Home > Social Butterfly > Archives > 2008 > January
January 2008
Primate party at the Pink Palace
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta’s famed Pink Palace was the site of a Jan. 28 event raising money and awareness for the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.
Joanne Truffleman served as chair and Judy Hanenkrat served as event producer. Guests enjoyed a performance by the Giwayen Mata drum troup while learning about the Atlanta-based non-profit, committed to researching and protecting the world’s mountain gorillas.
Committee members included Tony Brewer, Tony Conway, Mary and Rick Horder, Dennis Kelly, Linda and Dennis Meir, Mary Ann and Dallas Rohrer and Rosina Seydel.
Guests included Merry and Chris Carlos, Steve Dickinson, Robin Fowler, Carolyn Gambino, Derek Jacoby, Tony Khoury, Tamara Kimble, Marilyn KroneSusan LeCraw, Nina Mallard, Laura Turner Seydel and Rutherford Seydel, Dottie Smith. Jerry Smith, Christina Stevens, Taryn Murphy, Sacha Taylor, Carol Thompson, Lisa Tush, Kelly Willett and Judy Zaban.
A number of DFGFI staffers attended, including president and CEO Clare Richardson.
Global gala
Man, does this sound fun.
NASH (National Assocation of Serving Hands) plans International Nite from 4-8 p.m. Feb. 16 at Meadowcreek High School, 4455 Steve Reynolds Blvd. in Norcross.
Tix are $15 for adults and $10 for children 4-10.
The event will feature cultural dances, ethnic food, belly dancing lessons and - this is reason enough to go -henna tattoos. The bash benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
Info: sesh1175@gmail.com
Help me help you!
Thanks to everyone for all the great tips on fab events going on around town.
I really do want to help you get the word out, so please follow some simple guidelines. I need basic information like time and date, location, ticket price, attire, names of the chairs and committee members, the charity your event benefits if applicable, a few details about the bash and a number or Web site for more information.
If I didn’t make it to your soiree, please feel free to send pix and a brief recap. Tell me when and where it was, some of the folks who came, some highlights and how much you raised for charity, if it was a philanthropic endeavor.
If you send a photo include the identification of everyone in the picture from left to right and - this is important - the name of the photographer.
Do me a favor, y’all, and don’t put things in ALL CAPS. When you’re sending a list of people, like members of a host committee, put their names in alphabetical order. Helps me keep everyone straight.
Some of y’all are working too hard. I’m worried about you. If you find yourself compiling a nine-page release or preparing to email a slew of PDF attachments, rest your fingers and collect yourself. Then send just the essentials!
A fab and festive weekend
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Jamie Brownlee, Jane Fonda and Lila Hertz. Photo by Poane’.
Saturday night we ran by the Atlanta History Center, where jugglers on stilts welcomed patrons for Fun Fete, which raised $350,000 for Prevent Child Abuse Georgia.
The event honored community activist Lila Hertz.
Jamie Brownlee chaired the event, Jane Fonda was honorary chair and Dave FM’s Mara Davis served as emcee. The gala committee included Hilary Abbott, Michael Axelrod, Mary Bondurant, Sarah Borders, Michele Boushka, Nancy Bryant, Susan Callaway, Nancy Caswell, Mary Delmer, Elly Dobbs, Marie Godsell, Michael Habif, Kelli Keb, Elizabeth Klump, Lisa McGahan, Victoria Palefsky, Pam Parke, Kellie Reifenberger, Cindy Stancil, Caroline Tucker, Elizabeth Willett and Barbara Zacks.
From left, Shivon Stewart, Tanya Rodriguez and Kristen Gibbs. Photo by Cathy Athaide.
Our next stop Saturday was the Masterpiece Gala, held at the Emory Conference Center Hotel. The event, co-chaired by Kathy Pilkenton and Shivon Stewart, raised money for Sophia Academy, a private Christian school for children with learning differences.
John Anderton served as emcee, the Rev. Laurence McCullough asked the blessing and author Tommy Newberry gave the keynote address. The crowd also heard heartfelt remarks from Stewart and Marie Corrigan, Sophia’s founding director.
“Sophia Academy is an amazing place to be every day,” Corrigan said. “There are incredible miracles that happen.”
We ran into Caroline Duffy and sat with Kristen and Duncan Gibbs and Tanya Rodriguez. She and husband Frank Ski, and Sherri and Alan Herrick, are now Sophia royalty, having emerged as top bidders for the “carpool king/queen” auction item, winning them convenient parking spaces and front-of-the-line status during carpool pickup.
Lisa Adler, left, and Emily Kisber
Sunday afternoon was the Horizon Theatre’s season preview party. Chef Ago Go CEO Sidney Corum, who attended with wife Bernadette, donated the glorious spread of nibbles and wine.
“I think what they do here is good work,” the civic-minded chef said. “It’s diverse work. It represents Atlanta.”
