Home > Social Butterfly > Archives > 2008 > March
March 2008
Tex hits the links for charity
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta Braves first baseman Mark Teixeira has signed on to host the 2008 Prevent Child Abuse Georgia Celebrity Golf Classic, planned for June 30 at White Columns Country Club in Alpharetta.
Proceeds benefit Prevent Child Abuse Georgia (PCA) Georgia, a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and neglect.
Organizers expect Tex to be joined by some of his fellow Braves and other ATL celebs.
Golf registration and warm-up will begin at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start-scramble format at 1 p.m. Dinner, awards ceremony and silent auction follows at 6 p.m.
Teixeira and his wife Leigh created the Mark Teixeira Charitable Foundation in 2006 to raise money for various youth endeavors. The foundation has benefited Habitat for Humanity, The Major League Baseball Player’s Trust, Volunteers of America, programs to aid Hurricane Katrina victims and a scholarship in memory of Nick Liberatore, a childhood friend killed in a car accident.
Celebrity Golf Classic sponsors include presenting sponsor Taylor, Bean & Whitaker Mortgage Corporation; along with the Atlanta Braves, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 680 The Fan, Edwin Watts Golf, Freddie Mac, Srixon, Bank of Oklahoma, Ray’s Restaurants and Georgia Natural Gas.
Sponsorships are still available at the following levels: Hall of Fame: $35,000; All Star Level: $20,000; MVP Level: $10,000; Starter Level: $5,000; Pinch Hitter: $2,500; Beverage Sponsor: $2,000. Individual spots are available at a cost of $750 per golfer as well as Hole sponsorships at a cost of $250.
See www.pcageorgia.org, call 404/870-6589 or e-mail lorend@pcageorgia.org for more info.
Shepherd Celebrates
Rep. Lewis and James Shepherd Jr.
Shepherd Center supporters came out for March 25 dedication and blessing ceremony for the hospital’s new $53 million expansion.
Shepherd Centers co-founders Alana Shepherd and James H. Shepherd Jr. visited with guests including U.S. Rep. John Lewis, Sally Dorsey, Gwin Oliver, and lead donor Jane Woodruff.
Shepherd Center is a Buckhead rehabilitation hospital for people with spinal cord and brain injuries.
Sally Dorsey and Gwin Oliver
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Doug Flutie on football, autism
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Doug Flutie with Saba Silverman, founder of the Habima Theatre
Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie, founder of the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism (www.dougflutiejrfoundation.org), was in town Thursday to help kick off the 15th season at Jerry’s Habima Theatre.
The theatrical company, at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, is directed and produced by professionals featuring actors with developmental disabilities.
At the benefit reception before the production of “Footloose,” Flutie engaged patrons in a discussion of his autistic son, Doug Jr., 16.
“We can’t put limitations on children,” said Flutie. He shared a story of how a therapist helped Doug Jr. windsurf, even though he doubted his son would be able to do it.
“I’m synonymous with all this ‘never give up’ stuff, and there’s my son proving me wrong right in front of my face,” Flutie said before a crowd of about 300.
“It’s been a long, fun career — the (playing) career was nice,” said Flutie, now a football commentator. “When I retired, I was ready to retire. But someday, I would love to be remembered as the guy who set in motion a cure for autism.”
He and his wife Laurie also have a daughter Alexa, 20, who has handled her brother’s condition with grace and compassion, he said.
“She grew up a little quicker, and showed maturity that some of her friends don’t have,” he said. “I’m very proud of her.”
Doug Flutie with Susie Davidow, director of Jerry’s Habima Theatre at the The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta
After his remarks Flutie took questions about both autism and sports. Here are condensed excerpts of his remarks. Questions, which came from audience members, are paraphrased.
Q: Do you think there is a link between autism and vaccines?
A: There is some relation. What it is, I don’t know. I’m not a doctor. All I know is at 2, Dougie’s shooting hoops and talking smack. Next thing you know, he’s tripping over toys. I was never immunized for chicken pox. I did okay.
Q:What kinds of programming would you like to see offered to children with autism?
A: Whatever is going to push the children to be more and more independent.
Q: What’s your prediction for Matt Ryan (the top-rated quarterback from Boston College and a possible Falcons draft pick)?
A: I know Matt Ryan very well. He will definitely be the first quarterback drafted. Matt has all these intangible qualities of a leader, and he’s tough.
Q: What coach had the most impact on you?
A: My offensive coordinator at Boston College. He was a drill sergeant, a real stickler, disciplinarian. His name is Tom Coughlin (now the Super Bowl champion New York Giants’ head coach.) I learned more football from that man. After working for Tom and learning it his way, everything else came easy.
Q: Do athletes have a responsibility to serve as mentors?
A: It’s not a responsibility, it’s a choice. I shake my head at the sense of entitlement, the “what can you do for me?” attitude of so many of the youngsters. I wish they would take the virtues and morals of the players into consideration. The people paying all this money (to athletes) ought to consider that before promoting them. It you’re going to be an idiot, go be an idiot quietly. Take all the idiots out of the league. We’ll lower the salary cap and still play great football.
