Blog Archives

30 Sep

The Anchor Center Celebrates 2025 Sunset in the City

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This year’s 29th Annual Sunset in the City fundraiser benefiting the Anchor Center for Blind Children honored the Class of 2025 including preschool children and Anchor Center alumni high school grads who completed Anchor Center programming.

The signature event, held at ReelWorks, also honors the organization’s achievements, parents and children, Anchor alumni and many community supporters. Emceed by 9News reporter Steve Staeger, the event provided another fun-filled evening complete with heartfelt stories of children with visual impairments now pursuing active and fulfilling lives.

 

9News reporter Steve Staeger shares the Anchor Center’s stories and mission

This year’s preschool grads are Bentley, Charlie, Olivia, Rowen, Winnie, and Connor. Keynote speaker Michaela Wright shared her story about the successful pathway for her son Connor. “We went from scared and uncertain to happy and hopeful—all because of the Anchor Center’s teachers, therapists, and support,” she said. Among the Anchor Center alumni who graduated high school this year are: Carlie, Julianna, Hallie, and Caden.

The Anchor Center provides early intervention and education services, therapy, and family coaching to foster the full potential of children who are visually impaired and blind. Scientists tell us that the majority of our perception or roughly 80% of our learning and activity is mediated through vision. And a large portion of what we learn, remember, and understand is connected to visual input.

Keynote speaker Michaela Wright described the successful journey of her son who has made use of Anchor Center programs

According to Anchor Center Executive Director Meghan Klassen, 90% of brain development happens before age 5—when children’s brains are most adaptable and when intervention is most important. Anchor Center programs help set children up for success in elementary school and beyond.

The Anchor Center has been a pioneer in providing comprehensive services for children from birth to five years old who are blind or visually impaired. It all began more than 40 years ago with the Delta Gamma sorority. Through its Denver Alumnae Chapter and in keeping with its “Service for Sight” philanthropy, Delta Gamma founded the Center in 1982. Today, the Center’s programs are a testament to the sorority’s commitment to supporting the visually impaired community.

Linda and John Bell

This year’s Visionary Sponsors were made in memory of Mark D. Yaron and the Davis family. The Champion Sponsor was Cheryl and Bruce Blankenship. Special thanks to Anchor Center volunteers, Office Manager Michael Barla, staff, board, Dinah Sink, the Mark Yaron Family, and Steve Staeger.

 

Creative table sponsor teams enjoy producing a unique theme for dozens of centerpieces. Among some favorites were the orange and navy Denver Broncos centerpiece complete with NFL goal posts; the “Cat in the Hat” red and white motif; and even a mysterious and intriguing James Bond/007 setting.

For those interested in volunteering, donating or hosting a table at next year’s 2026 Sunset in the City please contact Savannah Wippel at 303-377-9732 x156 or email swippel@anchorcenter.org. For additional information please visit www.anchorcenter.org

 

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28 Sep

Rocky Mountain MS Center 2025 Gala

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Procrastinators, take note and be ready for next September. The annual Rocky Mountain MS Center Gala continually sells out—and this year was no exception. The focus is to celebrate the mission, achievements and efforts of the Center, with continual support of the MS community (including recently expanded services into rural areas). But beyond its impactful dinner program, this event also entertains with great live and silent auctions, food and beverages, live music and fun casino games in an upscale, but always welcoming, atmosphere.

Gala chair Priscilla Hall

On Saturday, Sept. 28, supporters gathered at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel for a reception and silent auction. After catching up with friends, the group adjourned to the ballroom for a delicious plated dinner with music provide by XO Band. Emcee Ed Greene presided over a program with speakers Gina Hensrud, CEO; Michael Persichitte, board chair; gala chair Priscilla Hall and a special message from Lindsay Rice. A live auction was fueled by favorite auctioneer Gary Corbett before guests enjoyed more live music and casino games.

The Bengtsen family

Rocky Mountain MS Center writes: Our Gala is the premier annual event supporting Colorado’s largest center providing comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, support, education and research for individuals and families living with multiple sclerosis and related neurological disorders. Thanks to the generous support of our community, the Rocky Mountain MS Center has created a world-leading model for treating patients and families living with MS, no matter where they are on their MS journey. For more information, go to: https://mscenter.org/ .

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25 Sep

Colorado Children's Campaign Celebrates 40 Years

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With The Hangar Club’s fun-filled atmosphere of virtual golf bays and foosball tables, it was both easy and fitting that the celebration for Colorado Children’s Campaign’s 40th anniversary injected some child-like spirit into the evening…a nice balance for its serious work of advocacy efforts for kids around the state. Denver North Drumline quite literally set the tone for the evening with its boisterous, percussive greeting as guests entered the venue.

Practicing their golf swings (l to r): Lin Patten, Reilly Pharo Carter, Chris Watney, Kelly Causey, Anne Rowe Stedron

On Wednesday, Sept. 24, supporters made a beeline for Lowry neighborhood to enjoy CCC’s convivial event. Guests gathered for an extended reception with passed hors d’ouerves and a tasty buffet with carving station and beverages, all provided by Occasions Catering. A timeline was a great way to look back on successes, even as plans are in the works to move forward with even more initiatives. Founders were on hand to speak to guests personally: Barbara O’Brien, Elaine Gantz Berman, Anna Jo Garcia Haynes and Paul Melinkovich, M.D., as was keynote speaker U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet. Also speaking to the crowd were President and CEO Heather Tritten and board chair Rosemary Rodriguez. We learned two things: 1) This group is data-focused; and 2) Colorado is a great place for kids…but there’s still work to be done.

Colorado Children’s Campaign founders (l to r): Barbara O’Brien, Elaine Gantz Berman, Anna Jo Garcia Haynes and Paul Melinkovich, M.D.

The organization writes: The Colorado Children’s Campaign is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization committed since 1985 to realizing every chance for every child in Colorado. We advocate for the development and implementation of data-driven public policies that improve child well-being in child and family health, youth success, early childhood and family economic prosperity. By providing Coloradans with trusted data and research, and organizing an extensive state-wide network of dedicated child advocates, we work to achieve the following:
*Eliminate gaps in student achievement and health outcomes between children of color and children in low-income households and their peers.
*Provide all of Colorado’s young children with high quality early learning and development experiences so they are ready for school and on track for success in life.
*Secure quality, affordable health care and create healthy communities for all Colorado children.
*Ensure all students in Colorado have access to the quality K-12 education they need to graduate from high school prepared for college, careers, and life.

Santhosh Ramdoss with his daughter

As the leading voice for Colorado’s children at the state Capitol and in communities across the state, the Children’s Campaign has been at the forefront of hundreds of policy wins for kids. Among the numerous laws and programs we’ve helped establish are the Colorado Preschool Program, Child Health Plan Plus, the Great Teachers and Leaders Law, and the creation of the new state Department of Early Childhood.

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07 Sep

Adaptive Divers Gala: Exploring the Depths of Possibility

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If your recreational pursuits don’t include some form of deep diving into an ocean (and that’s somewhere around 99% of the population), it can seem exciting, scary, exotic, cool—pick an adjective or use them all. It’s definitely not the norm for landlocked states like Colorado. But Denver Adaptive Divers have carefully put together expert instructors and medical personnel to make the sport available for those who might appreciate it the most. Imagine the joy of breaking free from a motorized chair…or even overcoming post-traumatic stress disorder. The possibilities are endless.

Kasandra and Ryan Strong with their pride and joy

On Saturday, Sept. 6, supporters headed downtown to The Curtis Hotel for DAD’s 9th annual fundraising dinner. At the Four Square Ballroom, guests began the evening with an outdoor reception and silent auction before a delicious plated dinner. DAD co-founder (with Janine Melberg) and Executive Director John Sherman spoke to the crowd about recent successes, followed by keynote speaker EB Forst, whose personal story touched on a number of aspects the crowd could easily relate to.

EB is an athlete-turned-physical therapist. In her late 30s, a dive into a backyard swimming pool caused spinal injuries that changed her life. She spoke about her emotional journey and the practical concerns involved with her first dive as a quadriplegic in Mexico. With a procedure that called for her literally to be thrown head-first into the water on a day when the seas were decidedly rough, the dive crew wasn’t as well equipped for adaptive diving as most. Even hotel rooms were without bathrooms built for power wheelchairs. But her experience resulted in changes for all—the hotel even added rooms with specialized bathrooms. After EB’s riveting talk, the evening ended with a live auction run by dive instructor Steve Art.

Denver Adaptive Divers co-founders John Sherman and Janine Melberg

From DAD: The gala is DAD’s only public fundraising event each year and plays a big part in securing the donations and support that allow us to continue to grow our program. We’re thrilled that this year’s guest speaker is EB Forst: doctor of physical therapy, celebrated author, adaptive diver and advocate for preventative healthcare models.  Learn more about EB.

Denver Divers was founded in 1961 by one of the first pioneers in the scuba business and the store has thrived to become one of the largest in the state. Our rich history and love of the ocean has continued to inspire us to send you, our customers and “family,” from the mountains to the sea through education, travel and retail support for all things scuba, snorkeling, freediving and swimming. For more information, go to: https://www.denverdivers.com/denver-adaptive-divers.htm .

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25 Aug

Educator Anna Jo Haynes Honored at 2025 Dancing With The Denver Stars

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As part of its 55th Anniversary celebration, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD) hosted its 2025 Dancing With The Denver Stars Gala and honored lifelong educator Anna Jo Garcia Haynes for her lifelong commitment to early childhood education and community service.

The black-tie event was held Saturday, August 23 at the Sheraton Downtown Denver with the theme: From Doo-Wop to Hip-Hop: Celebrating Girl Groups. All proceeds benefit community programs — including the Arts-in-Education program and the Arts-in-Well-Being initiatives.

Anna Jo Haynes was honored as the first recipient of the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Legacy Award

This year’s event officially launched the first-ever Cleo Parker Robinson Legacy Award – celebrating “visionary leaders who exemplify artistic excellence, cultural integrity, and community transformation.”

Haynes, 92, has spent a lifetime advocating for early childhood education. She founded Denver’s Mile High Montessori Early Learning Centers in 1972, and was co-founder of the Colorado Children’s Campaign, a Denver non-profit advocacy group supporting legislation that supports the well-being of children and families facing barriers to quality K-12 education.

The CPRD Ensemble opened the 15th Annual Dancing with the Denver Stars gala

Much like the ever-popular ABC-TV show “Dancing With the Stars”, the DWTDS features Denver community leaders paired with CPRD professional dancers who perform choreographed dances.

Although no winner is crowned finest dancer, the event is a major signature fundraiser supporting CPRD training, programs and initiatives.

For the 2025 event all proceeds support paid internships for youth, health and wellness programming, and dance and movement events across the Denver metro area and in rural communities throughout Colorado.

Special thanks to DWTDS Honorary Event Chairs Stacey and Michelle Campbell and Platinum Sponsor: CoBank. Gold Sponsors this year are: Mission Yogurt, Safeway, Southwest Airlines, and Xcel Energy.

The 2025 Gala STARS are:
Mayor Mike Johnston, City and County of Denver
Councilman Darrell Watson, Councilman District 9
Nicole Dorsey, PNC Bank
Jeronimo Villa, US Bank
Michael Sapp, Xcel Energy
Dianne Myles, Human Focused Media
Brian Flores, CBS4
Debbie Brown, Colorado Business Roundtable
Juan Suarez, Southwest Airlines
Kelli Ogunsanya, Delta Dental
Chad Olivier, Lean On Me Consulting Services LLC
Dr. Andre Mansion, Big Haus Consulting, LLC
Paul Adkins, CoBank
Loren Furman, Colorado Chamber of Commerce

2025 DWTDS Dancers Chad Olivier of LOM Consulting Services and Brian Flores, CBS Colorado Anchor

The VIP Reception was sponsored by Mortenson and United Airlines. Mortenson is the general contractor for CPRD’s new 25,000-square-foot expansion to the Shorter AME landmark, 119 Park Ave. West, in the historic Five Points neighborhood.

The 3-story building designed by Fentress Architects will be named the Cleo Parker Robinson Center for the Healing Arts. The new structure will include four new studios, a 240-seat theater, and additional community space. The building is expected to be completed in early 2026.

Meanwhile, the CPRD season inaugural performance starts Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and features Bolero—a classical piece choreographed by Christopher Huggins and set to Maurice Ravel’s iconic score.

 

The premiere stars dancer Lisa Johnson-Willingham, a CPRDE Alumna and current Director of the Ailey Extension. Like so many of the Cleo Parker Robinson alumni, Johnson-Willingham has embraced her profession with zeal and commitment: “I express myself through movement,” she says. “Dance is my life. It’s who I am.”

According to organizers, the choreography for Bolero is “a radiant mixture of ballet and contemporary movement.”

CPRD was founded in 1970 and became a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit organization in 1974.  For tickets, donations and other information please email info@cleoparkerdance.org or call 303-295-1759

 

 

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04 Aug

Colorado Hispanic Chamber Celebrates Sabor 2025

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The Colorado Hispanic Chamber’s SABOR never disappoints. This year’s event on August 1 drew a large crowd at the beautiful and blooming Denver Botanic Gardens, a host for several years now.

As one of the most anticipated Denver summer festivals, it’s a celebration of Hispanic heritage and sharing of beer, wine, food, music among some of the chamber’s small and large businesses throughout Denver and Colorado.

This year’s fiesta was sponsored by Pepsi, Blue Moon, and Chevron. Each year the event’s carnival-like atmosphere attracts more than 1,500 guests and features musicians, restaurants, artists, and costumed dancers representing the nations throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. It’s also an excuse to party with friends, family, partners and business supporters.

Established in 1978, the Hispanic Chamber is the state’s largest minority Chamber with more than 2,500 members and among the largest statewide of all chambers. Sabor shines a spotlight on the restaurant industry, providing crucial support to local Hispanic businesses that play an integral role in bolstering the Colorado economy.  Proceeds from Sabor directly benefit COHCC initiatives, including:

  • Economic Development: Funds raised help support the Chamber’s efforts to foster the growth of Hispanic-owned businesses through various programs and resources.

  • Educational Programs: The event aids in funding scholarships, leadership programs, and other educational initiatives aimed at empowering the Hispanic community.

  • Community Engagement: Sabor provides a platform for local businesses to showcase their offerings, facilitating networking and collaboration within the community​.

Sabor: “A Sensory Experience of the Americas”

As in year’s past Chamber President/CEO Mike Ferrufino was busy engaging with guests, politicos, businesspeople and some of Denver’s most generous corporate & local business sponsors.

Past Denver mayors, current city, state and federal lawmakers and other politicos were also on hand to meet constituents and support the event.

The best of Denver’s diverse Latino culture is represented including the foods, music and even some consulate reps from Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, and Peru, to name a few.

According to organizers, Sabor was established to celebrate and promote Hispanic culture while supporting the COHCC’s mission of economic development and community empowerment. Every year this special event successfully brings together a diverse group of attendees, including business owners, community leaders, and the general public. For more information be sure to visit the Chamber’s web site at hispanicchamberdenver.com

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28 Jul

Courageous Citizens Awards Gala Marks 20 Years

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Rhonda Fields and Christine Wolfe went through every mother’s worst nightmare when Rhonda’s son Javad and Christine’s daughter Vivian were gunned down in Aurora in 2005. The two young adults were engaged to be married and Javad was to be a witness for the prosecution in a murder trial. In the aftermath, Rhonda Fields founded the Fields Foundation in her son’s honor and Christine joined her in creating the Fields Wolfe Memorial Fund. Money raised goes to scholarships for Colorado State University students—their son and daughter’s alma mater.

CSU President Amy Parsons and Rhonda Fields are part of the happy group celebrating the $10,000 donation from Sean “Ranch” Lough Foundation.

Rhonda went on to serve 17 years in both the Colorado House and Senate, advancing legislation to advocate for victims’ rights and stricter gun laws. As a new legislator in the midst of controversial measures, she received death threats and then-Governor John Hickenlooper assigned state protection for her. In January, she transitioned from the State Capitol to a commissioner role for Arapahoe County.

Award recipients U.S Sen. John Hickenlooper (left), and Jill and Michael White

 

On Saturday, July 26, supporters gathered at the Denver Botanic Gardens to honor the 20th anniversary of the Memorial Fund. During a gorgeous summer evening, guests enjoyed the gardens, mingled, donated funds and were motivated by inspiring stories of speakers and award recipients. Organic Roots Catering presented a light buffet and beverages, and Simone Ross served as program emcee.

Honorees were: Sen. John Hickenlooper, former CSU President Albert Yates, survivors-advocates Jill and Michael White and co-founder of Colorado Ceasefire Eileen McCarron. CSU scholars were on hand to share their stories, and in a surprise announcement, Rhonda Fields was moved to tears when she was honored with an award medallion for her work as a legislator and for the Memorial Fund.

Bill and award recipient Eileen McCarron

The Fields Wolfe Memorial Fund was created in memory of Javad Marshall Fields and Vivian Wolfe. Dedicated to advocating victims’ rights and strengthening witness protection programs, the organization partners with CSU to offer college scholarships to the university for deserving students. The scholarships don’t stop after a year or two. They all follow each student’s path into and through graduate studies. To learn more, go to the organization’s website: https://www.fieldswolfememorialfund.org/ as well as its page on Facebook.

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24 Sep

Anchor Center 2024 Sunset in the City Gala

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ReelWorks Denver again served as host of the 2024 Sunset in the City, a unique signature fundraiser for Anchor Center for Blind Children that honors the organization’s achievements, parents and children, Anchor alumni and many community supporters.

Special thanks went to Andrew Feinstein and Sarah McCarthy and the ReelWorks Denver team for supporting and hosting this exciting event. Emcees Danielle Grant of Denver7 and Steve Staeger of 9News presided over the gala featuring a silent and live auction and personal stories from students and alumni.

Founded in 1982, Anchor Center has been a pioneer in providing comprehensive services for children from birth to five years old who are blind or visually impaired. The center’s mission is to provide early intervention, education, and support to help these children reach their full potential.

Founded 28 years ago as A Day in the Country picnic, the event evolved into Sunset in the City and has grown to include more than 400 guests who gather for cocktails, dinner and live entertainment every year.

This year’s guests enjoyed a special video, “Seeing With My Hands,” from Anchor alumnus Hallie Kemp. Later, Anchor Center Board President Chic Naumer and his daughter and alumnus, Claire, spoke about how Anchor Center supported their family and provided a solid foundation for success. In addition, Andrew and Stephanie Gordon spoke about of their educational and personal growth with their children, Oliver and Edward.

Former Colorado first lady Frances Owens, Anchor’s former Anchor Community Relations Manager, attended with John and Monica Owens Beauprez. Also on hand were key supporters: Bruce and Cheryl Blankenship; Mike and Wendee Crowley; Patty and David Keefe; Robert and Yvette Keyser; Christi and Jim Harman; Chic and Marlo Naumer; Mary and Tom Rogers; Jeff and Tanya Watkins and many other supporters.

Special thanks to Dr. Lauren Mehner, with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus; Jenae Neiman with Children’s Hospital Colorado; Dr. Anna L. Steele from Children’s Eye Physicians; Four Seasons Hotel Denver; and Cherry Creek Magazine.

For those interested in hosting a table at next year’s 2025 Sunset in the City please contact Savannah Wippel at 303-377-9732 x156 or email swippel@anchorcenter.org. For additional information please visit www.anchorcenter.org

 

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08 Sep

MS Center Gala24: The Answers Begin Here

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Gala24 for Rocky Mountain MS Center was full of dedicated people with stories of inspiration and hope, and a prevailing theme of community—not only for those who battle MS, but everyone surrounding them. In the mix of this always uplifting event was 2024 gala chair BJ Dyer. If you’re new to Denver’s nonprofit world, he is renowned for his exquisite work providing florals for a spectrum of fundraisers. BJ will tell you that even as he assisted with this particular event as a vendor over the years, he did so knowing people with MS and other neurological afflictions. He was impressed with the staff and the center, and eventually began volunteering on RMMSC gala committees, learning more and more about its services, research and the affliction itself. His chair position this year evolved quite organically…not unlike a flower. A wise choice for gala chair, BJ gravitates to people and eloquently represents Rocky Mountain MS Center with passion and dedication.

Sponsors (l to r): Suzanne and Steve Hickox, with Lyn and Dr. Michael Schaffer

On Saturday, Sept. 7, almost 500 people gathered at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel to support the Center and its community of people. The evening began with a cocktail reception and silent auction before guests adjourned to the ballroom for a dinner program emceed by recently retired TV weather icon Ed Greene. Those who spoke to the crowd: Board chair Erica Tarpey; BJ Dyer; CEO Gina Hensrud; Medical Director John Corboy, M.D.; and MS Center educator and advocate Elissa Berlinger. Guests supported the live auction conducted by Gary Corbett and the evening ended with dancing music provided by appropriately named band Thumpin’ and a round of casino games.

Kerri Cechovic and emcee Ed Greene

Money raised at RMMSC’s gala stays in Colorado supporting the state’s largest center providing comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, support, education and research, and individuals and families living with MS and related neurological disorders. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive and unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body.The Center writes: “Thanks to the generous support of our community, the Rocky Mountain MS Center has created a world-leading model for treating patients and families living with MS, no matter where they are on their MS journey. Our dedicated community has sustained us into our fourth decade of service, and is vital to the continued success of our mission.” To learn more, go to https://mscenter.org/

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19 Aug

African Leadership Group Presents 9th Annual Afrik Impact Gala 2024

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Members of Colorado’s diverse African immigrant community gathered August 17 to celebrate the work of the African Leadership Group (ALG) at its 9th Annual Afrik Impact Gala at the Denver Botanic Gardens.

ALG was established to help the African diaspora integrate and prosper by connecting cultures, developing strong community leaders, and to advocate for economic, social and educational impact.

The evening’s Emcee Brandon Zeigler was supported by ALG Staff Member Jason Gaulden in keeping the program running smoothly. Special Thanks went to premier sponsors: Walton Family Foundation; Daniels Fund; The Anschutz Foundation; The Denver Foundation; Rose Community Foundation; Margulf Foundation; RootED; NewProfit; Gary Community Ventures; Banc of California; BMO; Denver Botanic Gardens; AJL Foundation; and KeyBank.

Keynote Speaker Kent Thiry, past CEO of DaVita and Colorado philanthropist, thanked guests for their contributions and shared his views on improving principals of U.S. democracy with ALG support. The Thiry O’Leary Foundation is also the Breaking Barriers Level Sponsor.

This event celebrates and honors the many contributions and impact of Colorado’s diverse African diaspora. The theme for 2024 is: Connecting Communities, Cultures, and Continents. Eric Goodman of Mile High Sports radio served as live auctioneer for the evening.

ALG Founder and President Papa Dia thanked the many VIPs and dignitaries from the Denver metro region and representatives from Senegal. Colorado Governor Jared Polis provided a video announcement with the official proclamation declaring August 2022 “African Immigrant Month” in Colorado. Also in attendance were local Colorado and Denver metro leadership including: Colorado Attorney General Phillip Weiser; past Aurora First Lady Becky Hogan;  Community College of Aurora President Mordecai Brownlee; Deborah Walker of KUVO radio;  Bianka Emerson and Jamie Jackson;  President and VP, respectfully from the Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA); and Miss Colorado USA – Jessi Kalambayi.

This year’s award winners are:

Brian Vogt  – Afrik Impact Award
Philip Sneed – Breaking Barriers Award
Khady Diene Gay  – Building Bridges Award
Chef David Diop – Economic Impact Award
Dr. Anne Keke – Education Impact Award
Nourou Tall –  Immigration & Integration Achievement Award
Daphne Stephens  –  Migrant Impact Award
Susan Levine – Migrant Impact Award
Daniel Okwena – Social impact Award

Additional top-tier sponsors for the event are:
Building Bridges Sponsors: Amazon, BMO, Cherry Creek Schools
Silver Sponsors: Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado Succeeds, Community College of Aurora, Denver DIA, CHFA, Compassion & Choices, University of Colorado, ReadyCO, Uber.

The African Leadership Group (ALG) was established in 2006 to serve and improve quality of life for Colorado’s African immigrant community through social activities, education and economic programs, public speaking, and various other events.

For questions and more information please visit the ALG web site at https://usalg.org or email info@usalg.org

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06 May

Bravissimo! Colorado Symphony Celebrates 100 Years At Centennial Gala

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How great is it to celebrate your centennial anniversary in the Centennial State? Ask the Colorado Symphony. The orchestra’s galas have typically featured a crowd-pleasing mix of classical excellence and dramatic flair to the tune of a specific theme. This year’s Centennial Gala did not disappoint. You knew it would be a fun evening with a dress code that suggested tweaking traditional black-tie attire with “Colorful Colorado” hues to honor our state’s vibrant landscape.

Marcin Biegunajtys and Tarah Infranca

On Saturday, May 4, supporters gathered at Mission Ballroom for the festivities. At the reception, guests enjoyed beverages from the venue, as well as Footers Catering passed hors d’oeuvres as they bid on silent auction items. There was a Symphony of Spirits wine wall, too. Footers also provided a delectable plated meal as patrons enjoyed symphony performances and the dinner program.