Sunday’s event featured readings, scenes and short discussions of the Horizon’s upcoming season. We visited with Horizon co-artistic directors and founders Lisa and Jeff Adler, Emily Kisber, a member of the senior ensemble, and actress Tess Malis Kincaid, who performed a monologue from “Missionary Position,” a political satire running Feb. 15 to March 16. The theater crowd also included Faye Adams, Hilda Brucker, Jenn Dwyer, Celeste Harris, Terrie Hill, Marguerite Simmons, Leonora Weaver and Ann Wilson.
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Where Should the Dogwood Festival Go?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
When the city and Piedmont Park Conservancy announced earlier this month that poor drought-stricken Piedmont Park needs a break from festivals this year, Dogwood Festival organizers got busy.
But the hunt for a new site is taking time and creativity.
Organizers have decided that Turner Field, the Atlanta Civic Center and Atlantic Station, due to various size and scheduling conflicts, aren’t going to work.
They also have considered the “Technology Square” area around 5th and Spring streets, and the Woodruff Arts Center. Neither of those turned out to be a workable option either.
But they’re not giving up. While organizers want to keep the 72nd annual event, planned for April 4-6, in Midtown, looking to Lenox Square or Stone Mountain might be necessary, as my colleague Chandler Brown reports in Tuesday’s AJC.
“Both facilities can host the event and have proven successes hosting events the size of the Dogwood Festival,” Atlanta Dogwood Festival executive director Brian Hill said in a release.
Have Atlanta festivals become victims of their own success? Where do you think the Dogwood should be held this year?
What’s in a name?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
According to an AJC analysis of Georgia Department of Human Resources birth records, someone, somewhere, named has their kid Butterfly.
No, it wasn’t me.
The records cover January 1990 through July 2007, and no year-by-year counts are shown for names shared by fewer than 10 people, to protect their privacy. So Butterfly could be a toddler or a teenager. All I know is she’s a female.
Does anyone know her?
Failing that, what’s your favorite unique name? I’m pretty keen on the late Kenesaw Mountain Landis, the judge who became the first MLB commish. His father was a Union soldier who fought at Kennesaw Mountain.
Do you think creative names help a child stand out, or could a too-cute name become a hinderance?
Thursday: The New Saturday
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Alison Brock, left, and Kara Brothers at the Museum of Design Atlanta’s patron preview party
After a brief holiday hiatus, Atlanta’s social scene has roared back to life!
Early on this chilly Thursday evening I struck out for the Museum of Design Atlanta’s patron preview party, celebrating The Furniture of Eero Saarinen: Designs for Everyday Living.
The show opens Jan. 31 and runs through May 3. Details: www.museumofdesign.org.
I met Hope Myles in one part of the gallery, sipping champagne and commiserating about the blustery night. Likewise,Alison Brock and Kara Brothers still had their coats on as they admired works in another part of the gallery. Barbara Winchester was there with Roman Gershkovich.
Beverly Aarons, left, and Denise McInnis at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Next stop: an opening night reception at the Center for Puppetry Arts, where I met the delightful Joyce and Aaron Lanterman.
She’s a New Jersey native and he hails from St. Louis. They’re the kind of patron arts organizations just love.
“When we first moved down here in 2001, I started looking for things to do in Atlanta and I said, cool, puppets!” Joyce said. They quickly transitioned from fans to volunteers and members.
“We come to at least three or four shows a year, and always bring lots of friends,” Joyce said.
Thursday’s reception preceded the opening night performance of Anne Frank: Within & Without, by Bobby Box. It plays through Feb. 17. See www.puppet.org for details.
Anne Cross, from left, and Jack and Stacey Harris at the Center for Puppetry Arts
On the way out I visited with Anne Cross and Stacey and Jack Harris. Jack complimented S.B.’s evening bag, so let me pause here for a little shout-out to Leslie Fram. I got this cute bag - functional, snappy and inexpensive - at LUXE, the boutique she and Carole Davenport and Jenn Ripley own.
OK, back to it.
Phoebe Beasley, from left, Sandra Baccus and Tesa Render-Wallace at Armani
After the Puppetry Arts reception it was on to Giorgio Armani at Phipps, where a clutch of fabulistas turned out to welcome artist Phoebe Beasley.
The elegant Beasley, known for work in collage art, counts Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou among her clients.
“I get to interact with their lives every day,” she said. “That to me is the biggest high.”
Prominent Atlantan Sandra Baccus became familiar with Beasley’s work in the early 1980s, and became both collector and friend.
“I just love her as an individual and as an artist,” said Baccus, who holds 12 to 15 pieces of Beasley’s work. She plans a private event this spring where some 30 pieces will be available for purchase.
The crowd included Sally Dorsey, Joanne Chesler Gross, Jada Loveless, Juan and Judith Montier, Eileen Rosencrants and Tesa Render-Wallace. Oh, and a big welcome back to town to Nancy Staab, now editor-in-chief of the Atlantan, after a stint in Houston.
The courtly Juan Montier greets Phoebe Beasley
Alright, still with me? I ended the evening at the Cobb Galleria, in the company of some of my fellow Methodists who attended a capital campaign celebration dinner for Reinhardt College. The private school in Waleska is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.
I snuck in the back just as President J. Thomas Isherwood was beginning his remarks.