The Jerry’s Habima Theatre production of “Footloose” is this weekend at the MJCCA’s Morris and Rae Frank Theatre, 5342 Tilly Mill Rd. Dunwoody. Performances are 8:30 p.m. Saturday and 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $32; $15 for children 12 and under. (For MJCCA members: $22; $10 for children 12 and under.) For tickets call the box office at 678-812-4002.
Permalink | Comments (5) | Post your comment |
Is modesty in fashion?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Parents of ‘tween girls, is it hard for you to find outfits your daughters like and that you approve of?
I don’t have kids, but walking past the girls’ department I sometimes wonder who is buying midriff-baring tops for 12-year-olds.
Here’s an event that sounds interesting: The Pure Fashion Show, which emphasizes modesty.
Brenda Sharman
“Modesty is more than the way we dress; it is an outward reflection of an interior attitude,” says Brenda Sharman, former Miss Georgia USA and National Director of Pure Fashion, a faith-based group.
Pure Fashion started with a group of moms and their teenage daughters who felt clothing for young ladies had gone a little too Britney.
“Girls can wear cute clothes and still maintain their dignity,” the group says.
Here are some photos from last year’s show. Would your daughter wear these types of outfits? Do you wish she would?
This year’s fashion show starts at 2 p.m. April 20 in the Georgia Ballroom at the Georgia World Congress Center. Doors open for pre-function activities and heavy hors d’oeuvres at 12:30 p.m
Organizers expect more than 2,000 at the event, which also will feature performances by Carried Away, a Dove Award-winning Christian group from Tennessee; Lindee Link, 13, of Peachtree City, and Atlanta Ballet dancer Mary Kate McCarthy.
More than 60 teenage girls will model, having begun preparation for the show last year with training in etiquette, public speaking and make-up application.
Tickets are $45 per person with $45 cash back at the show if 10 tickets are purchased at one time. This ‘early bird special’ runs through March 31. Info: www.purefashion.com.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment |
The newlyweds and their teacher
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Killips
Honoree Barbara Rosenblit
Here’s the sweetest story.
Avi Goldman and Robert Killip are both Weber School alums, having graduated in 2003. Barbara Rosenblit was one of their teachers there.
On March 16, Avi and Robert got married. The same night, Weber was holding its sixth annual Evening of Honor gala, saluting former Weber president Mark Cohen and Rosenblit, a Judaics and history teacher.
More than 600 people attended the event, including the brand-new Mr. and Mrs. Killip, who attended still in their wedding attire.
The Evening, held at the InterContinental in Buckhead, raised more than $200,000 for the school and featured comments from school president Harold Kirtz, current co-heads of school Paul Ginburg and Nanci Pearson, and Carol Cooper of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta.
Cohen
Bag bash to fund credit counseling efforts
Now here’s a timely event.
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta, which helps consumers get back on their feet financially, plans a fun charity event called Purse Strings.
The fundraiser, featuring a live and silent auctions of more than 100 handbags, wallets and accessories from well-known designers, local artists and boutiques, will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. April 30 at the Biltmore Ballrooms.
CCCS president Suzanne Boas says the event will raise funds for education and counseling programs.
“We also hope to raise awareness of the need for women to take charge of their financial future,” she said.
Belinda Stubblefield, owner of WineStyles and a member of the agency’s board of directors, is chair for the event. Lani Wong, executive director and chair of the National Association of Chinese Americans, and Martha Greenway, chief planning and development officer of Fulton County Schools, are the co-chairs.
Power of the Purse host committee members include: Suzanne Sitherwood, president of Atlanta Gas Light; State Rep. Kathy Ashe (D-Atlanta); Pin Pin Chau, retired chief executive officer, Summit National Bank; Stacey Davis Stewart, senior vice president, Fannie Mae Office of Community and Charitable Giving; Ingrid Saunders Jones, senior vice president, The Coca-Cola Company and chairperson, The Coca-Cola Foundation and Shirley Mitchell, senior vice president, market development, Bank of America.
“The majority of CCCS’ clients are low-income women,” Stubblefield said. “I became involved with this event to raise awareness and funding to help provide sustainable solutions.”
Admission is $75 per person, including heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts from Affairs to Remember, open bar and parking. Attire is dressy-casual.
For more information call 404-260-3107 or e-mail megan.cutts@cccsinc.org. For information on CCCS see www.cccsinc.org or www.cccsenespanol.org.