Those who addressed the crowd included: Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, President & CEO Mark Cantrell, CFO and COO Coreen Miller. The Colorado Symphony performed with award-winning singer-actress and guest artist Sierra Boggess. Featured soloists from the Colorado Symphony were: Concertmaster Yumi Hwang-Williams; Courtney Hershey Bress, principal harp; and Justin Bartels, principal trumpet. JJ Raterink guided the crowd to higher bids at the live auction, and the evening ended with dance music from Denver Broncos DJ Squizzy Taylor.

Recipients of the 2024 Margaret Phipps Award: Nancy and board member Tony Accetta (front) and Sharon and board treasurer Jim Butler

Jim Butler accepted the 2024 Margaret Phipps Award on behalf of the Butler Family and spoke to the crowd as well. The family wrote: “The theme of this year’s award is Establishing a Family Legacy through Service & Philanthropy. In our family’s case, the legacy was begun by our parents/parents in law Erna and Brad Butler. As members of the ‘greatest generation,’ Erna and Brad set an example of sustaining their community through contributions of time, expertise, and financial resources. The four of us (Nancy & Tony Accetta, Jim & Sharon Butler) and our children are doing our best to build on that legacy through support of our symphony, and other cultural and human service organizations.”

(l to r): CSA President & CEO Mark Cantrell, Carolyn Kunicki, Nicole Frankel, Colorado Ballet Executive Director Sameed Afghani

The Colorado Symphony Association is the region’s only full-time professional orchestra committed to artistic excellence and ensuring the future of live, symphonic music. Performing more than 150 concerts annually at Boettcher Concert Hall in downtown Denver–and across Colorado–Colorado Symphony is home to 80 full-time musicians representing more than a dozen nations, and regularly welcomes the most celebrated artists from all genres of music. Funds raised at the Centennial Gala will support the Colorado Symphony’s mission of inspiring the future of live, symphonic music. Through its programs, the Colorado Symphony annually reaches over a quarter-million Coloradans with innovative artistic collaborations, world-class classical programs and investments in the community through award-winning educational initiatives and community partnerships. To learn more, please visit: https://coloradosymphony.org/

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01 Nov

Top Stars Honored at Gala

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The stars shined bright on Saturday, October 28 as USTA Colorado honored its top players and celebrated the achievements and contributions of industry leaders. The annual Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame and USTA Colorado Annual Awards event benefits the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (CYTF) which promotes the physical, emotional and social development of all youth to aspire to become active, productive and responsible citizens.

The Gala was held at Infinity Park Event Center and is the annual signature event to honor Colorado players, coaches, volunteers, administrators and other leaders for their contributions to the sport. This year the organization inducted two members to the Hall of Fame.

Emceed by Christine Chang Gillette and Andy Zodin the event highlighted the top two Hall of Fame inductees this year: Krista Damico and Lt. Col. Dan Oosterhous. This is the USTA Colorado’s 23rd class of inductees, bringing the total number of members to 103.

Damico grew up in Parker and is best known as a junior women’s champion and a standout at the University of Texas. She competed in the girls’ singles draw at the U.S. Open as well as the girls’ qualifying events at Wimbledon and the Australian Open. She lead the Texas Longhorns on a 14-match unbeaten streak in her senior year.

As head coach of the USAFA Falcon men’s tennis team Lt. Col. Oosterhous has led the team to new heights for decades. This past season Air Force is coming off its second straight winning season in 2023 and the third in the last four seasons. The Falcons earned a national ranking of 63 in February, 2023, tying for the highest ranking in program history.

In 2022 USTA Colorado’s steadily growing league program achieved one of its highest levels of player participation in its history which requires more resources and facilities. In addition, USTA Colorado presented the following annual awards:

On-Court Achievement Awards
Male Player of the Year: Ignatius Castelino
Female Player of the Year: Taylor Melville
Senior Player of the Year: Hiko Fritz-Krockow

Sportsmanship Awards
Quinn Bernthal
Malaika Chinyerere
Trevor Hajek
Leslie Jimenez
Blake and Sebastian Wright

Service Awards
Mike Brohard – Dorothy Mauk Media Excellence of the Year Award
Omar Campos Family – Carter & Lena Elliott Family of the Year Award
Denver Tennis Park – E. L. Griffey Organization of the Year Award
Cindy McLemore – Jody Riser Knudsen Volunteer of the Year Award
CD Bodam – Tennis Industry Award
Adam Burbary – Tennis Industry Award
Kendall Chitambar – Arthur Ashe Award (service to under-served communities)
Diane Westlind – Clyde Rogers Award (longtime service to recreational players)
Leanne Palmisano – Bud Robineau Award (longtime service to the tennis community)

Tennis Industry Award
CD Bodam
Adam Burbary

CYTF organizers like to say that tennis teaches skills a young person can take off the court and into life. For more information on the organization please visit cytf.net

 

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23 Oct

True Grit Fundraiser Recognizes Trailblazers, The Women of Third Way Center

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With all the hard-fought success stories and visible camaraderie, Third Way Center’s annual True Grit gala always lives up to its courage-focused name. Guests can easily walk away feeling inspired. This year’s theme, honoring Third Way’s “trailblazers”—15 women who have given at least 20 years of effort and dedication to help troubled teens—fanned the positive vibe. But fun is a focus as well. And don’t things always seem lighter and more enjoyable when people are wearing a cowboy hat?

Guests of honor, Third Way Center trailblazers

On Saturday, Oct. 21, guests moseyed on over to Infinity Park Event Center for this year’s sold-out occasion. The evening began with a reception featuring beverages and passed hors d’oeuvres from Footers Catering. People could place strategic bids at the silent auction, and even snag a bottle of vino at the wine lasso. Lively background music was provided by talented duo 8 Strings.

Presenting sponsor Gary Gray (left), with board chair Brendan Bartic

Board president and former Third Way Center resident Brendan Bartic emceed a dinner program that featured remarks from two of the evening’s honorees: first-year executive director, Renee Johnson (37 years of service) and founder Hildegard Messenbaugh, M.D. (53 years of service). Others speaking included: presenting sponsor and board vice chair Gary Gray; Denver mayor and former Third Way alternative high school principal Mike Johnston; sponsor Brendan Zahl, president of Community Banks of Colorado; and an uplifting success story from former resident Tamisha Macklin. After the 15 honorees took the stage to receive their awards and well-deserved praise, Jim Berz led a live auction segment designed to drive up bids for the cause.

From Third Way Center: “This year’s gala recognizes and celebrates the contributions of our Trailblazers, the incredible women who, through their years of dedication at Third Way Center, have bettered the lives of the teens who come to us for treatment and support. They bring this culture of shared experience into a place that has enabled Third Way Center to grow from one house to eight, from serving 16 teens to over 200 annually. We recognize these women for their combined 434 years of experience and thank them for their commitment.

Board member and sponsor Stacy Ohlsson (far right), with table guests

“Our trailblazers theme also speaks to our priority of preparing our teens for life once they leave Third Way. They come to us with a variety of needs for treatment and guidance, many fearful of what lies ahead. They leave us as trailblazers who have overcome these challenges–unafraid and ready to face their new lives. Their experiences help us to continue to create new paths and opportunities for others.

“Third Way Center offers truth and hope to high-risk, disadvantaged and often homeless adolescents and their families with complex mental health issues, working toward trauma resolution and becoming productive members of society.” Services include residential houses in Denver, two alternative high schools for residents and specialized treatment programs for substance abuse, vocational and independent living skills, a teen mother program, and after-care and emancipation programs. Typically, teens in Third Way Center programs are referred by the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services, various mental health centers or, in some cases, private placement. To learn more, please visit: https://thirdwaycenter.org.

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17 Sep

Rocky Mountain MS Center Gala: The Answers Begin Here

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Go to the highly anticipated “Rocky Mountain Showdown” football game…or the annual, noteworthy Rocky Mountain MS Center Gala? With competing important events happening on the same night, more than 500 people made the good choice to support the fight against multiple sclerosis, making the gala another sold-out event full of dedicated donors. Fortunately for CU-CSU fans, game updates were announced often, and you just know that lots of home DVRs were in use for later viewing. So it was a win-win proposition all around.

Board member Suzanne Hickox (third from left), with friends

On Saturday, Sept. 16, the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel’s Plaza Ballroom was transformed with a glam Night in Monte Carlo theme. The evening began with a silent auction and cocktail reception before guests made their way into the ballroom with music by iconic Denver band Nacho Men. Amiable emcee Ed Greene presided over a program that addressed the challenges and triumphs of those living with multiple sclerosis, as well as the good works of the Rocky Mountain MS Center. Those speaking to the crowd: Gina Hensrud, CEO; Erica Tarpey, board chair; and Lyn Schaffer, gala co-chair (with husband Michael Schaffer, M.D.); and Raja Muhsen and Ramah Khammash. Auctioneer Gary Corbett kept bids high at the live auction, and the evening ended with dance-worthy Nacho Men music and a full gamut of casino games.

(l to r): Ed Greene, emcee; event co-chair Lyn Schaffer; RMMSC CEO Gina Hensrud; auctioneer Gary Corbett

RMMSC writes: “Our Gala is the premier annual event supporting Colorado’s largest center dedicated to comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, support, education and research (to) help support individuals and families living with multiple sclerosis and related neurological disorders. MS is a progressive and unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body. Thanks to the generous support of our community, the Rocky Mountain MS Center has created a world-leading model for treating patients and families living with MS, no matter where they are on their MS journey.

(l to r): Jacob, Valerie and Carter Topkis

“Rocky Mountain MS Center jointly describes two elements of an innovative partnership: the Rocky Mountain MS Center nonprofit organization, and the Rocky Mountain MS Center at University of Colorado, clinical and research teams operating at UCHealth and the University of Colorado Hospital on the Anschutz Medical Campus. From a wide range of patient and community education programs to counseling and legal services, we work together to provide our community with a truly comprehensive approach for people and families living with MS.

“As a patient-centered organization, we prioritize listening to and learning from our patients and their caregivers. Their voices motivate our focus on better treatments. They have helped mold our education programs to be relevant for patients and caregivers. And they have inspired our cutting edge research to always explore the disease one step further and find the next answer. Patients are at the heart of all we do.” To learn more, please visit us at MSCenter.org.

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28 Aug

2023 Afrik Impact Gala: Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges

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Even with the best intentions, fundraising galas can be stuffy and formal. African Leadership Group (ALG) has found the perfect formula for its annual Afrik Impact Gala at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Guests can and do dress to the nines, yet remain happy and comfortable in beautiful, open-air surroundings. It’s always great to see honored visitors from Africa, as well as elected officials and other supporters who come from around the state and the region. There’s an abundance of pride and positive spirit displayed among guests, beginning with ALG’s founder and CEO Papa Dia. We look forward to this event every August.

Members of the delegation from Sengal are joined by a few friends.

On Saturday, Aug. 27, this year’s Afrik Impact theme, “Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges,” was evident from start to finish. The evening began with a VIP reception that featured a large delegation of guests from Senegal, including the Prime Minister of Culture. Attendees made their way to the outdoor main tent for pre-dinner hors d’oeuvres and beverages, with music from Cloud 9 Strings.

Vocalist Amira Abed (right), from Senegal, with host Becky Hogan

In addition to the Senegal dignitaries, others on hand included Colorado Congressman Jason Crow and newly sworn-in Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade, the first Black man and first immigrant to lead the city. Darryl Collier served as emcee for the program, and became emotional as he read the proclamation from Gov. Jared Polis that declared August as African Immigrant Month in Colorado. Papa Dia spoke to the crowd, recognizing the spectrum of ethnicities. The program also included a group unity-poem reading, followed by a paddle raise.

Since its inception in 2006, ALG has organized multiple community events, engagements and discussions with programs focused on key issues such as education, career and job opportunities, business development, immigration and community involvement. Many other activities regularly reach thousands of individuals in the local community. ALG advocates for the entire African immigrant community—across national origin, tribes and language—to ensure continuous improvement to immigrants’ quality of life. For more information, please visit http://www.usalg.org.

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03 Dec

VFW Post 1 Salutes 123 Years With Annual Founders Gala

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When Denver’s VFW Post 1 members proudly display the “we’re number 1” gesture, it’s legit. The group annually marks its 1899 VFW “First Post” founding with a special gathering–the December date adds some extra holiday sparkle with a family feeling. Members and supporters gather to commemorate the Post’s anniversary, recognize the organization’s continued good work and they are focused on honoring veterans of all conflicts. This year you could say it was as easy as 123 to celebrate its 123rd anniversary with a festive gala at The Westin Westminster.

Post 1 members prepare to enter the ballroom together.

On Saturday, Dec. 3, the evening began with a reception and music provided by the Deborah Stafford Trio. Guests adjourned to the Westminster Ballroom for a ceremony that began with the flag presentation by Colorado 1st Volunteer Infantry Honor Guard, followed by the National Anthem sung by Stafford. The Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Remembrance Ceremony was conducted by past VFW National Chaplain John Holland.

Auxiliary members, veterans and friends

Tom Mustin, longtime Denver news anchor, served as program emcee. (The USS Mustin was named in honor of his family members who have devoted more than a century of U.S. Naval service…beginning with Tom’s great-grandfather Henry Mustin, naval aviation pioneer and Naval Academy grad, Class of 1896.) Guests had the opportunity to whoop it up when the VFW Band played each Military Service song. VFW National Sr. Vice Commander-in-Chief Duane Sarmiento spoke to the crowd, with a message that emphasized how VFW posts have progressed beyond meetings solely focused on exchanging war stories.

Gen. Kevin P. “Chilly” Chilton (Ret.), recipient of the Jack Swigert Award

Award honorees were recognized: Ashley Ferris, Lakewood Police officer, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year (wounded as she shot and killed an active shooter in Lakewood in 2021); Gen. Kevin. P. “Chilly” Chilton (Ret.), Jack Swigert Award; Healing Warriors, Irving Hale Veteran Organization of the Year Award; Jordy Construction, Corporate Partner of the Year Award; Ellen Winiarzcyk, Citizen of the Year Award; Larry Eversol, Kelsey Komarek VAC Citizen in the Arts Award; Darren Schultz, Ray Starkey Member of the Year Award; Michael Mitchel, John Holland Lifetime Achievement Award; Judy Sadler, Auxiliary Member of the Year Award; The American Legion, Helen K. Osmundson Post 206, Patriotic Partner of the Year.

Keynote speaker Lt. Gen. Bradford J. “BJ” Shwedo (Ret.) spoke to the crowd and Post Commander Jim Stevens gave the Commander’s Award to Jack Phares, then presented a State of the Post message. A short memorial followed for active duty service members and veterans lost during the year. The evening ended with a drawing that resulted in three lucky guests winning a variety of prizes.

Keynote speaker Lt. Gen. Bradford J. “BJ” Shwedo

VFW’s John S. Stewart Post 1 is the inaugural Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in existence: “First of many, but one of a kind.” As an actively engaged veterans organization located in Denver, Post 1 continues the tradition of being on the forefront of service to veterans and to our country. All money raised goes to veteran wellness, scholarships for family members and the Veterans Relief Fund that helps veterans and their families with emergency needs such as emergency temporary shelter, vehicle repairs and power bills. Post 1 writes: “In order to continue our tradition and host our event, we need dedicated attendees like yourself to help us make an impact in our Veteran community each and every day. You are a part of our community and without you, none of our work and accomplishments would be possible.” To learn more, visit: VFWpost1.org

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16 Oct

True Grit: Happy Trails 2022 Grand Gala

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Where there’s a will, there’s a way. For traumatized teens, it’s Third Way Center. You have to admire an organization that exists to help kids overcome enormous obstacles to thrive and become good citizens. Want proof it works? Program residents go on to support the organization as board members, event sponsors and civic leaders. And their kids do the same. These people relish their annual fun- and fundraising-focused True Grit Grand Gala…and deservedly so.

John and Katie Ringenberg (left), with Chris Maybee

On Saturday, Oct. 15, more than 300 supporters gathered at Infinity Park Event Center to catch up with old friends and raise money for Third Way Center. Who doesn’t love a gala theme that encourages Western dress and cowboy hats? This year’s Happy Trails title honored retiring executive director David Eisner after 45 years of leadership, as well as noted the organization’s priority of preparing teens for life after Third Way.

The evening began with a reception, silent auction and red-carpet photo opportunity. The dinner program speakers were all avid supporters–personally or professionally–of Third Way Center. They included: Brendan Bartic, emcee, former resident and board chairman; Gary Gray, board vice chair and presenting sponsor; Jean Smith Gonnell, high school dropout-turned-resident-turned-practicing attorney and board secretary; Brendan Zahl, president of sponsor Community Banks of Colorado; founder and medical director Hildegard Messenbaugh; honoree and executive director David Eisner; and Mark Lockett, a former resident who shared his positive story about breaking a negative intergenerational cycle that included his own kids’ college success.

The evening concluded with a live auction conducted by Jim Berz, then it was on to dessert and dancing to an energetic playlist by Angelo Fajardo (aka, DJLo).

(l to r): Jackson Patinella, Kathleen Cline, Amy Patinella holding son Anthony, Tony Patinella

Third Way Center offers truth and hope to high-risk, mentally ill, disadvantaged and often homeless adolescents and their families, a leader in the field of adolescent mental health care. The organization also gives clients the tools they need to help them become productive adults. From learning how to do laundry and open a bank account to building a resume and practicing for job interviews, the Third Way goal is to equip them for adulthood and future success.

Third Way Center provides around-the-clock treatment and care for young adults ages 14-21 with five residential houses in Denver and specialized treatment programs that address: building life skills, substance abuse treatment, independent living skills, a teen mother program, and an after-care and emancipation program. Typically, teens are referred by the Department of Human Services, Division of Youth Services, various mental health centers, or in some cases, private placement. For more information, go to https://thirdwaycenter.org or call 303-780-9191.

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09 Oct

Star-Spangled Gala Supports and Lifts Military Veterans

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If you’re part of the military community you already get it. If not, what you learn will make an impact. Star-Spangled Gala is a grassroots fundraiser that feels like a cherished reunion. Family-friendly, both kids and adults get a kick out of the event’s aquarium location. The grownups also have the opportunity to support small-but-mighty Healing Warriors Program. Its mission? To improve the wellness of veterans and their families through non-narcotic care.

The Denver Dolls strike a pose.

On Saturday, Oct. 8, supporters from across the Front Range gathered in Denver at Downtown Aquarium to raise money for Healing Warriors. The evening began with a silent auction and reception followed by a dinner program full of emotion, balanced with some fun. Flatirons Young Marines conducted the presentation of the colors and The Denver Dolls sang the national anthem and provided dinner entertainment. USAF Maj. Paul Schnell (Ret.) gave the invocation and Missing Man Table and Honors Ceremony, and emcee Ken Clark, KWGN-TV Channel 2, presided over speakers and recognition of honored guests. Award recipients were: Tanya Pratkelis, Jackie Cooper, Elevations Credit Union, Hannover Life ReAssurance Company of America and Jim Stevens. Retiring executive director Ana Palles Yelen and new executive director Laura Whitney also took the stage.

The always-anticipated live auction of coveted pies created by accomplished baker Yelen inspired spirited, competitive bidding–the talk began during the reception and bantering continued even as everyone took their places for dinner. At evening’s end, guests had the opportunity to tour the aquarium with family and friends.

Healing Warriors Program co-founders Shelley Poland (left) and Ana Yelen

Healing Warriors Program was founded in Fort Collins by Ana Palles Yelen and Rochelle (Shelley) Poland in 2013 due to a gap in care available to service members and the need to interrupt the factors that lead to service member suicides. The organization serves the veteran community and their families by providing care therapies that integrate with a service member’s standard medical care in order to achieve the individual’s wellness goals and restore quality of life. After the impacts of the pandemic and the Afghanistan withdrawal, Healing Warriors says it is “stronger and more agile in our mission to serve the needs of our veteran community. We saw an increased need for services as clients reported an escalation of Post Traumatic Stress symptoms, anxiety, anger, grief, sleep disturbance and pain management issues. Everything we’ve learned in these past nine years, since our inception, has given us critical knowledge, essential structure and mobilization as we look to the challenges that lay ahead with increased suicide and need for support. All funds raised at this event go towards our four-pillared program model to help our transitioning service members.”

For more information, go to HealingWarriorsProgram.org, or call 970-776-VETS (8387). To access the Veterans Crisis Line, call 1-800-273-8255. Learn more at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.

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27 Sep

St. Francis Center Annual Fundraising Gala

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A beautiful day for an annual event at the Denver Botanic Gardens for the “Gala at the Gardens,” the annual signature fundraiser benefiting the Saint Francis Center (SFC). The non-profit provides a refuge for men and women who are homeless in the metro Denver area, providing services to help transition out of homelessness.

Emcee Chris Parente thanked sponsors and guests for their support. Volunteer recognition this year went to Phil Tompkins with a Story of Connection featuring Tamika Chapman of SFC Employment Services.The St. Francis Center (SFC) strives to create a more just, diverse, equitable, and inclusive society for community members who experience homelessness. In their core values SFC aspires to: A Community of Peace and Hope, Quality and Professionalism, Safety and Wellness, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and recognizing and addressing the emerging needs of our community through their services.

Emcee Chris Parente thanked guests for supporting the St. Francis Center mission

The history of the organization includes several growth periods in the Denver metro region. The St. Francis Center, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Colorado, was established in June 1983 and operated from a leased building on 22nd & Lawrence streets in downtown Denver. This building quickly proved to be inadequate for the growing homeless population, and, in 1986, through a generous donation, SFC was able to purchase and renovate the 2323 Curtis Street site where the non-profit calls home today.

In 1992, SFC incorporated as a non-profit organization. Tom Luehrs became Executive Director in 1993. The Housing Program was initiated in 2001 with construction on the Cornerstone Residences beginning in October 2008. Fifty residents are now living in the apartments, including some housed for the first time in many years.

St. Francis Center Executive Director Tom Luehrs and Laura

In 2012, SFC took over the Turnabout program, and the Employment Program helps ex-offenders, a vulnerable part of the population who are homeless, and connects those it serves with full-time, permanent employment.

Another permanent supportive housing program, Saint Francis Apartments at Cathedral Square, was built and opened in 2018, through collaboration with other community partners. St. Francis Apartments at Cathedral Square offers 50 units of permanent supportive, affordable housing for individuals who were previously experiencing homelessness.

Michelle and Juan participated in the ring toss

To donate, volunteer or to get more information please visit the SFC web site at www.sfcdenver.org

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29 Aug

ALG's Afrik Impact Gala Celebrates "Loudly and Proudly" in 2022

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Every year during the month of August, African Leadership Group showcases the impact of African immigrants in the state of Colorado. The group produces a spectrum of events in a few weeks. This year we were treated to: a youth empowerment gathering, community cultural celebration and concert, an entrepreneurial business pitch night (a la “Shark Tank”), a Carlou D concert, an education forum, and a business development and economic summit. ALG’s annual Afrik Impact Gala traditionally ends the month “loudly and proudly,” according to founder-executive director Papa Dia, with the opportunity to dress up, socialize and celebrate. This year’s theme of “Immigration, Integration and Civic Participation” was enhanced by Gov. Jared Polis, on hand to present the official proclamation declaring August 2022 “African Immigrant Month” in Colorado.

Dignitaries from the City of Thiel in Senegal (front): Marema Ndiaye, first vice-mayor (left) and Adjara Ndiaye, director of planning and development; (back): Deneba Diouf, deputy mayor (left), and Mayor Babacar Diop

On Saturday, Aug. 27, around 500 supporters gathered at Denver Botanic Gardens on a gorgeous summer evening to start the event with a chance to mingle during the outdoor tented reception. Guests enjoyed music by string quartet Cloud 9 and passed hors d’oeuvres prepared and served by Roots Catering, followed by a plated dinner and short program. Auctioneer Chelley Canales, of The Gala Team, led live fundraising activities.

Emcee Darryl Collier welcomed everyone and introduced a small delegation of Senegal civic leaders from the city of Thiel in attendance, including Mayor Babacar Diop. Denver Mayor Michael Hancock also welcomed the dignitaries from Africa, and enthusiastically shared an update on DIA’s efforts to bring to Denver direct flights to and from Africa. Gov. Jared Polis spoke to guests as well, and then read and presented to ALG founder-executive director Papa Dia the official State “African Immigrant Month” proclamation. Keynote speaker was Thierno Thiam, PhD, professor of political science and international relations, and Co-Director of Integrative Public Policy and Development at Tuskegee University.

Steven Cartwright (left), with LaNeisha Booker and Ianandra Booker

Since its inception, ALG has organized multiple community events, engagements and discussions with programs focused on key issues such as education, career and job opportunities, business development, immigration, political and community involvement, and many other activities regularly reaching thousands of individuals in the local community and statewide. ALG advocates for the entire African Immigrant Community across national origin, tribes and language to ensure continuous improvement to immigrants’ quality of life. ALG upholds the following core values: transformation, diversity, equality, integrity and excellence. To read the story of how and why Papa Dia founded ALG, and learn more about the organization, please visit: https://usalg.org . If you are unable to view the accompanying video, please go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxjXrWsQYlw .

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07 May

Freedom Service Dogs Celebrates its 10th Annual Diamonds in the Ruff

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Young puppies and seasoned canines gathered with their human friends to celebrate the 10th Annual Freedom Service Dogs Diamonds in the Ruff: The Great Barksby, a homage to the Roaring Twenties with many guests wearing their best 1920s attire.

