Tinsel & Tails draws large New Year’s crowd, raises money for Alzheimer’s research

story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg

The Arkansas-Oklahoma Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association’s 20th Anniversary Tinsel and Tails brought more than 300 guests to the Holiday Inn City Center Ballroom on New Year’s Eve. In addition to a dinner, breakfast buffet and a midnight toast with champagne, they enjoyed music by Quadra Jazz, dancing to Ultra Suede, casino games and live and silent auctions.

Proceeds from the event directly support programs such as education on Alzheimer’s disease, community programs, support groups, 24-hour help line and educational resources and materials. Their mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

A poignant video was shown featuring a daughter with her mother who suffered from early onset Alzheimer’s. The daughter composed and sang a son, “Carol’s Song” in memory of her mother, Carol Easly Devon. The daughter said, “Our souls are still connected through music.”

(The City Wire recently made note in this essay of another terrible connection to Alzheimer’s.)

Honorary Chair was Dr. Neal M. Kurtz, president and CEO of Golden Living, who was presented a Razorback football autographed by Frank Broyles who was unable to attend as the former University of Arkansas coach and athletic director is being honored at the Sugar Bowl.

Charlene Cates and Kim Perry Walter as event co-chairs. Drew Michaels served as emcee and James Graham as auctioneer.

Chip and Charlene Cates, event co-chair

Larry Dees and Dr. Neil Kurtz, honorarycChair

Judy Schaap and Sheila Catsavis bid on silent auction items.

Elmer and Carla Price dance to Quadra Jazz

Sue and Dick Litzinger

Saundra Womack, the Arkansas Alzheimer’s director, and Beth Deramus, assistant director of the Arkansas-Oklahoma Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association