Permalink | Comments (0) | Post your comment |
Former American Idol star in town for gala
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
American Idol finalist and Top 40 artist Elliott Yamin will perform at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Hope for a Cure gala, planned for 6 p.m. April 26 at the InterContinental. Diagnosed at 16 with type 1 diabetes, Yamin raises money and awareness for the disease. “I went from being your average 16-year-old knucklehead to having to confront this incurable, life-threatening disease,” he said. “All the crazy, fun stuff you do when you’re a teenager had to take a back seat to watching what I ate and monitoring my insulin level.” Gala chairs are Wachovia’s Grant Boyd, Steve Riddell of Troutman Sanders and CNN’s Jack Womack. The event will honor the legacy of the late James O. Robbins, former Cox Communications CEO and longtime chapter and international board member of JDRF. Tickets start at $250 each. Call 404-420-5996, e-mail aflynn@jdrf.org. or see www.jdrfgeorgia.org. Friends, gather ‘round The Friends School of Atlanta will hold its annual gala wine-tasting and auction, Aurora Borealis, starting at 6:30 p.m. March 29, at the school, 121 Sams St. in Decatur. The Patrick Bryant Trio headlines the entertainment. Auction chair is Lorie Flacker. Tickets are $35 each, and proceeds support the school’s tuition aid fund. The Friends’ School provides challenging academics in a diverse environment, drawing on the Quaker values of truth, simplicity, community, equality and peace. For more information call 404-638-0611 or see www.friendsschoolatlanta.org. Atlanta Braves and Falcons wives including Chris Glavine and Erin Finneran teamed up Feb. 28 at Festivity at the Forum to raise money for CURE Childhood Cancer. The Spring Fling shopping event featured a spring fashion show and drinks and nibbles from Fresh Market, Mona Vie and Mona Tinis. They’re shown above with Festivity partners Kate Dempsey and Colleen Nilan. Lunching for a great cause The 2008 Georgia CASA Luncheon & Fashion Show, held March 12 at Maggiano’s Little Italy in Buckhead, was themed “Because No Child Should Stand Alone.” It honored the Atlanta alumnae chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta for its longtime support of Georgia CASA. The event’s chair was Marie Hannon and guest speaker was More info: www.gacasa.org.
Permalink | Comments (4) | Post your comment |
These girls are pearls
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Upsilon Alpha Omega Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the Gwinnett Pearls of Service Foundation are planning their fifth debutante cotillion and scholarship ball for 6:30 p.m. April 12 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
This year’s debs include Alexandria Mann, Alyssa Danielle Vinson, Alyssa DeBerry, Andrea Wilson, Atia Scott, Courtney Alexis Mason, Courtney Elizabeth Lurry, Essance Johnson, Jasmine Jones, Jennifer Colvin, Kiana D. Woodson and Kristin Janae Stevens.
Also, LeChere Neapollioun, Mallory Page Fox, Mi’Lisa Patton, Mia Elise Whigham, Micah Ducre, Monique Jones, Morgan Kaya Prime, Morgan Taylor-Burns, Quaterria Brown, Symone P. Glover, Tiesha Seabrook, Tracee Keels and Tyler Curry.
The cotillion follows months of activities including mentoring, self-empowering and self-esteem- building workshops, social activities, cultural outings and a mother/daughter luncheon.
Geri Baldwin Gonzalez is president of Upsilon Alpha Omega’s graduate chapter. CaSandra Smith and Andria Freemont are the event’s co-chairs. Tickets are $55, and proceeds benefit the Beauty P. Baldwin Scholarship Fund. E-mail uaodeb@yahoo.com or see www.upsilonalphaomega.com.
Permalink | Comments (2) | Post your comment |
Making the best of bad timing
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mother Nature cancelled a Saturday evening event that would have benefited Mother Nature - but rescue workers enjoyed the fab feast instead.
Organizers were expecting about 250 people for a cocktail reception at Maxim Prime Steakhouse, the new 150-seat restaurant that has replaced the short-lived B.E.D. at the Glenn Hotel on Marietta Street. The posh event was to have featured cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
The $10-at-the-door donation would have benefited to the Captain Planet Foundation, an environmental advocacy organization. Captain Planet’s board chair is Laura Turner Seydel, whose dad Ted Turner’s downtown penthouse was walloped by the storm.
Since the party planning was well underway when storms hit, Maxim Prime decided to make the best of bad timing and donated the food that would have been served to downtown rescue workers, said publicist Liz Lapidus.
A new date for the party has yet to be determined. Captain Planet’s headquarters, in the same building as the downtown Ted’s Montana Grill, was without phone or Internet service.
An event to “Chairish”
My colleague Stacy Shelton covers the environment, so pinch-hitting for the Butterfly came naturally to her. Here’s her dispatch from a recent fundraiser:
About 300 people attended Chairish, the 14th annual gala auction to benefit the Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta at the Foundry at Puritan Mill.
The signature auction items were chairs and other furniture pieces decorated by local artists. One of the most expensive items of the night was a four-piece TV dinner table set painted in Wizard of Oz characters that sold for $525.
The nonprofit, located off Chattahoochee Avenue in Atlanta, furnishes homes for about 40 families a week. Many of them are referred by homeless shelters, executive director Megan Anderson said.
One of the clients who attended the gala, Daniel Box, 55, said he began volunteering at the Furniture Bank after he received help.
“They housed me, they fed me, they clothed me, they furnished my apartment,” Box said.
High Time for High Tea
Members of the Atlanta Chapter Of The Society, Inc., a local women’s group that supports fine arts development for African American youth, hold their annual High Tea at the Michael C. Carlos Museum on April 6.
