A large crowd attended Assistance League of Nashville’s Fall 2024 Author Luncheon, which was held at Richland Country Club.
Anna Marie, host of “Real Life with Anna Marie and Karyce” on MIX 92.9 radio, served as emcee, and live music was provided by Ron de la Vega and Andy Reiss.
Dr. Niles Reddick was the featured author. He’s written a novel, 2 novellas and 4 short fiction collections. His novel, “Drifting Too Far from the Shore” was nominated for a Pulitzer and many other awards. At the luncheon, Dr. Reddick gave a very entertaining and funny discourse on some of his short stories and other true stories from his interesting life. He also served as live auctioneer for “Hands up for Hoodies” another form of service to the children of Nashville.
A vast silent auction offered: jewelry, 4 mansion passes to Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, an artisan collection of Bali silver earrings, golf lessons for 3, Jo Malone Dark Amber & Ginger Lily Candle, Peyton Manning signed Colt’s helmet, Myra Weekender bag, wine and whiskey, Stages Skin Studio facial, local hone, Brentwood country Club Sunday Brunch for 4, Miramar Oceanfront beach retreat for 7 days, Kenney Chesney autographed acoustic guitar and much, much more.
Champagne was served throughout the silent auction, while live music was being played by Ron & Reiss. The delicious luncheon menu included Breast of Chicken Piccata in white wine caper sauce with asparagus preceded by Caesar salad and followed by a selection of petite sweets.
White cloths were laid on the tables, accented with burnt orange napkins and dark gold Chiavari chairs. Lovely centerpieces were created with acorn squash holding bright orange, amber, apricot and yellow roses, mums and other blooms.
87% of funds raised serve disadvantaged children in Nashville. Each child is given two pairs of slacks, two polo shirts, six pairs of socks, six pairs of underwear and a full size hygiene kit.
These efforts have enhanced self-esteem and academic success of the children served, according to 96% of reporting Metro Nashville Public elementary school counselors in a recent survey.
An additional program provides snacks, books, coats, toys and supplies for child survivors of sexual or severe physical abuse and their families who are receiving therapy through the Nashville Children’s Alliance (NCA).
Luncheon guests included Councilman Jacob Kupin and his wife and Hayley, Dr. Megan Cusson-Lark, Executive Director of School Counseling at Metro Nashville Public Schools, Torry Adams, M.S., LPC, LPSC Cumberland ES, Donna Fargo, Al and Cindy Pramuk, Kenneth Dwayne West, Annie Hooper, Peter Oram, Linda Skaggs, Karen Lewis, Kim Shallcross, Jeremy and Amanda Polzel, Melissa Vincent, Britt Cumbie, Lisa Gill, Ronny and Marta Roberts, Sally Duke, Carter Webster, Julie Haley, Melissa Bloemer, Anne Ruark and Marilyn Jones, to name but a few.
Photography by Haley J. Harris, Marvelous Light Media.
