Not everyone actually wore white to the White Party, a gala hosted by Best Buddies Arkansas in the Great Hall of the Clinton Presidential Center on Sept. 24.
But the food, as promised, was all white: The roasted cauliflower bisque. The herb-roasted breast of chicken and its sauce. The white asparagus and the truffled potato puree. The almond-infused white cake. The horchata to drink.
A cocktail reception and silent auction preceded the dinner, which began with greetings from Best Buddies state director Angela Kremers. The Community Impact Award was presented by Hazel Thomas to Canaan Sandy of Cave City, noted Arkansas Razorbacks "super fan" and 2013 ESPN Fan Hall of Fame inductee. The Yes! You Can! award was presented by Sharon Bale to Canaan's mother, Ginger Sandy.
Featured speakers were John Kliegl of West Des Moines, Iowa, and his daughter, Abbie Kliegl, both of Best Buddies Iowa. Abbie has Down syndrome, and John shared some memories of raising her, including one occasion in which he told her to change the revealing blouse she'd chosen before leaving the house. "Boys like to see stuff like this," she said, defiantly. Abbie didn't win that battle, her dad was quick to point out. An auction, a raffle and a Fund-A-Need campaign rounded out the evening.
Best Buddies is dedicated to helping create "one-on-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development" for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
High Profile on 10/04/2015