FOX31 TV Anchor Chris Parente served as the emcee of the FSD signature event

The 10th Annual Diamonds in the Ruff “The Great Barksby” was Presented by The Harold Lee Charitable Foundation

Unlike last year’s online event the 2022 Freedom Service Dogs 10th Annual Diamonds in the Ruff Gala was held in-person Saturday, May 7, at the Hyatt Regency Denver Tech Center. FSD’s mission for decades has been to help transform the lives of people from many walks of life by matching people with custom-trained service dogs.

Emcee Chris Parente of KDVR/Fox31 kept the event moving throughout the evening including live demonstrations of service dogs in action, videos of clients grateful for their doggy service partners, and a live auction led by JJ Raterink to help boost donations. The annual event was Presented by The Harold Lee Charitable Foundation. Music for the reception was provided by Spinphony Electric Quartet.

Meanwhile President and CEO Michelle Ostrander officially announced her retirement with a bittersweet farewell and a special thanks to her staff, board, volunteers and guests.

The organization also thanked its many sponsors and donors who made the evening possible. Silver Sponsors: Noel and Erika Wickwar; Bronze sponsors: Dan and Stacey May; Denver Life Magazine; InBank; and Mile High Sports; and Media Sponsor: KDVR/FOX31. Among this year’s contributors include: Bird Dog Whiskey, Boodles British Gin, Jay’s Valet, Mile High Sports, Newberry Brothers Floral & Décor, Thompson Jewelers, Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Freedom Service Dog in training “Boogie” was a hit with guests

Since its founding in 1987 Freedom Service Dogs has matched service dogs with a wide range of people including veterans with PTSD, children and teens with autism and physical disabilities, and individuals with neurocognitive disabilities. Training each dog requires 18 months of training and costs more than $30K. Since its establishment the organization has placed more than 500 dogs with children and adults. To volunteer, donate or learn more about Freedom Service Dogs please visit. FreedomServiceDogs.org

 

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31 Mar

Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame Inducts Class of 2020

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As March was winding down, what better time to honor and induct the (very patient) Class of 2020 into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame? The 2022 CWHF Induction Gala was a fitting finale to Women’s History Month, an opportunity to publicly recognize the achievements of the 2020 honorees after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the pause button on their official celebration.

Class of 2020 inductee Guadalupe Briseno (left), with Susie Hoggatt

On Wednesday, March 30, the evening began with a reception for around 600 supporters at the Seawell Ballroom lobby at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, followed by a festive dinner upstairs. The 2020 Class is made up of six contemporary women and four historical figures representing a spectrum successes and inspiration. The Class of 2020 contemporary inductees are: Katherine Archuleta, Lupe Briseño, Rosalind “Bee” Harris, Velveta Howell; Marianne Neifert, MD, MTS; and Gale Norton. They are joined by historical Colorado women: Mary Lou Anderson, Dr. Alida Cornelia Avery, Elizabeth Piper Ensley and Carolina Gonzalez.

(l to r): Sam Theil, Carly Sorenson, board member Patti and David Theil, Jackie Theil, Eric Winter, Julie Lundy, Tammy Laushey, Kim Sasko and Hal Shearer

Every two years, the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame inducts contemporary and historical women who have significant ties to Colorado, and have made a difference for women and girls through their courage and leadership. Since its founding in 1985, the CWHF has inducted 162 women from a variety of races, backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, career paths, political philosophies and religious beliefs for their outstanding contributions to society. The lives of these extraordinary women embody what can be achieved with passion, commitment, grit and the grace to stand tall in the face of obstacles. Their contributions span Colorado’s colorful and storied history, reaching all four corners of the state, and have spread to touch our nation and the world. Class of 2022 inductees will be announced in May. For more information, please visit: https://www.cogreatwomen.org. But first, meet some of the guests who stopped by the step-and-repeat area for a quick photo.

 

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02 Oct

Summits and Stars Gala Raises Funds for Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado

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Emcee Tom Mustin oversaw the exciting program for the 2021 “Summits and Stars” Gala benefiting the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado and Wyoming. This year’s event was held at the DCPA’s Seawell ballroom and featured a keynote address by Colorado State Rep. Iman Jodeh.

Brooke and Tom Gordon were the inaugural recipients of the Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award, given in recognition of volunteers or community members who have made a difference in the epilepsy community and contributed significantly to the Foundation’s success.

Keynote Speaker Colorado Rep. Iman Jodeh shared her personal struggles and triumphs dealing with epilepsy

This unique award honors individuals who have provided dedicated and outstanding service at all levels of the organization over a sustained period of time, demonstrated exceptional support of the Foundation, and significantly promoted the organization to the public and other supporters. Also recognized were top staff members Lindsay Ross Co-Chair of this year’s event and now a board member, and Director of Community Initiatives Marcee Aude for her 15 years of service.

The 2021 Summits & Stars Gala sponsored this year by Swedish Medical Center and UCB is the biggest and brightest night of the year for the Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado & Wyoming. More than 3 million adults and nearly half a million children have epilepsy in the U.S. and about 60, 000 in Colorado. Ticket sales and other fundraising raised by the annual signature event provides essential support for Foundation programs and services.

The evening featured a cocktail hour, inspirational speakers, seated dinner, entertainment, and a live and online auction. The Foundation’s “Reach for the Stars” paddle raise supports summer camps for children and teens with epilepsy, offering scholarships to any child in need so that every kid can enjoy their summer adventures.

Many thanks to Bouquets for their specially designed flower centerpieces

Guests at the Gala heard stories regarding the “summits” the organization’s “stars” have reached in 2021 from Colorado State Representative Iman Jodeh and Epilepsy Ambassador Joey Quintana. Together they passed “Joey’s Law” which ensures each school in Colorado has staff trained to recognize and respond to someone experiencing an epileptic seizure.

For more information regarding Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado and Wyoming, volunteerism, or donations please call directly at 303-377-9774 or visit the web site at: www.epilepsycolorado.org

 

 

 

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06 Aug

Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Sabor 2021 Provides a Feast for the Senses

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“Life is a carnival.” – Celia Cruz (Queen of Salsa Music)

Whether you call it a juerga, reventón, pachanga, guaracha, jarana, or a fiesta, the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 13th Annual Sabor did not fail to intrigue, amaze and stimulate the senses.

To paraphrase Shakespeare: a party by any other name would still be a little chaotic, explosive, exciting and, of course, entertaining.

Special Thanks to Presenting Sponsor Blue Moon Brewing Company

A Dia de Los Muertos figure oversees the guests at the Sabor 2021 event held August 6 at the Denver Botanic Gardens

The diverse and colorful costumed hosts welcomed hundreds of guests to the 13th Annual Sabor event presented by Blue Moon Brewery this year

It’s not a party without an authentic Mariachi band.

This year’s theme was “A Sensory Exploration of the Americas” a colorful and dynamic celebration presented by Blue Moon Brewing Company with sponsors: Don Julio, Schomp, American Facility Services Group, Tequila Herradura, and Pepsi. Hosted by the Denver Botanic Gardens for more than a decade now, the Colorado Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (COHCC) premier signature event was a feast for the eyes, ears and taste buds.

The annual celebration is a gastronomic and multicultural Latin American and Caribbean event with a carnival-like atmosphere that easily attracts more than 1,000 guests at the 22-acre Gardens and features musicians, restaurant vendors, artists, and dancers. President/CEO Mike Ferrufino was busy throughout the evening and was grateful to his staff and board for their contributions to such a large gathering.

Truly a Latin experience that captured the colors, flavors and styles of Mexico, United States, Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, and El Salvador, to name a few.

Restaurants and vendors offered a steady stream of drinks including: horchata, craft beer, malbec, pisco sour, tequila, palomas with live Tango, Mariachi, Salsa, Flamenco, and Rock en español.

The annual fiesta ended with a champagne and dessert after-party lasting till 10 p.m. which felt just right for most revelers who enjoyed the diverse Latin American sensory experience.

 

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08 Feb

2020 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala

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For tennis fans throughout Colorado the USTA Tennis Hall of Fame Gala is a must-attend fundraising dinner honoring the best, most talented and generous past and present members of Colorado’s tennis community. The event–benefiting the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (CYTF)– honors a Hall of Fame inductee and Colorado youth and adult players and organizations in several categories including sportsmanship, community service and competitive skills. In fact, Colorado USTA league players have sent many teams to the national competition and the Denver-based organization remains the nation’s 2nd largest division.

Andrew Sidel, Scott Thompson, JD Goodwin of Subaru of America

USTA Board President Angela Finan began the evening with a welcome and thanks to guests, sponsors and honorees before introducing the guest of honor and 2020 Hall of Fame inductee: Gigi Fernandez, one of the top doubles tennis players in U.S. history with a career spanning more than 25 years.

Fernandez thanked guests and acknowledged the hard work of Executive Director Fritz Garger, Associate Director Lisa Schaefer, and USTA staff & volunteers for successfully organizing the annual gala year after year. Later, Fernandez, CYTF Board President Cindy McLemore, and youth player Lyric Newsome assisted with the live auction led by Shelly St. John of the Auction Divas. After the award presentation, guests enjoyed live music by The Saddle Rockers. This HOF Gala sponsors this year were: Subaru, MidFirst Bank, LINE 3 and Sprouts Farmers Market.

Fernandez, who lived in Colorado in the 1990s, summarized her tennis career and urged guests to share their talents on behalf of others.  Fernandez turned pro in 1983 to become Puerto Rico’s first female professional athlete, in any sport. She went on to win 17 U.S. Open championship titles and moved to Aspen in 1989. Later, she represented the U.S at the Olympics and won 2 Olympic Gold Medals in doubles with Mary Joe Fernandez (no relation) and 16 additional Grand Slam doubles titles. In 2000, she was honored as the Puerto Rican Athlete of the Century and in 2019 was inducted in the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Her former Colorado coach, Randy Crawford, was inducted in 2019.

Tennis player Lyric is the daughter of Metheia and Quentin Newsome


The gala, held Saturday, February 8 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center, benefits the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (CYTF), which was founded in 1961 by the USTA to develop the next generation of U.S. tennis players. The event recognizes Colorado’s high school state champions and USTA league teams that advanced to national championships. The Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame display is permanently housed on the first floor of Denver’s Gates Tennis Center in Cherry Creek and is open to the public during normal hours of operation.

The Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation offers financial assistance to organizations that reach youth across Colorado through tennis programming. Grants range between $100 and $1,000. To download an application for the CYTF scholarships due March 1, 2019 visit: http://www.colorado.usta.com/cta/resources/financial_assistance/program_grants/

Colorado 2020 Tennis Hall of Fame inductee Gigi Fernandez urged guests to contribute and share their skills with others.To view past HOF honorees visit the CYTF web site here: https://cytf.net/events/

For more info on Colorado USTA visit: www.colorado.usta.com

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16 Nov

Rocky Mountain Redlegs Association St. Barbara's Ball

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This year’s Rocky Mt. Redlegs Association Saint Barbara’s Ball attracted more than 350 guests. The event, held November 16 at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Convention Center, featured an induction and awards ceremony for the 169th Field Artillery /100th Missile Defense Brigade including a raffle of commemorative rifles featuring the U.S. and state of Colorado flags.

The 169th Field Artillery Brigade is under the command of U.S. Army Col. Scot J. Hartman

The artillery units are part of the Colorado Army National Guard headquartered at Aurora’s Buckley Air Force Base and under the command of U.S. Army Colonel Scot J. Hartman.

Members of the Field Artillery are referred to as ‘”redlegs” because during the U.S. Civil War they were distinguished by scarlet stripes down the legs of their uniform pants. The use of colors to distinguish branches of the United States Army dates back to 1851.

Soldiers with the Colorado Army National Guard’s 169th Field Artillery Brigade officially welcomed Col. Hartman at William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center at Fort Carson
as incoming commander in September. Col. Hartman enlisted as an infantryman
in 1989 and later commissioned from the Reserve Officers Training Corps at the
University of Colorado in 1996.

Col. Hartman served in many positions, including recon officer, fire direction officer, battery commander, battalion commander, and many more. His deployments included Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Noble Eagle (twice), Operation Iraqi Freedom, and various state emergencies. Prior to Buckley, his latest position was as the commander of the Colorado National Guard’s mobilization and augmentation element to U.S. Northern Command.

Rocky Mt. Redlegs represent the artillery unit

The annual event is sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Redlegs Association and honors the sacred history and traditions of the Field Artillery, Missile Defense, Sustainment, Ordnance, Medical, Cyber and Signal Branches and their Patron Saints.

The ball was hosted by Colonel Scot Hartman, Colonel Christopher Williams and Command Sergeants Major Edward Schwaigert and Jeffery Coker. Guests were eligible to participate in a raffle for a chance to win one of two custom cerakote rifles.

Special thanks go to DangerLee Industries, Launch Pad Brewery, Timberline Photovideo and Blacktie Colorado.

 

 

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14 Sep

2019 Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center Annual Gala

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The Sheraton Denver Downtown was the venue for the Sept 14, 2019 Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center Annual Gala featuring live music, dancing, comedy and casino gaming.

MS Center CEO Gina Hensrud with 2019 Gala Emcee Ed Greene

More than 400 guests gathered to celebrate RMMSC’s mission: Improving the quality of life for individuals and their families living with MS and related neurological diseases through care, support, education and research. Emcee Ed Greene and CEO Gina Hensrud welcomed guests and thanked sponsors in a full event that featured a live auction from Gary Corbett, music by the Dave Camp Jazz Band,  laughs provided by comedian Spencer James, and after-dinner casino gaming.

Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive and unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body.

This year’s Event Committee featured several leadership roles from Gala Chair, Claudia Miller; Sponsorship Chair, Simon Kafati; and Auction Co-Chairs Eliz Padilla and Sheri Rotolo.

Key sponsorship support came from corporations, medical industries and community organizations. The 2019 Presenting Sponsor was Denver Life Magazine. Platinum Sponsors: Biogen, Genentech, PSAV, and the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. Bronze Sponsors: Anton Collins Mitchell, The Clinic Colorado, David and Shannon Geonetta, EI Pomar, JPMorgan Chase, Key Bank, Marathon Petroleum, Dennis and Susan McDonnell, Jim and Claudia Miller, MoXXy Women, the Persichitte Family, Brian and Erica Petrelli, Arwin Priest, the Schlosser family, Rocky Mountain MS Center at University of Colorado, Turnaround Management Association Rocky Mountain, Way Out West Realty, Wes and Kay Lynn West.

2019 MS Gala Chair Claudia Miller thanked sponsors and guests

The downtown premier annual event supports the 41-year-old RMMSC– Colorado’s largest center dedicated to comprehensive multiple sclerosis care, support, education and research.

Among the symptoms of MS include blurred or double vision; tingling, numbness or pain; extreme fatigue; loss of bladder control; memory problems; lack of concentration; and difficulty walking. Fortunately, since MS was first recognized as a neurological disease by “Father of Neurology” Jean-Martin Charcot in 1868 many medications and breakthroughs have been made to alleviate symptoms to help people with MS live healthy, productive lives.

MS Center supporters Jan Hammond  and Louise Richardson

Thanks to generous community support, the Rocky Mountain MS Center has created a world-leading model for treating patients and families living with MS.

For more information, please visit: www.mscenter.org

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06 Apr

2019 Colorado Symphony Ball: Speak Easy, Rock Hard

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It’s been another great year for the Colorado Symphony which celebrated its success Saturday, April 6 with the 26th Colorado Symphony Ball at Denver’s historic Fillmore Auditorium. This year’s theme: “Speak Easy, Rock Hard.”

Emcee Kim Christiansen of 9News greeted more than 600 guests and patrons wearing their best 1920s speakeasy attire and blacktie best.

Diane Hill was awarded the 2019 Margaret Phipps Award from CSO CEO/Chair Jerry Kerns.

Colorado Symphony Orchestra CEO/Chair Jerome “Jerry” Kern presented the 2019 Margaret Phipps Award for Philanthropy to CSO Trustee Diane Hill, PhD. Hill is an organizational psychologist at Somerville Partners–a professional company dedicated to using psychology to help organizational leaders select, develop, and inspire those who work for them. Since joining the board in 1989 she has helped spearhead many fundraising and outreach initiatives.

CSO Chair/CEO Jerry Kerns talks with CSO Music Director Brett Mitchell

The event featured live performances by the Colorado Symphony and The Originators, conducted by  Associate Conductor Christopher Dragon. The Originators band performed classic rock cover tunes from the ’70’s to today’s hits. The 2019-20 season marks Brett Mitchell’s third season as music director and Yumi Hwang-Williams’ 20th season as Concertmaster–just in time for Beethoven’s 250th birthday in 2020.

This year’s premier or Maestro Sponsors are: AMG National Trust Bank, Anonymous,
The Anschutz Foundation, Keith and Kathie Finger, Haselden Construction, LLC, HomeAdvisor, Mary Rossick Kern and Jerome H. Kern, Liberty Global, Inc., and the
University of Colorado System.

According to Musical Director Brett Mitchell, the  past season has been filled with several key achievements including:

  • Signing an Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Denver, securing $16.7 million to be used for a new state-of-the-art concert hall in Denver.
  • Announced the 2019/20 Season featuring major stars Renée Fleming and Kristin Chenoweth
  • Reached the halfway point of our endowment campaign goal of $50 million which will make the endowment the largest of any Colorado performing arts organization
  • Performed more than 150 times with an expanded and diversified repertoire

For movie lovers the Colorado Symphony this fall will perform scores from several films including: The Goonies, Nightmare Before Christmas, Home Alone, and Love Actually. Other highly anticipated performances will feature travel host Rick Steves and a tribute to Aretha Franklin.

Established in 1989 as the successor to the Denver Symphony Orchestra, the Colorado Symphony performs in the Denver Center for Performing Arts’ Boettcher Concert Hall, and each year presents education and outreach programs: Masterworks, Pops, Holiday, Family, Inside the Score, and Symphony on the Rocks series.

Single tickets to all concerts go on sale Aug. 1, 2019. To purchase tickets or download a season brochure visit: https://coloradosymphony.org/Events-Tickets/Subscriptions. And, for more general information visit www.coloradosymphony.org

 

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26 Mar

2019 Denver Auto Show 11th Annual Preview Gala

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Who doesn’t like reviewing the latest and greatest SUVs, super luxurious Mercedes and Bentleys or the supercharged Ferraris and Masseratis? Hundreds arrived March 26 for the 11th Annual Preview Gala: the kick-off charitable event and sneak-peek preview for the 2019 Denver Auto Show at the Colorado Convention Center. The event featured access to the entire show floor featuring 2019 sporty and rugged compacts, sedans, pickups and SUVs; exclusive high-end luxury vehicles; JEEPs; and high-powered exotic sports car imports.

Proceeds of the event owned by the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) benefit two Denver non-profit charities: The Denver Post Community Foundation and Clear the Air Foundation.

An estimated 100K people visit the five-day Denver Auto Show at the Colorado Convention Center.

This year’s auto show runs from March 27-31 and is the largest of its kind between LA and Chicago. The Denver Post Foundation supports arts and culture; children and youth; education and literacy; and basic human services; while the Clear the Air Foundation awards scholarships to auto tech students.

On hand at the Gala Opening were Tim Jackson, CEO and President of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), and two-time cancer survivor and NBA Coach of The Year George Karl who served as the VIP Chair. The 9-year head coach of the Denver Nuggets is among the winningest coaches in the NBA. Remarks were also made by Dan Antonelli, Senior VP, Western Region of Gala Presenting Sponsor Ally Bank. Emcee Glenn Thayer oversaw the festivities and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock was on hand for the ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Besides an early-bird view of the 400K square feet of show floor, guests played the blackjack tables and were able to hobnob with auto industry leader reps, car aficionados, auto industry magazine publishers, Denver newspaper/magazine publishers, statewide car dealer reps, and a few politicos. A magnet for many were the exotic cars including from top-end manufacturers of the: Ferrari, Masserati, MacLaren, Lotus and a few Formula One race cars.  Some adventurous guests climbed behind the wheel of a JEEP to navigate up the 22-foot high artificial mountain with a hair-raising 35-degree ramp toward the sky.

Along with Gala Presenting Sponsor Ally Bank were Premier Sponsors: Armatus, Brede Exposition Services, Rickenbaugh Automotive | Platinum Sponsors: AAA Insurance, UMB Bank | and Gold Patrons: 9News, AutoNation, Brownstein Hyatt Farer Schreck, Centerplate, Colorado Chevy Dealers, Colorado Hyundai Dealers, Kuni Lexus Greenwood Village, Land Rover Denver, Medved Autoplex, Mountain States Ford Dealers, Paragon Expo, Rocky Mt. Honda Dealers, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, USI Insurance Services.

The 2019 Denver Auto Show runs through Sunday, March 31 and is Presented by AAA Insurance and Sponsored by The Denver Post Media. For more information visit: www.colorado.auto

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23 Feb

2019 Beaux Arts Ball Benefiting National Jewish Health

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National Jewish Health celebrated its contributions to the Denver community and honored its long-time supporters and leadership with another uniquely themed ball event entitled: “The World’s Greatest Showman”

As part of its new and elaborate celebration each year, organizers always impress attendees with their imaginative event themes, and the 2019 Beaux Arts Ball Benefiting National Jewish Health was no different.

This year’s event was inspired by the 2017 film starring Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum. Posters, signage and decor reflected the circus theme and a half dozen circus performers were on hand as acrobats, singers, and other circus artists to celebrate what every year becomes one of Denver’s largest celebrations.

This year’s event, held Saturday, February 23 at the Hyatt Regency at the Colorado Convention Center Denver, attracted 1,500 guests. They gathered to honor National Jewish Health which began serving patients in 1899 and has spent 120 years developing new tools for diagnosing and treating respiratory and related diseases.

As President/CEO Dr. Michael Salem stated well: “Every person …takes breathing for granted, until they can’t.”

Honored as this year’s Grand Marshals were: Faye and Steve Demby; Kathleen and William Hybl; Wendy and Jimmy Miller; Kate Paul and Michael Passmore. This year’s event again provided live music and entertainment and a generous live auction event handled by Auctioneer Reggie Rivers.

Presenting Sponsor was the Morgridge Family Foundation. The Foundation makes investments that transform communities by creating opportunity for individuals via non-profit partners. Among the other premiere sponsors were: Greatest Showman Sponsor Iris and Michael Smith; Platinum Sponsors: Arrow Electronics/Karen and Michael Long; The Baer Family; Hyde Park Jewelers; and Shereen and Michael Pollak.

Among the other upcoming National Jewish Health fundraising events this year include: Hoops and Hoopla on April 6 (www.hoopsandhoopla.org); and the Celebrity Golf Classic July 28 and 29 (njhgolfclassic.org)

The 2020 Beaux Arts Ball will be held February 22, 2020.

 

 

 

 

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09 Feb

2019 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala

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Tennis is known as a lifetime sport for many reasons including the longevity of players that can last many decades and continuous growth in talent and experience. This year the 2019 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame inducted Jeff Cathrall and Randy Crawford for having distinguished themselves through their dedication and contributions to the sport.

Keynote speaker Wayne Bryan is father of the Bryan Brothers, Bob and Mike, the most successful professional doubles team in tennis history! He is also a well-known tennis coach and author of “Raising Your Child To Be A Champion in Athletics, Arts and Academics.” Despite being hoarse from his cross-country travels and speaking events, Bryan described his own commitment to tennis and managed to motivate guests to bid for live auction events.

The gala, held Saturday, February 9 at the Marriott Denver Tech Center, benefited the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (CYTF), founded in 1961 by the USTA to develop the next generation of U.S. tennis players. Co-emcees Andy Zodin and Christine Chang announced several youth and adult winners in many categories and entertained some 500 guests with their off-the-cuff comments and interaction.  League players in Colorado USTA have sent many teams to the national competition this year and is the 2nd largest division in the nation.

USTA Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame inductees distinguished themselves through their dedication and many contributions to the sport. Colorado HOF inductee Jeff Cathrall, originally from Woodland Park, Colorado, excelled in the junior and collegiate ranks in the 1980s and 1990s. His teammates at Stanford University included Patrick McEnroe on the collegiate team that won NCAA titles for three consecutive years from 1988 to 1990.  Inductee Randy Crawford became the No. 1 player at Texas Christian University and went on to coach Martina Navratilova in the late 1980s as well as doubles champion Gigi Fernandez. Currently, he is the tennis director at Maroon Creek Club in Aspen. Also recognized were Colorado high school state champions and USTA league teams that advanced to national championships.

Shelly St. John of the Auction Divas managed the live auction with Wayne Bryan. After the awards presentations live music entertainment was provided by The Saddle Rockers. Special thanks went to year-round sponsorship support from Subaru, MidFirst, KIND, Centeno-Schultz Clinic, LINE 3 and Sprouts.

The Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation offers financial assistance to organizations that reach youth across Colorado through tennis programming. Grants typically range between $100 and $1,000. To download an application for the CYTF scholarships due March 1, 2019 visit:
http://www.colorado.usta.com/cta/resources/financial_assistance/program_grants/

And, for more information on Colorado USTA visit: www.colorado.usta.com

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25 Oct

Freedom Service Dogs 2018 7th Annual Diamonds in the Ruff

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Who doesn’t love dogs? And several well-trained service dogs from the non-profit Freedom Service Dogs were on hand for the FSD’s Diamonds in the Ruff.  The annual fundraiser, held Saturday, October 20th, served as the inaugural event for Wings Over the Rockies: Exploration of Flight facility located near the Centennial Airport in Littleton, Colorado. The sold-out gala raised a record amount of approximately $330,000 with more than 500 guests enjoying this year’s theme: Year of the Dog.

