The always enchanting McGuire’s Millrace Farm elevated itself even higher to host the Big Brothers Big Sisters Gala, “An Evening in Paris,” on Sept. 3.
Guests of the organization mingled under candled chandeliers draped with lavender foliage while the Braden Rumfelt Band, a BBBS yearly favorite, entertained them. Tom Spencer, founder of the Murphy chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, arrived early wearing a smart-looking tuxedo.
“I’ve been involved with BBBS since 1999,” he said. “This program started with five kids out of Murphy Elementary, and today we have 100 kids.”
Morgan Harris, BBBS’ grants and events manager, was one of those kids involved with BBBS in high school.
“I was a Big in high school, and when I saw this opportunity open, I was thrilled” she said. “I have the most rewarding job.”
Harris wasn’t the only attendee with personal ties to the organization. Dorian Palmer, BBBS vice president of philanthropy, was a Little in grade school.
“My Big Brother gave me direct and intentional attention,” he said.
Palmer was thrilled with the packed house, as he wants more people to know about BBBS programs.
“You can’t ask people for money if they don’t know you,” he added.
Maxine Ferguson is just the type of guest Palmer hoped would come.
“I don’t know much about the BBBS program,” Ferguson said.
She bought an extra ticket as birthday gift for her cousin Brenda Powell.
“I’ve never been here (McGuire’s Millrace Farm) before, and I’ve always been curious about it,” Ferguson added.
However, many guests were well versed in all things BBBS. The Crisp Mountain neighborhood, for example, buys a table every year for the children’s fundraiser.
“This area needs (Big Brothers Big Sisters) badly,” local resident John Esposito said.
His neighbor, Todd Yost, said with a laugh, “I’d volunteer, but I’m too old to be a Big Brother. I’d be more like a Big Grandpa.”
Linda Coleman, also known as the “Lamb Lady” because she raises sheep, invited friend Linda Reno to the gala.
“I had heard of the BBBS,” Reno said, “But I really don’t know much about it.”
Coleman is thrilled to have BBBS as part of the community.
“Children don’t play with dolls or trucks anymore,” she said. “They just think about the computer.”
Coleman added that BBBS offers the children guidance and help, saying, “That’s what’s important.”
Gloria Dockery, senior program coordinator for BBBS, spent the cocktail hour greeting clusters of people, many who stood in line for the open bar. Looking over the fancifully dressed guests, who were enjoying the magical room with sky high ceilings, Dockery was emotional about the event.
“I’m speechless” she said.
Lelia Duncan, CEO of BBBS, shared Dockery’s sentiments.
“There is nothing more gratifying than making a difference,” she said. “I get more out of this than I give.”
Among the full house of 165 guests were several employees who were gifted tickets from their employers. James Sneed invited his mother with the two tickets he received from his employer, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel.
“I don’t know much about the BBBS,” he said, “but I hope to find out more about the program.”
Lowe’s bought a table, which included pro services department supervisor Annette Finnegan.
“This (BBBS) is such a great opportunity for kids to have a role model,” she said.
Rosa May was one of 85 artists and vendors who donated goods and services to the auction. Standing beside her compelling art, she said, “This venue is great, but the cause is greater.”