Guests will receive a private docent led tour of the new exhibit, Lost Kingdom Of The Nile: Nubian Treasures from the Museum Of Fine Arts, Boston.
Dunwoody High School senior Teresita Hollins, who has demonstrated an interest in the arts, and plans to study architectural design, will be awarded the Dr. Aline Rivers-Jones scholarship award.
The Society’s president is Dr. Darlene Charles. The guest speaker will be Michael Kimanga, director of the Southwest Arts Center.
The Society’s affiliations include, including the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program, McClendon School of Dance, Hammonds House Galleries and Resource Center, the High Museum of Art, True Colors Theatre Company, the Alliance Theatre, and city of Atlanta and Fulton and DeKalb county art departments.
For more information call 678-231-5515.
Permalink | |
Former Motown Records exec launches wine label
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As former president of Motown Records, Kedar Massenburg has kept some pretty high-profile company, working with a slew of artists like Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, India Arie and Algebra.
But until relatively recently, he’d never had a sip of wine. The reason, the affable Massenburg says, is that he felt intimidated by talk of tannins and vintage years.
Convinced that other African-Americans felt the same way, Massenburg decided to take action. Along with oenologist Jean-Sebastian Robicquet, he has launched the K’orus wine label. The brand, part of Kedar Beverages LLC, held a launch party Saturday at Uptown Lounge.
For info: www.koruswine.com.
Carol Williams, from left, Tracy Grimes and Tammie Dunlap at Uptown Lounge.
“I only had my first glass of wine four years ago,” said Massenburg, whose mother and sister live in the Atlanta area. “It was Yellowtail. It was very simple, (the bottle) just said Shiraz. I was always intimidated by wines, didn’t know about pairing wines. I hate to be made to look stupid.”
Today, having educated himself, Massenburg’s a dedicated cab sav man who enjoys a chardonnay as well. His wine label’s motto, he said, reflects his simple delight at uncorking the vino mystique: “Educate, elevate and enjoy.”
Russell Simmons, left, and Porshla Coleman at Uptown Lounge.
Saturday’s party coincided with the birthday celebrations of actor Boris Kodjoe and actress Cynthia Bailey. The guest list included Kodjoe’s wife Nicole Ari Parker and Anthony Anderson, Dallas Austin, Jermaine Dupri, E. Lynn Harris, Eriq La Salle, Sanaa Lathan, Wendell Pierce, Lamaan Rucker and Lynn Whitfield.
Nina Harris, left, and R&B singer Algebra at Uptown Lounge
Permalink | |
Jeff Foxworthy, from Redneck to Socialite
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Now that redneck jokes have made him rich and famous, Jeff Foxworthy has gone all uptown.
This Saturday he’s being honored at “Jewel of the Nile,” the black-tie benefit for the Circle for Children. It’s at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. (Info: www.thecircleforchildren.org).
Then on March 31 he’s participating in the Centennial Legacy Golf Classic, held at Country Club of the South to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. Registration’s at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. shotgun start and awards and closing reception at 4 p.m. (info: 404-527-7594, rreid@bgcma.org, www.bgcma.org)
It would appear that Foxworthy is clearly in this one for the altruism. His next book is “How to Stink at Golf.” He recently told my colleague Phil Kloer, “I quit playing golf five years ago cause it made me madder than anything I do in life. People who had known me forever would play golf with me and say they’d never seen me act this way. I haven’t missed it.”
Kidding aside, Foxworthy’s a devoted family man who lends his time and talents to various charity around town. Wonder if there’s a set of “You Might Be a Socialite if…” jokes running through his head?
Permalink | |
How much would you bid for Miley’s guitar?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Live and silent auctions are pretty much standard at charity galas around town, and auction chairs are always hot for high profile items, to up the haul for their organization.
At several events last year, Hannah Montana tickets sent black-tie bidders into a frenzy. A set of four Hannah tickets brought in over $5,000 at last November’s March of Dimes event in Gwinnett County.
Five grand for four tickets! I’m sure the March of Dimes was beyond thrilled.
Now here’s your shot at a guitar autographed by Hannah’s alter ego, Miley Cyrus.
The third annual Breast Event Ever fundraiser is planned for 6 to 10 p.m. March 27 at the Park Tavern. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer.
The bash features food, open bar, fashion show and music along with the silent auction. Tix are $25 in advance, $35 at the door. Info: www.thebreasteventever.com.
It sounds like a neat event and I hope to stop by to see what Miley’s guitar brings. How much would you bid?
Kyle Busch, racing to do good
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kyle and kids. Photo courtesy of the Kyle Busch Foundation.
The Carrie Steele-Pitts Home in southwest Atlanta got a surprise visit from NASCAR driver Kyle Busch last Thursday night. He showed up with pizzas, racing hats and other goodies for the 55 children there. Busch also arranged for charter buses to take the kids to Friday night’s Craftsman Truck series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, where he sped to his second consecutive Craftsman Truck Series victory.