Allison Peltier, Karen Moldovan, Lisa Davenport

FOX31 Anchors Aristea Brady and Jeremy Hubbard served as emcees. Former Denver Broncos running back Reggie Rivers returned as the auctioneer extraordinaire. Guests enjoyed a demo featuring service dog-in-training Squints, shopped the fabulous silent and live auctions, and purchased flutes of champagne for the chance to win a one-carat, custom diamond pendant, donated by Larry Blauweiss of Fifth Avenue Designs.

FSD President/CEO Michele Ostrander welcomed the crowd and reviewed the past year’s programs which was followed by a service dog demonstration, program video, and live auction. Among the highlights of the evening was the demonstration by service dog Squints who followed commands to the letter including painstakingly picking up a credit card from a slick stage floor. This year’s Diamonds In The Ruff (DITR) Event Chair was Lani Kessler who with her team of 21 DITR committee members ensured a smooth celebration. Live auctioneer Reggie Rivers generated a lively competitive bidding war for several stuffed golden retrievers,  travel packages and other gift items and general donations.

Based in Englewood, Colorado, Freedom Service Dogs provides well-trained service dogs to military veterans, children with autism and people with mobility disabilities to handle life tasks which enable them to regain their independence.

Guests enjoyed an Asian-inspired buffets, silent and live auctions, special entertainment by vocalist, Navy veteran and FSD Client Angela Walker (accompanied by service dog Brave) with guitarist Chris Winter, and a drawing for a diamond pendant  (designed and donated by Larry Blauweiss of Fifth Avenue Designs). Several FSD clients and their amazingly trained service dogs were on hand throughout the evening.

This year’s Presenting Sponsor was VISA. Silver Sponsors were: Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Life Magazine, Jay’s Valet, Decorative Materials. Bronze Sponsors: Giovanni, TCA ETrade, Baird, FOX31, Mile High Sports Magazine, and The Denver Post. For more information visit the web site at freedomservicedogs.org or call 303-922-6231.

 

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21 Apr

CNI 2018 Spotlight on Hope 30th Anniversary Gala

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The Colorado Neurological Institute (CNI) 2018 Spotlight on Hope 30th Anniversary Gala honored the founders, physicians, medical professionals and other community advocates who have supported and sustained the organization for three decades. Long-time community speaker and volunteer Scottie Iverson served as mistress of ceremonies with comments made by CNI Executive Director Tami Lack Crawford and CEO Ryan Simpson, representing Swedish Medical Center who with HealthONE were Presenting Sponsors.
To be eligible for nationwide grants and sponsorships CNI has adopted a 2nd working name–“Center for Neurological Innovation”–to reflect its continued research efforts and initiatives.

More than 400 guests attended the April 21st Gala at CU South Denver which emphasized the Past, Present and Future. Staff recognition went to Ellen Belle, Debra Bandstra, Judith Stuckey, and Lorre Gibson. Special recognition went to more than three dozen individuals who have contributed to medical advances, research and community outreach during CNI’s 30 years of existence. Among founders and primary supporters recognized were:

Past Founders and Early Supporters:
Dr. Gary VanderArk
Mr. Nick Hilger
Dr. Peter Ricci
Dr. Paul Levisohn
Ms. Kay Phillips
Ms. Mary White
Charlie Ferguson
Don Johnson
Don Smith
Carol Greenwald
Chuck Siebert
Chris O’Brien
Trish Leavitt
LuAnne Williams
Dr. Rajeev Kumar

Present physicians, medical professionals and supporters:
LaFawn Biddle
Dr. Richard and Mrs. Linda VG Kelley
Dr. Cori Millen
Bill and Leslie Vollbracht
Drs. Allen and Diana Bowling
Dr. David Kelsall
ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter
Rick and Robin Fort
Dan Weyland

Future Innovators:
Dr. Alex Dietz
Suzanne Douthat Birkans
Kevin Schmidt, John Carlin, and Tom Palizzi
Dr. Charles Livsey
Dr. Lotta Granholm-Bentley
Jameson Smith
Kelly Corey
Dr. Adam Hebb
Dr. Eric Luppo

Established in 1988 CNI offers access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care, support services, clinical trials, outpatient neuro rehab and counseling. CNI is home to 70 physician and research associates, works to advance clinical trials into new treatments for MS, Parkinson’s and other brain and spinal conditions. Visit www.thecni.org or call 303-788-4010 or email info@thecni.org for more information or to volunteer or make a donation.

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02 Feb

2018 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala

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“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

 

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11 Nov

Wings Over The Rockies' 2017 Spreading Wings Gala Honoring Flight For Life Colorado

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This Veteran’s Day on Saturday, November 11th Wings Over The Rockies’ 2017 Spreading Wings Gala honored the courage, determination and sacrifice shown by the men and women of Flight For Life Colorado, celebrating its 45th anniversary of service through St. Anthony’s Hospital. This year’s Signature Sponsors were: Air Methods and Centura Health.

Lisa Wolf, James Reeman, Julie Schroeder

The evening– emceed by aviators Sean Tucker and Amelia Earhart–featured special stories of the rescuers and the rescued, guests representing first-responders, military, the aviation industry, and a showcase of the military’s relationship with Flight For Life. Wings also showcased two vintage helicopters—specifically the Huey and the Alouette–which were both vital to the formation and early success of Flight For Life Colorado.

President/CEO John Barry thanked donors and provided an overview of education programs and the history of Flight For Life Colorado. Originally founded in 1972, Flight For Life Colorado is the nation’s original air ambulance service and to-date they have transported more than 114,000 infants, children and adults.  Premier Sponsors this year were: Children’s Hospital Colorado, El Pomar Foundation, Craig Hospital, Gogo Business Aviation, and Textron Aviation.

Entertainment was provided by The Silhouettes, a unique entertainment company featured on “America’s Got Talent” TV show, which performed several dance and acrobatic routines to pay tribute to Flight For Life and veterans. For more information please visit the Wings web site: https://wingsmuseum.org

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23 Sep

Children's Hospital Gala Celebrates 40 Years of Success, Raises $2.4 Million

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In 1977, “Three’s Company” was a hit TV show, smart phones were unheard of…and the first Children’s Hospital Colorado Gala was held in Denver. Fast-forward to September 2017, where the 40th anniversary celebration blended black-tie glam with down-home, boot-stompin’ entertainment by country-western duo Big & Rich. The evening’s program included skits and chats by three engaging Children’s Hospital patients-ambassadors, and a live auction allowed some big-hearted donors to make generous, on-the-spot contributions to the mission. Overall the event raised $2.4 million. Yee-haw!

The Bonicello group at the reception

On Sept. 23, around 1,300 Children’s Colorado supporters put on their fanciest Saturday-night duds and headed downtown to the Hyatt Regency Denver At Colorado Convention Center for an evening of food, fun and philanthropy. The evening began with a reception that offered appetizers galore, as well as a Love & Libations wall that allowed guests to make a donation and not only receive a mystery-prize envelope, but also have the opportunity to write a personal note to young patients at the hospital.

The program began with a welcome from the hospital’s president and CEO, Jena Hausmann, and Children’s foundation president and CEO, Steve Winesett, who introduced this year’s hosts, the Freyer Family: John, Sr., and wife Ginny, and John, Jr., and wife Andi. They were presented with a Children’s Hospital signature red wagon, dedicated with their family’s name as well as business Land Title Guarantee Company.

Commemorating the Freyer Family and Land Title Guarantee Company with a signature Children’s Colorado red wagon.

Emcee Steve Thomas talked about his tour at Children’s Hospital Colorado’s Anschutz campus location and led a spirited live auction that netted $150,000. Thomas was aided by three Children’s Ambassadors who are also patients: Carter, Savannah and Kaley. He told guests that the Ambassadors’ own fundraising efforts for the hospital are on track to total $20,000 in 2017. The three introduced fun-focused Big & Rich, who “Did It For The Party,” storming the stage with loud exuberance. Guests had to opportunity to kick up their heels, as well as indulge in after-dinner niceties at a reception outside the ballroom.

The crowd is wowed by Big & Rich. (Photo by Jensen Sutta)

Children’s Hospital Colorado sees more, treats more and heals more kids than any hospital in our seven-state region. Its medical professionals are experienced and forward-thinking when it comes to the latest methods for diagnosis and treatment. This translates into less invasive treatment, less time and less stress on children and families. The hospital’s specially trained pediatric experts recognize that families are partners as they deliver family-centered care. With a very family-friendly facility, it’s easier for parents and siblings to be involved in the day-to-day medical, emotional and social needs of their child. From 100 percent private patient rooms to healing color therapy and views of nature, every detail of Children’s Hospital Colorado was built to help kids get better faster and reduce stress on the whole family. To learn more, please visit: ChildrensColorado.org.

Children’s Ambassadors Carter, Savannah and Kaley

Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation was established in 1978 and is dedicated solely to advancing the mission of Children’s Hospital Colorado. Every dollar received is used to further the Children’s Hospital mission of caring for and curing children through the provision of high-quality care, education, research and advocacy. Donor support helps expand the hospital’s reach nationally and internationally and makes Children’s Colorado one of the world’s preeminent institutions of medicine and science. A donation of $150 can provide a guitar for The Ponzio Creative Arts Therapy Program at the Pediatric Mental Health Institute to help kids cope and express themselves. And $250 can provide two weeks’ worth of meals and transportation services for a family while in the hospital. For more information, please visit: ChildrensColoradoFoundation.org.

SAVE THE DATE: 2018 Children’s Colorado Gala is Sept. 29. Tickets generally sell out a month before the event.

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22 Sep

Aurora Education Foundation Annual Gala

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The 2017 Aurora Public Schools Foundation Annual Gala celebrated its 30th Anniversary this year to support the more than 50 Aurora public schools in a district comprised of multicultural APS students representing 130 countries.

The APS Foundation’s annual fundraiser was held Friday, Sept 22 at the Stanley Marketplace in northwest Aurora. The Foundation, originally established to collect school supplies and donations from the Aurora community, today raises scholarship funds and builds public-private partnerships to support high school students pursuing college degrees. Since its inception in 1987, the Aurora Public Schools Foundation has served to foster support of education within the Aurora Public School District by bringing together teachers, business-people, parents, alumni and community leaders.

Emcee Rick Crandall led the proceedings with comments from Board Chair Derek Rushing, Foundation Director Jay Grimm along with Aurora Public Schools Superintendent Rico Munn, corporate sponsor representatives and scholarship recipients Veronica Lobatos and Andres Marquez.

“We are gratified to play a part in driving innovation and excellence for the students of Aurora Public Schools,” said APS Foundation Board Chair Derek Rushing. “We are thankful that CSU-Global is continuing to demonstrate one of its core values of collaboration by being a strong partner for our Foundation and school district through its title sponsorship of this event.”

Special thanks went to Title Sponsor Colorado State University Global Campus; Presenting Sponsor Kaiser Permanente; and National Honor Society Sponsors: Comcast, Delta Dental, Conoco Phillips, and UC Health.

“We are proud to partner with the Aurora Public Schools Foundation in support of their mission of providing students with the tools they need to pursue their goals after graduation,” said Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker, president and CEO of CSU-Global.

Since its founding 30 years ago the Foundation has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships, assisted the district to access millions in philanthropic support, and now helps students through College and Career Centers set up to ensure that all students have access to the resources and guidance they need to plan for a successful future after high school. For more information visit: www.educateaurora.org

 

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22 Apr

Chelsea Hutchison Foundation's Casino Royale Fundraiser

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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

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25 Feb

Beaux Arts Ball Celebrates 20 Years With Revolutionary Flair

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When you’re one of the most prolific fundraising events in town—one that typically raises $2 million—how do you celebrate your own 20th anniversary? This year’s Beaux Arts Freedom Ball rose to the occasion, infusing its annual big, bold bash with American Revolution spirit, to the delight of 1,200 guests—all supporters of the programs and services of beneficiary National Jewish Health. The evening included Broadway-worthy performances drawn from “Hamilton,” including costumed dancers, singers, rappers and flag-wavers, along with a dance-inducing live band. And that was just the call to dinner.

Spirit of ’76

On Saturday, Feb. 25, Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum was transformed into a Colonial village for a cocktail reception full of period décor, live characters from “Hamilton,” servers in Paul Revere hats … all with red, white and blue touches, of course. One side of the room was bordered by a floor-to-ceiling tarp, hiding the dining area. Just after 7 p.m., it was dramatically lowered after a song-and-dance presentation, and guests followed performers to their seats. Several partygoers hit the dance floor with the Bobby Attiko Band blaring out a musical invitation, even as dinner service was beginning.

John and Carrie Morgridge, recipients of this year’s Arthur B. Lorber Award for Distinguished Service

Board chair Blair Richardson began the program singling out well-known people in the audience, including Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Rep. Ed Perlmutter and Ken Salazar. Honorary chair Barry Hirschfeld was recognized onstage, and Michael Salem, M.D., president and CEO, talked about National Jewish Health’s singular programs and services. Carrie and John Morgridge were recognized as recipients of the 2017 Arthur B. Lorber Award for Distinguished Service. The couple are vice president and president, respectively, of the Morgridge Family Foundation, which has supported major projects at NJH, as well as other noted Denver institutions. The award is the highest honor bestowed by National Jewish Health, and recognizes individuals who show leadership that has impacted the reputation, service science or mission of the institution. This year’s grand marshals were recognized from the stage: Debbie and Michael Feiner, Cathey and Richard Finlon, Mary Lou Blackledge Kortz and Donald Kortz, and Julie and Brent Morse.

The Bobby Attiko Band kept everyone dancing before and after the dinner program.

A live auction segment with auctioneer Christian Kolberg included a trio of package experiences: Bon Jovi and Faith Hill/Tim McGraw concerts, a trip to the CMA Awards in Nashville and an ultra-luxe excursion to Napa Valley. At the program’s conclusion, guests had the opportunity to once again take over the dance floor to kick up their heels, urged on by the Bobby Attiko until the building had to lock its doors.

National Jewish Health is the leading respiratory hospital in the nation. Founded in 1899 as a nonprofit hospital, NJH today is the only facility in the world dedicated exclusively to groundbreaking medical research and a treatment of patients with respiratory, cardiac, immune and related disorders. Patients and their families come to National Jewish Health from around the world to receive cutting-edge comprehensive, coordinated care.

Salem writes: “Through your participation in this event, you share in (NJH) success, ensuring that important programs continue to transform lives, our scientists make groundbreaking discoveries to cure diseases and our physicians can care for all patients regardless of ability to pay. At National Jewish Health, we are focused on innovation and the future. The work we do today will shape health care tomorrow. And the future of patient care lies with the kinds of teamwork for which we are known. Pulmonologists consult with rheumatologists, cardiologists, gastroenterologists and allergists to make the right diagnoses and to develop a complete picture and plan for their patients. As a result, we diagnose diseases earlier and we also focus on prevention and precision medicine.

“We would appreciate the opportunity to show you in person what makes National Jewish Health the leading respiratory hospital in the nation. Please let us know if you are interested in a Behind the Scenes visit.” For more information, please visit NationalJewish.org.

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23 Feb

Colorado Ballet Firebird Gala Features Vivid Performances

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Like the song says, “everything is beautiful at the ballet,” and it was epitomized by this year’s Colorado Ballet Firebird Gala. Moving dance performances, colorful décor, a sincere tribute to artistic director Gil Boggs, sumptuous food and beverages, and after-dinner dancing onstage at Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Each is a distinctive experience on its own. But everything combined into one evening? It was a fundraiser to remember.

Ballet mistress/choreographer Sandra Brown, with husband Gil Boggs, artistic director

The evening began with a cocktail reception at Chambers Grant Salon, before guests took their seats inside the theatre. There, after a short welcome from Boggs and Mayor Michael Hancock, they were treated to the dancing talent of Maria Mosina and Alexei Tyukov with Firebird Pas de Deux. Their lyrical performance was a bittersweet moment, as both confirmed onstage afterward that this is their last year. The anticipated debut of ARROW Five Years Out followed, as 10 dynamic dancers performed the work choreographed by Sandra Brown.

Maria Mosina

Gala chair Denise Sanderson presided over a tribute to Boggs, honoring his first 10 years of guiding the success and growth of the Colorado Ballet as artistic director. Boggs was surprised onstage by family members from Atlanta, who traveled to Denver for the gala. A live auction, run by Doug Tisdale, included unique items such as a private dinner for 10 prepared by renowned Denver chef Frank Bonanno, as well as a stunning portrait of Maria Mosina, created by Darrell Anderson. After a paddle raise featuring generous donors, guests adjourned outside for a sumptuous dinner prepared by Kevin Taylor’s at the Opera House. The evening ended with dancing on the Ellie stage with DJ Larry.

Reps from presenting sponsor ARROW Electronics

Gala chair Sanderson wrote: “Many of our dancers’ careers have been made possible through scholarship opportunities that allowed them to pursue their dreams to become professional dancers. Increased support of our Academy Scholarship Fund will help the next generation of dancers reach their potential as well.

With the mission of Every.Body.Dance, Colorado Ballet’s Education and Community Engagement department is our hidden gem. Far-ranging programs serve in-need students, teachers, families, people with disabilities and lifelong learners in Colorado. Student matinees have always been one of my favorites – imagine the Ellie Caulkins Opera House filled with 2,000 energetic and excited students, many of whom are experiencing their first live performance. One first-grade student commented to his teacher: “This is way better than TV!”

For schools that lack funds for transportation or that are located in rural areas precluding a field trip to Denver, Colorado Ballet has begun an innovative program to live stream performances directly to the classroom, thereby removing barriers to experiencing the arts.

Increasing the capacity of community engagement and opportunities for Academy students to be supported by scholarships are two ways Colorado Ballet is planning for the future – Five Years Out, as ARROW says. I hope you will reach deep and support these outstanding programs…” For more information on the Colorado Ballet, its programs and donor opportunities, please visit: ColoradoBallet.org.

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20 Jan

17th Annual Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala

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When USTA Colorado honors its own, the event goes beyond an awards ceremony and live auction. It’s all about the tennis family sharing a great meal, along with stories of athleticism, integrity and generosity … and it concludes with a kick-up-your-heels party to cap off the evening. Anyone who still thinks tennis is an elitist sport should consider the guests at this year’s Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala, who represented the continuing growth of the game’s participants, spanning age, gender, ethnicity and physical ability. Throughout the event, guests and speakers expressed that in participating in tennis, they learn more than sports skill sets, but also acquire positive life skills. Game. Set. Match.

Hall of Fame inductees, Class of 2016 (l to r): Don Willsie, Dennis Ralston and Dave Benson

On Friday, Jan. 20, more than 400 tennis aficionados gathered at the Marriott Denver Tech Center to celebrate the induction of four luminaries into its Hall of Fame: Dave Benson, Mary Jane Metcalf Donnalley (whose posthumous award was accepted by her granddaughter Eryn), Dennis Ralston and Don Willsie. Others were honored for their feats on the court, from winning a national title to exhibiting sportsmanship and grace during competition. Off-the-court good deeds were singled out as well, from coaching underserved youth to promoting the game. Vicky Matarazzo received special recognition for her work coaching Special Olympics athletes.

USTA Colorado board member Angela Finan, with Lew Sowell

Andy Zodin and Christine Chang served as co-emcees for the awards program, and auctioneer Shelly St. John revved up the crowd during a live auction that included an opening and a closing weekend at the 2017 U.S. Open. Two high bidders were able to jump on the special opportunity. The evening ended with a lively after-party to the sounds of Saddle Rock.

Dollars raised at the annual gala benefit the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation (a fundraising arm of USTA Colorado), which promotes the physical, emotional and social development of all youth to aspire to become active, productive and responsible citizens. The organization strives to put a tennis racket into the hands of any child who wants to learn and participate in the game. USTA Intermountain Colorado has been promoting the growth and development of tennis since 1955, and support of the CYTF enables USTA Colorado help create the next generation of tennis players in the state. The Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame display is permanently housed on the first floor of Gates Tennis Center in Cherry Creek, in Denver, and is open to the public during normal hours of operation for the center. For more information, and to read bios of this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, please visit: http://www.colorado.usta.com.

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10 Dec

JFS Celebrates 38 Years With Iconic Yana, Raises $1.1 Million

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You have to be extra-special to be known by one name—and to earn an exclamation point…well, that’s reserved for only a revered few. Over the span of a five-hour period during her farewell gala, retiring Jewish Family Service President and CEO Yana Vishnitsky heard Gov. John Hickenlooper declare Dec. 10, 2016 as Yana Vishnitsky Day in Colorado, and received the proclamation and the flag that flew over the State Capitol. She also was presented with an exquisite, custom award from JFS, received a standing ovation from 600 supporters and was told that the local headquarters will now be called the Yana Vishnitsky Administration Center. The celebration began in earnest after she was hoisted onto the chair prior to dancing the Hora with celebrating guests.

This scene was repeated throughout the reception as guests flocked to greet honoree Yana Vishnitsky.

This scene was repeated throughout the reception as guests flocked to greet honoree Yana Vishnitsky.

A must-attend event that took the place of the organization’s annual Real Hope holiday fundraiser, Yana! A Farewell Celebration was held at the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado Convention Center. The gala, full of warmth, sincerity and fun, not only celebrated Yana’s 38 years of service to JFS, but also became the organization’s first million-dollar fundraiser, with a $1.1 million tally.

Yana’s retirement tribute began with a cocktail reception and red-carpet entrance, plus lively strings sounds by Spinphony. Guests had the opportunity for their own red-carpet photo experience before the Cossack Men dancers led everyone into the Centennial Ballroom for a casually elegant dinner setting served family style. Those who spoke onstage included: board chair Jane E. Rosenbaum, Rabbi Steven Foster, new JFS president and CEO Shepard Nevel, event co-chairs Geri and Meyer Saltzman, co-chair Andy Miller who took the mic to describe Gov. Hickenlooper’s “Yana Day” proclamation, and a short talk by Yana’s cousin Robyn Tsesarksy.

The Cossack Men performance had everyone grabbing their phone for photos.

The Cossack Men performance had everyone grabbing their phone for photos.

Yana urged the crowd to donate freely, especially with a matching-funds gift to $100,000 donated by Elaine and Max Appel. After Yana accepted the JFS award and spoke to the crowd, she was hoisted onto the chair before a spirited Hora dance. The evening ended with dancing and desserts, and guests were each given a bottle of Russian vodka to take home as a memento.

Jewish Family Service of Colorado believes in strengthening the community by providing vital services to people in need. Every day, JFS helps people overcome life’s challenges to live fuller, more meaningful lives. Founded in 1872, JFS is a nonsectarian, nonprofit human services agency serving metro Denver and Boulder. The organization helps seniors live independently at home, provides quality mental health counseling, offers training and job placement to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other people with barriers to employment, and provides food and financial aid to people in crisis. Every year, the agency benefits nearly 25,000 people of all ages, faiths and incomes. Its mission: To enhance well-being to those in need throughout the greater Denver community by delivering services based on Jewish values.

Yana Vishnitsky and granddaughter Zoe

Yana Vishnitsky and granddaughter Zoe

Jewish Family Service is recognized as a premier human services agency serving metro Denver and Boulder by providing innovative and professionally delivered services that empower participants to overcome difficult challenges and live fuller, more meaningful lives. JFS exists to fulfill one of the most important Jewish values: that of Tikkun Olam, the obligation to make the world a better place. For more information, please visit: www.jewishfamilyservice.org.

Yana was interviewed by KOA Radio about her incredible story immigrating from the former Soviet Union to Denver via JFS. For the link to that broadcast, please visit JFS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfscolorado.

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18 Nov

2016 Heart of Hearts Gala: Crusade Against Cancer

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The 2016 Heart of Hearts Gala: Crusade Against Cancer welcomed more than 600 guests to the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum to benefit programs provided by the Rocky Mt. Healthcare Foundation (RMAH) which encompasses five hospitals in the Denver metro region.

The annual Gala raises funds for Cancer Care Center programs at Avista, Castle Rock, Littleton, Parker and Porter Adventist Hospitals.

This year’s theme and dress attire featured the Indiana Jones adventure movies full of around-the-world exploration in exotic locales in Latin America, India, Egypt and other faraway places. Reflected in the menu buffet were a diverse selections of culinary favorites from South America, Egypt, China, India and Italy.

RMAH Director Christopher Carey and Parker Adventist Hospital President/CEO Morre Dean thanked guests for their continued support of the Foundation work. Later in the evening Sam Huenergardt, CEO of Parker Adventist Hospital, and  Leanne Hartford, COO of Parker Adventist Hospital, presented the annual award for the a pioneering physician named after Henry M. Porter who arrived in Denver in the 1860s and built telegraph and railroad lines to connect Denver to the East Coast. Porter also provided funding to build what would become Porter Memorial Hospital.

Honored this year with the Henry M. Porter Award was Dr. Christine Rogness, a general surgeon practicing at Parker Adventist Hospital.