“What makes us different? Too many today are willing to make passing references to their values. I believe strongly that faith drives Reinhardt College.”
I’ll follow up with Reinhardt to see who all attended the function, but I spotted a few familiar faces as the crowd dispersed, including Marietta lawyer Tom Browning and State Rep. Steve “Thunder” Tumlin (R-Marietta).
And the Rev. and Mrs. Sam Matthews, who serve First United Methodist Church.
It was a long night, and a cold one. But when your work day ends with a hug from your minister, it has been a good one.
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When bad manners and YouTube collide
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A minor tizzy has erupted just outside our nation’s capital, but it has nothing to do with anyone running for president.
A 17-year-old student, distressed that 3 inches of snow didn’t result in a school day, recently called the listed home phone number for a school system official. The student left his name and number - and the official’s wife returned the call.
Her message - where she says “Get over it, kid, and go to school!” among other unpleasantries - was posted on YouTube.
Stunningly, a Fairfax County schools spokesman told the Washington Post that it was the student’s phone call that showed a gap in civility.
“It’s really an issue of kids learning what is acceptable and not acceptable. Any call to a public servant’s house is harassment,” the spokesman said.
Oh, come on. Not to add to the incivility, but how utterly absurd.
S.B.’s not recommending students call school officials at home, or engage in belligerence of any kind, but placing a phone call to the publicly listed number of an official who draws his paycheck from public coffers is not “harassment.” (That’s assuming, of course, that the caller is not loud, profane or vulgar.)
The lesson here seems to be for the school official’s wife. Anymore, a breach of etiquette might not just be a fleeting embarrassment, but can lead to gleeful news coverage and a touch of unwanted infamy.
S.B. will give her the benefit of the doubt - we’ve all said things we regret, and most of them don’t end up on YouTube. Luckily, this lady lives near Washington D.C. Surely someone will say something even more regrettable before long.
Garden partying
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From left, Nancy Rigby, Mose Bond and Dorothy Yates.
We stopped by the Atlanta Botanical Garden Tuesday night for the patron preview party leading up to Orchid Daze, Gargoyles & Grace, which runs Saturday through March 30.
“I’ve heard from many of you that you can’t grow these at home,” the garden’s Mary Pat Matheson told patrons who’d gathered at the Fuqua Orchid Center. “That’s the point. You have to come here!”
The private preview of featured a cocktail buffet and a sneak peek at the event. (Details: www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org)
Strolling through the orchid center, we stumbled onto a family feud involving Eddie and Sally Cole of Carrollton, Eddie’s sister Carole Cole of Atlanta, and a striking white orchid.
Cymbidium, said Eddie. Dendrobium, said Sally.
Gracious Geri Laufer to the rescue.
“It could be a hybrid,” said Laufer, the garden’s public relations manager. “You could both be right.”
Next we met the dapper Jim Landon, known to ABG cognoscenti as the garden’s poet laureate, as he always pens a verse for the annual Garden of Eden Ball. No such luck Tuesday night, though.
“You’d be amazed at how few words rhyme with orchid,” he lamented.
Former ABG board member Claire Griffith, a west Texas native who’s adjusting to Atlanta after 18 years, was far too modest about her gardening prowess.
“I had to come to Atlanta to learn how to identify a magnolia,” she demurred, before tossing around terms like “bones of the garden” and telling us about her mottled-bark Natchez crape myrtles.
Volunteer of the Year Ernest Arvesen and daughter Chris Wilkinson
We visited with Sylvia and Jerry Attkisson, Shirley and Norris Broyles, Mary and John Huntz and Joan and Bill Law. Ernest Arvesen, the garden’s 2007 volunteer of the year, attended with daughter Chris Wilkinson. Nancy Rigby, Mose Bond and Dorothy Yates were good enough to pose for a photo.
We glimpsed Tricia Allen, Peggy Martin and of course Dottie Fuqua. As the evening was ending we met ABG board chairman Jackson Kelly and exhibitions manager Cathleen Cooke, heralded by the group for another magnificent show.
Valentine’s plans?
TheatreSouth Atlanta, a performance group at the Association of Black Cardiologists; conference facility at 5355 Hunter Rd., plans a “Young at Heart” fundraiser at 9 p.m. Feb. 14. The evening features cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and performances. Info: 404-419-1293, www.abcardio.org/center.
Super plans?
Hey are you having a fab Super Bowl bash? Send me the details and I’ll see if we can get a photo of your spread in after the fact. butterfly@ajc.com
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S.B. hits the Club scene
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A most gracious group of ladies met at East Lake Golf Club last week for a “Ladies of the Club” luncheon.
Edith Vinson, an Atlanta native who’s been a member of East Lake for more than 40 years, organized the outing. Her idea was to bring together ladies who had been affiliated with East Lake over the years. Nearly everyone on the invitation list attended, with a few having to send regrets due to illness or conflict.
After about a half-hour of chit chat, the group enjoyed a buffet lunch of cream of mushroom soup, salad, grilled chicken, green beans and rice and cookies for dessert. The room filled with memories as the luncheon began.
