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2018 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala
“Tennis is mostly mental. You win or lose the match before you even go out there.”
– Venus Williams
Ask any tennis player and they will tell you that the game can be a challenging and demanding sport—but also exhilarating and fun. Unlike team sports, in tennis there are no coaches on the sidelines, timeouts, player substitutions or a 2-minute warning. You’re all alone—like boxing. So many environmental factors. Various court surfaces (asphalt, clay, grass), indoor or outdoor venues, mental distractions, and injuries. And, there’s no fixed period. The longest-ever pro tennis match was a grueling 11 hours; the shortest, 23 minutes. With all these variables, probably the worst scenario is an injury.
So, when Bethanie Mattek-Sands, the No 1 women’s doubles champ in 2017, suffered a knee injury at Wimbledon last spring, she immediately began strength training and a workout regimen for her goal of making a come back this year. Meanwhile, she serves as an ESPN commentator.
As the keynote speaker at the 18th annual Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala, held at the Denver Marriott Tech Center, she recognized three Hall of Fame inductees, league champs and youth scholarship winners.
Mattek-Sands, 32, described her own story of setbacks and recovery over an 18-year pro career. “You’ll learn a lot about yourself on the court, and a lot of what I learned I’ve taken to my personal life,” said the 7-time Grand Slam champion.
The gala, held Friday, February 2, 2018, benefits the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (CYTF), founded in 1961 by the USTA to develop the next generation of American tennis players. Mattek-Sands urged guest athletes to pursue physical and mental toughness, and to carry their sportsmanship, discipline, and self-motivation off the court.
USTA Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame inductees distinguished themselves through their dedication and contributions to the sport. Inductees are: Kellen Damico, Scott Davidoff, and Nancy Rudd Popof. Also recognized were Colorado high school state champions and USTA league teams that advanced to 2017 national championships.
Shelly St. John of the Auction Divas managed the live auction including a competitive bid for a customized racket used personally by Mattek-Sands for a match played at the French Open. Live music entertainment was provided by The Saddle Rockers.
Special thanks went to year-round support from: Subaru, Orthopedic Associates, Chipotle, MidFirst Bank, KIND, and Sprouts.
To learn more about the Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame and download an application for the CYTF scholarships due March 1, 2018 visit: http://www.colorado.usta.com
- 18th annual Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala & Awards
- Keynote speaker Bethanie Mattek-Sands speaks with Hall of Fame inductee Scott Davidoff
- Mia Settlemire, Maureen Kechriatis, Rachel Brown
- Aga Foster, Pennie Young with Jared Foster, Sportsmanship award winner
- Wendy Shaya, Leanne Palmisano, Mala Alvey
- Tom VanDeHey, Becky Hodous, Monica Haller-Bradley
- Jim and Dale Bumanglag
- Always time for photos
- Laura & Ky Ecton (Sportsmanship award winner); Mary Lynn Garger; Suzette Riddle; Rhone Kazzmarczyle
- Colorado USTA Director Fritz Garger and Keynote speaker Bethanie Mattek-Sands
- Zehua Liu (grandmother) of Lucy Lu, Sportsmanship award winner
- Mom and daughter: Brittany and Adele Sobieski
- Colorado Tennis Board & Staff leadership
- David Schott, Karen Brandner, Andy Zodin
- Crestmoor Community Association: Winner of Organization of the Year
- Heather Gray, Kristi Janos, Marcela Rascon
- Jill Ham, Kim Fox, Kim Williams
- Tennis supporters and fans
- Julie Taylor-Purdun, Leanne Palmisano
- Alica Jamal, Art Quinn, Heydari Jamal
- Keli Loeher, Theresa and Dietz Fry
- Colorado Tennis fans enjoyed a reception, and silent and live auctions at the Denver Marriott DTC
- Krista Damico, Lynda Crosby, HOF Inductee Kelen Damico, Amber Gilbert
- HOF inductee Kellen Damico with parents: Lisa and Bill Anderson
- Marty and Duke Paluch
- Josie Schaeffer, Kristi McCauley, Micha Handler, Julie Hill
- More than 500 guests attended this year’s event at the Marriott Denver DTC
- USTA Board President Angela Finan thanks board and staff
- Top Women’s Doubles Player Bethanie Mattek-Sands congratulated award winners
- Top Ranked Bethanie Mattek-Sands describes her own successes that resulted from her competitive tennis career
- Keynote speaker Bethanie Mattek-Sands describes her recovery and upcoming comeback after a 2017 injury
- The next generation of Colorado tennis players
- Keynote speaker Bethanie Mattek-Sands talks to this year’s youth award winners
- Bethanie Mattek-Sands interviews award winners
- Awards for the evening events
- Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Inductee Scott Davidoff (center)
- Olympic Gold Medalist and 7-Time Grand Slam Winner Bethanie Mattek-Sands takes bids for her personal racket
- Women’s Doubles No 1 Ranked Tennis Player (2017) Bethanie Mattek-Sands describes the specifications of her personal racket used at the French Open, Paris
Chelsea Hutchison Foundation's Casino Royale Fundraiser
The Casino Royale Gala is the 8th Annual event benefiting the Chelsea Hutchison Foundation (CHF), a non-profit supporting individuals and families living with epilepsy, a neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions.
The annual fundraiser was held Saturday, April 22 at the The Marriott Denver South in Lone Tree with emcee Deb Sheppard welcoming guests to the program followed by live auctioneer, Adam Kevil, and comments from Executive Director/Founder Julie Hutchison and board member Toni New. Speaker Jennifer Pressey thanked guests for their support and described how the organization guided and helped she and her husband cope directly with epilepsy in their family.
CHF is named after Chelsea Hutchison, who passed away April 19, 2009, at the age of 16 after suffering an epileptic seizure. Parents Julie and Doug Hutchison founded the organization to raise awareness of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) and use it to provide comfort and hope to individuals and families living with epilepsy. The organization helps provide monitoring devices to kids living with epilepsy and also funds response dogs which provide vital support such as calling for help, bringing emergency medication to the patient & bracing a fall.
