This new community event featuring over 40 different vendors was sponsored by The Rotary Club of Norfolk to benefit several local charities. With the popularity of shows like the Antiques Road Show, organizers The Rotary Club is confident the annual event will be a big hit.

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Bargains, Antiques, and Food Delight!

Excited shoppers found a treasure-trove of merchandise, including vintage painted furniture and Adirondack chairs from Cottage Comforts, and cut-glass and 18th century etchings from Chez Suzanne. Also among the finds: period costumes, hats and custom built items from the Virginia Stage Company’s professional costume shop.

Bargain hunters who had worked up an appetite were delighted to find lunch and treats for sale from food trucks and vendors like Grandma Doris’ homemade jellies, baked goods and snacks.

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

But wait… there was more!

Guys… if the words “we’re going to a flea market” have you feigning illness, not to worry. Event organizers made sure there was something for you. Especially if you love cars. (And which man doesn’t)?

Car enthusiasts had the opportunity to ogle antique cars on display including a 1934 Packard, a 1960 Vintage Rolls Royce, a 1967 Corvette and two Duesenberg’s, of which only 500 were made. In addition, a very special 1970 Chevelle on display attracted loads of attention. The Chevelle was retrofitted for double amputee and paralyzed veterans as part of the Wounded Wheels charity founded by FantomWorks owner Dan Short. This special car has been six years in the making, with a unique ramp system that allows the user to literally drive their wheelchair into the driver’s seat and then another system locks the chair in place. The driver uses all hand controls to drive the car. For more information about FantomWorks and Wounded Wheels please CLICK HERE.

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

The Rotary Club of Norfolk is a 130-member service club founded in 1914. It is one of the oldest and largest service clubs in Virginia. Each year it provides funds and volunteers for an array of charities helping people in Hampton Roads. For details on the Rotary Club of Norfolk CLICK HERE.

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

Photo courtesy of Karen Winters

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS!

On Sunday, May 19, crowds of curious and excited ticket holders donned their spring attire and brought comfortable shoes to participate in the much anticipated Tour de Cuisine presented by the King’s Daughters.

Tour de Cuisine homeowners Dr. Guy and Lisa Trengove-Jones dressed for the occasion. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Tour de Cuisine and Beer/Wine Garden guests ready for festivities. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

King’s Daughters Executive Director, Lisa Coleman (far right) delivers supplies with assistance from Tour de Cuisine committee members. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

In its 9th year, Tour de Cuisine provides guests with access to some of the most luxurious homes in elegant neighborhoods. The neighborhoods and homes selected are truly unique and are often rich with history, with each elegant home possessing an interesting story.

Guests are invited to browse dining rooms, walk through living rooms, and marvel at exquisite kitchens while tasting culinary delights and cocktails prepared in each home by chefs from the area’s top restaurants. To add to the experience, Tour de Cuisine also includes art for sale, jewelry, and chocolate samplings. In 2012, organizers added a beer garden.

For Do-It-Yourselfers, foodies, and architecture and interior design enthusiasts, this unique event is HGTV, Food Network, and Architectural Digest rolled into one.

Steak on crostini appetizers prepared by Norfolk Chop House. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Prosecco cocktail served by Voilà Cuisine Internationale. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Art by Duke (Penny C. Duke) displayed and for sale. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Tiffanie Howerlin pours a cold one. Beer Garden sponsored by Hoffman Beverage and Mermaid Winery. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Historic Freemason District

This year, Tour de Cuisine featured six spectacular homes and a luxurious Bed & Breakfast in the Freemason neighborhood of downtown Norfolk. Declared by the federal government as one of the first historic districts in Virginia, the beautiful District contains the majority of pre-Civil War structures remaining in Norfolk, and gives visitors a rare glimpse into 19th century life as they stroll the cobble-stone streets passing galleries, restaurants and coffee shops. All against the backdrop of the Elizabeth River.

