The newly-revitalized intersection of Chestnut and 8th Street was alive with activity at its gala opening, an event honoring Fletcher Bright and
benefiting WTCI. Arlo Guthrie was the featured performer as over 700 people
came together to enjoy music, honor Fletcher Bright, benefit WTCI and
remember our film and music history in a spectacular experience.
Todd Womack, Byron and Ken DeFoor, Senator Bob Corker, Mayor Andy Berke,
WTCI President Paul Grove, David Shula and Cherie Martinez reflected on
Fletcher Bright's history of philanthropy and community service throughout
the evening and celebrated the powerful impact of PBS programming.
Guests
were mesmerized by the entertainment, including performances by celebrated
folk musician Guthrie, Fletcher Bright and the Dismembered Tennesseans
and Priscilla and Little RicKee.
Guests enjoyed open bars, a Steak and Raw Bar provided by Shula's
Steakhouse, a full dinner and photo opportunities with Arlo Guthrie's
signature convertible Mercedes.
Choruses of cheers accompanied
announcements throughout the evening as winners were called for prizes,
including Rolex watches, MacBooks, a signed 1972 Miami Dolphins helmet and a
2016 convertible Porsche 911.
Byron and Ken DeFoor have been involved in Chattanooga real estate
development for years and their passion for excellence is reflected in the
detail of their projects and was certainly evident at this incredible event.
Noted for their philanthropy and commitment to the community, Ken and Byron
DeFoor donated funds raised during this event to WTCI. This generous
contribution will be used to support the new 24-hour PBS KIDS channel
debuting on the community PBS station in early 2017, a service that will
benefit children throughout the Tennessee Valley.
(Material
contributors by Jennifer Crutchfield & Mark A Herndon)
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Chattanooga Live Music <https://www.facebook.com/ChattanoogaLiveMusic/> ,
Mark A Herndon, certified professional geologist and professional
photographer grew up in Chattanooga area, graduated from the University of
Tennessee in Chattanooga. Supports/Promotes connecting People with
Creative Arts, Music and Dance to the Chattanooga Live Music Scene by
supporting local creative artists, singers, songwriters, musicians, dancers,
& bands. Media affiliation www.chattanoogan.com Check out more at
www.facebook.com/chattanoogalivemusic Email at
MAHerndon@ChattanoogaLiveMusic.com