Special thanks went to the gala committee: Lindsay Armstrong, Ashlee Baldwin, Stacie Bowman, Sam Dudley, Shellie Jacobucci; and to event volunteers: Doreen Christian, Kathy Erdman, Sara Foster, Michelle Gorbatjuk, Paula Padavic, Michelle Smith, and Mary Stone.
An estimated 3 million Americans and 65 million people worldwide currently live with epilepsy. It is estimated that up to 50,000 deaths occur annually in the U.S. from prolonged seizures, Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP), and other seizure-related causes such as drowning and other accidents.
To volunteer, make a donation or support CHF please visit http://www.chelseahutchisonfoundation.org or by email: chelseaslegacy@aol.com
- Casino Royale was theme of the 2017 Chelsea Hutchison Foundation
- An estimated 3 million Americans live with epilepsy
- The foundation exists in memory of Chelsea who died in her sleep due to epilepsy
- A colorful bike was among the silent auction items
- Megan Martin and Paula Padavic
- Foundation Founders Julie and Doug Hutchison
- Julie Hutchison, Jeanie and Ed Hardey, Doug Hutchison
- Julie Hutchison and Jeanie Hardey
- Jeanie and Ed Hardey
- Alyssa Youmans and Milo
- Shane Crawford, Taylor Liprando, Grace Park
- Special thanks to the Denver Marriott South Park Meadows for hosting this event
- The silent auction was a success
- Noel Rivero with her dog SJ and Auctioneer Adam Kevil
- Deb Sheppard, Allison Thoms, Adam Kevil
- Emcee Deb Sheppard and Auctioneer Adam Kevil
- The silent auction attracted many bidders
- Rochelle Logan, Jordan Ash, Carol Strelau, Barb Gojan
- Jeanie Hardey, Dell Wyatt, Aubrey Kennan
- Silent auction: Everything from Prince to Star Wars!
- Daphne Lucchesi, Chelsea Davis, Stacey and Chris Warden
- Michelle Gorbatjuk, Mrs Denver Michelle Smith, Megan Martin
- Naomi Hutchison gives a Thumbs Up for the event
- The Foundation has helped hundreds of individuals and families
- Sarah Spradlin, Steven and Jennifer Pressey
- Foundation ringleaders Greg and Toni New
- Renee and Rachel Nickell
- Toni New, Julie Hutchison, Roger Nickell, Maria and Mark Hammerbeck
- Melodie Jamali, Corolla Hibbard, Rob and Sandy GoldnWolf, Mike Jamali
- Books on Epilepsy Awareness Day
- The Foundation has helped hundreds in working and living with epilepsy
- Director Julie Hutchison welcomes the crowd
- Board member Toni New thanks sponsors and supporters
- Jennifer Pressey thanks the Foundation for helping her family
- Emcee Deb Sheppard
- Auctioneer Adam Kevil quickly describes the evenings live auction items
- …Ready to bid!…
- Mrs. Denver Michelle Smith assists with the live bidding
- Doug Hutchison bids on an item
Spreading Wings Gala Honoring American Fighter Aces
More than 500 guests turned out for the 2016 Spreading Wings Gala Saturday, November 5 at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum in Lowry to honor more than a dozen American Fighter Aces, extraordinary veterans who have distinguished themselves among the elite in aerial combat.
The event honored veteran aviators from all primary branches of the U.S armed forces. Throughout aviation history during World War II, Korea and Vietnam these heroic pilots possessed the skill, fortitude and courage to survive combat missions and return home.
Emcee Amelia Rose Earhart introduced the honorees who were presented with their awards by Wings CEO Greg Anderson. Their heroic stories are told in “Wings of Valor” a book that immortalizes the individual stories of the nation’s top aviators.
Among those honored were:
Col. Bud Anderson
Col. Abner Aust
Lt. Col. Henry Buttelmann
Col. Richard Candelaria
Col. Dean Caswell
Lt. Gen. Charles Cleveland
Capt. Richard Fleischer
LCDR Fred “Buck” Dungan
Brig. Gen. Frank Gailer
Cmdr. Lester Gray
Cmdr. Willis Hardy
1st Lt. James Luma
Ens. Donald McPherson
LCDR Billy Watts
Capt. David Wilhelm
For more information visit: www.wingsmuseum.org
- Kathy Haley and Arkeo, museum mascot
- More than 500 attended Spreading Wings Gala
- Amy Goulds, Gary Coulter
- Aviation Historian Frank Olynk
- Col Abner Aust, Bob and Sandy Haddad
- Bryan Anderson, Cmdr Lester Gray, Paula Gray
- Jill Guss, Cathy McNally, Cyndy Marsh
- Marine Col Dean Caswell
- Jodi and Bill Sorensen
- Majors Jordan Wilkie, Ben Couchman
- 1940s dancers entertain the crowd
- Bronze sculpture “Lest We Forget The Mission” by retired Major Fredric Arnold
- More than a dozen aviators were honored this year
- Displays provide bios and achievements of Fighter Ace pilots
- Ens Donald McPherson, Terri Hasty
- Jennie Rybos, 1st Lt. James Luma
- 1st Lt. James Luma, Col Richard Candelaria
- LCDR Billy Watts
- Col Richard Candelaria, Sybil Praski
- Karl Carlson, Melissa and Brett Williams
- Jim and Ashley Williamson
- Lt Gen Charles Cleveland
- Nanci and Rich Downing
- Classic autos reflected another era of the ’30s and ’40s
- Candy Candelaria, Col Richard Candelaria
- Jim and Virginia Patton, Debbie Hyatt, Mindy Herd
- Cmdr Lester Gray, Mike Lauffer
- Wings CEO Anderson, Blake Scholl, Wendy Tong
- Colleen Curran, Steve Boane
- Emcee Amelia Rose Earhart of 9News
- Amelia Rose Earhart welcomes guests
- Wings Over the Rockies houses a wide variety of aircraft from many eras
- A video honored US’s top aviator veterans
- Wings CEO Greg Anderson presents Cmdr Grey with an award
- Wings of Valor describes biographies of America’s top aviators
- A wide variety of sponsors and supporters make the Spreading Wings Gala an annual success
- Spreading Wings Gala is the museum’s signature fundraising event
- Images and biographies of Ace Aviators lined the event’s entranceway
- This year’s Gala honored “American Fighter Aces”
- More than 500 supporters gathered at Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
- 9News Emcee Amelia Rose Earhart thanked guests and sponsors
- Live auctioneer Shelly St. John generated large donations
- More than a dozen top veteran aviators were honored
- This year’s Spreading Wings Gala featured a golden seal representing all US military branches
- Emcee Amelia Rose Earhart lead events for the annual museum gala
Rocky Mt. MS Center 2016 Gala
The Rocky Mt. Multiple Sclerosis Center 2016 Gala attracted more than 400 guests at the Denver Sheraton Downtown on Sept 10 with Keynote Speaker Kim Ball, who described her challenges with the disease that afflicts about half a million people in the U.S. alone.