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Space Design Group proprietors opened their doors for the Tour. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Savory treats by Handsome Biscuit. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Considered one of Hampton Roads’ “best kept secrets,” The Freemason Inn and Breakfast at 411 West York Street was first stop for Tour guests. This three-story, 1897 vintage Victorian Inn just a few blocks from bustling downtown Norfolk boasts gas fireplaces in the antiques-laden guest quarters, and the Wishing Oak Bridal Suite, named for an ancient oak tree under which many a Norfolk knot was tied. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails provided by Voila! Cuisine Internationale on the outdoor terrace.

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Freemason Inn Lesley A. Lewis is perfect Tour de Cuisine hostess. Pictured with Bill Cresenzo. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Beautiful Freemason Inn dining area. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Wishing Oak Bridal Suite. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Next stop: a Greek Revival home built in 1867 with paired ionic columns supporting the portico which is topped by a wooden balustrade. The interior of this home is graced with 12 foot ceilings, pocket windows, floor to ceiling pocket doors for privacy in the front “parlor” and exposed brick interior walls along with 7 fireplaces. The back yard features a Camellia tree that is believed to have preceded the home construction, and a 6,000 gallon Koi pond.

“Greek Revival” home. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

The “Front Parlor.” Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Norfolk Chop House chefs “at home” in spacious kitchen.” Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Visually stunning 6,000 gallon Koi pond. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Backyard ideal for entertaining. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Then on to The John Cary-Weston House (circa 1870), a national and Virginia Historic Landmark built by John Cary-Weston who served as a Confederate Army Colonel and member of the Great Bridge Canal Lumber Company. With land purchased in 1853, John Cary-Weston aspired to design the home in the high Victorian Italianate Second Empire style of architecture. At one time, the gardens and outbuildings occupied space that is now a city block. In the last decade, efforts have been made by the owners of this home to restore the structure to its former grandeur. The family has successfully located and corresponded with the Weston descendants.

The John Cary-Weston House. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

The home features 10 fireplaces and 12-feet ceilings. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Other homes included Kenmure – a home built in 1845 by William Wilson Lamb, the Mayor of Norfolk during the Civil War (Lamb named it Kenmure after his family’s ancestral home in Scotland); a historic home built circa 1890, and renovated “loft-style” in 2010-2012, featuring a third floor media room with cathedral ceiling going out to a rooftop deck; and the sole remaining single family home in McCullough Row which was built in the late 19th century and has been beautifully restored and updated.

“Kenmure” Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Standing in front of one of two interior open-string staircases. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

“Pineapple-tinis” served on home’s gorgeous dining table. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Exposed brick and ornate chandelier in one bedroom of “loft-style” home. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Kitchen is perfect for congregating. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Teri Baker, Tour de Cuisine Committee co-chair (far left) poses with staff of Bardo Edibles + Elixirs and The Public House. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

The beautifully restored and updated “McCullough Row” home. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Andrea’s La Bella Ghent served up delicious meatballs and pasta in the well-appointed kitchen. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

The “youngest” and the most contemporary home on the tour was built in 1992 by Lawson Construction for the Miller Oil family. This four story corner home has had three owners since the Millers, each making unique changes. The current owners have made the most extensive renovations, bringing it into the 21st century by removing the wall between the kitchen and dining area, and adding a raised bar-like countertop for an entertainment area.

Guests greeted with refreshing Mojitos at “Miller Oil Family” home courtesy of Press 626. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Spacious open-concept dining/kitchen area above living room. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Press 626 owners and staff happy to “serve” Tour guests. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Guests not shy to show off their bare feet for house tour. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

“Ooh… Aah” and Help

While the crowds came to “ooh and aah” at the magnificent homes, the beautiful furnishings, and the priceless works of art; and sipped wine and sampled beer while taking in the breathtaking views of the Elizabeth River at the Pagoda Garden, they also came to help raise money for Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD).

CHKD was established in 1961 by the the King’s Daughters and is exclusively dedicated to meeting the unique medical and surgical needs of children, both inpatient and outpatient, throughout Virginia and northeastern North Carolina.