Adventist hospitals strive to identify cancer symptoms early and provide awareness to post-treatment and care and compassion to those who live with a cancer diagnosis.  For more information visit: www.rmahf.org

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05 Nov

Spreading Wings Gala Honoring American Fighter Aces

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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

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22 Oct

Susan Ford Bales Highlights SSF's 40th Anniversary Gala

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In 1976, the United States was celebrating its bicentennial year with patriotic pride (and some disco fever), led by President Gerald Ford and the nation’s First Family. At the same time in Denver, Stout Street Foundation, a comprehensive addiction-treatment center, was opening its doors to serve the recovery community. For Stout Street Foundation’s 40th anniversary gala, there was no better choice for a keynote speaker than Susan Ford Bales.

There were lots of hugs at the VIP reception.

There were lots of hugs at the VIP reception.

On Saturday, Oct. 22, nearly 400 supporters, all dressed to the nines, headed to Infinity Park Event Center for an uplifting evening displaying the reality, courage and successes of recovery from addiction. The evening began with a VIP reception with Susan Ford Bales, and as people continued to arrive, hugs and warm greetings multiplied all over the building. Guests had the opportunity to bid on an array of niceties at a silent auction table that remained busy from open till close.

An uplifting dinner program emceed by Joe Bevilacqua featured a short video covering 40 years of history and personal success stories at Stout Street Foundation, followed by one program graduate who spoke to the crowd summing up his own experience. Board chair Joe Girardi addressed the crowd and President/CEO Christopher Conway read two letters of hope and gratitude from a program resident’s 9-year-old daughter—one to her dad, the second to the venue.

Margaret McConnellogue (left) and Sara James

Margaret McConnellogue (left) and Sara James

Susan Ford Bales had the crowd riveted as she spoke with emotion about her beloved mother Betty Ford’s battles with both breast cancer as well as addiction, along with its impact on the family. She detailed Ford’s journey of addiction recovery, beginning with the family’s initial intervention. Bales told the crowd her mom (who passed on in 2011 from natural causes) would expect nothing less than a completely candid account of the experience, and she was happy to comply, especially if it would help even one person. Bales has gone on to numerous philanthropic and community-service endeavors, including work as ambassador for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and serving on the board of directors for Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.

Teri Smith, vice president of development, vividly showed the audience an exercise in the infectious, positive power of recovery that had everyone on their feet. A group of lucky guests won prizes in on-stage drawings, and the evening ended with guests kicking up their heels to dance music and catching up with friends.

(l to r): Dave Spieth, Father Tom Dowd and Derek Espinosa

(l to r): Dave Spieth, Father Tom Dowd and Derek Espinosa

Stout Street Foundation was incorporated in 1976 by Bradley R. Lucero Jr., Lillian Potter and Jim Doyle. Lucero was in a halfway house in Denver when his good friend, Father Tom Dowd, recommended he visit a long-term drug and alcohol therapeutic community in California called Delancy Street. Impressed by what the program offered, Lucero set out to open his own version of a therapeutic community. From the start, Stout Street adopted the motto of “People Helping People Help Themselves.” Over the years SSF has grown and expanded from a small house in Denver on Stout Street with just a handful of residents to a newly refurbished hotel in Commerce City accommodating more than 125 residents in a self-contained community. Stout Street Foundation’s mission is to provide a supportive therapeutic community for addicts and alcoholics to help them help themselves so they may return to society as recovering, productive and responsible citizens. For more information on Stout Street’s array of programs and services, please visit www.stoutstreet.org, or call 303-321-2533.

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22 Oct

Aurora Public Schools Foundation Gala

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The inaugural opening of Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace was launched with the Aurora Public Schools Foundation Gala held Saturday, October 22, with more than 300 in attendance.

Educators, students and supporters gathered at The Stanley Marketplace, in the former Stanley Aviation headquarter, a beautiful mixed use facility located along the Aurora-Stapleton neighborhood border at 2501 N. Dallas Street.

The APS Foundation was established in 1987 to support Aurora area students pursue college and higher educational opportunities. The Foundation meets its goals through College and Career Centers for high school students, initiating direct philanthropic support throughout the Aurora Schools district, and administrating and generating support for scholarship programs.

The annual Gala featured an open-air cocktail reception with music by the Aurora Symphony String Quartet, live/silent auctions and a three- course meal by Kevin Taylor Catering. Aurora Superintendent Rico Munn and APS Executive Director Jay Grimm welcomed guests and supporters while remarks were made by CSU Global President/CEO Dr. Takeda-Tinker followed by comments by teacher/mentors and top college-bound students. The Rangeview High School Chromatics provided a lively singing performance during dinner.

The Title Sponsor was CSU Global Campus with National Honor Society Sponsors: Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Northrop Grumman, University of Colorado Hospital and Nurgan Palani. Special thanks went to Kevin Taylor Catering and The Stanley Marketplace for hosting at their spacious new venue in Aurora.

The mission of the Aurora Public Schools Foundation is to cultivate community investment to enrich student opportunity. For more information visit: www.educateaurora.org

 

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21 Oct

12th Annual Mapleton Education Foundation Gala

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More than 500 guests attended the 12th Annual Mapleton Education Foundation Gala “Opportunity Knocks!” on Friday, October 21st at the Westin Westminster.
Special thanks went to Presenting Sponsor Mountain States Toyota and Media Sponsor Telemundo Denver as well as Lead Sponsors, Colorado Lighting and Crescent Point.

This year’s event featured a silent and live auction, dinner and inspirational stories from top Mapleton students. Emcee Neal Browne kept things moving with several speakers including Co Executive Directors Channing Puchino and Hilary Sontag and presentations by Board President Beth Yohe and Superintendent Charlotte Ciancio. Doctoral Candidate and Speaker Rebecca Vartuli described her educational path in high school with the help of mentors and teachers who helped her reach her PhD degree expected this Fall.

Event proceeds support Mapleton Education Foundation programs including awards merit-based post-secondary scholarships to high-need Mapleton students; ensuring exceptional classroom instruction for all students; mini-grants to teachers with a plan to inspire students awards grants to students and programs ranging from eye exams for uninsured student athletes to entrance fee waivers at games and performances.

The Mapleton Education Foundation Board of Directors is comprised of business and community leaders, parents, teachers, staff and alumni who generously dedicate their time and talent to ensure that every Mapleton student has the resources and opportunities essential for success. 

For more information visit: mapletonfoundation.org

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01 Oct

2016 Children's Gala Raises $1.9 Million

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Big Head Todd and the Monsters may have drawn in some of the guests, but an inspiring program featuring an engaging family turned the focus squarely on Children’s Hospital Colorado. Since it began 39 years ago, Children’s Gala has been known for outstanding entertainment, thoughtful insights and generous hearts, and this year was no exception. 9News anchor Cheryl Preheim and her family shared their positive experiences at Children’s Colorado, describing with grace and gratitude son Josh’s open-heart surgery and baby Joseph’s week in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. There were laughs, too, as Joseph grabbed the mic and continually marveled at balloons on the ceiling. Men around the room could relate as three-point basketball shooter Josh sheepishly admitted that maybe tux-wearing was a tad uncomfortable.

Big Head Todd, a photo opp and a big smile say it all.

Big Head Todd, a photo opp and a big smile say it all.

At the Hyatt Regency Denver (Colorado Convention Center), 1,400 guests began the evening with an elaborate reception that featured a silent auction, martini bar, appetizers galore and musical entertainment by The Beaus. Guests had the opportunity to donate a Bummer Bear to Children’s Colorado patients, and for a $100 donation could also select an envelope with a hidden surprise and the added bonus of sending an encouraging personal message to youngsters treated at the hospital. After a sit-down dinner, Children’s Colorado president and CEO, Jena Hausmann, and Steve Winesett, the foundation’s president and CEO, told guests about the praiseworthy work of the hospital. They were followed by event co-hosts Denise O’Leary and Kent Thiry, who spoke about their own personal experiences with Children’s Colorado. Preheim’s family charmed the entire building with their real-life success stories at the hospital, and Cheryl showed guests son Josh’s “Brave Conquers Fear” t-shirts, which the family plans to deliver to Children’s Colorado patients.

2016 gala co-hosts Kent Thiry and Denise O'Leary

2016 gala co-hosts Kent Thiry and Denise O’Leary

Karen Sorbo presided over a live auction that featured four coveted merchandise and entertainment enticements, and bountiful bids on those packages spilled over into more on-the-spot, high-dollar donations. All in all, the 2016 fundraiser garnered about $1.9 million for Children’s Hospital Colorado, adding to the previous $34 million total raised at galas over the past 39 years. Guests celebrated with a spirited concert by Colorado’s own Big Head Todd and the Monsters, followed up with tunes by DJ LO. Coffee, after-dinner drinks and sweet treats were served just outside the ballroom at evening’s end.

Children’s Hospital Colorado has defined and delivered pediatric health care excellence for more than 100 years. Founded in 1908, Children’s Colorado is a leading pediatric network entirely devoted to the health and well-being of children. Continually acknowledged as one of the nation’s outstanding pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and ranked on its Best Children’s Hospitals 2016-17 Honor Roll, Children’s Colorado is known for both its nationally and internationally recognized medical, research, education and advocacy programs, as well as comprehensive everyday care for kids throughout Colorado and surrounding states. The hospital’s family-centered, collaborative approach combines the nation’s top pediatric doctors, nurses and researchers to pioneer new approaches to pediatric medicine, providing treatment for a full spectrum of pediatric specialties. For more information, please visit www.childrenscolorado.org and connect with Children’s Colorado on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

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16 Sep

5th Annual Expressions of KINDness Gala

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The Kids in Need of Dentistry (KIND) 5th Annual Expressions of KINDness Gala was held Friday, Sept 16 at the The Studio Loft at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in downtown Denver. This year’s event was called “Denim and Diamonds” and included bolo ties, fancy leather vests, stylish cowboy boots and other western wear.

KIND is the oldest dental charity in the United States and the recognized leader in promoting the oral health of Colorado’s children. The evening featured auctioneer Gary Corbett and live music by the Narrow Gauge band with key Sponsors: UMB, Henry Schein, Dr. Jennifer Thompson, Commerce Bank, and Patterson Dental. Guests enjoyed a silent auction and an engaging cocktail hour before the event’s festivities.

Executive Director Julie Collett and Board President Kerrie Bunce– VP/Relationship Officer at sponsor UMB Bank thanked guests and sponsors for their support. The evening of celebration was dedicated to honoring individuals who have supported KIND’s mission through volunteerism, providing services, financial support and partnerships. The annual Gala also recognizes families who have benefited from KIND services in the communities the organization serves.

This year’s Award Honorees are:
• Randy and Alexa Kowalczyk
• Dr. Nellie Barr & Dr. Sean Whalen
• Mental Health Center of Denver
MHCD-Dahlia Campus for Health and Well-Being
• KIND Family Award Winner Isaiah Alfonso with parents, Pete & Dawn

KIND is always looking for volunteers. Whether you’re a dentist that would like to spend a day in one of our clinics or a supporter that wants to give their time to helping with an event, please contact the KIND office at 303-733-3710 or visit the web site at www.kindsmiles.org

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10 Sep

Rocky Mt. MS Center 2016 Gala

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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

 

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25 Jun

National Repertory Orchestra Gala: Carnaval Night in Rio

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This year’s benefit Gala for the acclaimed National Repertory Orchestra titled “Carnaval Night in Rio” was held June 25 at the Sheraton Downtown Hotel with nearly 300 music-loving guests in attendance.

NRO GUESTS DSC_5664

NRO Guests enjoy the Carnaval in Rio event held Saturday, June 25 at the Sheraton Downtown Denver

In recognition of the 2016 Olympics to be hosted in August in Rio de Janeiro, the dining and reception area featured a tropical theme executed by John Tobey Design and provided a colorful neon pastel spectrum of lights with palm trees and Rio’s legendary beachfront. Dancing entertainment was provided by Samba Colorado featuring Kebrina DeJesus and Jontae Piper.

Based in Breckenridge, Colorado, the National Repertory Orchestra (NRO) is an intensive fellowship that attracts the best of the best from leading conservatories and music schools. Among this year’s sponsors are: MDC – Richmond American Foundation, Breckenridge Grand Vacations, Climax Molybdenum, First Western Trust.

Carnaval Event Chair Wendy King and Julie Chandler, NRO Director of Marketing and Development, were on hand with staff and volunteers as were NRO Music Director Carl Topilow, wife Shirley, and daughter Emily.

Reception P1070275 Reception

Guests enjoyed the silent auction

Welcoming guests were Orchestra CEO Doug Adams and wife, Pam, and several Board Members including President Patrice Lara, Nancy French, Janice Ward Parrish, Pam Wiegand, and Pam Piper Yeung. Also attending were long-time NRO supporters  Ernie and Sharon Magness Blake, Bonnie and David Mandarich, Lynn and Lisa Taussig, Karen Frisone, Steve and Carmen Wiest and many others.

Every year the NRO provides an opportunity for bright, young musicians to perfect their craft. Auditions are held for nearly 1,000 musicians between the ages of 18 and 29 in about 25 different cities across the country to fill the 88 tuition-free spots of the orchestra. Although few of the musicians have met or played together previously they quickly adapt and learn to play together in outstanding synchronicity as an orchestra.

During the eight-week season, NRO musicians perform more than two dozen concerts which is about the same as a full-time orchestra performs in a nine-month season. To review the this year’s season, purchase tickets, volunteer or to get more information visit the NRO web site at www.nromusic.com

 

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15 Apr

CNI Spotlight on Hope Awards at Ritz-Carlton

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The Colorado Neurological Institute (CNI) this year combined its Hope Awards and Gala into one unique event held at the Denver Ritz-Carlton April 15th to honor surviving patients and dedicated advocates representing Denver’s neurological community. The luxury downtown hotel’s front entrance provided a red carpet experience with strobe lights from enthusiastic paparazzi photographers and loud cheers for guests and honorees entering the hotel’s main lobby.

More than 375 guests packed the hotel mezzanine to honor four special honorees affected by organic brain diseases requiring state-of-the-art surgical procedures, chemo therapies and other treatments.

Presenting Sponsor Radiology Imaging Associates made the annual signature event possible with support from Gold Sponsors— Swedish Medical Center, Bill & Leslie Volbracht, Dr. Richard and Mrs. Linda VG Kelley –and Silver Level Sponsors: Triple B, Craig Hospital, TEVA, Rick & Robin Fort, HealthONE and other individual and corporate supporters.

The annual fundraiser raises money to support patients, research, and education for CNI, a 501(c) (3) organization established to enhance the delivery of personalized, comprehensive, and state-of-the- art care through coordinated patient care, education, research, and outreach activities.

This year’s honored guests were:

Exemplary Neuro Patient: Rick Schwartz–afflicted with Parkinson’s–is a former FOX sportscaster who is active in the community through board leadership with Parkinson’s Disease of the Rockies, speaking engagements and the creation of the new statewide “Boxing for Parkinson’s” program.

Exemplary Neuro Patient & Caregiver (inpatient and outpatient): Mandy & Matt Banks were both impacted by brain health issues. At the age of 28 – 8 months pregnant with her first child– Mandy had a hemorrhagic stroke which nearly took her life. After nearly a year of rehab at CNI, Mandy is back at work and busy mothering her infant son. Mandy and Matt have raised more than $50,000 for the American Heart Association, and have been an inspiration to the Denver community.

“Anything Can Happen” Award for a child who has courageously faced a neurological condition: Charlotte Varney is a 9-year-old brain tumor survivor who has undergone numerous procedures and chemo regiments over the past four years to finally reach her current “cancer free” status.

Neuroscientist of the Year: Multiple Sclerosis clinician Allen Bowling, MD, PhD speaks internationally and gives generously of his time and resources to CNI and the National MS Society. He has published extensively in the area of complimentary and alternative medicine for MS patients.

Established in 1988, CNI offers access to comprehensive, state-of-the-art care, support services, clinical trials, outpatient neuro rehab and counseling. CNI is home to 70 physician and research associates who all work to advance clinical trials into new treatments for MS, Parkinson’s and other brain conditions.

Visit www.thecni.org, call 303-788-4010 or email info@thecni.org for additional information, to volunteer or make a donation.

 

 

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12 Mar

MCPN 12th Annual Green Tie Gala

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The Metro Community Provider Network 12th Annual Green Tie Gala attracted more than 500 to the Hyatt Regency DTC, Saturday, March 12.

The evening started with a silent auction and cocktail reception in the Hyatt atrium. Later, Denver Broncos player Ebenezer Ekuban and John Reid, VP of Fund Development, welcomed guests and recognized MCPN’s continued health service to under-served individuals throughout the Denver metro region. Emcee Karl Mecklenburg, a popular speaker and 12-year veteran of the Denver Broncos, introduced guests to the evening’s festivities.

President and CEO Dave Myers thanked sponsors, presented awards and recognized the commitment and dedication of the MCPN board including Barbara Shannon-Bannister, Janis De Baca, Lynn Ramey, Carrie Reid, Jean Sisneros, Frank Taylor and Marion Walls.

Reid spoke about how he was grateful for the decades of support from individual donors and more than 30 corporate sponsors including title sponsors– Quest Diagnostics and Lutheran Medical Center, and premier sponsors: Community First Foundation, Cigna, CoBiz Insurance, Colorado Community Health Alliance, Colorado State Bank and Trust, CBS-Complete Business Systems.

In March the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded about $1.75 million to five Colorado health centers to expand the delivery of substance-abuse services, with an emphasis on Colorado’s prescription drug and heroin crisis.  As part of those federal funds, the Metro Community Provider Network received $310,000.

“As our family of supporters grows, so does our outreach to thousands of individuals, children, and families,” said Reid. “Today, we have grown to 24 health center locations and are slated to expand to four new locations in 2016.”

The evening ended with a boost of evening energy and with guests staying late into the night to enjoy one of Colorado’s best-known rock bands, Chris Daniels and the Kings.

Founded in 1989, MCPN partners with the community to provide medical and health education services to the under-served members of society. the organization provides medical, health-related services and health education services to residents of Jefferson, Arapahoe, Adams and Park counties and the cities of Lakewood and Aurora.

For more information please visit www.mcpn.org

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19 Nov

One Great Evening: Gatsby and Kenny G

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Volunteers Lupe Reyther and Julie Collett cooed over the opportunity to see Kenny G. And tonight was their night! The artist would soon take the stage as the headline performer at Rocky Mountain Adventist Healthcare Foundation’s 35th annual Heart of Hearts Gala. Wings Over the Rockies proved the perfect venue for the Gatsby-themed celebration. Indeed, it was a party that could have been thrown by Gatsby himself.

“It’s all exciting,” said Laura Fitch, Director of Events for RMAHF/Centura Health, who was celebrating her 12th gala. “Every year it gets better and better. There is so much open space here. It’s a huge canvas on which to design the event.”

Go big is easily done at Wings, providing ample room to mix, mingle and decorate. Dramatically tall centerpieces and palm trees filled in the dining area, while the large stage fit the big sound that came from Spinphony, a band of four super-model beautiful virtuosic string players and their DJ. The women rocked violins and a cello, thus earning their description of offering an “elegant, high energy, rock, classical, pop” mix of music. Guests enjoyed naming the artists the band took on: Britney Spears, Pharell Williams, Pachelbel’s Canon, and Led Zeppelin, to name only a few. The Hewit Charitable Trust generously signed on as the evening’s Double Platinum Heart Sponsor and Entertainment Sponsor.

Prior to music there was mystery. The Mystery Boxes proved a popular fundraising draw as guest paid $50, $125 or $250 to pick a box tied to a hidden surprise.

“Sometimes we give people clues, which is fun for all of us,” said RMAHF Director of Annual Giving Cheryl Torres with a playful grin. “If someone hints they’d really like to find jewelry I casually say, ‘Maybe you want to pick from over there,’” referencing a particular spot amongst the nearly 100 boxes. Along with the mystery boxes, the silent auction table beckoned bidders with options on spa days, an array of tools, and other personal high-end items. After individuals claimed their reward, they could “Gift Check” it so they didn’t need to find room around their seat. “This is a great perk,” said one smiling patron handing over an enormous bundled basket.

Lynn and Dr. David Ehrenberger were honored with The Henry M. Porter Award. They are a dynamic duo in medicine. For more than a decade, the pair worked with the Centura Global Health Initiative (GHI) and established “Medicine in Motion,” a mobile clinic providing primary care services to homeless families in Westminster. Their work with GHI has focused on yearly medical mission trips to the Peruvian Amazon basin with teams of Centura associates, nurses and providers. Lynn continues to work at Avista, in both pre-surgical testing and as an employee health nurse, and is on the Avista Adventist Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. Over the past 15 years David has gradually transitioned from private practice to various leadership roles within Centura and, since 2004, he has been the Chief Medical Officer at both Avista and Integrated Physician Network.

The funds raised at the gala support the continued development of the unique breast cancer programs at Avista, Castle Rock, Littleton, Parker and Porter Adventist Hospitals. The funds also will be used to provide continued access to all men and women for high quality breast cancer screenings as well as diagnosis and treatment. Approximately one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime and one in 1,000 men will be diagnosed. Nearly 40,000 of those people will die from the disease. Next to lung cancer, breast cancer is the most deadly form of cancer for women.

The mission of the Rocky Mountain Adventist Healthcare Foundation is to raise funds, manage assets, invest endowment funds to maximize their value and administer gift fund accounts in accordance with the donors’ wishes for Avista, Littleton, Parker, & Porter Hospitals and for Porter Hospice.

 

 

 

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14 Nov

Spreading Wings Gala 2015: Honoring the Legacy of Apollo 13

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This 2015 Spreading Wings Gala honored the Apollo 13 astronauts and Flight Director Gene Kranz and recognized several other astronauts and aviators at the annual signature event held November 14 at Wings Over the Rockies Museum at Lowry.

Emcee and Aviatrix Amelia Earhart of 9News welcomed some 800 guests and oversaw a live auction during the evening with music provided by Spinphony, a 5-member pop fusion string group. Guests heard the story of NASA’s finest hours in overcoming challenges and reaffirming America’s destiny to explore space.

Wings Over the Rockies President/CEO Greg Anderson and board member John Barry, CEO of Denver Metro Boys & Girls Clubs, thanked the crowd for their support and provided an update of new construction of the Exploration of Flight facility to be built at the Centennial Airport in Englewood and have experience- and flight-based activities, including a “tower of flight” and four levels of observation decks.

Jeppesen CEO Mark Van Tine introduced aerobatics pilot Sean Tucker, who later in the evening oversaw a question and answer session with Apollo 13 Flight Director Gene Kranz and Apollo 13 astronauts Jim Lovell and Fred Haise. Near the stage stood a replica statue of their Apollo 13 comrade Jack Swigert, who passed away of cancer in 1982.

The Apollo 13 mission was commanded by James Lovell with Jack Swigert serving as Command Module Pilot and Fred Haise as Lunar Module Pilot. It was intended to be the third moon landing for the US. The spacecraft launched on April 11, 1970, at 1:13 Central Time from Kennedy Space Center but the lunar landing was aborted after an oxygen tank exploded two days later making a moon landing impossible. Thanks to the training, quick thinking, ingenuity and perseverance of those in Houston and in space, the astronauts returned to earth safely on April 17, 1970.

Gene Kranz’s infamous words of “Failure is not an option” pretty much exemplified Houston mission control’s efforts to rescue the astronauts who were losing oxygen after an oxygen canister exploded well into the spaceflight. As told in books and a popular movie the three astronauts used the lunar module as a lifeboat and improvised objects within the spacecraft to help filter carbon dioxide and maintain a dwindling supply of battery life to function.

Guests were shown movie clip moments from the 1995 “Apollo 13” movie with astronauts Lovell and Haines and Kranz recounting their thoughts and feelings during those stressful days.

Through Saturday, February 13, 2016, Wings Over the Rockies will be hosting the Apollo XIII exhibit which honors the legacy of the Apollo XIII mission through a vivid, historic journey of artifacts and pictures selected by curator Matthew Burchette and research librarians. Items include a battery charger and a 70mm Hasselblad film magazine flown on the Apollo XIII mission and many artifacts from the Apollo XIII movie starring Tom Hanks. The exhibit is free for Wings Members but General admission rates apply for non-members.

For more information visit www.wingsmuseum.org.

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14 Nov

Bright by 3 - Goodnight Moon

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Over the Moon

For twenty years Bright by Three (formerly Colorado Bright Beginnings) has been helping parents and other loving caregivers of babies and toddlers ages 0-3.

This year’s 20th Anniversary Goodnight Moon Gala was a celebration to recognize the success in the community and the on-going efforts of Denver’s bright babies who benefit from Bright by Three. The Denver organization has strived to make parenting less stressful and small children happy since 1995.

Thanks to many in the last 25 years, especially Brad Butler and Roy & Bea Romer, who believed that learning begins on the first day of life. Children throughout Colorado have been set on a path to successful learning and living as their parents learn the importance of good nutrition, health care, developmental stages and language development; talking and reading, beginning at day one.  The funds raised through donations have reached nearly 250,000 families annually. Bright by Three works through visits bringing parents books, resources and support to succeed in the most important job they will ever have.

Dr. Christopher Ott received the Community Leadership Award for his dedicated goal of working with at-risk families

Dr. Stephen Berman, known for his contributions to pediatric education, has been an integral cog in the wheel of Bright by Three since its beginnings, formerly known as Colorado Bright Beginnings.

