 Peachtree Street.
The event features beer and wine, light nibbles and plenty of great “walking” music.
Chairing the event is Lisa Frank; honorary chair is Sally Sears.
The host committee includes Kay Beynart, Joe Binford, Liz Coyle, Ralph Daniels, Jim Durrett, Courtenay and George Dusenbury, Danny, Lori and Cory Feig-Sandoval, David Goldberg, Charles H. Green, Kevin Green, Kelly Jordan, Gordon and Judie Kenna, Paul and Carol Muldawer, Dianne Olansky, Sandy and Tom Teepen.
Tickets are $10 per person, advance orders strongly recommended. Order online at https://www.donate.net/donationSelector/basket.asp?deptid=453&shopperid=910252
Pet project
The first annual fund raiser for Pet Mechanics and Society of Humane Friends raised more than $8,000 to help pay for vaccinations, micro-chipping, collars and ID tags for pets adopted at Gwinnett Animal Control.
Money raised at the Oct. 8 event also will help pay for low cost spay/neuter services. The fundraiser was held at Jungle Jump Adventures in Buford, and Gwinnett Sheriff Butch Conway served as host.
Art from the heart
MedShare International, a Decatur-based nonprofit, hosts “MedSharing a World of Art” from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Oct. 27 at the Activities Center on Kimberly-Clark Corporation’s Roswell campus.
The evening will feature a live art auction of more than 150 pieces from local and national artists, a silent auction and an international craft market.
All proceeds from the auction will benefit MedShare International’s Container Sponsorship Program, which redistributes surplus medical supplies and equipment to healthcare institutions in economically developing countries.
Advance tickets are $25. A limited number of tickets will be available on the day of the event for $30. To buy tickets, visit www.medshare.org, call 770-323-5858 or email klawson@medshare.org.
One priceless party
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Emmie Howard and her husband Tommy threw the neatest party on Sept. 28 to honor their friends Joni Harrison and Chip Lay, who are getting married next month.
On Joni and Chip’s first date, they went to see “Walk the Line,” so Emmie got the idea to host a “Johnny and June” shower. How cute is that?
The invitations looked like vintage country music concert posters, and attire for the Sept. 28 event was black duds and cowboy boots.
Guests dined on fried chicken and biscuits, knocked back Folsom Prison punch and enjoyed a performance by Francisco Vidal. And, seeing how this is a young couple just starting out, their friends passed the (cowboy) hat to raise a few bucks for the honeymoon.
Co-hosting were Reagan Hardy and Christin Hartsfield. Guests included Ashley Anne Harrison, Mary and Michael Keller, Jamie and Ric Kern, Rusty Lay and Stephanie Naglich.
S.B. goes to all sorts of fab black-tie bashes, but this sweet gathering of friends has to be one of my favorite events I’ve hit so far. Tell me: what’s the most “priceless” bash you’ve ever thrown or attended? Extra points for creativity!
Post to the blog or email me: butterfly@ajc.com.
Permalink | |
Partying Like it’s 1845
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The folks involved with Cobb Landmarks and Historical Society know how to party, and party, and party.
The annual “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner” event, featuring several events around town hosted by various homeowners, has raised around $15,000 for the organization, headquartered in the circa-1845 Root House, just off the Marietta Square.
Here’s an overview of this year’s party people.
Jeanine and Skip Harper hosted an Oct. 5 “Cocktails and Candlelight” bash at their home at the foot of Kennesaw Mountain. The crowd included Jenny and Bill Brumby, Steve and Terri Cole, Bill and Elizabeth Kunetz, Susan and Doug Hayne, Melissa and Parker Gilbert, Neely and Cathy Young, and Marcelle and Bill David.
Patti and Van Pearlberg had friends over to their Church Street home in historic Marietta. Co-hosting the Sept. 8 “On the Veranda” was Susan Miller. The group included Mrs. Treville Lawrence, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Gragg, Ralph Moor and Grey Moor.
Shannon and Ford Bohannon hosted a fantastic Jamaican themed party at their Marietta home on Sept. 22. S.B. and husband attended this one and enjoyed the company of Karen Adams, Keith West, Scott and Kristen Condra, Betty and John Rhodes, and Donna and Dave Wood.
Still with me? I told you these folks can party!
A whole slew of hosts went in on the Sept. 22 football-themed bash. The festive crowd included Paulette and Eldon Baskam, Paul and Susan Hall, Chris and Anna Norris, Shelby and Drew Weeks, Susan and Tom Tucker, Kappy and Stephen Lawandales, Sidney and Bill David, Melinda and Charles Heidt.
Abbie Parks and Rose Wing co-hosted a wine and cheese with local authors at Atherton Park on Sept. 30. Kelly Lloyd and Audrey Casey were among the attendees.
Cobb Landmarks advocates for education and preservation of our history. Find out more at www.cobblandmarks.com.
Permalink | |
Warrick Dunn, Model Citizen
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Is there a nicer guy than Warrick Dunn?
The big-hearted Falcons running back hosted the fifth annual gala benefiting his foundation at the Westin Buckhead Monday night. (Stay tuned for photos, coming soon!)
The Warrick Dunn Foundation’s “Homes for the Holidays” program has assisted 69 single mothers and 181 children and dependents to achieve first-time homeownership, as of May.
The program honors the memory of Dunn’s mother, Betty, a Baton Rouge police officer killed in the line of duty when Dunn was a teenager.
“I would like to thank my mom,” Dunn said during remarks to the crowd Monday night. “She’s the most important person in my life.”
Before the gala, which featured a fashion show starring Dunn and several of his teammates, he mingled with a smaller crowd at the Palm, where his cariacture has joined the wall of fame.
