During its longtime run, the annual Academy Awards watch party benefiting the Wolfe Street Foundation has had its share of bouts with inclement weather ... and, as was the case March 4, problems with transmission of the 90th annual Academy Awards live broadcast.
Luckily, organizers of this event -- once dubbed Oscar Night America, now known as the Red Carpet Gala -- are just as worthy of awards as Oscar winners Frances McDormand, Gary Oldman and Jordan Peele. The gala, which took place in the William Grant Still Grand Ballroom of Robinson Center, is a way to fund programs offered by the foundation, which serves those recovering from alcoholism and addiction.
Set up to make guests believe that they, too, are "at the Oscars," the evening beckoned with red-carpet walk, interviews and photo opportunities; complimentary beverages; an extensive silent auction and reception music by the Zac Dunlap Band. They sat down to a dinner featuring marinated stuffed chicken breast; a live auction; a drawing for a bracelet from Jones & Son Diamond & Bridal Fine Jewelry; and a program steered by Elicia Dover of KATV and Arkansas Film Commissioner Christopher Crane.
Remarks from co-chairmen Natalie and Brent Staley, Wolfe Street Executive Director Caroline Ford; board Chairman Tim Laughlin and others preceded a talk by special guest Vance Johnson, former NFL player and outreach coordinator for the Florida-based rehabilitation facility Futures of Palm Beach. Sober for four years now, Johnson was candid about his alcoholism, and broken relationships.
"God put me here for a purpose," Johnson said, adding that he shows others in recovery that "God has a purpose for you, and that after you've gotten this gift, I call it, of addiction that you've had to fight against, that literally you are charged now to go out" and show others how to pursue a life of sobriety.
-- Story and photos by Helaine R. Williams
High Profile on 03/11/2018