Crisis Ministries Annual Fundraiser

Filed under: Fete Set — katie at 8:41 am on Tuesday, April 29, 2008

It’s really hard to believe that we live in the richest country in the world and we are still fighting battles like homelessness and hunger. Crisis Ministries’ fourth annual fundraising event was held, Thursday, April 24th at the Charleston Maritime Center, with one simple message: Food, Shelter, Hope. The black- and red-themed decorations reminded me of a pep rally with huge signs raised in the air calling out their mission. I think everyone that night was rooting for an end to this continuing epidemic.
 

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Still as it was an occasion to raise much-needed funds, the acoustic sounds of the Triple Lindy band kept the mood light, along with the savory foods that were generously donated by three amazing local catering companies. Granville’s Café and Catering, Cru Catering, and jbc catering offered hors d’oeuvres that were artistically displayed, stimulating both the palate and conversation.  
 

The highlight of the night was having the opportunity to speak with special guest Adam Shepard, the author of Scratch Beginnings: Me, $25, and the Search for the American Dream.  At 23 years old, Adam put himself to the test to prove the American Dream is still alive. During his journey, he stayed at Crisis Ministries for the first two months. His experiment, with only $25 in his pocket, was to prove that he could have an apartment, car, and $2,500 in saving within a year. He accomplished his goal in six months. In his book, Adam talks about the how humbling his experience was and how Crisis Ministries’ provided services that helped him succeed.
 

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More than $70,000 was raised which will help Crisis Ministries’ soup kitchen program and shelter initiatives.

Junior League Spring Soriee

Filed under: Fete Set — katie at 1:33 pm on Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Alhambra Hall in Mt. Pleasant was transformed into Little Cuba for the “Havana Nights”- themed Junior League Spring Soirée. This was an event of beautiful people. Girls and guys alike were dressed to impress and ready to party. While the ladies sipped on the signature drink, the Cuba Libre Mojito, the guys enjoyed hand-rolled Carlos Villa Churchill cigars by Coastal Cigars on the lawn overlooking the Charleston Harbor. The night was off to a good start.

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Later, guests were surprised with a sultry performance by the Charleston Salsa Club dancers Silvana Bravo and Calvin King who heated up the dance floor with three different salsa performances (they even changed outfits).

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Around seven o’clock, everyone was ushered indoors to take part in a live and silent auction and to enjoy an assortment of hors d’oeuvres provided by Savory Market & Catering.  I normally don’t eat at events, but the food was calling my name.  Shrimp and grits, tomato pie casserole, and mini banana pudding cups were on hand for guests (and me) to enjoy. My mouth is still watering just thinking about it. Duvall Catering and Event Designs did an amazing job with décor. The use of dark woods, rattan furniture with soft white pillows, and oversized plants set the mood for a memorable occasion.
 

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The night ended with a full-on live auction bidding war. Paddles were raised in unison all over the room for hot-ticket items, such a Mexican escape to Los Cabos and a trip for two to the Big Apple.
 

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All of the proceeds from the event will help support local nonprofit groups, such as Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Ronald McDonald House, East Copper Meals on Wheels, Florence Crittenton Programs of South Carolina, Mayor’s Office for Children, Youth and Families, and Lowcountry Food Bank.

Children’s Museum Fourth Annual Fam Jam

Filed under: Fete Set — katie at 8:24 am on Thursday, April 17, 2008

The weather was warm, and there were swarms of people having fun at the Children’s Museum Fourth Annual Fam Jam, Saturday, April 12th. Families came from all over the Lowcountry to enjoy arts and crafts, face painting, and an interactive playground (the giant inflatable slide was a big hit with the kids, and me).

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Also on hand were a ton of vendors and exhibitors, ranging from MUSC Safe Kids to the Kiawah Nature Program. A new addition this year was the James Island County Park climbing wall. I witnessed a five-year-old girl leap from peg to peg like Spider-woman on this wall (which is, by the way, more than 30 feet tall), and to my amazement, she was not afraid.

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Island Paradise Balloon Art pirate Eric Lavender was a crowd-pleaser, telling ghost stories and creating balloon art for the kids. He also brought along his friend Bob the Macaw, who drew a crowd with his loud whistles and chatter.

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The day ended with a concert by Roger Day, a renowned children’s interactive musician, whose songs kept the kids (and parents) engaged and happy.  
The event raised $15,000 to fund education programs, such as Wholesome Wednesdays and Little Chefs, at the Children’s Museum.

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