“I just hope they don’t take it down,” he joked, after adding his signature. “I may request a table in that area, so I can look at myself while I eat.”
The crowd at the pre-bash bash included R&B artist Ne-Yo, his manager Tango and branding agent Bytuah Gonsahn; Spanx rep Misty Elliott and a slew of folks from Publix, one of the sponsors for the evening, including Lisa Clarke, Bridgid O’Connor and Tanya Coleman.
Upstairs, Dunn welcomed Sheronda Anthony, a 2006 Homes for the Holidays Atlanta recipient, along with her daughter Shontika.
“They have been absolutely great to us,” said a beaming Anthony, adding that she married earlier this year.
Spotting the groom in the audience, Dunn quipped, “You might have to pay me back!”
After a dazzling performance by electric violinist Ken Ford, it was time for the fashionable Falcons to take the stage.
Alge Crumpler seemed especially at home on the catwalk, blowing kisses and lifting his shirt to showcase his physique. Jerious Norwood struck all kinds of poses and Michael Jenkins took off his cap and bowed.
Keith Brooking and Adam Jennings also hammed it up a little, while Brian Finneran drove the ladies wild by taking off his jacket and slinging it over his shoulder before strolling down the runway.
The loudest applause, of course, was for Dunn, as handsome as he is humble.
Fever: Heating Up Atlanta’s Social Scene
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
No, not the nightclub Fever. That’s the bailiwick of my colleague David Graves, the AJC’s Leisure guy.
We’re talking about the Latin American Association’s 19th annual Latin Fever Ball “Caribe! Ritmo, Sabor y Sol.” We hear the Sept. 22 bash, held at the InterContinental in Buckhead, was quite the scene, with revelers shakin’ it until 2 in the morning.
The fun crowd included Paul and Claudia Raines, who were co-chairs and Aida Perez Flamm, attending with husband Allan Flamm, served as honorary chair. The bash raised more than $200,000 for Latin American Association programs and services.
Happy Birthday Justice Clarke
Former Chief Justice Harold G. Clarke, celebrating the big 8-0, was honored by his family, friends and a slew of business, government, legal and political leaders at the Forest Golf Club in Forsyth County on on Sept. 30.
The well-wishers included Mr. and Mrs. George Berry, retired Senior Vice President of Cousins Properties; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Dalton, of Troutman Sanders; Former Chief Justice Norman S. Fletcher; former Sen. and Mrs. David Gambrell; Presiding Justice Carol W. Hunstein; Justice and Mrs. Willis B. Hunt; Georgia Law Associate Dean Paul M. Kurtz; Frank Love, Jr., retired partner with Powell, Goldstein, Frazer & Murphy; Justice and Mrs. Hugh P. Thompson; and Georgia Veteran Affairs Commissioner Pete Wheeler.
Justice Clarke is a former justice of the Georgia Supreme Court, and has worked with Troutman Sanders LLP in Atlanta, Georgia. Appointed to the Georgia Supreme Court by Governor George Busbee in December 1979, he was elected Chief Justice in 1990 and served on the court until his retirement in February 1994.
Prior to his judicial appointment, Justice Clarke was a member of the Georgia General Assembly from 1961 to 1971. While in the General Assembly, Justice Clarke served as chairperson of the Local Affairs Committee, the Industry Committee, the Journals Committee, and the Constitutional Commissions Committee. Justice Clarke is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the Georgia State Bar, of which he served as President from 1976 to 1977. Justice Clarke is a graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law.
Fund-raiser for furred friends
The best Christmas ever was the year S.B.’s husband went to our local animal shelter and asked, “Who’s been here the longest?” We now have two cats, the one he adopted that day and one that adopted us a few months later.
So I’m happy to tell you about the Spay/Neuter Action Coalition of Georgia’s upcoming fund-raiser, hosted by Gwinnett County Sheriff Butch Conway.
It’s from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 6 at Jungle Jump Adventures, 4667 Thompson Mill Road, Buford. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door for adults, $10 for kids. The admission price includes hors d’oeuvres and two drink tickets for adults, and pizza and juice pouches for the kids.
The event benefits two low-cost spay/neuter clinics and will help Gwinnett County Animal Control pay for vaccinations, microchipping, collars and ID tags for pets adopted there. Info: 678-714-2467, www.junglejumpadventures.com.
Speaking of pets and Christmas …
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the weekends of October 13-14 and 20-21, the Atlanta Humane Society will host the 19th annual “Pets With Santa” photo event at its location at 981 Howell Mill Road.
For $25, participants receive a professional portrait sitting, then can order digital prints online or receive a roll of 12 photos on 35mm film to be developed where they choose. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta Humane Society. For information call 404-875-2600, Ext. 238, or see www.atlantahumane.org.
Fabulous Fernbank fete, featuring frogs
Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s annual Rainforest Rendezvous gala, themed “A Timeless Affair,” is Oct. 6 in the museum’s Great Hall.
This year’s co-chairs include Dr. William Torres, Georgia Schley Ritchie, Margaret Seitter and D. Jack Sawyer Jr. Marie and Brad Foster hosted the Sept. 24 patron party.
The corporate chair is Edward S. Heys Jr., and the host committee chairs are Fernbank trusteesJennifer and David Kahn. The presenting sponsors include Mellon Private Wealth Management group and ,b>VIP, LLC, in honor of Joey Schultz. The ball will honor Mary and Jack Izard. Patron levels begin at $1,200. Information: 404-929-6371, www.fernbankmuseum.org.
Don’t forget …
The Junior League of Atlanta’s fourth annual Charity Ball is 8 p.m. to midnight Oct. 12 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill, 916 Lowery Blvd. Tickets start at $90. Info: www.jlatlanta.org.
Permalink | |
.JPG)
-1.JPG)
Services »