RMMSC CEO Gina Berg, Event Chair Adrienne Fitzgibbons, Board Chair Brett Hanselman thanked sponsors and guests for a strong turnout with Presenting Sponsor—Denver Life Magazine– Publisher Kristin Miller and husband, Shawn, both on hand to enjoy the celebration.
MS is a progressive and unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body. The cause of MS is unknown and there is no known cure. The severity of MS varies from person to person and various treatments are available to slow disease progression.
Keynote Speaker Kim Ball was diagnosed with MS just as she was starting her family. Although she was warned by doctors that going through with a pregnancy could worsen her MS, she was determined to live her life as she had planned. Today, her daughter Sienna, 10, is by her side and together they share their story of living with the challenges of the disease day by day.
Special Thanks went to this year’s sponsors and supporters:
Title Sponsors
• University of Colorado Hospital & Rocky Mountain MS Center at University of Colorado
• Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
Platinum Sponsors
• Biogen
• Colorado State Bank and Trust
•The Denver Post
• Genzyme
• The Johnson Family
For more information about programs, volunteering or making a donation, please visit www.mscenter.org
- Keynote speaker Kim Ball (center), Tom Green, Kim Posey, CEO Gina Berg, Gary Corbett
- Fox31-TV anchor Tom Green and Keynote Speaker Kim Ball
- Kristin and Shawn Miller with Gina Berg
- Natalie Johson, Tina Hearney
- Nancy Koontz, Al and Terri Fisher
- Stephanie Coe, Marti Acker, Sue Lewis
- Lauren and Bob Early, Tina Hearney
- Steve Edmonds, Lyn Schaffer
- Audrey Damico, Kay Greene, Patrick Graham
- David Alexander, Sue Alexander
- Matt and Stephanie McDonnell
- Kerri Cechovic, Michele Harrison
- Karen Aarestad, Jennifer Fackler
- Takami and Kevin Clark
- Lori Phillips, Cathy McCaa
- Fritz Voelker, Jan Hammond
- Lori and Ron Kendrick
- Leigh Schrandt, Tany Kadoishi
- Sarah Kyger, Kimi Brown
- Chuck Kier, Abbe Mitchell
- Crystal Sullings, Jeff Wren, Susan Stiff
- Lori Johnson, Lisa Johnson, Jill Davenport
- Lorelle and Mike Gianelli
- John and Angela DellaSalle
- John DellaSalle, Elizabeth Hamilton, Angela DellaSalle, Kelly Tischer, Heidi Hammell, Mike Hammell
- Denise and Ray Bellucci
- MS Board Chair Brett Hanselman
- Event Chair Adrienne Fitzgibbons and Brett Hanselman
- Event Chair Adrienne Fitzgibbons
- Event Chair Adrienne Fitzgibbons thanks guests and sponsors
- Auctioneer Gary Corbett
- More than 400 guests attended this year
- The band kept everyone entertained
8th Annual Grapes Against Wrath benefiting F.A.C.E.S.
More than 200 guests attended the Family Advocacy, Care, Education, Support nonprofit or F.A.C.E.S. 8th Annual Grapes Against Wrath signature event September 17 at the regal Magnolia Hotel in downtown Denver.
A silent auction, appetizers and cocktails provided a back drop for enthusiastic supporters with music provided by solo musician Jimmi Nasi and a live auction led by Doug Tisdale.
Executive Director Rita Harding and Development Director Kendell Aitchison circulated throughout the night with support from board members and staff.
Among the highlights of the event was the live auction of an autographed hockey stick from Colorado Avalanche Forward Nathan MacKinnon‘s with the winning bid by Board Member and long-time supporter Sarah Stoneking.
F.A.C.E.S was developed to provide parenting education, support and advocacy services for the prevention of child abuse, neglect and family violence nearly 40 years ago.
The mission of F.A.C.E.S. is to prevent child abuse, neglect, and family violence. Since its founding in 1974 the organization has served more than 6,000 families in the Denver metro region through its home visitation program, community-based parenting classes and professional family counseling.