In other news Northern Ireland artist Basil Haslett’s donation to the arts in Atlanta, a tempered glass etching titled “Dogwood Sunrise,” was unveiled at Sunrise Bank last week.
The piece honors the volunteer efforts of Sunrise Bank president Charles H. Green, chair of the 2008 Dogwood Festival and Fulton County Arts Council.
Flip-flop fete
The DeKalb Medical Foundation has the cutest idea for gala attire. Their 20th annual bash is Nightingala Seaside Soiree: A Flip-Flop Formal.
That’s right, y’all, flip-flops and tuxes. It’s 7 p.m. March 29 at the Grand Hyatt in Buckhead, and features dinner, dancing, and silent auction. Proceeds will provide digital screening equipment and an electronic medical record system for Wellness on Wheels, the DeKalb Medical mobile health clinic. Call 404-501-5956 for information.
This and that
Drought affecting your party planning?
At the recent “UGA Night” bash at the Georgia Freight Depot, legislators, lobbyists and assorted staffers enjoyed a swank spread served with disposable plates and cutlery. No dishes=no dish washing.
Local party planners tell me their clients are looking at green-friendly entertainment options, from using recycled paper for invitations to choosing locally grown, organic produce on the menu. And an area garden club already has a project in mind for the proceeds of its upcoming fundraiser: rain barrels to get through anther hot, dry summer.
Is the drought or just a desire to embrace eco-friendliness having an impact on your entertainment plans? Tell me all about it: butterfly@ajc.com.
Permalink | |
A chat with Vince and Barbara Dooley
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Have you ever heard Barbara Dooley speak? She’s a stitch. She and husband Vince Dooley, the longtime UGA coach and athletic director, appeared Saturday morning as joint keynote speakers at Bosom Buddies of Georgia’s 25th anniversary Celebration of Life luncheon, themed “Stronger Together” and presented by the Georgia Cancer Foundation.
After each addressed the crowd Barbara led a sing-along to “I Just Called to Say I Love You.” Even the coach got into it.
We caught up with the Dooleys, celebrating 48 years together this month, for a brief chat during a pre-event reception at the Westin Atlanta North at Perimeter.
VINCE DOOLEY
On UGA coach Mark Richt’s recent bump in salary: “His raise is more than what I hired him for. I don’t think Mark is one that would [leave]. He’s been treated well [and deserves it]. He’s everything that you’d want in a coach.”
On the planned sculpture in his likeness: “It’s a nice tribute. I’m happy for the sculptor.”
On gardening during the drought [Vince is a master gardener with a hydrangea named after him]: “I have a couple of rain barrels. I may get more. I might put in [a cistern] underground. I have a garden for all seasons, I’m going to figure out a way to keep it alive.”
On appearing jointly with Barbara: “I’m going to talk first or I won’t get a chance to talk. She’s the main attraction.”
BARBARA DOOLEY
On her advice for the recently diagnosed: “The only way you’re going to beat it is to stay positive. You have to say, it’s not going to get me, and you have to say, I’m not afraid if it does. I had already prepared [Vince] for women bearing casseroles. I told him he’d need police directing traffic.”
On choosing which events to get involved in: “We promised each other we would not do speaking engagements on the weekends. The weekends are the only time we have to be together. But this was for cancer.”
On being approached by breast cancer patients and survivors: “I’ve probably seen 500 boobs. People literally undo their blouses to show me their scars. I’m thinking of calling my book [due out in August] ‘Tired of Talking [an alliterative synonym for breasts].’ ”
Permalink | |
He’s a Tar Heel, she’s a Dookie
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Local fabsters have no doubt spotted the glamorous Elizabeth Schulte Roth and her sweet husband Thomas at swank events around town.
Did you know their shocking secret? They hail from opposite sides of college basketball’s biggest rivalry. She’s a Duke grad, he went to Carolina.
Theirs is a house divided going into the Saturday night Tobacco Road showdown, when his top-ranked Heels meet her No. 5 Blue Devils at Duke. ESPN is airing the 9 p.m. game.
“She’s a better sport than I am [during games],” said Thomas Roth, an AthenaHealth sales exec who graduated from UNC in 1986. “We try to keep it civil as much as possible. Typically it ends up with one person having to leave the room.”
Elizabeth, the Atlanta Peach mag publisher, is quick to point out her “wife of the year” story. Once, when the Blue Devils were walloping the Heels, Thomas couldn’t take it so he decided to walk the dog. While he was gone, Carolina came back and won. Tempted though she was to let Thomas wallow in sorrow thinking Duke had prevailed, she Tivo’d the game so he could relish the Heels’ triumph.
Thomas admitted he probably would not have done the same.
“He thinks Coach K is evil,” Elizabeth said.
Married seven years, they displayed warring loyalties with their fox terrier Spencer’s Carolina collar and Duke leash until Spencer (who is not named for UNC benefactress Cornelia Phillips Spencer, 1825-1908) mussed up the collar.
“We have a smart dog, and I assume he just couldn’t deal with such a heinous accessory,” said Elizabeth Roth.