Elaine Bonner, whose parents were members, recalled spreading out quilts on the lawn during summertime barbecues. Anita Womack was proud to note that her husband, the late J.C. Womack, made the wooden markers for the best golf scores, now hanging in the bar.
Helen Henley, née McWhorter, became a member when she married in 1943 and is still thrilled to tell you about her hole-in-one in 1950. “I never managed to get any more,” she confessed.
Attendees included Barbara Allard, Carol Brasher, Ginky Budd, Sis Budd, Shirley Davis, Renee Day, Jane Maas Edwards, Billie Finley, Mary Garner, Emily Grigsby, Carroll Lindseth, Myree Maas, Jerry Patrick, Rachel Robertson, Sissy Saroka, Jo Thach, Kirby Vanderyt and Doris Wimbish.
A half-century of fashion flair
The 50th annual Ebony Fashion Fair, benefiting the Atlanta Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, is planned for 4 p.m. Feb. 17 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
The event, themed Glam Odyssey: A Fashion Journey Into Bliss & Beyond, will feature models in hot designer creations. In the past the event has allowed the chapter to award more than $25,000 in scholarships to deserving Atlanta Public Schools seniors.
Tickets are $50 for orchestra level and $45 for mezzanine level. A VIP reception from 2 to 3 p.m. is an additional $10. Each ticket includes a choice of a one-year subscription to Ebony magazine or a six-month subscription to Jet magazine.
Marie Baker Wilson is the event chair, Elaine Carlisle is co-chair and Nadine Baker Smith is chapter president. Info: 404-696-0043.
Breaking Bow Tie News
Here’s a missive from one Kirk Edward Hinckley, whose bow tie operation is strategically located just south of the Mason-Dixon Line:
“Just wanted to let you know about our website: www.bowtieclub.com. We have been producing hand made silk bow ties in Maryland for over 14 years. The location should please both Northerners and Southerners alike!”
I took a look at his Web site and he has some gorgeous ties. I wish I’d known about his Black Watch or Prince of Wales tartans before the holidays. They’re smashing.
Locally, William Leecan let me know about his bow tie outfit, Untie. They’re reversible. Neat!
Can anyone tell me where to find a bow tie with a butterfly pattern?
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Uga VI, party pooch
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In the society scene, it seems the more fabulous you are, the less interest you exhibit in who shows up at parties.
By that standard, Uga VI is as fab as it gets. (See photos here for proof.)
The University of Georgia mascot, looking smashing in his signature UGA gear, was the star attraction at UGA Night at the Georgia Freight Depot. Contingents from the university up the road and the Gold Dome across the street met there Thursday to enjoy chilled shrimp, lobster salad and a chocolate fondue station.
Upon arriving with owner Sonny Seiler of Savannah, Uga visited the bushes in front of the depot where he, uh, left his mark. The 9 1/2-year-old dog strode past prominent politicians including House Speaker Glenn Richardson and University President Michael Adams with nary a glance, interested only in the ice water in his special dish.
Adams, by the way, told us he remains optimistic about his idea for a major college football playoff. (My colleague Mike Knobler reported from the NCAA convention in Nashville that the NCAA did not even establish a committee to discuss the plan).
“I think we moved the needle some,” an undeterred Adams said. “There was a lot of interest expressed in private.”
So, stay tuned.
Meanwhile, the crowd eagerly lined up to meet the guest of honor Thursday night. Irene Munn, legislative counsel to Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, brought her children Carlie, 7, Lily, 9, and Billy, 10. Thursday was Lily’s birthday, by the way. Billy is a huge UGA fan and eagerly posed for a picture with the pooch.
Laura Rebok, a 2003 UGA grad, also stood in line for a photo with Uga.
“It was a dream come true,” she said. “I was there for four years and only saw him at a distance.”
Rebok was there with Senate intern Nik Hanlon, a Georgia State man.
“He’s not as ugly as I thought he’d be,” Hanlon quipped.
Seiler, who flew up from Savannah with his famous dog on the UGA plane, might beg to differ.
“He’s a society dude,” he said of Uga, who is spending the off season napping a lot. “He has a tuxedo. You can tell the world that.”
The 5-buck charity bash
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
So you’re not into $500-a-plate black tie soirees? The Butterfly’s here for you.
If you can find a 5-spot come on over to Midtown Tavern at 554 Piedmont Ave. at 9 p.m. Jan. 25. Enjoy $3 drink specials, door prizes and music from Big Rock Wedding.
The budget bash benefits the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Info: 404-944-0960.
Front row, from the left, Linda Gray, Lovett Friends of the Arts President; Jill Brennan, committee member; Kelli Keb, Great Conversation Co-Chair. Back row, from left, Caroline Leake, committee member; Libby Lanier, committee member; and Jay Freer, Lovett Director of Fine Arts
Now hear this
The Lovett School and Lovett Friends of the Arts present The Great Conversation, an event to celebrate the arts, at 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 2008, at the new Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. The evening will feature cocktails, fine dining and conversation with more than two dozen luminaries from the Atlanta arts community.