The evening was a dreamy event for the hundreds of supporters who gathered at the Seawell Ballroom. The ballroom created a Peter Pan moment with twinkling stars, a full moon backdrop with subtle lighting to recreate a time-for-bed closeness for a little one’s sweet dreams.

Auctioneer Don Martin lead the live auction while guests planned their next vacations and outings with exciting auction items such as the Dr. Scott Dinosaur Tour, Weekend at Bernie’s, Italian Evening of Eight, the Wine Cellar (stocked with wine from the Board of Directors), A night at the Four Seasons Hotel with Colorado Symphony tickets, Nuggets Tickets, Aspen Weekend Package, Log Home Retreat, Vail Summer Escape and many more.

The evening wrapped with music and dancing by Homeslice – after all the children were put to bed.

Bright by Three is a Colorado-based nonprofit organization that provides parents and caregivers of children aged 0-3, with the tools needed to promote a child’s readiness for lifelong learning and success. To learn more about BB3, visit their website, http://brightbythree.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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07 Nov

Pawpurrazzi! You're a Star at Puttin' On the Max

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Denver’s party animals were out in full force at this year’s Puttin’ On the Max gala to benefit MaxFund…and it went beyond the furry, four-legged participants in the pet parade. With a “Pawpurrazzi” Hollywood theme, 350 fun-loving guests hit The Brown Palace Hotel on Saturday, Nov. 7, for a glitzy gala to support Denver’s respected no-kill animal shelter and adoption center.

The 27th annual fundraiser began with a red-carpet cocktail reception and an extensive array of live- and silent-auction items amid splashy décor worthy of any star-studded celebration. Guests were equally as stylish in black-tie attire, with some taking up the “dress as your favorite movie star” suggestion.

"Johnny Depp" and "Audrey Hepburn"

“Johnny Depp” and
“Audrey Hepburn”

The evening’s dinner program was emceed by Denver’s favorite CBS4 weather and news anchor Ed Greene. MaxFund co-founders Bill and Nanci Suro told the crowd about the organization’s successes and monetary needs and thanked supporters, singling out Dr. Edward Eisner, vet tech Mario Alba (and Hercules the cat). With help from his grandson, Bill presented a tribute to sponsors with a series of skits. The program continued with a costume contest followed by a witty comedy set from veterinarian-comic Kevin Fitzgerald. The grand finale: a short pet parade featuring a group of MaxFund’s adorable, adoptable residents. Naturally, felines were the cat’s meow and canines were all top dog.

Dora awaits her red-carpet appearance.

Dora awaits her red-carpet appearance.

MaxFund is a true no-kill animal shelter and adoption center that challenges the traditional methods of animal sheltering by leading the no-kill movement in Colorado. The organization strives to give animals—including the injured, abandoned and abused—a second chance at life. MaxFund is committed to develop and implement education programs pertaining to animal care, with emphasis on the importance of spaying and neutering…and to be a voice for the animals on issues of animal welfare. The organization cooperates with other animal facilities and shelters to accomplish these goals. For more information, please visit www.maxfund.org.

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05 Nov

I Have a Dream Foundation

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“Meet Me on Dream Street, the hippest street in town”

The Colorado I Have a Dream Foundation was founded in 1988, as a long-term academic and social mentorship program for youth who live in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Today the CIHAD Foundation has impacted the lives of over 810 Dreamers who were selected and adopted in kindergarten and continued through post-secondary pursuits.

The expectation for all Dreamers is that they are prepared for college, obtain a degree and have a viable path for entry into the workforce. They accomplish these goals with tools designed in five-key focus areas: Academic Enrichment & Discovery, Cultural Access, Success & Financing, Career Readiness.

This year’s gala, themed “Dream Street,” embodies the organization’s mission in helping metro Denver’s most underrepresented youth stay on the road to achieving their dreams. CIHAD paves the way for students from kindergarten thru college with an award-winning, multi-year program of mentoring, academic assistance, life-skills development, cultural enrichment and partial scholarships for higher education. Over 90% of the Dreamers graduate from high school and in collaboration with our partners – the teachers, administrators, volunteers, and others – they move beyond the threshold of high school into the next chapter of their lives.

The gala recognized one of CIHAD’s founders, Chris Romer, who has helped pave the road for hundreds of Dreamers since the program began in 1988.  A former Colorado State Senator and this year’s recipient of the McHugh Award, Chris was honored for his exemplary efforts in leveling the playing field in education.  Also, the annual Dream Maker Award will be presented to Robert Hottman, chief executive officer of EKS&H for his countless contributions and commitment to quality education.

With entertainment by the charming Denver Chorale’s gaggle of children (and adults not in costume), and Reggie Rivers working it as the gracious and successful host, the evening was a bonafide success. Rivers kept hitting the audience up for more and they responded by buying over the top live auction items as well as cash donations. He didn’t have the auctioneer’s yodel but, he definitely displayed a magical persuasive tongue.

The evening wrapped with a performance by the newest name in jazz. Pianist Joey Alexander, with his band (from New York City), performed an original composition that blew the audience away. Alexander was recently introduced on the “Today Show,” and was scheduled over the weekend for a performance at the world famous Dazzle Jazz Club.

For more information on how to support the Colorado I Have a Dream Foundation please check out the website: www.cihadf.org, or visit 1836 Grant Street, Denver, CO 80203.

 

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29 Oct

Denver Scholarship Foundation: The Power of the Possible

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“So many things in education are hard to do, and when you discover something that works you want to be a part of it. Denver Scholarship Foundation works.”

— Cathey McClain Finlon, Chair, Denver Scholarship Foundation

In 2020, 74 percent of Colorado jobs will require post-secondary education. Dymond Ruybal is one of 4,500 Denver Scholarship Foundation scholars now ready for this wave. She’s already earned her bachelor’s degree in integrated physiology and is moving onto her master’s degree. She did it through a lot of hard work and by earning an academic full-ride scholarship to University of Colorado Boulder.

“I am not only very proud, but also so grateful,” shares Phyllis Ruybal, Dymond’s mother. “My daughter always worked hard in school and now she has the chance to go after her dreams. I couldn’t have done this for her.”

Solidifying dreams is strengthening our state for the future. “Colorado is an extremely educated state, but that statistic comes from people moving here. All our scholars stay in Colorado. We are building the base within the state,” said Angrith Na, DSF advisor at East High School. In his role, he helps students navigate the college application process. “The process can be daunting. We help make students aware of their options and of various funding revenues. It’s incredible how lives can be changed through this guidance.”

Lance Hostetter, also with DSF, echoes Angrith’s sentiment. “It’s about workforce development. We are strengthening our future by helping students get to, and complete, college. We know this work is vitally important.”

He’s not alone in showing his confidence in the program. The Ed. Gala earned $1.2 million for Denver Scholarship Foundation coming from an incredible array of sponsorships, ranging from $200,000 to $2,500. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Denver Scholarship Foundation’s (DSF) mission to inspire and empower Denver Public School (DPS) students to achieve their postsecondary educational goals by providing the tools, knowledge and financial resources essential for success. All this proves to be a worthy investment as every dollar invested in a student who graduates with support of the Denver Scholarship Foundation returns nine times that amount to the Denver community. In addition, by increasing the number of college graduates, DSF increases the number of people who historically have healthier children, rely less on social services, and earn nearly $1 million more in their lifetimes compared to those who do not pursue college.

The evening was a night to honor Noey and Tom Congdon. The pair is known to most as quiet philanthropists. For more than 50 years they have made strategic investments in nonprofits serving the key educational and cultural needs of the growing population of Colorado. Expanding educational opportunities for young people has long been a focus for the Congdons. When the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) was founded in 2006, they immediately recognized its potential. They were among the very first major investors in DSF’s endowment, and have maintained close ties to the organization ever since. They are true believers in DSF’s mission of making college possible for all Denver Public School graduates.

Emmy Award-winning co-anchor of ABC news magazine Primetime John Quiñones served as keynote speaker. Logging nearly 25 years with the network, he is the sole anchor of the Primetime limited series What Would You Do?, one of the highest-rated newsmagazine franchises of recent years. During his tenure he has reported extensively for ABC News, predominantly serving as a correspondent for Primetime and 20/20.

Over the years, DSF has awarded $25 million in need-based scholarships to 4,500 Scholars. Three-quarters of all DSF Scholars have completed their degree or persist in college. About 80 percent of our scholars will be among the first generation in their family to graduate from college. Since DSF was founded in 2006, the number of DPS students who enroll in college the fall after graduation has increased by 34 percent.

 

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24 Oct

"Be Beautiful Be Yourself" Fashion Show Gala

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Celebrated actor/musician Jamie Foxx joined a host of celebrities at the nation’s single largest fundraiser for Down syndrome in Denver.  Foxx and his sister DeOndra Dixon, who happens to have Down syndrome, joined actors Beau Bridges (Masters of Sex), Minka Kelly (Friday Night Lights), John C. McGinley (Scrubs), Terrence Howard (Empire), Jamie Brewer (American Horror Story), Supermodel Beverly Johnson, Miss Colorado Kelley Johnson, players & cheerleaders from the Denver Broncos and Nuggets teams, and several other VIPs as they escorted brilliant and beautiful models with Down syndrome on the runway. 

Howard with DeOndra Dixon, Global Down Syndrome Foundation Ambassador

Howard with DeOndra Dixon, Global Down Syndrome Foundation Ambassador

Emceeing the evening’s festivities was EXTRA correspondent and syndicated DAYTIME host Jerry Penacoli and Kim Christiansen of Denver’s 9News. Other stars who have supported the gala include Quincy Jones, Alec Baldwin, Helen Hunt, Laura Dern, Kyra Phillips, Tim Shriver, Patrick Kennedy, and Jeff Probst, among many others.

The 7th annual “Be Beautiful Be Yourself” fashion show gala is a fundraiser for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, benefitting the Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome on the Anschutz Medical Campus and the Sie Center for Down Syndrome at Children’s Hospital Colorado.  1,300 attendees enjoyed dinner, a star-studded fashion show, red carpet interviews, and a live auction boasting a trip to the Super Bowl, an OMEGA Ryder Experience, a Viennese Getaway and many more.

Each year, Global presents the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award to an individual who has tirelessly advocated for the rights of the differently-abled. This year’s recipient was American Horror Story actress and Down syndrome self-advocate, Jamie Brewer. Past self-advocate award recipients include Luke Zimmerman, Karen Gaffney, Tim Harris, Sujett Desai, and Brad Hennefer.  And other past award recipients have included Quincy Jones, Jamie Foxx, John C. McGinley, Beverly Johnson, Kyra Phillips, Tim Shriver, and Patrick Kennedy.

Jamie Brewer accepting the 2015 Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award

Jamie Brewer accepting the 2015 Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award

Global’s self-advocates who strutted their stuff on the runway included: 2015 Ambassador Clarissa Capuano, Jamie Foxx’s sister, aspiring dancer and former Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy recipient  DeOndra Dixon, aspiring model and internet sensation Gigi Cunningham, and 18-year-old Devon Adelman who attended First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Beating the Odds” summit at the White House earlier this year, among several others.

Celebrity Escorts & Models on the runway at the end

Celebrity Escorts & Models on the runway at the end

Down syndrome is the least-funded genetic condition by the National Institutes of Health. The Be Beautiful Be Yourself Fashion Show, the largest single fundraiser benefiting people with Down syndrome, aims to change this statistic. Last year’s event raised $1.9 million, and the funds help support the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, the first academic home focused on improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through research and medical care.

The Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s “Be Beautiful Be Yourself” fashion show is the single largest fundraiser for Down syndrome in the nation. Held annually each October in observation of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, the celebrity gala attracts over 1,200 guests each year, and has raised nearly $10M since launching six years ago. For additional information, visit www.BeBeautifulBeYourself.org.

Follow Global Down Syndrome Foundation on Facebook & Twitter @GDSFoundation.

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17 Oct

Children's Gala

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Kevin and Ann Reidy shared their family’s story about the life-saving treatment and the unparalleled support they received from Children’s Colorado when their daughter Diana was diagnosed with cancer in 2007.  “It’s an amazing place, the physicians and the nurses are second to none.  You don’t need to take your kid anywhere else if he or she is sick.  We should cherish this place, as I do, because it saved my daughter’s life,” said Kevin Reidy.  Children’s Hospital Colorado board chair Kevin Reidy and longtime volunteer Ann Reidy were excited to host this year’s Children’s Gala and share insight from their medical journey during their daughter Diana’s cancer treatment.

Ann & Kevin Reid sharing their family story

Ann & Kevin Reid sharing their family story

A video showed Diana’s treatment, Rachel Platten’s hit single “Fight Song” served as the emotional soundtrack during the video.  American singer and songwriter, Rachel Platten was the opening act at this year’s Children’s Gala.  Her 2015 single “Fight Song,” the first single from her Columbia Records debut, is an uplifting anthem that embodies a “don’t give up” message, perfect for the night’s program.  While performing “Fight Song,” Diana Reidy joined Platten on stage to accompany Platten on the flute.  Platten hugged Diana Reidy after the song as everyone in attendance cheered the wonderful performance.

Platten performing

Platten performing

Children’s Gala benefiting Children’s Hospital Colorado, is one of Denver’s premier black tie charity events. This year’s event was held Saturday, Oct. 17, 2015, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel at the Colorado Convention Center at 5:30 p.m.   For the 38th year, Children’s Gala brought together guests for an elegant evening to support the hospital. The ever-changing and always crowd-pleasing event included mission-focused live and video programming, dinner, dancing, and a silent and live auction. Children’s Gala has raised more than $33 million and continues to be one of the largest annual fundraising events to benefit the hospital.

Dance floor and stage

Dance floor and stage

Returning for the second year, 9News anchor Kyle Dyer was the master of ceremony.  Dyer has a special place in her heart for the care providers at Children’s Colorado who helped to save her youngest daughter’s life. She frequently profiles the medical challenges and triumphs of families at Children’s Colorado and her own experiences have helped her to bring unparalleled compassion to her storytelling.

After Rachel Platten took the stage, this year’s headliner was Super Diamond.  Super Diamond has been embraced by the long time Neil Diamond fan-base and also found huge popularity in the hip rock clubs of America.  They performed the timeless classics including “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cherry Cherry.”

Super Diamond performing

Super Diamond performing

Children’s Hospital Colorado’s mission is to improve the health of children through the provision of high-quality, coordinated programs of patient care, education, research and advocacy.

 

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14 Oct

Restoration Hardware opens its Old World doors to Cherry Creek

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Elegance, good taste and manners dominated the evening of October 14, 2015.

When Restoration Hardware opened its door, they were not just any doors, mind you. They were large as castle doors that opened onto a marble foyer sparkling with exquisite chandeliers enhanced by subtle low-lighting. On entering, one simply followed the arched entrances into each differently well-decorated library, living room, den, bedroom, or sitting room. To the non-royals invited, it was like entering a royal villa in Monte Carlo.

The invitation-only guest list was dotted with local celebs known for their business, talent and philanthropic endeavors. The evening was for show and appreciation, RH wanted to show off this magnificent work of art to the public, that is now part of the Cherry Creek Mall. Though it was elegant and over-the-top, it was not a total for-show evening or, for that matter, one for successful profiling. Guests came to support the evening’s benefactors which were Children’s Hospital Colorado and The Denver Art Museum.

The new Restoration Hardware store is hands-down one of the most elegant and tasteful stores ever built – anywhere. Cherry Creek deserves this honor while the mall’s many shoppers will soon be completely in love with the store’s look and concept.

It’s not every day there’s a party in Denver that blows everyone’s minds. The Restoration Hardware opening will go down as one of the most awesome events ever. Guests were treated to live music, endless Bellinis, fresh appetizers of tuna, lobster, prime rib, gourmet chocolates and donut holes filled with ricotta cheese. They were out of this world.

What a party, what a place, what gracious loveliness and class. Congratulations to Restoration Hardware and Cherry Creek Mall. This is a very good friendship indeed.

 

 

 

 

 

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10 Oct

Yee-Haw! True Grit Rustles Up Hearty Support for Third Way Center

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Hey, it’s Saturday night in the Big Town—extra special on Oct. 10 because of True Grit. This year, 500 supporters of Third Way Center shined up their cowboy boots and put on their fanciest jeans before high-tailing it over to Exdo Event Center for the big doin’s. Third Way’s signature fundraiser was full of Western spirit, including entertainment, gourmet-chuckwagon chow and an ornery mechanical bull.

Ridin' that ornery mechanical bull.

Ridin’ that ornery mechanical bull.

The evening began with a reception highlighted by a silent auction and bluegrass music from Spurs of the Moment. It was augmented by passed tidbits and beverages, plus Western-themed toss-and-win games and the chance to take on the infamous mechanical bull. When the dinner bell sounded, guests made their way to buffet lines and were able to sample hearty meal options with gourmet touches.

Board president William Matthews took the stage to welcome guests and talk about the good works of Third Way Center. Young Professionals Board co-chair Winter Wall told the crowd about the added energy of the next generation of philanthropists, and then Brook Griese was called on stage to accept the Hildegard Messenbaugh Award. The recognition was established two years ago to honor an individual dedicated to improving the lives of abused, neglected or mentally ill children. Brook’s husband Brian Griese, co-honoree, was in Oakland with the Denver Broncos, but Brook was able to tell guests about the collaboration between Judi’s House, co-founded by the couple and dedicated to grieving children, and the services for adolescents at Third Way Center. On a lighter note, Brook told the crowd how much she loved a fundraiser that didn’t require high heels.

Brook Griesen accepted the Hildegard Messenbaugh Award presented to her and her husband Brian Griese for their work creating Judi's House. Co-award recipient Brian was traveling with the Denver Broncos in Oakland.

Brook Griese accepted the Hildegard Messenbaugh Award presented to her and her husband Brian Griese for their work creating Judi’s House. Co-award recipient Brian was traveling with the Denver Broncos in Oakland.

A video presentation outlining the story of one Third Way student hit home when she was able to come on stage to offer further details of her journey. After a live auction with auctioneer Sean Allen, the crowd settled back (and hit the dance floor) for a rip-roaring concert by country star Marshall Dane.

Third Way Center offers truth and hope to high risk, mentally ill, disadvantaged and often homeless adolescents and their families. In 1970, Hildegard Messenbaugh, MD – a noted Denver psychiatrist at the University of Colorado Medical Center – was approached by concerned members of the community about the growing number of adolescents living on the streets. Many of these young people fled turbulent and traumatic family situations, had trouble with the law or had recently left other institutional settings. With her guidance and the support of the Denver community, an alternative to homelessness and incarceration for troubled youth was formed.

This third way grew from one shelter for troubled teens to a continuum of services, offering a path to healing and wholeness through: care in a home-like residential setting at five metro Denver locations; accurate diagnosis and intensive individual, family and group therapy; two state-approved alternative high schools; life skills and job training, and vocational education; parenting skills training; and emancipation support. In its history, Third Way Center has helped transform the lives of thousands of teens, empowering them to build better lives for themselves and their future families. For more information, please visit: www.thirdwaycenter.org.

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03 Oct

Walk of Dreams Gala

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Operation Walk Denver is restoring the joy of walking.  It began with a small team doing a small number of joint replacements and evolved to today’s team of over 100 healthcare volunteers who have cared for over 1,200 patients.  This is the 10th annual Walk of Dreams Gala.  Operation Walk Denver is remembering the hundreds of patients whose lives have been touched during the 16 mission trips to countries such as Panama, Guatemala, and Honduras.  “Operation Walk Denver is the dream of a group of healthcare providers committed to providing free surgical care for those with debilitating arthritis in developing countries. Our missions have provided us with great personal satisfaction and the ability to give back to those in need.” said Dr. Douglas A. Dennis, Executive Director.

“Our biggest reward on these mission trips is the patient’s smiles.  I would say most of the patients have never seen a doctor at all and they are just crippled with a debilitating arthritic disease,”  said Jim Boyle, Medical Coordinator of Operation Walk Denver.

Operation Walk is a not-for-profit volunteer medical services organization that provides free surgical treatments for patients in developing countries and in the United States. These patients suffer from debilitating bone and joint conditions, such as arthritis, and do not have access to medical care. Operation Walk also educates local orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and other health care professionals on the most advanced treatment of hip and knee joint diseases. Founded in 1994, Operation Walk teams have operated on hundreds of patients in Russia, Cuba, Nepal, China, the Philippines, Peru, Nicaragua, Mexico and the United States.

In addition to giving many people a new hope and ability to walk again in other countries, Operation Walk Denver also strives to help people in the Denver community who have few resources and are in desperate need of joint replacement surgery.  During the last three years, the Denver chapter has performed 47 free hip and knee replacements through the partnership with Operation Walk USA.  Through the generosity of donors, their dreams have come true.

For more information visit www.operationwalkdenver.org

 

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03 Oct

2015 CNI Gala "Home Sweet Home"

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This year’s CNI Gala “Home Sweet Home” attracted more than 350 guests who enjoyed a silent auction marketplace, cocktails and a live auction at Stapleton’s DoubleTree Hilton on Saturday, October 3.

CNI Staff Member and actress Debra Bandstra served as emcee while Executive Director Tami Lack and Betsy Mathies reviewed the year’s achievements and thanked donors. Live music was performed by the Rocky Mountain String Band and Auctioneer Jim Berz of Wow Events Denver oversaw live auction duties.

Event Co-Chairs were Dr. Michael and Courtney Pearlman and the CNI “Community Champion” Honorees were Don and Arlene Johnson.

The annual CNI Gala is a celebration of patients and caregivers. Physician and research associates provide coordinated care with wrap-around support systems to neurological patients and caregivers across the region.

The annual event promotes CNI’s efforts to help individuals with neurological conditions such as ALS, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, multiple sclerosis, and hearing disorders. CNI’s mission is to ensure quality of life possible through clinical research, patient services and education.
For more information visit: www.thecni.org

 

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18 Sep

Archway Housing and Services Celebrates 20 Years

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Celebrating an emerald anniversary in the midst of a gems-and-minerals exhibit, you might say this year’s Archway Housing and Services annual gala was a jewel, a sparkling success. On Friday, Sept. 18, supporters gathered at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science for a festive evening of food, friends and fundraising to help the organization build healthier, more sustainable communities, while simultaneously increasing the self-sufficiency and upward mobility of struggling families who live in those homes.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Archway's executive director Joyce Alms Ransford and former Bronco and event emcee Reggie Rivers

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, Archway’s executive director Joyce Alms Ransford and former Bronco and event emcee Reggie Rivers

The evening began with music by Bob’s Atrium Band during the cocktail hour and silent auction. Guests then adjourned to a sit-down dinner and program emceed by former Denver Bronco and media personality Reggie Rivers. Denver Mayor Michael Hancock was on hand to give the keynote speech and introduce award honorees David Nestor and Robinson Lapp, Archway co-founders. Also recognized on stage for service: Mrs. Monson, director of administration, and Yvette Craddock, board vice president and president of the Archway Investment Corporation board of directors.

During the program, Somer Lundborg, manager of family services, talked about the numerous, comprehensive programs for residents: from community gardens to career development for adults, and life skills classes, homework assistance and field trips for youngsters. Youth leaders took the stage to talk about their experiences, while executive director Joyce Alms Ransford and board president Mary Anderies also spoke during the program. Following a live auction run by lively auctioneer Rivers, guests had the opportunity to see the museum’s current Gems & Minerals Exhibition.

Another high bid at the live auction

Another high bid at the live auction

Archway Housing and Services is a faith-based Colorado nonprofit with roots in the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Church of Christ. Its mission: to change lives by providing housing and supportive services that engender a safe environment. The organization is dedicated to building healthier communities and providing teaching skills for families with very low to moderate incomes. Those additional family services, sometimes uncompensated, are currently available to 360 families, and there are plans underway for 60 additional apartments set aside for formerly homeless veterans. Archway Investment Corp., Inc., is the newest addition to the corporate structure, initiated in late 2014 to act as the developer of all future housing developments. For more information, please visit: http://www.archwayhousingandservices.org.

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18 Sep

Expressions of KINDness - September 18, 2015

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KIND, Kids In Need of Dentistry, provides high quality, comprehensive dental care and education to kids in need throughout Colorado.  Expressions of KINDness is the annual gala fundraiser.  The fourth annual event was held on Friday, September 18, 2015 at the University of Denver, Joy Burns Center.  “We are a dental non-profit that has been providing dental care for kids in Colorado for over 103 years,” said Julie Collett, KIND Executive Director.  “Tonight we’re going to honor Tri County Health Department for all they’ve done as our partner for over 25 years.”

KIND has three dental clinics two in the Denver area and one in Colorado Springs.  “We raise funds and we provide dentistry for underprivileged kids in the inner city,” said Paul Luchau, one of the KIND Board of Directors.  “We provide cleanings, sealants, extractions when needed. Very rarely do they have to pay anything, there’s a lot of financing through grants that takes care of that. We’re really excited the direction that it’s taking.”

Kids In Need of Dentistry’s mission is to increase the health and happiness of Colorado’s children in need by eliminating dental disease through treatment and education.  In 1912 a group of Denver Dentists recognized a need for affordable dental services among children of low-income miners and railroad workers and decided to form a non-profit organization aimed at addressing that need.  While much has changed in the over one hundred years since KIND began its first clinic in Denver Public Schools, KIND’s mission has not.  Through KIND’s programs, staff, faithful volunteers and supporters, they continue to provide quality, comprehensive dental care and education to Colorado’s kids in need.