The Roths now dress baby Caroline (named for Elizabeth’s sister) in alternating sports gear. (She’s in her UNC get-up below only because her Duke onesie was in the wash.) Since life with a 6-week-old doesn’t involve sports bars, the Roths watch the game at home. It might not be the best time to drop in unannounced.
“Our neighbors know this is a bad time of year,” Elizabeth Roth said.
Local UNC and Duke alumni groups plan game-watching parties Saturday night.
Duke fans are meeting in the Veranda Room at Fox Sports Grill in Atlantic Station. The Duke Club provides appetizers. At halftime a basketball autographed by Shelden Williams, Luol Deng and Chris Duhon will be raffled to benefit the Jimmy V Foundation.
Tar Heels are watching the game at Stats, 300 Marietta St. Admission to the party, hosted by the Carolina Club and the Atlanta Young Alumni Council, costs $5 and includes bar food and beer specials in “He’s Not Here” blue cups. An autographed 2008 team ball will be raffled to benefit scholarships.
Ron Clark, from classroom to ballroom
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Dancing and doing math at Ron Clark Academy. Staff photo by Hyosub Shin.
Ron Clark got top test scores from at-risk students in Harlem. The former Disney American teacher visited a dozen banks to find a loan to renovate his innovative private middle school in southeast Atlanta. At Oprah’s urging, he wrote “The Essential 55,” a book on classroom rules that became a New York Times best seller.
Clark’s next challenge takes him from classroom to ballroom.
The first major society bash to benefit the Ron Clark Academy is 6:30 p.m. March 14 at the InterContinental Hotel. Tickets to the MaxMara Runway to Education Gala start at $250 each.
Clark and his students read “The Giver.” Staff photo by Hyosub Shin.
“It’s always a challenge doing a first-time event,” said chair Melanie Boltax a local philanthropist whose parents are retired educators.
She and Clark, both native North Carolinians, met at an event benefitng the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention in October 2006. Boltax, a regular at swank society events around town, took a shine to the youthful Clark, who strolls atop his students’ desks while they work math problems and makes up educational raps for them.
Melanie Boltax with Ron Clark Academy fifth graders, from left, Regina Asberry, Morgan Fambro, and Krystal Morbeth. Staff photo by Hyosub Shin.
They decided to combine her expertise in high-end fundraisers, his boundless enthusiasm — and the passion they share for the kids at Ron Clark Academy — and started talking about a gala last year. Things really got cracking about three months ago.
“I’m a teacher, Kim’s a teacher, we’ve had to step out of our comfort zone,” said Clark, referring to school co-founder Kim Bearden. “It’s been a challenge for us. It’s been a great growing experience.”
Organizers hope to raise $250,000 for student scholarships. A year of study costs $14,000; parents pay what they are able to on a sliding scale.
Learning’s often lively at Ron Clark Academy. Staff photo by Hyosub Shin/
At the event, MaxMara will send its 2008 spring and summer fashions down the runway and present a four-year scholarship to an incoming fifth grader. Sponsors include Delta Air Lines, Dell, Inc. and Intel, Golden Corral, Great American Financial Resources, InterContinental Hotels Group, Promethean, Inc. and Tony Brewer & Co. WXIA’s Donna Lowry serves as emcee.
The bash features a silent auction with items like Jada Loveless and Judith Leiber handbags, seated dinner — and performance by RCA students.
Not even Boltax, whose children attend public schools in DeKalb County, knows what they’ll sing.
“It’s a surprise,” Clark said.
For info see www.runwaytoeducation.com, email walker@ronclarkacademy.com or call 678-651-2102.
Ron Clark and fifth grader Seabon Davis work a math problem. Staff photo by Hyosub Shin.
New to town and looking to plug in
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’ve received a couple of similar emails recently, from folks looking to plug into Atlanta’s social-civic scene. I responded to both with some suggestions but thought I’d throw it open to your thoughts as well.
Here are excerpts to give you a gist. The first is from a young woman; the second’s from a guy. I’ve removed names and other identifying info to respect their privacy. Which local organizations should these folks look into?
We were chatting today about getting involved in organizations. I am 25 years old and live with my fiance in Atlanta. I would like for the organization to have a social aspect along with some charitable aspect. I love animals, but I am not limited to this type of charity. I was considering joining Junior League of Atlanta but I am not sure if this is good for me.
I recently moved to here in late Sept and live in mid-town, I have read your column in the past and is always good. I am writing this because I do not know anyone in town. I just thought you might be able to give me some ideas on where to go to get involved in the community and mingle? I am just really having a hard time adjusting to the South and the vibe here and people.
Almost time for Chastain concerts, entertaining
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Hot wings and silver: a classic Chastain combination.
This summer’s Classic Chastain concert series, running from June 14 to Sept. 13, will be announced in the next couple of weeks.
Along with great music, for some folks, a Chastain concert means polishing the sterling. The above photo, from AJC archives, shows a Chastain guest serving wings out of a silver chafing dish. In the one below, concert goers enjoy a glass of wine before the show.