Lovett parent volunteers Kathy Hunsinger and Kelli Keb are co-chairing the event, and guest hosts include Susan Booth of the Alliance Theatre; John McFall of the Atlanta Ballet; Jane Jackson, director of Sir Elton John’s photography collection; and Peter Conlon of Live Nation Concert Producers.
“The Great Conversation” honors Ray and Beth Chenault, Lovett’s former Director of Fine Arts and Choral Directors, who served from 1976 to 2007. The Chenaults retired from Lovett last spring after helping generations of Atlantans develop a life-long interest in the arts.
Tickets are $125 per person. Tables and sponsorships are still available.
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Can I get an Amen?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Psalm 100 says make a joyful noise, y’all. Here are a couple of events planned by the Lord’s people.
First up, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church at 515 E. Ponce de Leon Ave. in Decatur holds its annual English Afternoon Tea on Sunday, Feb. 10 in Tisdale Hall.
There will be two seatings: 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The menu includes tea and scones, sandwiches and sweets. Tickets are $15 and proceeds benefit local outreach projects. For information and reservations, call the church at 404-377-2622.
Next, Catholic Charities Atlanta hosts a fundraising gala on April 17 at the Piedmont Driving Club. Lee and Sheila Shaw, parishioners at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Atlanta, are the event’s co-chairs. They recently hosted a gala committee kickoff reception at the Peachtree Golf Club.
At the gala, the Archbishop Donoghue Awards will be presented to two recipients to recognize great acts of charity, compassion and contributions that have significantly impacted individuals, families and children living in Atlanta and North Georgia.
For information about the gala and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Barbara Dobson, development director for Catholic Charities Atlanta, at 404-885-7474, or by email at bdobson@archatl.com.
An upscale alternative to Fan Fest
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
So the overpopulated Fan Fest wasn’t your thing?
Here’s a less chaotic happening with some of the Braves.
The 16th annual Tom Glavine’s Spring Training event, benefiting the Georgia Transplant Foundation, is 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Georgia Aquarium.
Organizers expect a range of local sports celebs at the event, which will feature Wolfgang Puck’s cuisine, gaming tables and live and silent auctions.
Past attendees have included Braves Chipper Jones and John Smoltz, and Falcons Alge Crumpler and Keith Brooking.
Over the years Spring Training has raised $3.8 million for the Georgia Transplant Foundation, which provides emergency financial aid, mentoring and scholarships to Georgians affected by organ transplantation.
Tickets are $500. Call 678-514-1185 or see www.gatransplant.org.
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The scoop on an upcoming garden gala
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Debi Cziok and Charles Wayne
Let me tell you a little about the cause behind a fun upcoming gala.
The 2008 Southeastern Flower Show’s opening night party is planned for 7 p.m. Jan. 29 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The gala raises money for the Legacy Garden program.
Last year’s Legacy recipient was the Shepherd Center. I stopped by there Tuesday afternoon and visited with Debi Cziok, Shepherd Center’s horticulture specialist.
“It was a blessing for us,” she said of the garden donated through the Legacy program. “We were honored to have been chosen.”
The Shepherd Legacy Garden is just a rock’s throw from busy Peachtree Street, but you wouldn’t know it. It’s a cozy nook of raised beds planted with pansies, snapdragons, ornamental grasses, rosemary and camellias. The beds’ heights vary, allowing patients to access them from manual or motorized wheelchairs.
Patients can help with tasks like weeding, or just enjoy the garden with their families. Some have created “yard art” - stones decorated with college team colors or happy sayings.
Charles Wayne, recovering from a motorcycle accident, has been at Shepherd since October. He used to garden with his mother growing up, and always cut his grass and his neighbor’s. In fact, his lawn manicuring skills became so good that it became a side business for him.
Today, Wayne enjoys getting out in the sun and spending time in the garden at Shepherd.
“This is a getaway for people,” Cziok said.
This year’s Legacy Garden recipient will be Shepherd’s next-door neighbor, Piedmont Hospital. The program will enchance the Byrd Barrier-Free Garden, used for rehabilitative horticultural therapy, as well as a deck outside the Infusion Center. Patients and their families can enjoy the tranquil garden area during chemotherapy and other therapeutic drug infusions.
The Legacy Garden program was started in 1994, and other recipients have included the Wesley Woods Hospital, the Emory Winship Cancer Institute and Oakland Cemetery.
So, back to the gala.
The chairs are Mary Wayne Dixon and her daughter, Ginger Dixon Molloy. WSB-TV’s Jovita Moore will serve as gala host, along with colleagues Chuck Dowdle and David Chandley. Hirtle, Callaghan & Co. is sponsoring the gala. Tickets to the black-tie event are $200; call 404-351-1074.
Beth and Tom Ventulett are the show’s honorary chairs, and Timothy Martin is the show artist.
The 21st annual Southeastern Flower Show, themed “Imagine That!”, will be Jan. 30 through Feb. 3. The show chair is Nan Henson.
Information about the show: www.flowershow.org.
