Comments (0) | |

Friday, Nov. 06, 2009

Tubman museum holds annual jazzy fundraiser

The Tubman African American Museum will host the 14th annual All That Jazz fundraiser in support of its educational outreach programs this weekend.

Chris Spicer, director of sales and marketing for the museum, talked about the event in a recent phone interview. “Every year, we offer a different live jazz band. This year, we are very excited to have a local band — Harold Thomas and the Danger Zone — play for us for part of the evening,” Spicer said.

In addition to live jazz music, the black tie event will also feature catering by Edgar’s Bistro, a special, one-night-exhibit featuring original art pieces by 12 artists, and a silent auction featuring some unique collectables and potential holiday gifts. A portion of the evening will be dedicated to dancing, and music will be provided by A.J. the DJ.

“The museum is proud to offer a variety of educational outreach programs,” Spicer said. “Of course, everyone immediately thinks of the tours and classes in the museum, but we also offer a variety of workshops and traveling exhibits to various schools, libraries and even businesses.”

Harold Thomas and the Danger Zone will be providing a full six-piece jazz background to the mixing and mingling taking place on the floor as guests enjoy the works of art.

“They were all chosen because they have a special connection with the museum,” Spicer said. “They all have either had past exhibits with us, or we own an original piece of their art. Most of the artists will be present at the event — and they are coming from all over the country. They are a really neat group of people to talk to and interact with. I know that the guests will enjoy it as much as the artists do.”

Artists include Ron Adams, Amalia Amaki, Benny Andrews, Radcliffe Bailey, Kevin Cole, Sam Gilliam, Stefanie Jackson, Wadsworth Jarrell, Donald Locke, Mildred Thompson, Howardena Pindell and Larry Walker.

The silent auction also promises to be a fun attraction.

“There are a lot of items this year, everything from original artwork by local artists and getaway packages, to a signed New York Giants team football and a signed Falcons team football,” Spicer said. “I don’t want to give away everything, but some of the items are really amazing.”

Spicer also wanted to point out another new feature this year — courtesy valet parking.

“It’s a service being provided by active duty volunteers from Robins Air Force Base, special thanks to the 116th Air Control Wing. They wanted to cement their relationship with the museum, and we are thrilled to have them.”

SATURDAY What: All That Jazz fundraiser, hosted by the Tubman African American Museum When: 7-11 p.m. Where: Anderson Conference Center, 5171 Eisenhower Parkway Phone: 743-8544 Cost: $100; $750 for a table for 8 On the Web: www.tubmanmuseum. com

Saturday