Supporters of the arts gathered at Piedmont Arts for Savory September: Fortune + Flavor on Friday, Sept. 13 at the annual fundraiser which has been a highlight of Martinsville’s cultural events for years. Featuring small bites and paired cocktails by teams of talented local chefs, an open bar with a signature cocktail, fun tarot readings, a raffle, and live entertainment, this successful event raised crucial funding for Piedmont Arts to continue their world-class arts education and programming.
Spread among the Frith Performance Hall, the new Pavilion, and the Piedmont Arts’ lobby, Savory September delighted all the senses. With superstition themed decorations including horseshoes, “cracked” mirrors, shiny pennies, and a ceiling dotted with open black umbrellas lit by dazzling fairy lights, there was a charming detail everywhere you looked. The tables were decorated by the individual chefs and each one brimmed with creativity and fun. Entertainment was provided by Jake Earles, a local musician and beloved feature at events at Piedmont Arts. His iconic blend of Americana, rock, and folk always sets a tone of fun at events. The completely sold-out event was attended by U.S. Sen. Mark Warner and two of his aides. Warner was visiting the area and spent his evening in town supporting Piedmont Arts’ fundraising efforts to create artistic opportunities in the area.
In addition to the fabulous culinary creations offered at this event, extra fun was had through the 50/37/13 raffle and tarot card readings. These were opportunities to raise additional funds for Piedmont Arts and have a lot of fun simultaneously. Raffle tickets were sold prior to and at the event and proceeds were split 50% for Piedmont Arts, 37% for one winner, and 13% for another. Karen Garrett won the 37% and the 13% was given back to Piedmont Arts anonymously. The tarot readings were provided by Programs Coordinator Lauren Ellis and Christine Stewart. Patrons could purchase a one card pull or a past/present/future spread. Patrons had a great time hearing their fortunes and all proceeds went to Piedmont Arts.
Chefs included: Susan Critz, Marty Gardner, and Judy Dashoff; Natalie and Hasan Davis; Rhonda Edwards and Brad Draper; Janet Lewis, Mary Compson, and Anne Compson; Blanche and Tom Mahoney; Julian Mei, Karen Despot, and John Wilson III; Julia and Blake Shumate and Lori and Burr Fox; Anna Wheeler and Monique Holland; McKay Ullstein, Scott Ullstein, and Catie Pannill; Aaron Rawls, Ruby Stultz, and Ann Gardner; Janet Ashby and King’s Grant.
Piedmont Arts was thrilled by the success of the annual event and officials said the agency is grateful to everyone who cooked, decorated, entertained, and attended. Support from the community for events like these raises necessary funding for their exhibits, educational programming, and performing arts programming and helps ensure that the museum can continue to support opportunities in the arts to Martinsville and Henry County.