For more information visit www.facesonline.org
- Chelsea Donaldson, Joe Von Fuldt
- Mike Riley, Maggie Brown
- Ex. Director Rita Harding, Board Member Sarah Stoneking
- Luke, Cindy, and Chase Campbell
- Thuy Love, Kelly Donovan
- Shannon and Leslie Rich
- David and Leticia Ortiz
- Claire and Kelly Vanhee
- Chris and Michelle McNally
- Bethany and Doug Tisdale, Stephanie Bender
- Denise and Brian Tarball
- Marilyn Wittmann, Tim and Joan Erickson, Linda Rising
- Bonnie Morrow, Dana Johnson
- Janis and Don McFall
- Tell and Kim Bennett
- Debbie Hart, Lindsay Law, Cailun McCullough
- Emily and Chris Kaiser, Rita Harding
- Teena Evert, Joanna Ford
- Debbie Hart, Joanna Ford
- Anna Wool, Maggie Doida
- Amir and Rene Rakha
- David Zaharia, Kendell Aitchison
- Roxanne Perruso, Sarah Stoneking, Kara Choquette
- Shelly Brown, Sarah Stoneking, Nikki Brown
- Matt Boulan, Pam Cunningham, Calandra Huebl
- Pam Cunningham, Calandra Huebl
- Sisters Nikki and Shelly Brown
- Brian Wood tending bar
- Maggie and Stan Doida
- John Alden, Kara Choquette, Roxanne Perruso, Tom Korver
- Matt Musseter, Bob Quigley
- Thuy and George Love
- Silent Auction items attracted many bids
- Jessica Fuller, Ann Cooper, Kris Fuller
- Megan Stull, Katie Ahles, Danae Woody
- A family story of success decorates the event tables
- Dr. Nathan Moore and Rene Moore
- Sarah Mussetter, Peter and Jamie Robinson
Let's Knock Out Cancer Gala
Large vertical color posters of cancer survivors graced the reception area reminding guests of innovative surgical techniques and award-winning health care and groundbreaking techniques provided by University of Colorado Hospital physicians, nurses and staff.
In recognition of this great work, more than 1,000 guests, donors and staff packed the Hyatt Regency Colorado Convention Center hotel to support the University of Colorado Hospital Foundation’s “Let’s Knock Out Cancer” Gala held Saturday, January 24.
Emcee and KUSA/9News Anchor Corey Rose described the program and introduced UCH board leaders including University of Colorado President Bruce Benson and UCH CEO/President John Harney, who thanked guests and described hospital facilities and innovations. Speaker Jon Wilmot–a stage IV lung cancer survivor–described his long journey battling the disease.
As a non-smoker in excellent health and an avid mountain biker who jogged regularly, Wilmot’s 2011 cancer diagnosis blindsided him. And, except for some persistent wheezing he had no other obvious cancer symptoms. Fortunately, follow-through with UCH physicians discovered and effectively treated his cancer with positive results and outcome.
Wilmot credited his faith and family for their support and praised physicians, nurses and staff for his survival. Thanks to UCH’s latest cancer-fighting techniques and his extensive exercise regimen he has resumed his mountain bike treks of 2,000 miles annually throughout Colorado’s steepest mountain inclines.
Former Broncos player Reggie Rivers lead the live auction representing several one-of-a kind gifts, memorabilia and dining and vacation packages. Best known for their 2005 hit “How to Save a Life,” the Grammy Winning rock band The Fray closed the evening for the capacity crowd in the grand ballroom.
All proceeds from the “Let’s Knock Out Cancer” Gala benefit the University of Colorado Hospital and the University of Colorado Cancer Center—the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center within an 800-mile radius.
For more information and to donate visit the University of Colorado Hospital Foundation web site at: https://uch.thankyou4caring.org
- The “Let’s Knock Out Cancer” Gala benefits University of Colorado Hospital Cancer Center
- Posters of a dozen cancer survivors gave thanks to UCH physicians and staff
- Laura Klemer, Mary & Jess Leprino, Kayla Digby
- UCH CEO John Harney, Barbara Redmond, Mark Kochevar
- Natalie and Lee Asher
- Christen Woodburn, Scottie Brown
- Stories abound of UCH patients who beat cancer thanks to UCH’s innovative procedures
- Nicole Steffen, Laurie White
- Marcy Benson, Don Beauregard, Cathy Finlay, Mary Lee Beauregard
- Adam Hatfield, Opal Scherer
- The “Let’s Knock Out Gala” attracted 1,000+ supporters
- Justin Franklin, Danielle and Jeff King
- Mike and Erin Henninger
- Cheryl Balchunas, Nick Luethi, Alison Smith
- Sisters Leslie Morton and Gloria Stauff
- Chris and Holly Osborn, Karen Williams, Dick Monfort
- Barb Reece, Dan and Diane Theodorescu
- Tim and Sarabertya Lenz, Dina and Michael Fink
- Sisters Sharon Boerner and Cheryl Meguid
- Pam and Tom Purcell
- Kat Purcell, Maddy Doyle, Karen Scheel, Tess Godda
- Tim and Teri Carrothers and Jan Schumacher
- Mary & Scott Workman
- Guests relaxed and enjoyed the reception
- Shari and Robert Freedman
- Vinod Aravind, Sophie Liao
- Natalie Nicholls, Colin McCarey
- Mike and Shara Schroeder
- Joel and Kelly Johnson
- Mary Krugman, Dr. Richard Krugman, Marcia and Traci Lyons
- Jenn Brennan, Paige Mason, Lindsey Brooks
- Willis and Dawn Wood
- Laura Roberts, Patti Batchelder, Nick Foreman
- Debby and Gary Watkins
- Lexie Lamothe, Dana Knapp, Bridget Hall
- Kevin and Lynn Scott with Carol and David Diener
- Proud mom Maureen Henninger with sons Mark and Mike Henninger
- Dinner entree featured Filet Mignon and Salmon
- 9News Anchor Corey Rose introduced UCH leadership
- UCH Staffers Megan Terry and Erin Henninger
- UCH Board Chair Bruce Benson thanks guests for their support
- CEO John Harney describes UCH cancer facilities and innovations
- Live auctioneer Reggie Rivers has more than 5 reasons to bid
- Live auction bids attracted generous donors
- Reggie Rivers thanks donors for their support
- Grammy Award Winning The Fray performed their top hits
- Denver-based The Frey wowed the crowd at evenings end
Perfect Pairings: Wine with Entertainment for a Great Cause
It was hard to tell who was having the better time at the event: guests or volunteers. The 11th annual Wine Event attracted more than 40 people ready to serve, celebrate and help raise money for Children’s Hospital Colorado and the Colorado Fetal Care Center.