“CHKD is a ‘little people’ hospital,” said Mary Ellen Triplett, a retired Marine who has volunteered with the Larchmont Friends Circle of the King’s Daughters for over 10 years, and is a 2012-2013 member of the King’s Daughters Board of Directors. “Everyone should take a tour of the hospital to see how they really care for children when they are sick,” Triplett said. “The only way I can describe it is that CHKD takes care of little ones like a mother would take care of her own child.”

Since its inception, Tour de Cuisine has raised over $188,000 to benefit CHKD.

Mary Ellen Triplett (far right) with fellow King’s Daughters volunteers, Laurie Radford (left) and Denise Bashara (middle). Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Good friends, good times under the Pagoda. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Cruise ship departure snapshot is perfect backdrop for ending to a perfect day. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

9th Annual Tour de Cuisine VIDEO produced by Hampton Roads Social

MORE PHOTOS by Rico Marcello Photography from the 2013 Tour de Cuisine can be seen HERE!

CLICK HERE to learn more about the King’s Daughters

SAVE THE DATE!! CLICK HERE for information about upcoming events

CLICK HERE to DONATE to the King’s Daughters

Photo by Kimberley Hough

Photo by Kimberley Hough

Photo by Kimberley Hough

If you aren’t familiar with Dream Catchers, they are a non-profit organization, that serves an average of 110 students with per disabilities, both children and adults a week. The proceeds from Saturday’s annual gala represent 14% of their annual operating budget. The evening brought in an excess of $88,000.

But let’s rewind. Amidst the drizzling gray skies, some attendees donned cowboy hats and almost everyone, cowboy boots, which came in handy slopping across the muddy field from your car to the dirt floors in the barn.

The evening kicked off with a live student-instructor demonstration that the rain cooperatively held off for. The students were introduced one after the other, but their spirit was one that had to be seen to be truly understood. Some of these students could not speak, but to their horse they communicated without barriers. The students with physical challenges looked strong and free, as they used their horse as an extension of their bodies. All of the children on horseback redefined what happiness looks like.

Photo by Kimberley Hough

Photo by Kimberley Hough

Photo by Kimberley Hough

What rounded out the excitement for everyone was the live auction which held no reins. Some lots sold twice because of the enthusiasm. One of the first auction lots, two bottles of champagne to be enjoyed by the winner’s table, sold for $750. A yacht cocktail reception for 25 people went for $4,000; just to name a couple of the 15 auction lots. It was announced midway through the auction that in honor of the 20th anniversary, John and Susan Sikich will donate $20,000 as a “challenge match” for the Dream Rider Scholarships. With the challenge match $54,000 was raised to help students who cannot afford lessons to ride.

At the end of the evening, final remarks were made by board member president, Ed Hawfield, who was in tears. He personally told me how touched he was by what was accomplished and that he was “overwhelmed with the amount of generosity shown for what is being done here [at Dream Catchers].”

Photo by Kimberley Hough

Photo by Kimberley Hough

For more information about Dream Catchers Therapeutic Riding Center visit, www.dreamcatcherswilliamsburg.com

About the Author

Kimberley Haugh

Kimberley’s journalism career has brought her from Toronto, Canada to beautiful Hampton Roads, and she says that the weather is far better. Her curiosity and love of people has given her the momentum to freelance for a number of publications in the region interviewing some fascinating people and covering a number of lifestyle topics. When she’s not writing she spends her time in the kitchen with her husband reinventing classic recipes or traveling seeking the a new adventure

It is the magical performance by “Strange Fruit,” the internationally acclaimed troupe from Australia.

The artists in the performance called “Swoon” perch themselves on high, flexible poles culminating in a spectacular fusion of theater, dance, and circus, all the while swaying to a soundtrack that romps from Mozart to swing.

—“Like living statues soaring between heaven and earth, their heads in the sky, hearts close to the sun, producing brilliantly eclectic images that pay tribute to Michelangelo, Mary Poppins, and Magritte” (Nord Éclair, France).

Strange Fruit, presented by the Virginia Arts Festival performed from May 10-14.

Check out VIDEO produced by Hampton Roads Social

Here’s why we love it!

