A runway show by designer Korto Momolu headlined Autumn Runway, the yearly benefit for the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary of Central Arkansas. The luncheon and show, themed "Shades of Autumn," took place Oct. 16 at Saint Mark Baptist Church and raised at least $80,000.
Guests bid on silent-auction items in a separate room before sitting down to chicken and pasta with green peas, served by students of Episcopal Collegiate High School. Fall-hued velvet pumpkins, made by auxiliary member Mary Hardin and adorning table centerpieces, were for sale. Hardin also handed out smaller pumpkins as tokens to attendees.
Mallory Brooks of KARK served as master of ceremonies. Arnessa Bennett, auxiliary president, welcomed the audience of mostly women. Maj. Russell Czajkowski -- the Salvation Army's Central Arkansas Area Commander -- did double duty, giving the invocation as well as standing in for his wife and fellow commander, Maj. Tracey Czajkowski, who was unable to stay and give closing remarks. Rhonda Tollett spoke about the Pathway of Hope, a transitional housing program of the Salvation Army, which was also featured on video.
But the highlight of the luncheon was the showing of Momolu's spring and summer 2018 line, dominated by hues of fuchsia, aqua and tan, and which also featured garments in the currently poplar mermaid sequin fabric.
-- Story and photos by Helaine R. Williams
High Profile on 10/22/2017