Event chairs Kevin and Melissa Hopkins – who met while volunteering at Children’s – beamed like proud parents when talking about the commitment and compassion the volunteers give to make the evening happen. “They are the essence of tonight,” explained Melissa. She further shared they don’t rest on a job well done for long. “We will take a few days break and the come together to start planning for 2015.”
Chair of the Volunteer Subcommittee Annie Gray had a permanent smile when she shared about her affinity for all those who stepped up to help. “From the first meeting I was amazed at how much people wanted to be a part of this. It’s my first year and I will definitely be back,” said Gray just before hugging and smiling with others from her team.
Volunteer Sandy Lehto has been helping since the event launched eleven years ago. “Oh, how it’s grown,” she reported. “And it’s so well organized. Guest credit cards get recorded right as they come in so there isn’t a wait to check out. It’s all done before they are ready to leave. It’s great.” Lehto is a member of the Boulder Chapter of Volunteers for Children’s Hospital and she confirmed she will travel year after year to help at The Wine Event.
Special Projects Philanthropy Director for the Children’s Hospital Foundation Martine Hyland echoed the sentiment of the evening. “It’s so inspiring to see how people come together and give to the hospital. They spend time with patients and give time at events. It’s incredible to witness.”
Normally working in finance, Nathanael Shue stepped away from numbers and toward regions as he helped design how the wines would be categorized. The event showcased wines from Colorado, the West Coast, South America and Europe, along with Chilled Summer Wines and, for those who prefer hops over grapes, two “Refreshing Brews” tables displayed tasty beer options.
The event itself was as beautiful as the generosity of those who made it happen. As guests entered the reception they were greeted with lovely strums by Classical Spanish guitarist René Heredia. Overhead, guests marveled at the grace and beauty of aerial artistry performed by a member of Frequent Flyers Productions. Intermittently, happy cheers from the “Ring Toss Table” punctuated the mass of good conversation. With Rockies-like precision, guests flung wide colorful rings toward the empty necks of rows and rows of wine bottles.
“We have four full pages of people who have tossed,” said smiling volunteer Cindy talking about the popularity of the table. “Many people get one ring on, but one gentleman hit four out of five throws. That was fun to cheer on.”
Along with table after table of enticing wines to bid on in the silent auction, the event offered an array of live auction items including a package for the Grammys, an America’s Cup Yacht Experience, and trips to Napa, San Francisco, Italy and Indonesia.
The Children’s Hospital Association of Volunteers puts the entire event together and can proudly report that their efforts have raised more $1 million to date. The volunteers at Children’s Hospital Colorado are part of a group called Children’s Hospital Colorado Association of Volunteers (AoV). The AoV coordinates placements for volunteers and ensures that complete orientation and training is provided to all volunteers.
- Volunteers rock!
- A powerhouse of volunteers
- Images of those the evening was helping
- Processing silent auction items
- Elegant table settings
- Susan Santelices, left, with Martine Hyland, Jen Darling, Jacqueline Lindley and Sheri Muilenburg
- Alissa and Rob West are proud to support Children’s
- Bruce Schneider, left, with Suzanne Martinez, Danielle Curtis, Mike Guillan, Kary and Doug Mangers
- Dick and June Clark, left, with friends Steve and Brenda VanNurden
- Event Chairs Melissa and Kevin Hopkins
- Event Chairs Melissa and Kevin Hopkins, left, with Annie Gray, Chair of the Volunteer Committee
- Event Chairs Kevin and Melissa Hopkins stand by a picture of what the event was all about
- Miles of wine options to bid on along with other enticing items
- Gorgeous unframed photos filtered through the decor to remind participants whose lives they were touching
- Many, many options to consider before bidding
- Leo Tokar and Andrea Baldrica are pleased to support Wine Event
- The boys in blue supported the event: Nathan Geiger, left, Miguel Bernal, Dave Gibbs and Tom Dill
- The Wine Ring Toss was an added attraction of fun
- Maria Elena Mendez, left, enjoy the night with Diego and Tiffany Belardi
- Leann Roberts, left, takes a moment for a photo with Flora Diehl
- Two Ring Toss winners: Jane and Bill Russell
- Chair of the Association of Volunteers Board Robyn Roggensack, left, and her husband Bart chat with December Breidel
- Bob Cuculich, left with Jane and Bill Russell
- Auction item tables the length of the ballroom beckoned bidders
- Team Ring Toss is ready to hand over the rings
- Linda and Tim Richter enjoy their evening out
- Sunny smiles from Maggie Hopkins, left, Meghan Fleming and Merrilyn Leibbrandt
- Morris Price, left, smiles with Nita Henry and Dr. Chris Nyquist
- Mike Nelson photo bombs Linda Powers, left, Natalie Yarid and Jacqueline Lindley
- Linda Powers, left, with Natalie Yarid and Jacqueline Lindley
- Becky Wells, left, smiles with Amy Plache and Katie Wright
- Audra and Nathanael Shue are proud to be a part of The Wine Event
- Kelly Brough, left, and Michelle Lucero take time out for a picture
- Marianne Weigand, left, and Debbie Mooney smile for a photo
- Big smiles from JR Bitzer, left, and Paul Faraci
- Kevin Rogers, left, with Patti Proffitt
- It’s a fun night out for Chris Welfare and Jennifer Barksdale
- A toast to the evening by Zach and Courtni Ward