Chastain’s legendary party scene hasn’t always gone over big with some folks, most notably performers including rockers Neil Young and Michael Stipe and “A Prairie Home Companion” host Garrison Keillor, who have all complained that the concert can feel like an afterthought, what with all that entertaining going on.
What’s your take: has Chastain’s party scene eclipsed the performances, or does it add to the fun? Anyone have pix to share of elegantly appointed tables from past concerts?
Pre-concert revelry at Chastain
Warrick Dunn, a star off the field
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Dunn and Debbie Scarborough at the Palm restaurant in Buckhead, where a caricature of Dunn was unveiled prior to the fifth annual gala benefiting his foundation last fall.
Warrick Dunn will continue his philanthropic work in Atlanta and still plans to hold the annual gala benefiting the Warrick Dunn Foundation here this fall, said Natalie Citarella, executive director of the Tampa-based organization.
“There’s still a need for our services,” she said.
“He has been in meetings all day,” Citarella continued Monday afternoon. “It’s been a great day. Warrick’s in good spirits.”
Dunn on the catwalk during the charity fashion show to benefit his foundation.
Dunn with V103’s Frank Ski at a December Compound Foundation event, benefiting local group homes.
Dunn has played a huge role in Atlanta’s social and civic scene, contributing his time, resources and celebrity to a number of causes, most notably his foundation. Just last month, a panel of judges and public votes selected Dunn from among 17 football players competing for the inaugural Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP Award on Jan. 30.
The award came with a $25,000 gift to the charity of his choice. He chose the Warrick Dunn Foundation, which has helped 74 single parents who have 192 children buy their first homes by giving them down payments and furnishings through his Home for the Holidays program.
In January, Dunn and former Falcon Allen Rossum provided seed money to launch the funds to help the children of two slain DeKalb County police officers. He frequents area schools and hospitals, making visits to young people, and it seems there’s hardly a charity gala in town where his signed sports memorabilia isn’t on the silent auction table.
Dunn was awarded the Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP award two months ago in Phoenix. The award recognizes the NFL player who made a positive impact in his community.
In an interview last month with my colleague Chris Quinn, Dunn discussed his philanthropic generosity with his usual humility.
“Over the years, we’ve just helped so many different people who come from different situations and backgrounds,” he said. “It’s been great. ”
Permalink | |
The drought hits ATL’s social scene
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
At the recent “UGA Night” bash at the Georgia Freight Depot, legislators, lobbyists and assorted staffers enjoyed a swank spread of chilled shrimp and lobster salad - served with disposable plates and cutlery.
The idea, according to signs placed around the buffet, was to save water. No dishes=no dish washing.
It’s among the recent examples I’ve noticed of water-saving or just general eco-friendliness showing up in Atlanta’s social scene.
“Quite a few of our clients are turning to ‘greener’ events and requesting 100 percent organic menus, including wine,” says Dawn Brewer of A Legendary Event. She also says clients are using recycled paper for invitations and biodegradable signage.
“One thing that we are doing as a company is changing our plastic disposables to more environmentally friendly products wherever possible,” Brewer continues. “Our executive chef, Lincoln Stevens, has found a number of bamboo, sugarcane, corn and potato based cutlery, plates, napkins and straws.”
(Sources: www.greenhome.com, and www.bambuhome.com.)
And the Roswell Garden Club’s upcoming fundraiser will pay for rain barrels at some of the community gardens club members maintain. With another hot, dry summer on the way, the club is thinking ahead.
(The event, themed “How We Dine, Dress, Drink and Drawl Down South,” is 1-3 p.m. March 19 at the Roswell Recreation Center on Grimes Bridge Road. Tix are $20. Call 770-650-4607 or by stopping by the rec center’s front desk. More info: www.roswellgardenclub.com.)
Is the drought affecting your party plans? Have you found ways to throw a green-friendly bash?
Permalink | |
Nashville stars lend talent for benefit
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A whole slew of prominent Nashville songwriters is on board for Country Music Under the Stars, hosted by the Jeff Cronon Foundation to benefit the ALS Therapy Development Institute.
They include Don Schlitz, the man behind Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler,” Mary Chapin Carpenter’s “I Feel Lucky,” and “When You Say Nothing At All,” the Keith Whitley-Allison Krause duet. Brett Jones, who penned the Montgomery Gentry hit “What Do Ya Think About That,” and Dallas Davidson, the genius behind Trace Adkins’ hit “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” are also on board.
The event is March 7 at Neely Farm Clubhouse in Norcross. Jeff Cronon was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s diseas,e approximately a year ago at 48. He and his wife Angela, who are the event’s honoray chairs, formed the foundation after his diagnosis.
Tickets are $150 per person. Email jsjordan@bellsouth.net or virginiadavidson@comcast.net for info.
Casey Cagle: Bringing sexy back
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
We caught the lieutenant governor stripping in a Buckhead hotel last week!
Going…
Going…
Going…
The Lite Gov as State Ref. Casey Cagle, right, with WSB-AM’s Herb Emory and Duchess the Great Dane.
At least it was for a good cause.