What the event supports:

Tour de Cuisine provides guests with the luxury of viewing homes in elegant neighborhoods, browsing dining rooms and exquisite kitchens, and tasting culinary delights and cocktails from top area restaurants. Each year, the event adds new and exciting elements to enhance the lovely afternoon, such as jewelry, live music, chocolate samplings with wine, and a Beer Garden. Tour de Cuisine came about approximately ten years ago, with each year bringing approximately 500 guests! Since its start date in 2005, the Tour de Cuisine has raised over $188,000 to benefit Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters.

A Foodie and Home Designer’s Dream Come True!

Tour de Cuisine is truly a HGTV and Food Network watcher’s dream come true! Imagine the opportunity to walk through some of the most beautiful homes in your neighborhood, or perhaps a neighborhood you wish you lived in. Then imagine, again, that as you marvel at the furnishings, artwork, and state-of-the art appliances in the homes, you get to sample delightful morsels of food prepared by some of the area’s most popular chefs. All the while, sipping a nice adult beverage… naturally.

What a treat!

Tour de Cuisine isn’t about nosy neighbors traipsing through people’s houses. (Although we’ll admit… we’re a bit nosy). But the neighborhoods and homes selected are truly unique and are often rich with history, with each elegant home possessing an interesting story.

This year Tour de Cuisine will take place in the picturesque Freemason neighborhood of Norfolk, VA. Each of the homes featured will graciously open their kitchen, dining room, and beautiful outdoor areas that they wish to entertain “Tourists.” This is an opportunity for guests in each home to enjoy a treat prepared by a local chef as they demonstrate their culinary talent serving tastings of their delectable creations paired with cocktails. A local floral designer will provide arrangements for each home in order to enhance the overall experience. In addition, we also feature local artists with art available or sale and jewelry for viewing and trying on.

(See VIDEO below)

To wrap up the day, ticket holders will enjoy a Beer & Wine Tasting Garden from 3:30-7:00pm hosted by Hoffman Beverage and Mermaid Winery.

How Much: Tour Ticket ($50.00); Tour + Beer Garden Combo Ticket ($60.00); Beer Garden Ticket ($25.00)

For more information/tickets, call 757.668.7098

Participating 2013 restaurants

Bardo’s Edibles + Elixirs
La Bella in Ghent
Omar’s Carriage House
Rowena’s Kitchen
Norfolk Chop House
Press 626
The Handsome Biscuit
Voila!
Eurasia
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Virginia Beach
Beer and Wine Tasting Garden at The Pagoda Garden Tea House (featuring Jimmy John’s Subs)

CLICK HERE for more info!

2012 VIDEO produced by Hampton Roads Social

Photos from 2012 Tour de Cuisine

Go HERE for more 2012 photos

And, as irony would have it, red is also the traditional color of warning and danger.

On May 8, the beautiful dining room of the Chamberlin in Hampton, Virginia was a sea of red when more than 200 women, clad in crimson, gathered for the first Hampton Roads “Go Red for Women” luncheon.

Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

‘Women in Red’ register for luncheon. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

Jennifer Stuebbe, Event Chair. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

Juliet Bickford, WTKR NewsChannel 3, event emcee. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

Go Red for Women is the American Heart Association’s critical national movement to heighten women’s awareness about their risks for heart disease and stroke.

The Go Red for Women movement began in 2004 when the American Heart Association (AHA) became fully aware of the myths surrounding cardiovascular disease and the risk for women. Cardiovascular disease claimed the lives of nearly 500,000 American women each year, yet, according to the AHA women were not paying attention. Many even dismissed it as an older man’s disease.

“Stopping the Serial Killer – Women & Heart Disease” Breakout session presented by Bon Secours. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

In fact, heart disease is the number one killer of women in America. And it does not discriminate.
Actor Daphne Maxwell Reid (best known as Aunt Vivian from the hit comedy, “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air” starring Will Smith) knows the dangers of cardiovascular disease first-hand.

Keynote Speaker, Daphne Maxwell Reid. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

In her emotional and passionate keynote address at the luncheon, Reid recounted how in 2003 her mother suffered a stroke after a misdiagnosed heart problem. After being hospitalized, she suffered another stroke and died three weeks later.