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Best in Shoe
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Shoot, I hate I missed this one, but had a Junior League meeting last Tuesday night when the Hello Stiletto Shoe Club met at Food Studio.
More than 50 people sipped “Cinderella” martinis and competed for prizes like “Most Outrageous Shoe,” “Sexiest Shoe” and “Best Shoe.” The well-heeled group turned out in everything from white fur boots to vintage blue sparkly Moschino heels.
Gina Bishop, Amanda Viciana and Jula Jane. Photo by Kareem Quow of KQP Photography.
Winners included Melanie Endsley (Best Shoe) and Jula Jane and Gina Bishop (a tie for Sexiest Shoe),
Amanda Viciana is the Shoe Club event coordinator.
The Hello Stiletto Shoe Club is a free social networking club for shoe lovers. For more information, visit www.shoeclub.us. You can also email Amanda at Amanda@shoeclub.us
Gwinnett is great
Hooray for Gwinnett County at landing the minor league Braves team. The booming county is also home to lots of arts organizations and the patrons who support them.
Backstage Pass, the annual black-tie bash supporting the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre, is planned for 7 to 10 p.m. Feb. 2, at the Historic Courthouse in downtown Lawrenceville.
The event features a gourmet buffet and bar, live jazz music, and raffles for prizes including a golf weekend at High Hampton, N.C.; a downtown Atlanta getaway featuring tickets to the Shakespeare Tavern and an overnight stay at the Georgian Terrace; a weekend stay at a mountain condo in Hiawasee with dinner and shopping; a Gwinnett Center package with tickets to the Gwinnett Gladiators, an overnight stay at the Holiday Inn and dinner at the Loafing Leprechaun; and a historic downtown Lawrenceville package.
The Backstage Pass chair is Katy Bockhop.
Committee members are Beth Guyton, Tiffany Messick, Tracy Ball, Missy Burnam, C. Suzette Ellis-Hoyle, Stephanie Bruno, Deb Saul, Ginny Ring, Holley Calmes, Jessica Polakowski, Kris Pappafotis, Karen Whitehead, Susan Meng, Meredith Retter, Melissa Mott, Mary Beth Wydock, Jennifer Silas, Lisa Scheaffer, and Lisa Sheppard Robson, the ballet’s artistic director.
Tickets are $50 each, 404-831-1048.
Are you a bow tie guy?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I get such funny emails.
Here’s one, regarding a recent item on the newly formed Atlanta Bow Tie Society.
Dear Social Butterfly:
While skimming through the AJC last week I noted your bit about bow ties and the recommendation of Beau Ties of Vermont. I have purchased bow ties from Beau Ties, but they are, after all, Yankee bow ties. There are a few Southern alternatives. R. Hanauer in Fort Mill, S.C. - www.bowties.com is a great source, as is Ben Silver in Charleston www.bensilver.com. Right here in Atlanta is Southern Proper www.southernproper.com, another excellent source.
Regards,
J. P.
My response:
Oh thank goodness. You know it pains me to say anything nice about anything happening north of Richmond, but after all Southerners are known for our manners.
S.B.
(Just kidding, y’all.)
I also heard from John Yauger - his friends called him Bud back in the day. He and his wife just a new company, Bud’s Bows. Stay tuned for their new Web site, but I’m told their items are currently available at Miller Brothers and the Children’s Shop at Peachtree Battle.
Any other bow tie guys out there? Where do you shop?
And if you’re wearing one today send me a photo: butterfly@ajc.com.
Mr. Yauger sent this one of his son Sam, 4:
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Return of the Butterfly
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’m back!
Since early January is sort of a lull on the social calendar, the Butterfly took last week off. I did pick up one social column tidbit during my time away. The Junior League of Cobb-Marietta’s planned “Dames Through the Decades” gala, originally planned for Feb. 23, has been rescheduled for later this spring, so stay tuned.
If you called or e-mailed last week, I promise I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Right now I’m having a great time sifting through the mail which included, and I’m not making this up, an item sent from Johnson State Prison. Who knew S.B. had a following inside the Big House? I believe that’s what they call street cred, y’all.
Alright, let’s get to it.
When potential donors and volunteers want to learn more about the Shepherd Center, they’ll often tour the hospital with the gracious Alana Shepherd leading the way. One of the founders of the private hospital that cares for patients with spinal cord injury and disease, acquired brain injury, multiple sclerosis or other neuromuscular problems, Shepherd keeps tours to a brisk clip but pauses here and there to visit with doctors, staffers and patients, all of whom she greets by name.
Alana Shepherd
The Iris Garden Club, which counts Shepherd among its members, plans an upcoming luncheon to raise money for a garden on the terrace outside the new Shepherd Center cafeteria. The event, themed Tablescapes Adventure: An Exhibition of Dining Styles by Leaders of Design, is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 12 at 103 West in Buckhead.
Tables at the luncheon will boast the creative talents of 30 Atlanta interior and floral designers, many of whom are donating items to be raffled. Patrons will also have the opportunity to purchase floral centerpiece arrangements made by garden club members. Performers from the Atlanta Lyric Theatre will provide entertainment.