- Warm smiles from Janey Hayes and Art Morrissey
- Jennie Braman, left, smiles with Tammy Thramann and Ali Miller
- Katie and Todd Poppert are pleased to be a part of The Wine Event
- Pedro and Lorena Calderon enjoy the event
- David and Sherri Oddo are proud to support Children’s
- Amazing music by René Heredia
- Dick and June Clark, left, with friends Julie and Pat Pouge
- Taking aim in the Ring Toss
- Eye-catching items in the silent auction
- Alan and Tonia Smallwood, left, enjoy the event with Sharla and John Gonzales
- Linda Power’s team of 10 compassionate women, all in nursing
- Helping hands through the years at the hospital: retired and senior nursing leadership
- Margi Morse, left, with dear friends Lynne Hedrick, Linda Powers and Roxie Foster
- Linda Frank, left, with Dave Davia, Dr. Jody Mathie and Kathleen Davia
- Liz and Tim Conroy, left, with Larry and Phyllis Kemp
- Chrissy Faraci, left, with Kaya Munn, Rico Munn and Kelly Brough
- Thumbs up to a great job done: Sharon McClellan, left, Annie Gray, Liz Lees and Luis Ramos
- Gathering the ladies to toast The Wine Event
- Friends pose for a photo
- Big smiles from Amy Chase, left, Jim and Jodi Smallwood
- Scott and Amy Chase, left, share laughs with friends Jim and Jodi Smallwood
- It’s a fun night out for Scott and Amy Chase, left, and Jim and Jodi Smallwood
- Board members Kathleen McBride, left, Joys Butler, Melissa Hopkins and Heidi Robinson smile at the success of the event
- A toast to a wonderful evening
- Smiling after successful volunteering: Kay Pahl, left, Connie Miksa and Sandy Lehto
- A bit of wine knowledge for the audience
- A splash of wine trivia went with dinner
Men's Night Out for a Great Cause
The nearly 700 men attending University of Colorado Hospital Foundation’s “Men for the Cure” pulled the pink out of their closets as a show of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
“It’s nice to see men out for this cause,” said first-time volunteer Ashley Pokrzywinski. With wide smiles, deep laughs, and an air of camaraderie, it appeared the men were enjoying their gathering. They moved in and out of the pristine XJet facility. In the true spirit of the event’s founding members known as the “Red Meat and Cigars” crowd, The Robust Room passed out complimentary cigars from Nicaragua’s oldest as well as its newest cigar manufacturers. Men took to the outside for a few puffs. Inside, guys socialized while Bad Candy, a talented trio with guitars, moved seamlessly through classic rock, bluegrass, country, and contemporary tunes.
Goodie bags donated by Neiman Marcus contained an assortment of Kiehl’s premium beauty products proved to be the perfect bookend to the more male-oriented cigars. Event co-founder and sponsor Sharon Magness-Blake cheekily reminded the men to be sure to return home with the lovely little signature silver Neiman’s bag.
Silent auction items weighed heavy toward sports with signed footballs and enticing golf packages. Patrons were also putting pen to paper to bid for a guitar autographed by Rascal Flatts. Other revenue generators included high-end wines for sale by the bottle. And one lucky ticket holder drove home in a 2014 Lexus GS350 provided by Kuni Lexus of Greenwood Village.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock has been attending the dinner long before he took office. He spoke about the dinner’s history. “This dinner has raised $1.3 million, yet our work is not done until we have won.”
Speaking of winning, John Fox, coach of the 5-0 Denver Broncos, took to the stage as the event’s keynote speaker. After sharing that he doesn’t usually make appearances during football season, he spoke about his own family connections to the disease. Then, he smiled and confessed he didn’t have time to prepare remarks. Audience members filled the space by asking him an array of questions from football talk to favorite foods.
To date, the dinner has raised nearly $1.3 million to advance breast cancer research, care, and early detection education at University of Colorado Hospital. Proceeds from Men for the Cure have been used to purchase medical equipment such as an Atec Vacuum Assisted biopsy machine, a digital specimen radiography system, and a stereotactic biopsy table; support a nurse navigator who provides hands-on personal care, guidance and support for the many patients and families receiving care at the Cancer Center; fund breast cancer research led by Virgina Borges, MD; and launch a mobile mammography van initiative to improve access to screenings and aid with early detection for women throughout the Denver-metro area.
Four men purchased award-winning travel and once-in-a-lifetime sport auction items. One man left with a Lexis. Everyone ate delicious tenderloin. Not a bad end to a night with the guys.
- A hard-working trio for the Cure: Ed Greene, left, Sharon Magness Blake, Ernie Blake
- Sharon White, left, Tamra Poole, Jackie Griffin and Francesca Paglione catch up at Cure
- Brian Fleischmann and Henning Schymik smile for a photograph
- Enjoying the evening: Dick Tobin, left, David Thedinga, Scott Little, John Thedinga, George Saponas, Brandon LaSalle, Christin Rataj, David Snapp and Steve Rose
- Shawn Evans, left, Jeff Chapman and Jamie Teumer enjoy Men for the Cure
- Tim Riley, left, Cliff Spencer and Vince DeLaura toast to coming out for a good cause
- John Ikalowych and Jim Dalton take in the event
- Big smiles from Troy Lynn and event co-chair Jim Dalton
- Mike Palumbo, left, Charlie Graff and Tom Davis are proud to support the cause
- Team Cigna Healthcare: Kieth Carter, left, John Roble, Chris Dimassa and Brandon Canfield
