Seeking Victory in the Greatest of Causes

by

Seeking Victory in the Greatest of Causes

By Helen Rentz, Faulkenberry Certain Advertising

Photography by John Toth, The Darkroom

For nearly half a century, the annual Victory Gala event has been presented in many venues with many themes. Yet it has never ceased to remember the challenging cause that rests at its core. More than just the perennial social event of the fall season, it is a community-wide gathering of individuals and businesses that see the need and seek to make a difference. This is about funding the cause that finds the cure.

First organized as a fashion show and luncheon in 1969 with proceeds of just $300, the Victory Gala has grown to be the Golden Isles’ premier charitable event raising more than $3.5 million on behalf of the American Cancer Society in its 46-year history. Hosting a collection of events each calendar year, including the Reelin’ in a Cure Fishing Tournament, a Father/Daughter Dance, the Polar Express Movie Event and most the recently conceived, Mother/Son Back-to-School Bash, the fundraising events culminate with the annual evening Gala.

Under the direction of co-chairs Courtney Bridges, Brooke Carter, Sally Stevenson, Martha Williams and Julie Willis, this year’s champion event, Southern Jubilee, will be held Saturday, November 14 at The Cloister on Sea Island.

Taking a cue from the ever-growing popularity of local and sustainable practices and products, this year’s gala celebrates the talents, trades and tastes of all things Southern. Not just the classic, time-honored themes and traditions, but the progressive, uniquely independent spirit embodied by a region that we call home.

As the event kicks off, patrons may explore the brilliantly assembled, Southern-sensed silent auction brimming with handcrafted jewelry, local art and exhibits, fantastic excursions and more. The always-popular Tibi Fashion Week Experience and McGladrey Classic Tournament Package will hit the live auction blocks along with a four-legged newcomer born and bred in South Georgia by distinguished breeders. A Mossy Pond Labrador Retriever puppy will be going home with a new best friend!

Attendees will have the opportunity to observe renowned local artist Ester Deen put the finishing touches on a spectacular 30” x 40” acrylic on canvas painting that one lucky bidder will be taking home at evening’s end.

Hand-picked to highlight the theme, a sit-down dinner featuring all organic fare from regional farms and growers will be elegantly presented to guests. The evening’s menu is thoughtfully Southern with dishes that let local ingredients shine and diners savor.

After dinner, it’s time to cut loose with the Class of '69, a 15-person band including local attorneys Bob Killian and Randy Jordan!

Not to be missed is the ultimate Southern sanctuary for the sports lovers in the crowd. Designed by Beachview Rentals and furnished with a large flat-screen TV from H&H Lifestyles, the Pigskin Den will be the perfect spot for those guests hoping to watch the evening’s football games.

Luminaries will shine through the night to honor loved ones lost to cancer and those presently battling the disease. Locally sourced luminary vases of varying shapes and sizes will be beautifully arranged and illuminated by candlelight. Each one will be personalized with a name, photo, or message in memory or honor of a friend of loved one whose life has been affected by cancer.

Tickets to the Gala are $150 per person. To learn more about Southern Jubilee or to purchase tickets, call 912.3551378 or visit acsvictoryboard.org.