Pam Wakefield is the Iris Garden Club’s president and executive adviser for the event, being chaired by Kay Quigley and Cindy Voyles. Committee chairs include Bonnie Burnette, Melissa Davis, Stacy Deloach, Diane Drake, Patra Evans, Anne Orndahl, Linda Peterson and Seashols Starks.
Tickets are $100 each. Email Patra Evans at patra312@gmail.com. For information on Shepherd: www.shepherd.org.
Chef Yves Samake
A delicious way to celebrate
Yves Samake, executive chef at the downtown Ritz-Carlton, has created a unique menu featuring African cuisine paired with African wines in recognition of Black History Month, celebrated in February.
The special menu begins with babaganoush on pita bread and a light seafood stew with coriander, cumin and Moroccan spices and includes quail pastilla with Moroccan salad and seared quail breast, couscous with chicken, beef, lamb and merguez sausages. Then it’s on to poached persimmons and tangerine with orange blossom water and blood orange sorbet and Algerian stuffed dates. The meal will be paired with white wines from South Africa and northern Morocco, and finishes with Ethiopian coffee.
Samake expresses his family heritage in his food: his father immigrated to France from Mali. His mother, an accomplished cook who stoked young Yves’ interest in cuisine early on, mastered a diverse range of ethnic dishes. The four-course menu is offered Feb. 1 and 2; Feb. 7-9 and Feb. 21-23. The cost is $108 per person with paired wines. $78 per person without. Call 404-221-6550 for reservations.
A special night for a special school
Sophia Academy, a Christian school devoted solely to students with learning differences, plans its annual fundraiser, The Masterpiece Gala, at 7 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Emory Conference Center.
The event will feature live and silent auctions, music by The Neons and a keynote address by author and motivational speaker Tommy Newberry. Auctioneers are Bob Russell and State Rep. Brooks Coleman (R-Duluth). The event is cocktail attire. Tickets are $100 per person and $1,000 for a table.
Co-chairs are Shivon Stewart and Kathy Pilkenton. For more info call 404-303-8722. Sophia serves 135 students in kindergarten through 8th grade and recently moved to a renovated building on Dresden Drive. www.sophiaacademy.org.
Students (left to right, bottom to top) Nolan Gibbs, Jack Kistler, Dean Eith, Landon Bryant, Mary Mitchell Tucker, and Brayden Moraes enjoy the new playground with gala committee members Kristen Gibbs, Shivon Stewart, Kelly Ryan, Jayne Train and Jeannie Collins.
And finally
The 13th annual Port O’ Call benefiting the Atlanta Ronald McDonald House programs is planned for 8 p.m. on Feb. 2 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill. The evening features hors d’oeuvres provided by local eateries, an open bar and live and silent auctions.
Don’t miss the raffle drawing for a seven-night stay at a villa in St. Barts including airfare. Raffle tickets are $10 each or six for $50. Tickets are $75 in advance, $85 the day of the event. See www.armh.com or call 404-315-1133 ext. 1104.
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Honoring Ruth Dobbs Anthony
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Happy mid-week fabsters. I’m actually off this week but wanted to add a few things to the blog. See y’all next week…SB
Alright, let’s get to it.
First up, let’s hear it for Ruth Dobbs Anthony, honored at the the Buckhead Girls Club’s recent winter luncheon as “Woman of the Year.” The honor was bestowed by club founder Jenny Pruitt.
Anthony has volunteered with organizations including the Shepherd Center, the Atlanta History Center and the Forward Arts Foundation. She has co-chaired the Swan Coach House Flea Market and recently co-chaired, along with Pruitt and Valery Voyles, the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre’s opening night gala.
The Buckhead Girls luncheon, held Dec. 8 at the Cherokee Town Club, featured a fashion show of evening dresses coordinated by member Joyce Mayfield and starring Linda Farr, Carol Grady, Rhette Greenlees, Barbara Goldsmith, Meredith Johnson, Barbara Oliver and Jackie Sanford.
The Buckhead Girls Club supports area cultural and charitable organizations, and it’s open to women who graduated from Buckhead-area high schools or who have been Buckhead residents for at least 20 years. For membership information, call 404-237-5000.
Celebrating 40 years at the CDA
The North Fulton Child Development Association got its start in 1968 as a small group of volunteers looking after nine pre-school-aged children while their parents worked.
Today the CDA serves more than 300 children in 11 classrooms at the North Fulton Human Services Building. Children then go on to schools in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Milton, Alpharetta and Johns Creek.
To celebrate and support the CDA, Roswell Mayor Jere Wood and Alpharetta Mayor Arthur Letchas are hosting the Founders Day Luncheon at noon Feb. 13 at the Metropolitan Club in Alpharetta.
Committee chairs are CDA board members Lee Chadwick and Alvaro Galvis. Featured speakers will include Kessell Stelling of Bank of North Georgia, Alan Golden of Georgia Power and Brandon Beach, CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Donna Smythe is the CDA’s executive director.