- Danny Fitts, left, Craig Henderson, Carlos Ortega and Brian Winters out and about for a cure
- Tom List and Curt Sullan enjoy the event
- Good vibes from Bad Candy
- Team XJet: Archie VanBeek, left, Joe Valenzuela and Al Stoltz
- Brad Weber and Chris Souther catch up for the cure
- Eyeing auction items
- A prized silent auction item: a guitar signed by award-winning American country music group Rascal Flatts
- Bidding high for a good cause
- Bill Sonn and Derek Birznieks take time for a photo
- Todd Munson and Anthony DeFurio take time out from business to support a great cause
- Ryan Finch, left, Jim Fullerton, Darrell Schulte and Chris Cerveny enjoy the event
- Scott Theodore, left, Gary Wing and Ted Holmes take time out for a photo
- A nice night to enjoy a complimentary cigar
- Curtis Johnsen and Mike Crowley at Men for the Cure
- Megan Terry, left, and Erin Henninger take care of the details
- Craig Hess and Andrew Davis are proud to be a part of the Cure
- Angela Lieurance, George Feeney and Jesse Schroffel take time for a photo
- Kyle Smith, left, and Quinn Washington support the cause
- Friendly faces to greet the guests
- Delicious desserts by Epicurean Catering
- Gregg Thompson sports a pink Broncos ball cap in honor of his sister-in-law
- Richard D’Ambrosio, left, Rich Poland and Shane Stickel catch up at the Cure
- Ines Hsu Tok, Chalmers Turner and Ken Leeds are proud to be a part of the event
- Bruce Schroffel and Tom Devine catch up at the Cure
- Byron Hittle and Greg Houck take time for a photo
- John Berry, left, Sarah Ellis and Maureen Barker enjoy their night out
- Alan Genova, left, Matt Massaro and Tom Larue enjoy a drink together
- Tyler Smith, left, David Snapp and David Rowley are pleased to support a great cause
- Jamie Suss, left, Peter Schramm and Joey Schramm catch up at the Cure
- Gerry Jones and Chip Southern toast the evening
- Denver Broncos Ben Garland, left, and Zane Beadles tower over Angela Lieurance
- Sharon Magness Blake catches up with President of the Denver Broncos Joe Ellis
- Craig Walsh, left, Dennis Moore, Gregg Stone and Paul Aylmer smile for a photograph
- Taylor Carpenter, left, Megan Terry, Erin Henninger, Dani Daily Chris Comer and Nahla Williams keep everything on schedule
- Handshakes and big hellos at Men for the Cure
- Jason England gives a coffee toast to celebrate the evening
- Big smile and laughs: Bradley Joseph, left, Scott Patrick, Zane Beadles and Les Shapiro
- Bradley Joseph, left, Scott Patrick, Zane Beadles and Les Shapiro enjoy their time out
- Mike Bentien, left, Craig Bradley and Rod Tabberer have a drink for a good cause
- Sporting complimentary cigars: Matt Sandquist and Devin Masterson
- Cigars for a good cause: Matt Sandquist and Devin Masterson
- Kevin Drake and John Higgins take time for a photo
- Ben Rifkin and Terry Zinsli catch up at Men for the Cure
- Wearing the color of the evening is Vince Wilson along with Steven Gloe
- Cigars for all: Alex Ruggles and Peter Roth from The Robust Room
- Nicole Terry, left, Jeff Couroy and Sara Clausen take a moment from selling wine to smile for a photo
- Ashley Pokrzywinski, left, Elaine Priest and Amanda Cordsen are happy to volunteer for a great event
- One of the stars of the evening: a shiny, 2014 Lexis
- Big Bronco Cheerleader smiles from Brittany and Kendal
- Walker West, left, has volunteered at Men for the Cure several times. He happily shares a moment with his mom, Alissa West
- Beautifully adorned tables
- Denver Broncos Head Coach John Fox takes the stage
- Denver Broncos Head Coach John Fox answers audience questions
- Denver Broncos Head Coach John Fox shares one of many Broncos stories
- Denver Mayor Michael Hancock acknowledges the huge support for a great cause
- Denver Mayor Michael Hancock takes the stage
- A toast to a great evening
- Ernie Blake and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock take a moment for a photo
- Time to dine at Men for the Cure
- Ken Miller head to toe, literally, in pink
- Sue Roche, left, Tamra Poole, Asmut Abdallah, Elise Siragusa, Kourtney Hughes, Nahla Williams support Men for the Cure
- Tamra Poole, left, Suzanne Kwekel, Asmut Abdallah, Dani Daily, Elise Siragusa, Kourtney Hughes and Nahla Williams
2nd Annual KIND Gala
Over 150 guests attended the 2nd annual Kids in Need of Dentistry gala at the JW Marriott Hotel in Cherry Creek. With a festive Oscar theme, the event helped raise money and awareness for the organization and honored several important partners of the charity.
Guests enjoyed a red carpet entrance, gourmet sliders and fries, and a surprise “flash mob” from a group of youth performers. Attendees were able to bid on silent auction items and socialize during the cocktail hour before the evening’s program got underway.
Sharyn Markus, Executive Director of the Colorado Springs Dental Society, received the award for Best Supporting Partner, and KIND Board Member Larry Chatterley, founder of CTC Associates, was honored for his years of work with the organization. Attendees also heard from Lorna Casey, who has been taking her two sons, Curtis and Aydan, to KIND for over 12 years. She expressed her thanks to the staff, volunteers and donors for providing Colorado families with wonderful dental health care for those who need it.
The event also featured a live auction hosted by Denver entrepreneur and philanthropist Andy Seth. Live music was provided by Denver dentist Steve Law and his band, The Steve Law Band.
KIND, a Denver-based nonprofit, provides high-quality, affordable dental care to children in need throughout Colorado. Since 1912, KIND has helped thousands of children each year get the dental services they need at a cost their families can afford.