Casey Cagle temporarily shed his shirt and tie to reveal a referee’s jersey — and even pulled out a whistle — to connote how he sees his Capitol role as the Feb. 26 roast in his honor began. The G-rated gag was about as racy as things got at the event, held at the Westin.
It benefited Team Georgia, a safe transportation advocacy group (www.teamgeorgia.net).
Roasters included former Falcon Mike Kenn of Georgians for Better Transportation, and WSB’s Mark Arum, who put together a video montage of spoof political ads that Cagle’s probably had burned by now.
State Sens. Jeff Mullis (R-Chickamauga), Don Balfour (R-Snellville), Chip Pearson (R-Dawsonville) and Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) offered gentle barbs swathed in praise for the man they hope becomes governor.
Longtime local radio personality Rhubarb Jones, on the other hand, isn’t looking to get any legislation passed.
“This man’s going to be our governor some day, this guy whose favorite meal comes with a Wet-Nap,” he quipped, referring to Cagle’s fondness for barbecue.
Jones, who served as emcee, lead the crowd of about 250 in a standing ovation for law enforcement at the event.
“That not going to help you with those outstanding warrants,” cracked Cagle, who made a grand entrance escorting a festively attired Duchess, whose owner Judy Landey loaned the striking Great Dane for the occasion.
State Rep. Carl Rogers (R-Gainesville) poked fun at Cagle’s habit of making staffers select his ties and noted that Cagle’s “Seven Ways to Serve” Web site is under construction. Rogers and the Lite Guv apparently go way back.
“Most of his teachers, I know very well,” Rogers said. “Every time I see them they say, ‘I can’t believe Casey’s the lieutenant governor.’” Added Cagle: “I can’t believe it, either.”
Sally Dorsey, left, Dot Stoller, Rey Matthews and Mo Akbar at the kickoff luncheon for this year’s Legendary Party. Photo by Jim Fitts.
Work’s already underway for this year’s Legendary Party, benefiting the Shepherd Center.
Ravishing redhead Sally Dorsey, this year’s chair, presided with her customary spunk at a recent luncheon, held at the Buckhead Ritz-Carlton, to welcome committee members and dole out marching orders.
The bash will be at the Ritz at 7 p.m. Nov. 1, and the theme is “Speakeasy: Legend of the Jazz Age,” so get those flapper get-ups together. By the way I loved the party planners’ description of speakeasies: “exciting places, fraught with intrigue, and maybe a little danger.” Sounds like some newsrooms I’ve known.
Party proceeds will be used for remodeling projects at Shepherd, and the event honors longtime supporter Elizabeth Allen. Key committee members include Ruth Anthony, Dr. David F. Apple Jr., Jack Sawyer, Dell Sikes and Kimmy and Rusty Umphenour and Sara and Bob Walker. Chair-elect is Cyndae Arrendale. Info: shepherd.org.
Love blooms at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Here’s a happy start to your work week. Jeorry Balasabas and his sweetie Lindsay Kleiman were browsing in the Atlanta Botanical Garden gift shop the other day, when something sparkling caught her eye. That crafty Jeorry had enlisted the help of gift shop manager Kathleen Cody Guy’s staff to place the ring in a display case for a truly unique proposal. She said yes.
Mark your calendars Chairish the Future 2008, benefiting the Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta, starts at 7:30 p.m. March 7 at the Foundry at Puritan Mill 916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. Tickets are $60 each, a pair for $100 or table of 10 for $475. The evening features gourmet nibbles, beer and wine, and live jazz. Call 404-355-8530, email manderson@furniturebankatlanta.org or see www.furniturebankatlanta.org.
Mount Paran Christian School plans a silent auction fundraiser beginning at 6 p.m. March 8 at the Murray Arts Center is 2240 Stilesboro Rd. in Kennesaw. The event features hors d’oeuvres during the silent auction and dessert and coffee after the live auction. Comedian/magician Mark Robinson entertains and Rhonda Duff serves as auctioneer. Tickets are $35 each. Info: www.mtparanschool.com.
The DeKalb Symphony Orchestra’s gala and silent auction fundraiser is planned for 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. March 14 at the Pavillion of Dunwoody, 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd. The bash features dining and dancing to the music of the Jazztones. John Adams will serve as emcee. Proceeds benefit the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra’s educational programs. Tickets are $60 each. Call 678-891-3565.
Miracles Happen VII, a blue jeans-and-black tie bash at Chastain Horse Park, is planned for 6:30 p.m April 18. Proceeds benefit the park’s therapeutic riding program. Organizers expect a crowd of 400 for the event, featuring silent and live auctions, cocktails and a seated dinner. Sallie and Steve Rothschild are this year’s chairs, while Jennie and Peek Garlington are patron party chairs. Established by Amy Lance in 1999 with six riders, the park’s non-profit therapeutic riding program serves more than 150 children and adults each week. More than 600 volunteers actively donate their time to program, which serves students with mental or physical disabilities and includes offerings for at risk children. Tickets to Miracles Happen are $250 each. Call 404-893-5738.
.JPG)
-1.JPG)
Services »