Kids in need of Dentistry’s vision is to be the recognized leader in promoting the oral health and education of Colorado’s children of need.

The gala was sponsored by DentaQuest, UMB and Dr. Jennifer Thompson.

 

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25 Apr

Jessie Valenti speaks at NARAL Pro-Choice Gala

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NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado’s 33rd Annual Gala & Silent Auction was a certified hit. Held at the Westin Hotel in downtown Denver it proved to be the event of the night. After all, the event and organization is about women. And, every one loves women.

With the fundraising season in full swing the event welcomed the hundreds of people who strive daily to make a difference for Pro-Choice Colorado. The turn-out was impressive. Honoring the battle cry for, “Women’s Equality Requires Freedom of Choice.” The program was designed not to push buttons but to bring awareness to unintended pregnancies.

Bringing the crises of unintended pregnancies to the forefront, Mayor Hancock praised NARAL for their outstanding work.  Stating with pride, “Through their diligence, there has been a 60% decrease in unintended pregnancies in Denver and 40% throughout Colorado.” Sen Michael Bennet and Rep Diana DeGette noted the complicated bills they’re working on in Washington can be easily misinterpreted yet, both continue to fight for a woman’s choice.

The list of people who were there to support women were Denver’s Mayor Michael Hancock; U.S. Senator Michael Bennet; Congresswoman Diana DeGette; Speaker of the House, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst; State Representative Jonathan Singer and Jessie Danielson; Senate Majority Leader Morgan Carroll; State Representatives Steve Lebsock, Angela Williams, Tracy Kraft-Tharp, Rhonda Fields, and KC Becker; the Honorable Elbra Wedgeworth and the Honorable Mike Cerbo; Senator Rollie Heath and feminine movers and shakers such as Anne Murdaugh and Jessica Valenti.

Valenti, the keynote speaker, is the author of four books and was named in “a top 100 women,” by “The Guardian.”  She’s been called an inspiration by Gloria Steinem for her work to bring the feminist movement online.

Folks congregated around the silent auction tables until they were shooed into the ballroom for dinner and the program. Lots of generous businesses and individuals assured an abundance of donated items from original art, custom jewelry, a wall of wine, a wall of beer as well, a trip to Hawaii, a power lunch with Speaker of the House, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst and  Andrew Romanoff, Mark Ferrandino and Terrance Carroll. There was a heavenly week in Grand Lake open to the highest bidder, a weekend in a Denver Loft, and the ultimate, a South African Safari package for two.

For more information on NARAL Colorado, NARAL ProChoice Colorado, contact them at 303-394-1973 or visit 1905 Sherman Street, Suite 800, Denver 80203. www.prochoicecolorado.org

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18 Apr

All Prepared for the Derby in Denver

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Guests at “A Night at the Derby” channeled their inner southern belle and gentleman style. The Ritz-Carlton ballroom was bursting with women wearing hats as beautiful as the many services Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains provides to the region. In addition to festive attire, the Mint Juleps were as tasty as any served at Churchill Downs.

“Originally were we going to have the event on Derby weekend, but plans changed. We loved the theme and here we are,” said committee member Karla Kalahar, who wore an adorable dark hat with pink and white roses.

From the podium, 9News personality Denise Plante, who emceed the event, gushed about the opportunity to dress in Derby style as she showed off a stunning ivory hat.

Director of Refugee and Asylee Programs for LFS in Colorado Springs Floyd Preston looked dashing in his Derby wear. He also extended enthusiasm for the evening on another level. “Without this type of fundraising it would be impossible for us to walk with the vulnerable. It’s vital to our work. I am so grateful to everyone who came out to support LFS.”

The more than 230 guests eyed an enticing array of silent auction items. Shelly St. John skillfully led the live auction, soliciting bids for diamond earrings, a night at the Ritz, and a trip to Africa, among others. World-renowned musician, and Denver native, Gayle Leali played beautifully during the cocktail hour and dinner, mixing in jazz, blues and R&B.

President and CEO of LFS Jim Barclay had the honor of recognizing all those who received awards at the event. Award recipients included Saint Timothy’s Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM; True Value Regional Distribution Center, Denver; Peak Vista Community Health Centers at Myron Stratton, Colorado Springs; and Emmett and Katherine Cruson.

LFS does huge work in the Rocky Mountain Region. Their services encompass adoption, care for the elderly, foster care, prevention services, refugee and asylee programs and disaster response. The faith based, non-profit human service agency helps children and families during their most challenging times and has been committed to serving all people, regardless of race, religion, gender or age since 1948. Highlights of the many lives touched by the organization last year include refugee resettlement and asylee services to 1,362 individuals, foster care to 233 domestic children through 147 therapeutic and traditional foster homes, respite care to 72 children in 47 families, services to 317 older adults and caregivers, adoption placements of 45 children and services to 50 adoptive and waiting parents.

The Kentucky Derby is steeped in traditions, such as the beautiful garland of roses presented to the winner. LFS, through its 67 years of endurance, deserves a garland of roses. From the starting gate until today, they faithfully race to provide compassionate and meaningful care to those most in need.

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07 Mar

HOPE Center Celebrates 50 Years with Vintage Vegas Night

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Where were you 50 years ago? In Denver, a wonderful organization was in its first days helping special-needs children with educational and vocational opportunities. At an event that was truly golden, HOPE Center celebrated its 50 years of service in metro Denver with a Vintage Vegas-themed gala where everyone was a winner.

President/CEO Gerie Grimes celebrates HOPE Center's 50 years of service to metro Denver.

President/CEO Gerie Grimes celebrates HOPE Center’s 50 years of service to metro Denver.

On Saturday, March 7, supporters gathered at the Sherman Street Event Center where they were greeted with enticements that included casino-style games, an array of silent auction items and tasty tidbits that were a perfect match for the glittering, glamourous guest attire.

The program was presented in segments to allow guests ample time for mixing, mingling, enjoying tasty tidbits—and to play casino games, too, of course. CBS4 personality and emcee Gloria Neal presided over the presentations, beginning with a welcome message from Denver Mayor Michael Hancock. HOPE Center President/CEO Gerie Grimes talked about the organization’s accomplishments, and co-chair and HOPE Center former parent Rev. Dr. Regina Groff talked in detail about the successful educational journey of her son and daughter—that began with a solid foundation from HOPE Center teachers and staff.

The organization honored individually a contingent of people for their help over the years: The Butler family, Dr. John Fischer and Charles Bloom; and posthumously: Farmer Reini and former chief justice of the Colorado Supreme Court Luis Rovira. After a spirited live auction led by Debbie Stafford, the crowd kicked up its heels to the soulful sounds of the Mary Louise Lee Band.

HOPE Center provides educational and vocational opportunities for special-needs and at-risk children and adults from 2-1/2 years to adulthood. It is a community-based agency dedicated to meeting the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, developmental delays and persons in need of specialized educational or vocational services. These services are provided in order to develop, maintain and enhance the functioning of each enrollee.

The philosophy of service is to admit individuals to programs within the agency which meet their needs and requirements as specifically as possible. Length of service within a given program is dependent upon assessed individual needs, program goals and objectives. Enrollees are served in a normal environment with services assessed periodically to evaluate the program.

All enrollees of HOPE Center are treated with dignity and respect and are accorded the civil and human rights to which they are entitled. For more information, please visit: HopeCenterInc.org.

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21 Feb

A Wickedly Beaux Arts Ball

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This year’s National Jewish Beaux Arts Ball, presented by the Morgridge Family Foundation, was a wickedly good time, drawing over 1,100 down the yellow brick road. Despite Colorado’s spell of a storm, the room was filled with supporters eager to help fundraise for National Jewish Health’s groundbreaking medical research and treatment.

The event honored Grand Marshals Lindsey and Stanton Dodge, Dianne Eddolls and Glenn Jones, Leslie and Noel Ginsburg, and Elaine and Kevin Kauffman. These couples were recognized for their philanthropy in the Denver community.

As soon as the doors opened to the ballroom, everyone was in complete awe. The Hyatt Regency was completely transformed, with artistic and ornate centerpieces, green and pink up lighting, Oz inspired performers, magic wands and flying monkeys.

Starting with the entry of the goggle-wearing emerald drummers, Vali Entertainment filled the room with magic.The band and vocalists were brilliant, successfully getting guests on their feet and dancing.

Attendees bid on exclusive packages, including viewing the 2016 Academy Awards with Elton John, vacationing at a 16th century Tuscan estate and driving exotic sports cars at High Plains Raceway.

The Fund-A-Need auction allowed guests to make a direct donation to support a specific area of need at National Jewish Health. This year, the funds will be used for eczema and allergy programs.

National Jewish Health is the leading respiratory hospital in the nation.  Founded in 1899 as a nonprofit hospital, National Jewish Health today is the only facility in the world dedicated exclusively to groundbreaking medical research and treatment of patients with respiratory, cardiac, immune and related disorders. Patients and families come to National Jewish Health from around the world to receive cutting-edge, comprehensive, coordinated care. To learn more, visit www.njhealth.org.

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23 Jan

Serving Strong Life Skills and Values

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Everyone was “on their game” at the 15th annual Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Gala. The event celebrated a new class of four incredible inductees: Sara Anundsen, Kelly Lovato, Cory Ross and Art Thomson. In addition, the USTA Colorado recognized a host of 2014 Annual Award Winners.

It was also a winning night for the Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation, the non-profit arm of USTA Colorado. Auction Divas Founder and Lead Auctioneer Shelly St. John successfully garnered two $10,000 donations from audience members less than 20 minutes into the program. Many other attendees raised paddles, committing to support the organization in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. All that happened before any of the nine enticing live auction items had been talked about.

“This kind of support is phenomenal,” reported a stunned USTA Colorado Executive Director Fritz Garger. Along with generous donations this year’s event seated nearly 100 more people than last year, moving total attendance from 330 to 405. “The Hall of Famers have done so much for the sport. They recognize the value of tennis on their lives and they — along with their friends and family — are giving back. It’s incredible how much of a difference this is going to make in the lives of the youth we serve through the foundation.”

Honoree Art Thomson, who is now battling ALS, shared that tennis gave him some of his greatest friendships. His longtime court partners, Ed McWilliams and CD Bodam gave testament to his statement.

“We are old doubles partners, dating back to CU and then 20 years after that,” said CD Bodam. “I am tickled pink for Art for this honor.”

Award winner Joshua King, who was recognized with the John Hough Award for sportsmanship, was cheered on by his grandmother and great grandmother.

“He’s a great tennis player, but also a really great kid,” said his beaming grandma Pat McMillian. “People are noticing he is a really good sport and we are so proud.”

And now to introduce the superstars of the night:  The Class of 2014 Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame Inductees:

Sara Anundsen — A native Coloradan, Sara was undefeated in prep competition, capturing the No. 1 singles high school state championships title in each of the three years she competed for Columbine High School (2001-03). She was also a dominant force on the national junior circuit, twice earning a top-2 ranking in the G16s. Sara won the 2002 Denver City Open women’s doubles title, and in 2003 picked up the DCO women’s singles title and the Colorado State Open women’s doubles crown. A two-time All American at the University of North Carolina (2006-07), Sara partnered with Jenna Long to compile an impressive 29-6 record en route to capturing the 2007 NCAA doubles title, the first in school history. The duo was named ITA National Doubles Team of the Year, and earned a wild card berth into the US Open. As assistant coach for the UNC Tar Heels, Sara helped lead the team to a second place finish at the 2014 NCAA championships.

Esequiel Kelly Lovato — For 25 years, Esequiel “Kelly” Lovato was program director at La Alma Recreation Center in west Denver, starting one of Denver Parks’ first youth tennis programs. A community/anti-gang activist, Kelly knew the value of a strong recreation center where the community could use their energy in positive ways. Recognized in 1993 by the Rocky Mountain News as one of the Hispanic community’s unsung heroes, Kelly spent his life working with inner-city youth who were exposed daily to a host of dangers. He profoundly impacted an entire community and changed countless lives, teaching kids about responsibility, respect and how tennis could open doors to bigger opportunities. While many of his students went on to be successful tennis players, many more went on to become successful people. Kelly was recognized previously with USTA Colorado’s inaugural Arthur Ashe Award in 1992 for his contributions to under-served populations.

Cory Ross – A two-time Colorado High School State No. 1 singles champion 1998-1999) and nationally-ranked junior player, Cory played collegiate tennis, first at Baylor, and then for three years at Louisiana State University, where he was named Second-Team All-Louisiana twice, in 2002 and again in 2003. In addition to his outstanding athletic performance, Cory was also recognized for his outstanding sportsmanship, winning the prestigious 1998 Bobby Kaplan Sportsmanship Award at the Boys’ 16 National Championships in Kalamazoo, MI, among many others. In 2007, Cory completed the “Colorado Slam”, winning all four of the major Colorado men’s open singles events (Elam Classic, the Denver City Open, the Colorado State Open and the Intermountain/Boulder Open) in the same year, 40 years after Harold Sears accomplished this feat. During his playing career, Cory captured 31 major Colorado events — amassing 10 Singles, 12 Doubles and 9 Mixed in all.

Art Thomson – Despite an inauspicious start in his first-ever tournament, Art competed for George Washington High School, later matriculating at the University of Colorado-Boulder, where he competed at the No. 1 singles position, finishing third in the Big 8 Conference. Art captured the 1981 Colorado State Open singles title at age 34, and holds three major Colorado open doubles titles – two Denver City Open crowns (1971 and 1972) and one Intermountain Championships (1973), and was runner up at the Denver City Open twice (1970 and 1973). A dominant force in age division play in Colorado and across the country, Art amassed 23 “triple titles” (singles, doubles and mixed) between the ages of 35-55, and in 1993, was named USPTA 45 and over singles player of the year. During his 50 plus years as a teaching professional in Colorado, Art has shared his love and passion for the game of tennis with countless students.

The Colorado Youth Tennis Foundation, a 501(c)3 fundraising arm of USTA Colorado, promotes the physical, emotional and social development of all youth to aspire to become active, productive and responsible citizens. CYTF has touched the lives of thousands of Colorado kids since its formation in 1961. CYTF provides individual player scholarships and program grants to kids and organizations throughout the state. CYTF is committed to providing tennis as a means to instill these attributes in Colorado’s children regardless of economic, social or ethnic background.

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22 Nov

The Adoption Exchange 27th Annual Fantasy Ball

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On November 22nd, the 27th Annual Fantasy Ball, benefiting The Adoption Exchange, drew the who’s who of Denver to the Seawell Grand Ballroom at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. It was evident that guests were passionate about supporting the cause, as the room exuded a feeling of eagerness to make a difference.

Governor John Hickenlooper addressed the crowd, recognizing National Adoption Day and commending The Adoption Exchange for its work to connect children in foster care with loving families. His positive words affirmed the critical role the organization plays in Colorado.

This year’s honoree was the Regal Entertainment Group. Since 1998, Regal Entertainment Group has made a difference in the lives of children waiting in foster care for homes. Ray Nutt, Regal’s Senior VP of Business Relations, accepted the award on the company’s behalf.

As the silent auction closed, bidders kept a close eye on their favorite items. There were over 150 items, including jewelry, get away packages and sports memorabilia. Popular items included a bib autographed by Lindsay Vonn and a stunning 14k gold, peal and diamond ring by William Crow Jewelers.

The live auction was led by Auctioneer Sean Allen. Allen animated the crowd with enticing packages like a one week stay in the village of Seillans in Provence, France and a fireside chat at The Fort Restaurant with Dr. Jonathan Kedrowski, a legendary mountaineer.

The Adoption Exchange recruits families for children who have survived abuse and neglect, supports adoptive families throughout every phase of the adoption process, and trains child welfare professionals. To learn more, please visit www.adoptex.org.

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21 Nov

Traveling the Silk Road

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Exquisite, Exotic, Intriguing: Words to describe this year’s Museum after Dark Gala. The theme, Traveling the Silk Road, also celebrated the opening of Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s newest exhibit which takes visitors on an extraordinary journey along the legendary trade route stretching from China through Central Asia to the Middle East and the Roman Empire.

Event Co-Chair Susan McIntire weaved through the room, her glowing smile as beautiful as her gold gown. She and her co-chair husband Lee McIntire, along with super supporters, threw a fantastic party for 700 people.

“I only had one sleepless night since we started planning last February,” shared Ms. McIntire. “The Board of Trustees involvement was amazing. They all played a part in making tonight such a success.”

Décor Chair Merrill Shields and her team did an incredible job creating the sense of stepping into Asia. From the very first steps, everything tied back to traveling the Silk Road. Abby, a tremendously big-eyed, scrumptiously soft camel, greeted guests. Next, attendees wound their way down a silk curtained hallway, passing belly dancers, a graceful, twisting contortionist and a sword swallower, who made onlookers impulsively gulp, before stepping into a beautiful bustling “marketplace” of sorts. These travelers bartered the modern way, using tablets to place bids on a vast collection of unique and interesting silent auction items ranging from alluring adventures to gems and minerals similar to the museum’s own.

What humbly began more than 100 years ago has grown tremendously. The museum’s newest wing provides thousands of additional square feet, thus allowing the museum to showcase more than one temporary exhibit at a time. The public can expect more of that from one of Denver’s most notable attractions.

“In 2015, we will have five traveling exhibits in one year,” explained Director of Marketing Amanda Bennett. “That just couldn’t be done in the past. It’s exciting.”

The goal for the evening was to raise $800,000 with 100 percent of the funds going toward educational programs. The mission of the museum is to be a catalyst and ignite the community’s passion for nature and science. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science envisions an empowered community that loves, understands, and protects our natural world.

 

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13 Nov

34th Annual Heart of Hearts Gala

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It’s not often you attend a charity event that transports you to Venice, Italy. With the help of vivacious circus performers and elaborate Venetian carnivals masks, the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel was dramatically transformed for an evening of fundraising and frivolity.

As guests entered the Rocky Mountain Adventist Healthcare Foundation’s 34th Heart of Hearts Gala, they were warmly greeted by volunteers and eccentric performers from Bella Luna Cirque. Instantly, Denver’s chilly weather was forgotten. Dancers twirled around the room, entertaining the guests with their whimsical charm. A gondolier manned his rowing boat, while couples and friends posed for photos. And a stunning masked lady stood tall above everyone, balancing on stilts and waving to the crowd.

After cocktail hour and the silent auction, guests were invited to enter the main ballroom. The room was jaw dropping gorgeous. Everywhere you turned there were captivating performers and decor. Near the stage, dancers were suspended on hula hoops. Their grace was mesmerizing. White birds flew around the room on the tall sticks carried by masked Venetians. The atmosphere was simply magical, and guests couldn’t help but pull out their phones to capture the scene.

The Henry M. Porter Award was given to Jim Boyle, President and CEO of Summit Leadership Solutions and former CEO of Porter Adventist Hospital. Boyle received this award for his continuous generosity to the hospital foundations and the community. He specializes in leadership development, board development and executive coaching. The Henry M. Porter Award is named for Henry M. Porter, the original philanthropic donor to Porter Hospital.

Proceeds from the Heart of Hearts Gala support women’s breast cancer departments within Avista, Castle Rock, Littleton, Parker and Porter Adventist Hospitals. Over $66,000 was raised with the evening’s paddle raiser. This total will  be used to provide free  mammograms and breast cancer care for under served individuals in the community.

The generosity of sponsors and individual donors is greatly appreciated, as one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime and one in 1,000 men will face a diagnosis. Donations will fuel support groups, treatment options and integrative therapies.

If you would like to learn more about Rocky Mountain Adventist Healthcare Foundation and make a donation, please visit www.rmahf.org.

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08 Nov

RMHS Honors Military Heroes During Veterans Day Weekend Gala

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One man is training to compete in the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio, another is a Medal of Honor recipient who demonstrated exceptional bravery during battle. A third has spent the past 35 years working tirelessly for fellow veterans’ rights and honor. Hearing their stories is a moving experience, but the opportunity to meet these military heroes is quite another. The 3rd annual Rocky Mountain Human Services Gala provided that and more, held during Veterans Day weekend to honor and thank those who have served.

Among the military veterans at the VIP reception (l to r): Medal of Honor recipient and keynote speaker SSG Clint Romesha; Fredia Johnson, RMHS veteran employment program manager; and SPC Justin Cooper

Among the military veterans at the VIP reception (l to r): Medal of Honor recipient and keynote speaker SSG Clint Romesha; Fredia Johnson, RMHS veteran employment program manager; and SPC Justin Cooper

On Saturday, Nov. 8, more than 500 people from all walks of life got together to show their support for RMHS, both emotionally and monetarily. Funds raised were earmarked for expanding the organization’s military and veterans programs—RMHS is the largest Colorado nonprofit serving veterans with wrap-around care.

The evening began with a sunset VIP reception on the penthouse level of the Hyatt Regency DTC. A short program featured awards for Judge David Shakes and Dr. James Schraa for their individual work with RMHS military and veterans programs. Speakers included Annie Davies, director of communications and development; CEO Stephen Block; Dr Erin Wilkinson, director of military and veterans programs; and event co-chair Peter Burg. Other gala co-chairs were Sandy Burg, and Steve and Sharon Binder.

Marlene Siegel checks out a crocheted patriotic throw at the silent auction.

Marlene Siegel checks out a crocheted patriotic throw at the silent auction.

A reception in the atrium was augmented with a spectrum of items up for bid in the silent auction—a live auction with experiential packages was held later in the evening. The dinner program was highlighted by Lt. Col. Dick Merritt (Ret.) receiving the Loyalty Beyond Service Award and John Vaught accepting the Community Partners Award on behalf of the Colorado Bar Association. Dob Bennett, who co-founded Operation TBI Freedom with wife Debbie, spoke about his organization’s successes. After dinner, keynote speaker and Medal of Honor recipient SSG Clinton Romesha had the crowd riveted during his talk.

Rocky Mountain Human Services is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves nearly 10,000 individuals, including more than 2,000 professionals and 7,500 Colorado and Wyoming residents through seven distinct programs. In 2012, the organization celebrated its 20th anniversary, changing its name from Denver Options to Rocky Mountain Human Services to reflect the expansion of services throughout Colorado. The organization’s goal is to serve vulnerable populations throughout the Rocky Mountain West.

Currently, RMHS serves:
•Children with developmental delays and disabilities
•Adults with cognitive and intellectual disabilities
•Adults who live with the effects of a traumatic brain injury (TBI)
•Military personnel and veterans who return from Iraq and Afghanistan with a TBI
•Veterans in need of employment assistance or who are homeless or in jeopardy of losing their homes
•Families who are striving to break the cycle of poverty
•Professionals who seek to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual challenges
•Professionals who seek to provide the highest quality services for individuals with developmental disabilities

Block writes: “RMHS’s expansion in the military and veteran programs during the last seven years is a natural extension of our work with vulnerable populations, allowing us to create a world of compassion and hope for those whose lives personify our mission of service to others.” For more information about RMHS, go online at: www.RMHumanServices.org, and to learn more about veterans programs, please visit: www.RMHumanServices.org/MVP.

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25 Oct

A Magical Night of Masquerade

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By day it’s a bustling professional office building. By night – well, for one night – it’s a party palace. On Saturday evening Denver Human Services hosted the 4th annual Black & White Masquerade Ball, to benefit GIVE Denver, in its gorgeous east side office.

“The first Masquerade Ball was also the grand opening of this beautiful building,” explained Marv Allen, GIVE Denver Director. “It’s the perfect place for the event.”

He’s right. The ample space worked well for having a stage, dance floor, cocktail area, food stations and several silent auction tables. Pink and purple spotlights replaced the lighting of daily fluorescents. Large glass vases filled with over-sized black and white feathers, black velvet cushy seating, and bar top tables added to the atmosphere. Yet, the best decorations were the variety of masks; masks of gold, black, white, silver, sparkle, feathers, twists, swirls and curls worn by the more than 200 guests.

“It’s great to see so many people come out and support the good work of GIVE,” said DHS Executive Director Penny May. “GIVE Denver is truly a beacon of hope for many in the Denver community when they need it most. Donations from the Denver community allow GIVE Denver to provide basic necessities, like food, shampoo, school supplies or diapers, to thousands of people each year.” She went on to credit the success of the evening to GIVE Denver Coordinator Tom Meiers. “He did the lion’s share of the work to make tonight happen and he did a great job.”

The evening included an outstanding performance of drum, song and dance from West Africa by students from SOAR Charter School’s music program. Then Denver’s own old school funk and R&B band Jakarta took the stage and rocked the space. In the end, how could anyone possibly remember they were in a professional building? It could only be remembered as an incredible party.

Each year, thousands of people receive support through the GIVE Denver Center at the Denver Department of Human Services. The Masquerade Ball raises resources for foster children, homeless families and people who may not have their needs met through regular government assistance programs. GIVE Denver relies on donations to provide items such as school supplies, diapers, emergency clothing and basic necessities to clients of Human Services.

GIVE Denver’s mission is to instill hope and a brighter future to Denver’s under-served community through donations and with the assistance of volunteers.

 

 

 

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18 Oct

SafeHouse Denver Hope Gala

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Puttin’ on the Ritz at the SafeHouse Denver Hope Gala came naturally to the hundreds of folks who generously support victims and, strive to seek solutions to end domestic violence.

