Network 2000 Inc. was founded in 1993 by 23 women ? one of whom was my mother, Sylvia Badger ? to promote the advancement of women in executive and professional positions.
For the past 13 years, this organization has presented the Women of Excellence series, showcasing women who are leaders and role models at its annual luncheon.
This year, more than 1,000 people turned out to hear guest speaker ? and internationally honored women?s and human rights activist ? Jehan Sadat, widow of assassinated Egyptian president Anwar Sadat.
Prior to last Thursday?s luncheon, a VIP party was held at the Inner Harbor?s Hyatt, where PSA Financial?s Chip Lewis and his wife, Terry, introduced me to Christopher Ross and his wife, Jill. Chris is the chairman of the American Military Spouse Education Foundation and this year?s recipient of a $25,000 grant from Network 2000. This will fund undergraduate degrees for military spouses.
Sadat?s speech was inspirational to say the least, and the room fed off the experiences of this extraordinary great-grandmother. Some of those in attendance included Network 2000 members Lois M. Shofer, Floraine Applefeld, H. Frances Reaves and Margaret Hayes, and the sold-out crowd included Style Magazine?s Colleen McKenna and Claudia Meyers, and Tricia Slawinski-Carpenter of the Maryland Port Administration.
ARTIST TO THE RESCUE
The DeMatteis Gallery in Annapolis recently hosted nationally known local artist Gail Hillow Watkins and her show “Status X” ? the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?s designation for extinct species). Proceeds from the evening?s event went to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
“I chose the theme of extinct species because I?ve always been interested in the idea of trying to preserve animals and habitat that may disappear,” said Watkins. “It?s only fitting that the Chesapeake Bay Foundation will benefit from this show, because one of its goals is the protection of endangered species.”
The wonderful turnout included Jan and Ray Ferguson, Louise and John Page Williams, Mel and Judy Bender, Virginia Clagett, Anna Greenberg, Fran and Ben Michelson, Al Zaruba, Iris Krasnow, Chuck Anthony, Sandy and Joe Cohen, Sarah and Jim Donnelly, and Tom Pianka.
The show runs until Jan. 15. For information, contact DeMatteis Gallery at 410-267-7860.
WVIE-AM MAKES A CHANGE
The ever-changing world of WVIE-AM?s “A Different Point of View” has a new morning drive team. Brooke Stevens & Friends recently premiered with her sidekick Michael Gabel. “We?ve found the right morning show host, someone who personifies WVIE-AM,” said Bob Pettit, the general manager of WVIE-AM and its sister station, WCBM-AM.
Society spotters
The Examiner needs you to be the eyes and ears of Crabtown, and not just B?more. We?re calling on Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford, Howard and Baltimore counties, too. If you spot a celeb, let me know at [email protected].
Share photosof your charity fundraising event with the community. E-mail high-resolution jpg attachments to: [email protected].
All images must include full names and basic information about the event, including the proper name of the organization, the date and place of the event and any specific cause being supported.
Anne Boone-Simanski is the society columnist for The Examiner and can be reached at [email protected] or 410-878-6131.