- Event Sponsor Dr. Anil Idiculla with KIND Executive Director Julie Collett
- Honoree Sharyn Markus, left, Executive Directorof the Colorado Springs Dental Society, with Steve Fajardo and KIND Staff member Sharon Fabrizius
- Executive Director Julie Collett, left, with honoree Larry Chatterley, and KIND Associate Director Sally Walker
- Steve Fajardo, left, with Lucas Harmon
- Honoree Larry Chatterley and his wife Sarah
- Executive Director Julie Collett with the event’s Auctioneer Andy Seth
- The Steve Law band performed for the crowd
- The night’s Oscar theme could be see throughout the event
- Eric, left, and Mark Chatterley
- Evan Constan, left, with Brett Brown
- Jay and Carla Ahrenholtz
- Dionne Erhard and Megan Wytrwal
- Guests arrive on the red carpet
- Table sponsor and KIND board member Jenn Thompson, right, and her sister Stephanie
- Jocelyn Aalborg and Kara Turpen greet guests as they arrive
- Sponsor Kevin Preblud with Sue Evans
- Chad and Meghan Braun
- From left, Caitlyn Fagan, Molly Mener, Maureen Roach, Amber Burg, and Nicole Russell
- KIND Board President Steve Michalek with his wife Julie
- John O’Keefe, left, with board member Brandy Nath, and Ron and Kelly Dreilich
- Michael Bowles
- Heather Ballard with Michael Dewitt
- Kristi and Chris Yablonski, left, and Tiffany Mirles
- KIND patron Lorna Casey, center, with her sons Curtis and Aydan pose with KIND staff doctor Avani Khatri
- Dr. Avani Khatri, left, with Andy and Natasha Seth, center, and Anuj Marya
- Hannah and Brian Svoboda
- Lauren and Rudy Wolf
- Julia and Adam Pollack
- KIND staff dentist Dr. Avani Khatri and Anuj Marya
- KIND Associate Director Sally Walker and daughter Kinnick Wheaton
- Guests browse the many silent auction items
- KIND Staff members Genevieve Valdez, left, with Erica Valdez and Cindy Derryberry
- Steve Fajardo, left, with Kathleen and Jim Curtis and Julie Collett
- Greg and Karen McAlexander, left with Steve Fajardo and Julie Collett
- Karen Franz, left, with Lindsey Compton
- Kids surprised the guests with a choreographed flash mob
- Master of Ceremony Caitlyn Fagan addresses the crowd
- Katie and Chris Martinez, left, with Ben Martin and Steve Fajardo
- The event took place at the JW Marriott Cherry Creek Ballroom
- Caitlyn Fagan and board president Steve Michaleck present the Best Supporting Partner Award
- Best Supporting Partner Award recipient Sharyn Markus
- KIND Executive Director Julie Collett presents an award
- Honoree Steve Chatterley addresses the audience
- Lorna Casey, and her sons Curtis and Aydan, have been KIND patients for over 12 years
- Auctioneer Andy Seth entertains the attendees and helps the group raise money
Pouring for a Purpose
Since it’s founding in 1979, first as a partner with the Arapahoe County District Attorney’s Office and later in 1983 as a private, nonprofit corporation, Gateway Battered Women’s Services (Gateway) has been a leader in the field of domestic violence resources for the community, the state and the nation. Gateway provides a wide range of services including residential and nonresidential services, short-term housing, children’s services, a 24-hour crisis line, court advocacy services and community development activities. Gateway was one of the first shelters in the community to develop a comprehensive counseling program for nonresident women and children, one of the first to establish a court advocacy program, and is one of the only shelters in the nation to allow clients and service recipients to bring pets with them into the residential program. Gateway also serves as a resource for other shelters throughout the metro area due to it’s expertise and the diversity of services it provides.
On Friday August 16th, the community gathered at the Wellshire Event Center in Denver for the 9th Annual Around the World in 80 Wines; a wine tasting, dinner and live auction to support the ongoing mission of Gateway. Guests were encouraged to “pour for a purpose,” and taste a wide variety of wines from around the world, courtesy of Mayfair Liquors, while mingling in the warm atmosphere and taking advantage of the always popular photo booth.
Immediately following the wine tasting, guests enjoyed a multi-course dinner while Executive Director Linda James welcomed attendees to the event and thanked them for their ongoing support of Gateway and the services it provides in the community. Jeneen Klippel, director of development and public relations, then took to the podium to recognize the efforts of the Gateway board of directors, staff and volunteers and to introduce Sandy Plaven, a survivor who moved the audience by describing some of the services and benefits she received as a client of Gateway and whom she credits with helping to saving her life. The evening was capped off with an entertaining live auction conducted by Shelly St. John and The Auction Divas who helped Gateway raise over $20,000 by auctioning off a variety of items including fine art, vacation packages, sports memorabilia and wine generously donated by Gateway supporters.
You can find more information about Gateway Battered Women’s Services and the role they play in the community on their website: www.gatewayshelter.org
- Artwork up for bid during the live auction
- Sports memorabilia up for bid during the live auction
- Guests having fun with the photo booth
- Guests mingle during the wine tasting portion of the event
- The wine tasting was educational and entertaining
- Sue Clifford, left, with Marion Colliander
- Sandy Hammack, left, with Tip Hammack and Cathy Grimes
- Randy and Cindi Delisa
- Alise and Eric Heim
- Marge Kelly, left, with Leslie Rogers-Peckham
- Karen Fulster, left, with Mabel Hall
- Gateway supporters gather to taste wines before dinner is served
- Mitzie Polovoy, left, with Shelley Carroll
- There was plenty of wine for guests to enjoy
- Eve Whitaker, left, with Eve Katz
- Event attendees getting a breakdown of the different wines available for tasting
- Shantelle Williams, left, with Kisha Chambers
- Megan Reyes, left, with Jeannine Reyes
- Small details made it a night to remember
- Gateway Director of Development Jeneen Klippel, left, with Dawn Sokolski
- The Wellshire Events Center played host to the Gateway fundraiser
- Gateway supporters learning about one of the many varieties of wine available for tasting
- Jenn Doe with Steve Hearn
- Jessica Forsberg, left, with Amanda Carlton
- Guests enjoying the multi-course dinner
- A magnificent dinner followed the wine tasting
- Gateway Executive Director Linda James welcomes guests to the event
- Maxine Martin, left, with TJ McReynolds
- Just a few of the many spectacular live auction items
- Abby Spiwak, left, with Shelly St. John and Libby Pollack
- Director of Development Jeneen Klippel thanks the Gateway board, staff and volunteers
- Survivor Sandy Plaven shares her story with the dinner guests
- Survivor Sandy Plaven helps kick off the live auction
- Auctioneer, Shelly St. John gets the bidding going
- Auctioneer Shelly St. John, left, and Libby Pollack with one of the peices of artwork up for auction
- Rod Hurlbut places a bid during the live auction
- A Demaryious Thomas autographed helmet was up for bid during the live auction
- A selection of some of the wines available for tasting
- Guests could sample and rate wines during the tasting
- A few of the 80 wines available during the tasting event
- Dinner also included wine giveaways
- Guests enjoying the wine tasting event
- A guest samples one of the many chardonnays available for tasting