SafeHouse Denver is important. To adults and children who find themselves in a situation with no where to turn, this organization is their safe haven.

Domestic violence is prevalent in America today.  On Saturday, Victoria McVicker, CEO of SafeHouse Denver, noted the recent publicity concerning NFL players in the news. She urged the audience to stop asking, “Why do they stay?” and start asking, “Why does he do that?”

Denver and organizations such as SafeHouse Denver continue to work toward an end to this violence. As it recognizes October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, SafeHouse Denver is constant in providing life-saving programs and services to victims of domestic violence and their children. Victims of this abuse have access to emergency shelter, counseling and advocacy services, and outreach programs which provide safety and hope to survivors of domestic violence.

It’s a national shame and a crime against hundreds of thousands of women and children. Fortunately, SafeHouse Denver is well supported throughout our community. It is nationally recognized for its efforts to end these horrendous acts of abuse.

Dayle Cedars, the Emcee for the evening returns each year to show her support for SafeHouse Denver. With children of her own, she knows the importance of supporting the fight against domestic violence.

The tables were filled with nary an empty seat in the elegant Ritz-Carlton ballroom. Victoria McVicker and Carrie Wernecke-Swenson lead the audience in applauding honorees Linda Johnston with the Carolyn Hamil-Henderson Memorial Award and Carol and Paul Rose with the 2014 Susan Noble Community Impact Award. The program included one survivor’s deeply moving story; Adam Kevil kept the auction alive with his fast and clever nudges for more money and, the crowd relaxed to the sweet sounds of the Arvada West High School Vocal Chords.

Safe-House Denver is a vital and important organization in our community. You can show support by learning more about domestic violence and helping to support those who find themselves in this difficult situation. Contact SafeHouse Denver, 1649 Downing Street, Denver 80218. 303-318-9959. www.safehouse-denver.org. 24-Hour Crises & Information Line: 303-318-9989.

 

 

 

 

 

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14 Oct

OWL’s “Writing the Code for Success”

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We live in a digital world that requires us to continuously adapt to changing technology. This reality inspired OpenWorld Learning (OWL) to create an enriched curriculum dedicated to motivating children to learn about computers. Since 2000, OWL programs have allowed Denver area students, many who are underprivileged, to indulge their curiosity and develop leadership qualities essential to excelling in today’s workforce.

On October 14th, at the Infinity Park Event Center, OWL celebrated 14 years of “creating possibilities through technology” with their 9th annual gala, “Writing the Code for Success.” Guests were warmly greeted by outgoing OWL students at the door. In the hallway to the ballroom, more students animatedly demonstrated their projects. The children’s fervor certainly set an uplifting tone for the evening.

Many influential community members participated in the event program. Anne Trujillo of 7NEWS provided a welcome and introduced a moving video, which featured accomplished students, as well as staff and supporters. The video explained that 50% of OWL students do not have a computer at home, but that will not stop them from being the community’s next scientists, engineers, mathematicians or technology entrepreneurs.

Board President Steve Halstedt presented Kim Patmore, the former CFO of First Data Corporation, with the Dean Abrams Leadership Award. Patmore received this recognition due to her outstanding charitable work in the community with multiple organizations, including OWL. Lieutenant Governor Joseph A. Garcia, the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of High Education, went on to present Patmore with a proclamation naming the day in her honor.

Following the program, auctioneer Gary Corbett energized the crowd with an enticing live auction. Items included a chef’s dinner for 12 at Crepes ‘n Crepes, a Vail getaway, Carrie Fell artwork and much more.

Thanks to volunteers, the board, staff, students and families, OWL raised over $146,000 with this event.

For more information about OWL, visit www.openworldlearning.org.

 

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27 Sep

Urban League of Metro Denver 2014 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Annual Awards Gala

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A full house of guests attended the Urban League of Metropolitan Denver‘s annual Whitney M. Young, Jr. annual gala at the Denver Marriott City Center. The theme for this year’s event— “One Nation Underemployed: Bridges to Jobs and Justice”–reflected current economic times and challenges.

Emcee LaRhonda Thomas of 9NEWS introduced guests to the evening itinerary followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Denver First Lady Mary Louise Lee. Later, comments were made from representatives from presenting sponsors– WalMart, Noble Energy and Barclays— and members from the Urban League’s Guild and Young Professionals Group.

At the VIP reception Interim Denver Urban League President/CEO Moses Brewer thanked sponsors and individuals for their support and welcomed Denver Mayor Michael Hancock to the podium. Hancock urged those in the room to focus on solving poverty issues.

“We must do everything we can to inspire hope in our young people and to break the cycle of poverty. We must create more opportunity by addressing low wages and low workforce participation.”

The Mayor then introduced Governor John Hickenlooper and Colorado Senator Mark Udall who each made some brief comments acknowledging the League’s economic and social impact in Colorado.

This year’s gala also recognized the late Edna Wilson Mosley, the first African American Councilwoman for the City of Aurora and a devoted activist with deep roots in various civil rights initiatives. After being elected to the Aurora City Council in 1991, Mosley served 12 years representing her district and focusing on civil rights, gender equality, veterans’ affairs, housing and education.

Gala Co-Chairs Rita Kahn and Bob Willis introduced this year’s McKinley Harris Distinguished Warrior Awards. This year’s award winners included:

Pat Cortez, Senior Vice President PR & Government Relations at Wells Fargo Bank. Cortez oversees Wells Fargo’s charitable contributions in Colorado where nearly $4.4 million are awarded each year to more than 900 Colorado nonprofit organizations. Prior to her current position, Pat managed Wells Fargo’s business development efforts among emerging markets, including the African-American, Asian, Latino and Women’s markets, with responsibility for nearly $1 billion in consumer assets.

Lonnie Porter, Founder/Executive Director of the Porter Billups Leadership Academy at Regis University. Porter is the winningest college basketball coach in Colorado history. Porter will put together his 38th and final men’s basketball team during the winter of 2014-15. With his 533 career victories, he has served at Regis longer than any other current men’s Colorado collegiate basketball mentor, and has the state of Colorado’s all-time best record for men’s collegiate basketball.

Phil Washington, RTD General Manager. Washington oversees the entire transit system, including the buses and trains, the build-out of FasTracks , and the Denver Union Station transit center. He was unanimously selected as RTD’s General Manager in 2009 by RTD’s board and is leading one of the most dynamic transit agencies in North America. Under his leadership, RTD is implementing the FasTracks program, one of the largest transit expansion programs in the country.

Elbra Wedgeworth, Chief Government and Community Relations Officer for Denver Health. Former Denver City Councilwoman Wedgeworth today is responsible for hospital policy matters on the local, state and federal level and also for community outreach initiatives. In 2008 she served as President/Chair of the Board for the Denver Convention Host Committee for the historic Democratic National Convention. For more than five years she served as Denver City Council Representative for District 8 and as Council President from 2003-2005.

Denver Urban League Board Chair Wayne Vaden introduced this year’s Chairman’s Award which went to Robert F. Smith, Founder/Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners, a 14-year-old private equity firm managing $13 billion in capital and managing portfolios for some 20 software companies.

Smith gave a warm speech he said was directed to his children in the audience. He emphasized the need for parents and civic leaders to prepare for global competition and urged guests to prepare their  children to compete not just with other kids in class or even statewide but for the world’s emerging economic powerhouses such as India and China.

Besides hard work in the classroom, Smith emphasized creativity, innovation and love for one’s community.

“Love is all that matters,” he said. “It’s not just love of family, but love of community. So, express that love not just in words but in deeds, and in action. Create opportunities for those who really want to create a different life for themselves. Express that love through your activity, through your money..and through your time…”

For more information visit www.denverurbanleague.org or call 303-377-2790 for more information.

 

 

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03 May

LFS Hosts Masked Ball at the Ritz

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The Masked Ball at The Ritz was an elegant affair that incorporated a hint of mystery in the air.

The Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains annual gala took place at The Ritz-Carlton on Saturday, May 3, 2014.

The evening program included a lovely welcome and silent auction, where guests were delighted with the elegance of the masks, the items to be bid on, and the drinks and appetizers served.

Pianist Eric French filled the room with joyous classics. Laughter was abundant, and when dinner was served, spirits were high. As guests flooded into the reception hall, entertainment by the Gayle Leali Quartet was filling the air with gorgeous voices and instruments.

Comedian Sam Adams had the crowd enjoying themselves even further throughout the meal.

LFS President and CEO Jim Barclay gave a resounding welcome to guests, along with stories of compassion that left guests thankful they were able to participate.

Distinguished awards were also presented by Jim Barclay, and included Eagle Wings Awards for Saint Lukes Lutheran Church; Realities for Children based in Fort Collins, CO; and Gary Gabrielson of Colorado Springs, CO. Special thanks were also delivered to sponsors of the gala.

The planning committee included Nancy Beyer, Dee Gonzales, Sarah Jacobsen, Karla Kalahar, Jeanne Maloney, Shelia Singletery, and Margie Versen.

The 21st annual gala was a night that in the words of Jim Barclay, President and CEO, had a fundamental purpose of “strengthening LFS’ ability to bring help and hope to others through faith-inspired service.” It appears to have done just that.

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26 Apr

The Kempe Foundation 2014 Annual Gala

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Proclamation from Governor John Hickenlooper read:  
I Hereby Proclaim April 26, 2014, to be the Kempe Foundation and Walter Imhoff Day.

The 29th Kempe Foundation Gala honored Denver’s favorite man of the hour, philanthropist, Walter Imhoff, b.1931-2014. It all opened on a high pitch Saturday night, April 26, 2014.

People were raring to get started. Registration opened at 6:00 but the line started forming at 5:30 p.m. The Seawell Ballroom was a beautiful sight to see with elegant colorful spring flower centerpieces situated throughout the ballroom. Visitors were hit with color everywhere they looked from the stage, to the mountain greenery decor, to the tiny twinkling ceiling lights that set the evening’s gala tone. The event got underway before 6:00 p.m. as people started to register their auction numbers in their phone.  Yes, their phones. The under-50 set couldn’t have been happier. It gave the phone techies the best excuse ever to look at their phones throughout the evening. Between the bidding and selfies taking place, Walt would have been amused and proud to see the crowded room and rapid fire bidding. It is suspected at this time, to have gone over the goal of $100,000.

As the live auction kicked into high gear, auctioneer Paul Behr kept the guests on edge as he challenged them time and time again for bids of $100,000, $20,000, $10,000, and so on. When he called for a $100 bid from everyone in the room, the yellow live-auction cards flew like balloons into the air.

At 7:00 p.m. Cheryl Preheim took to the stage to introduce the first of the night’s entertainment. It couldn’t have been more appropriate or more color coordinated. The young performers were dressed in white chinos and polo shirts of spring pastel colors such as blue, yellow, green, coral and pink. The Children’s Chorale opened the evening’s entertainment bringing smiles to the high energy kick off for the celebration.  Special was a  tribute to Mississippi Blues legend Robert Johnson from Big Head Todd (Todd Park Mohr).  And last but not least, the guests  on the floor were boot scootin’  and dancin’ with music from The Bucksteins, Denver’s popular country-western band. What a party night for the loyal supporters of the Kempe Foundation.

Business was up front as Cheryl and Kempe Foundation volunteers announced this year’s awards. All honorees were from within our community and are dedicated professionals working diligently to protect children from abuse and neglect. The first award of the night was the Imhoff Family Community Award to David Savitz. He is a seasoned trial lawyer who advocates zealously for perpetrators and victims of abuse. It’s not widely known that he proudly holds the title as one of the longest standing Kempe Foundation board members.

Kathyrn Wells, MD, FAAP, was the recipient of the 2014 Professional Award for creating a foster care clinic at Denver Health. The clinic provides an emphasis on mental health screening and treatment. She works tirelessly to improve services for pregnant women with addictions and to create a better system for detection of substance abuse.  Kathryn is on the Colorado State Foster Parent Association Board and President of the Colorado Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

State Senator Linda Newell received the 2014 Child Advocacy Award. Serving her second term for Arapahoe County, Newell has made child warefare a top priority. She was appointed Vice Chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee in 2013, and serves as a solid advocate for all abused and neglected children of Colorado.

By the time Big Head Todd stepped onto stage the guests were ready. He performed without flaw a medley of Mississippi Blues from the legendary Robert Johnson. Then as the party wrapped up,The Bucksteins took the stage and stomped out the finale for the 29th Annual Kempe Foundation Gala.

Look out, next year is the 30th Annual Kempe Foundation Gala.
http://www.kempe.org

 

 

 

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22 Apr

DPS Aims to Achieve

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Touching the lives of 88,000 young people is no easy feat, yet Denver Public Schools is doing it with skill and getting noticed in the process.

“As I travel nationally, I’ve heard time and time again that DPS is absolutely a national leader and truly positioned to become the best urban district in the nation,” relayed DPS Foundation Board Chair Brooke Brown to a crowd of 1,100 at the foundation’s12th annual Achieve Gala.

It was an evening of showcasing student achievement, from the thoughtfully prepared poster boards that gave testament to all that is happening in DPS schools such as North, Montebello, George Washington and South High Schools to the compelling beats from the North High School Drum Line. The crowd couldn’t help but smile and silently lip-synch along as the Marrama Elementary Choir opened the evening’s entertainment with their version of the Beatles “Yellow Submarine” and “Twist and Shout.” They reminded us that school is about having some fun while learning tons.

North High School Senior Daniel Ramirez was the evening’s keynote speaker. Cheered on by the crowd, the loudest applause came from a table filled with 12 of his family members. His speech was as heartfelt and endearing as his commitment to continuing his education.

“It’s my goal to pay this forward and give back to the community that helped me succeed,” said the speaker who is focused on pre-med programs.

Showing an unwavering commitment, UMB Bank signed on again as the event’s Presenting Sponsor. DaVita Inc. sponsored the reception. In addition, the gala was supported by the Anschutz Foundation, Marcy and Bruce Benson, Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center, where the event was held, as well as Piton Foundation, Kristin & Blair Richardson, United Launch Alliance and Cille & Ron Williams. Polsinelli underwrote the production of unique student-made centerpieces for the event.

Governor John Hickenlooper, Lieutenant Governor Joe Garcia and Superintendent Tom Boasberg enjoyed the celebration of DPS success, along with Mile High United Way CEO Christine Benero and DPS Board of Education member Happy Haynes, DPS Chief of Staff Will Lee-Ashley, and DPS Chief Academic Officer Susana Cordova.

As a former DPS teacher, it was an honor to be a part of the celebration of this district’s accomplishments. There is a palpable energy about DPS that’s thrilling to experience. The gala solidifies that truth. DPS is poised to be a national leader in education because of the tremendous dedication and heart of all those who support it and the passion of its students to grab and go for their dreams. In the end, we are all DPS as DPS is the future of our community. And that’s a good thing. These students, with grit, determination, tenacity and huge hearts, are getting well-prepared to take our city to the next level.

The Denver Public Schools Foundation is Denver Public Schools’ fundraising partner. The foundation generates resources, builds relationships and champions public education to help Every Child Succeed. For more information, visit www.dpsfoundation.org.

 

 

 

 

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09 Apr

Cocktails for the Cure 2014

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At first glance upon attending the 5th Annual Cocktails for a Cure event (presented by Sherman & Howard, L.L.C. and matched by The Salah Foundation to benefit cutting edge research for the University of Colorado Cancer Center), one might see lovely ladies enjoying swanky cocktails. While the rainbow variety of delicious cocktails was delightful, it became very clear quite quickly that the true heart of involvement from board members, organizers, vendors, and attendees alike was the spirit of camaraderie and a passion for prevention and community.

The evening began with attendees trying specialty cocktails including a deliciously ginger-based martini featuring earl grey tea and candied ginger, courtesy of Frasca Food & Wine, a healthy kale-pear vodka number presented by Bol; a blood orange and ginger beer drink by Tag; a raspberry and rosemary drink by Guard and Grace; and a delicious whiskey bitters and spiced pear drink with Jax. Chris Bates also offered his services as Sommelier.

While ladies browsed and chatted, the Wall of Wine was open to choose a donated bottle at random, with value from $20-$200 with a $25 donation. Ladies perused the silent auction that included highlights such as a Granby Ranch Getaway, a Blowout to Go Out to pamper you and eight close friends, and a VIP Nuggets Experience. Gourmet served as the caterers for the event, with a delicious menu of food items. Sugarlicious presented a fun array of party favors with cocktail-like themes, including “martini olives” that delightfully were actually chocolate-covered almonds. Happy Cakes cupcakes adorned a table in the back of the venue, with a variety of options including a French toast cupcake.

A celebrity wall for photographs to be taken filled the hallway, and committee members were easily spotted wearing glimmering tiaras that added to the magic of the evening. After attendees sipped on drinks, nibbled and noshed on hors d’oeuvres and chatted among themselves after perhaps putting in a bid to the silent auction—the speaking program began.

Celebrity emcee Brian Griese told the touching story of his passion for cancer research after the loss of his mother, and graciously and humorously introduced the speakers for the evening. Kasia Iwaniczko MacLeod shared her story in her battle with cancer, and was able to announce that Dr. Jennifer Diamond, one of her mother’s physicians, was one of the physicians whose research would be supported by the funds raised from the  event. Marti Awad, a courageous young woman and the youngest woman to take steps to prevent cancer with a double mastectomy, indicated how important it was to know and understand what cancer does and how it affects lives. Megan Fearnow stated that the reason the Salah Foundation was continuing to match contributions at this event for the third year in a row was because The University of Colorado Cancer Center was “on the tipping point of some very important breakthroughs that could contribute to serious change.”

As nods coursed through the room and women raised their cards to donate the much-needed funds, it was very apparent that this was more than just a fun night. Women in this room on stage and in the audience all were aware on a very personal level what this event was contributing to. Judy Delhey, a committee member for the event, summed up the spirit of the evening when she said, “Everyone is here to help focus on women, focus on what happens before cancer and to focus on what happens if you’re diagnosed. What do you do?”

It is apparent that every woman at this event wanted to both serve as support for those going through cancer as well as fight to find a way that women in the future would not have to make some of the same hard choices. An immense feeling of inspiration and genuine compassion radiated throughout the event as well as in the voices and hearts of every woman present.

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08 Mar

9th Annual Vintage Vegas Soiree is a Sure Bet for HOPE Center

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Vegas, baby. Vegas! With masquerade attire, casino games and Mary Louise Lee’s sparkling vocals, HOPE Center’s ninth annual Vintage Vegas Casino Night…All That Glitters was a tribute to the 1930s—a time when legendary musicians introduced jazz to the French. Historic Sherman Street Event Center was a fitting venue as guests outdid themselves with both attire and attitude. At this year’s Million Lights of HOPE fundraiser, women wore glam-plus with sequins and boas, while the men donned fedoras along with Sinatra-cool to celebrate an evening devoted to the organization’s mission of helping children from low socio-economic backgrounds and adults with developmental disabilities succeed.

(l to r): HOPE Center President/CEO Geri Grimes, State Rep. Angela Williams and event emcee, CBS4's Gloria Neal

(l to r): HOPE Center President/CEO Gerie Grimes, State Rep. Angela Williams and event emcee, CBS4’s Gloria Neal

CBS4 favorite Gloria Neal served as a dynamic emcee, while Debbie Stafford energized the live-auction portion of the evening. The Mary Louise Lee Band added sumptuous sounds for listening and dancing throughout the evening, as guests perused the silent auction, played blackjack, roulette and craps, and nosed on tasty tidbits from Michael’s of Denver Catering. Colorado Rep. Angela Williams was recognized for her longtime support, while President/CEO Gerie Grimes and board chair C.T. Smith presented the “Light of Hope” award to CSU Denver Extension 4-H, and Outstanding Service awards to: Denver Sheriff Department’s Christmas Crusade, Concerts for Kids and US Bank.

HOPE Center provides high-quality and nationally accredited ECE programs to at-risk children, children with developmental disabilities/delays and inner-city children who are gifted. Its nationally accredited vocational program provides basic skills, work services, job training and a placement program for adults with disabilities. Most served at HOPE Center come from low socio-economic families, many at below federal poverty guidelines. For more information, please visit www.hopecenterinc.org.

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22 Feb

Favorite Characters and Treasured Tales at The Bookworm Ball

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Hunter S. Thompson, Dr. Seuss and Agatha Christie were all represented, as well as Cinderella, Cat in the Hat, Lady DeWinter and Katniss Everdeen. It was an enchanted evening to celebrate beloved authors, characters and books at The Bookworm Ball, a dinner, dance and auction to benefit Mt. Evan’s Home Health & Hospice.

The sold-out, 320-person event spanned across two floors and weaved into multiple rooms at its longtime host site, the Mount Vernon Country Club. Yet, it still felt intimate as audiovisual experts kept everyone in the know. They skillfully filmed and ran sound so that each costumed character could easily see and hear key presenters.

The phrase “something for everyone” summed up the volume of silent auction items. Volunteers collected more than 250 goodies to go up for bid.  “That’s almost one for everyone,” joked Board of Directors Past President Bill Manning.  Live auction items included a football signed by Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning and real-time art created by local award-winning artist Julianne Miller.

“Mt. Evans is very dear to my heart,” conveyed the artist. “They have been there for me, sadly, more times than I would like, but they have always been there.”

The decorations went well beyond books. Instead, the committee of 40 put touches of tales everywhere, including silhouettes of famous characters cut out of Masonite, to flowing ribbons with genres dripping down from the ceiling, to delightful hand-made centerpieces of rolled magazine pages on vases and book-page flowers.

“We estimate we rolled about 8,500 pieces of magazine paper to create the beads for the vases,” said Decorations Committee co-chair Peggy Fetchenhier with a laugh.

The committee was in good creative hands as Fetchenhier has been leading the decorations drive for the event for nearly 20 years. “I just keep coming back,” said the experienced set designer.

“It’s like a storybook fairytale in here,” said Executive Director Kathy Engel as she referenced the details around the rooms.

Mt. Evans Home Health & Hospice began in Evergreen in 1980 in response to the community’s need for hospice care—allowing terminally ill patients to die with dignity in the comfort of their own homes. Mt. Evans was one of the first hospice organizations in Colorado and served 15 patients in its first year. It’s reach if far beyond that now. Today, the organization provides compassionate in-home health care and hospice services to Colorado mountain-area residents, as well as grief support to adults and children. Mt. Evans will accept any patient regardless of pay source or age and works with most insurance companies, including Medicare, Medicaid and long-term health care. Currently 65 employees, 20 volunteer board members, and more than 400 volunteers serve and support Mt. Evans Home Health & Hospice. It’s award winning bereavement camp, Camp Comfort, is just shy of 20 years of operating. The camp, offered two weekends each summer, has served more than 1,110 children from numerous states in the U.S., Canada and Mexico

To understand part of how Mt. Evans Home Health & Hospice touches lives, think about how you hold a good book as you come to its final page. Perhaps you reflect on the journey you took as you read the last paragraph. Perhaps you gently close the cover and set it on the nightstand with your own nod to the author’s good work. Mt. Evans compassionately helps so many in its community (and far beyond) reflect on the story of loved ones, whose lives will be treasured forever, like a good book.

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08 Nov

Museum After Dark Takes Guests "Across the Universe"

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When the sun goes down and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science revs up for its annual Museum After Dark fundraiser, guests know they’re in for a unique and fun-filled experience—hors d’oeuvres, live music and dancing in the Atrium, dinner among the multitude of galleries and a great silent auction—even an additional After Dark Soiree. But with this year’s “Across the Universe” theme, the evening was definitely a stellar affair. You might say it was “out of this world.”

On Friday, Nov. 8, DMNS planners pulled out all the stops to take guests on a planets-and-constellations journey without leaving the museum. Aerial performers and a super-sized telescope greeted them at the museum’s west entrance, and “Star Wars” Imperial Stormtroopers, music and additional futuristic characters guided the way through the venue’s permanent Space Odyssey area into a lively reception for 600. No speeches or formal program at this event—instead, guests were treated to a silent auction of earthly delights (chaired by Lisa Levin Appel), plus universally tasty food and intergalactic décor. String-focused Spinphony fired up the reception with lively music as the crowd socialized and prepared for a delicious sit-down dinner served among the museum’s galleries. Event chairs John and Ginny Freyer, and DMNS President and CEO George Sparks graciously visited with guests throughout the evening.

(l to r) DMNS President and CEO George Sparks, event chairs Ginny and John Freyer, and Bridget Coughlin, DMNS VP of strategic partnerships and programs and adjunct curator

(l to r) DMNS President and CEO George Sparks, event chairs Ginny and John Freyer, and Bridget Coughlin, DMNS VP of strategic partnerships and programs and adjunct curator

After the last bite was savored, guests were invited to continue the evening at the 3rd Annual Young Professionals “After Dark Soiree” featuring tidbits, beverages and desserts, and dancing to The Fab Four and Digital Pocket till 1 a.m. Tickets were available for $50 per person for those who didn’t attend Museum After Dark.

The event is geared toward students and education—100 percent of the funds raised go toward providing educational programming that seeks to inspire young minds to think, learn and grow through science. Donations also support activities such as scholarships, onsite classes, labs and tours, and teacher professional development—“helping ensure that every child in our community has access to world-class science opportunities” writes a DMNS rep. For more information about the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, please visit www.dmns.org.

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