Tickets for the business-attire event are $75 per person. Call 770-992-4339 or see www.cdakids.org. Oh, and stay tuned for the 40th anniversary gala, a black-tie bash planned for May 2.
See you at the downtown Ritz
Tour de Champagne featuring a silent auction to benefit Angel Flight of Georgia, rolls into town Jan. 19 at the downtown Ritz-Carlton.
Patrons will sample more than 20 brands of champagne and cuisine from local restaurants including Atlanta Grill, Eno, Food 101, Joël, Repast, Steel, Geisha House, Dolce, Shaun’s and the Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View.
The event is from 7 to 10 p.m. At 10 p.m. the VIP fin de soirée begins and includes a cognac tasting and dessert selection. Attire is cocktail/black tie optional.
Tickets are $110; $150 for the VIP treatment. E-mail information@tourdechampagne.com or see www.tourdechampagne.com/atlanta.html.
Angel Flight of Georgia is a nonprofit volunteer pilot organization that provides patients in need with free air transportation to locations where they are to receive nonemergency medical treatments. About 800 pilots donate their time to Angel Flight, which covers Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and the Carolinas, said former Angel Flight board member Sandy Johnson, who volunteers her time as an office manager with the group.
If patients need to be taken outside that region, Angel Flight can coordinate with volunteer pilot organizations in neighboring states, Johnson said. Many of the patients Angel Flight serves are rural Georgians who need transportation to Atlanta-area hospitals, she said.
“A lot of our patients, their immune systems are compromised,” Johnson said. “A commercial flight doesn’t work for them.”
And at the Buckhead Ritz
The Taste of Love gala, benefiting the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia, is planned for 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Feb. 9 at the Buckhead Ritz-Carlton.
Organizers expect a crowd of more than 500 at the black-tie bash. WSB-TV’s Chuck Dowdle emcees and Rhythm Nation entertains.
The host committee includes Wes Bigler, Susan Ganser, Anita Patterson, Bonnie Terwilliger Leadbetter, Patricia B. Terwilliger and Cheryl Windom.
Pete Graybill is the EFGA board president.
Tickets are $225 each. Tables of 10 are $2,250 and tables of 12 are $2,700. Call 404-527-7155 or see www.epilepsyfoundation .org/georgia.
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The MASKED Ball haul
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The 24th annual Mayor’s MASKED Ball (Mankind Assisting Students Kindle Educational Dreams) raised more than $1 million for the United Negro College Fund.
More than 1,000 revelers turned out for the Dec. 15 event, held at the Hilton Atlanta Hotel and hosted by Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin and Dr. Michael L. Lomax, the UNCF’s president and CEO.
The evening began with a VIP awards reception and silent auction, and it included a seated dinner, Parade of Masks and dancing to the music of Ashford & Simpson.
Prominent patrons included actors and producers Tim and Daphne Reid, actresses Bernadette Stanis and Dawnn Lewis, actor, composer, singer and minister Clifton Davis; and recording artist Freddie Jackson.
Over the years the ball has raised nearly $20 million to support the 65,000 students attending the nation’s 39 UNCF member colleges and universities, including Clark Atlanta University, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College and Spelman College in Atlanta and Paine College in Augusta. Info: www.uncf.org.
Mark your calendar
“A Starry Night,” the seventh annual fund-raiser for Catalyst for CARE, is planned for 7 to 11 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill.
The event features music by the Mike Veal Band, cocktail buffet catered by Avenue Catering, an open bar, and silent and live auctions.
Tickets are $100 in advance and $125 at the door. Catalyst for CARE serves kids in Georgia’s foster care system by providing college scholarships, emergency financial assistance, mentors, professional networking and job search opportunities, training and professional development for caregivers and child advocates, on-campus supports for college students and much more.
Its executive director is Normer Adams.
Tix and info: www.catalystforcare.org.
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Did you get engaged over the holidays?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mikel Muffley and Melinda Chandler got hitched on Dec. 29.
Lots of great news over the holiday season - three of my colleagues got engaged (two to each other) and some dear friends announced they were expecting.
And here’s some wedding news: Muffley & Associates president Mikel Muffley and LUI-B’s Melinda Chandler were married on Dec. 29 at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church, with Senior Minister Dr. Don Harp officiating.
The matron of honor was Alishia Johnson, the bride’s sister, and best man was Scott Muffley, the groom’s brother.
After the ceremony, the new couple joined family for dinner at Table 1280, then welcomed friends for a black tie reception.
The guest list included Mr. and Mrs. Chris Carlos, Stanley Ellis, Mr. and Mrs. Pano Karatassos, Abby King De Perez, Yong Pak, Mr. Billy Reeves Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Rosencrantz and Sydna Worthington.
Jazz artist Joe Gransden entertained with an assist by Richie Arpino, a longtime friend of the bride and groom, who sang Van Morrison’s “Moondance.”
Guests sipped Veuve Clicquot and nibbled miniature Moon Pies decorated with lyrics of “Fly Me to the Moon<’ in honor of the Southern bride and the groom’s love of Chicago and Frank Sinatra. How sweet is that?
Your turn: anyone have a New Year’s engagement story to share?