“Know the dangers. Learn the warning signs,” Reid said. “And never be afraid to get more than one opinion.”

Guests also heard the inspirational story of Gail Alexander Wright, a heart disease and stroke survivor from Chesapeake, Virginia.

At 37 years old, Wright, an avid exerciser, suffered a heart attack, and a few months later, a stroke.
Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 killers of women in Hampton Roads.

“I couldn’t believe what had happened to me at such a young age,” Wright said. “But, I came to realize that I was burning the candle at both ends.”

After months of rehab and a lifestyle change, Gail is a 5 year survivor. You can read more of Wright’s story HERE

Heart attack and stroke survivor, Gail Alexander Wright looks on as daughter Brittney Wright shares her mother’s story. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

In communities around the country, including Hampton Roads, the AHA has stepped up efforts with events like Go Red for Women which not only raise awareness but also help raise money for critical heart disease research, education, and support programs.

Ann Crenshaw, “Circle of Red” Chair. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

7 year-old open-heart surgery survivor, Ava Strohecker is serenaded by Sinatra tribute artist. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

More than $2,000 raised from “Purse-onality” Auction. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

In the last 10 years since the first National Wear Red Day, the AHA says it has made significant strides.: The death rate for women and heart disease has dropped, women’s guidelines created by the AHA have educated millions of healthcare providers to recognize and treat heart disease in women; and the number of women aware of their No. 1 killer has jumped from 22% to well over 50%.

“Go Red for Women” information table. Photo by Michael Smid, MFS Photography

Red is the color of power. As the symbolic color of the heart, it is also color of love.

As guests left the luncheon, they were reminded that each woman has the power to make changes that will help lessen their risk of heart disease and stroke; and each of us owes it to ourselves, and to the ones we love.

Go Red for Women VIDEO “Just a Little Heart Attack”

Click HERE to learn more about Go Red for Women: Fight Heart Disease

Click HERE to learn more about the work of the American Heart Association Hampton Roads

Join thousands in the community for the Hampton Roads Heart Walk on September 21, 2013 at Mt. Trashmore, Virginia Beach; and October 12, 2013 at the Peninsula Town Center, Newport News.

Historically, the term “Tattoo” dates back to the 17th century when the British Army was fighting in the low countries of Belgium and the Netherlands. The Dutch phrase “doe den tap toe” which means “turn off the taps,” was communicated by drum beat (and later by bugle call), as a warning to inn keepers to turn off the beer taps and for soldiers to return to their barracks for the night. (The word “tattoo” is derived from the second part of the above Dutch phrase, “tap toe.”)

Today, tattoos have evolved into elaborate military performances, including marching bands, precision drill movements and dynamic military displays; and depending on organizers, can include performances by other non-military organizations that reflect the culture of the host country.

For over 15 years, the Virginia Arts Festival has hosted the Virginia International Tattoo in Norfolk.

With a cast over 900, including bagpipers, drummers, military bands, dancers, singers, drill teams, color guards and performers of all kinds that travel from around the world to be part of the spectacular show, the Virginia International Tattoo is the largest military musical display in the U.S.

The French Paratrooper Band performs

Proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran

In 2011, the Virginia Arts Festival introduced “Hullabaloo,” a free show held on the outdoor Norfolk Scope Plaza two hours before the Tattoo in the Norfolk Scope.

According to organizers, Hullabaloo is an opportunity for Tattoo ticket-holders to get ‘up close and personal’ with some of the performers who are part of the Tattoo. Even more, Hullabaloo is a vibrant and energetic introduction to the Tattoo for those who are unfamiliar.

This year Hullabaloo was held on April 25 – 27 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, and April 28 from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. The event attracted crowds from nearby downtown Norfolk offices and neighborhoods, and Tattoo ticket holders from as far away as Texas and Canada.

Paul Gilbert, Assistant Scout Master of Boy Scouts Troop 21 from Hudson, New Hampshire and his troop raised money so for the exciting trip down. Flanked by 16 Boy Scouts and 10 adults, Gilbert had nothing but praises for the Virginia Arts Festival staff.

“They were a tremendous help from start to finish,” said Gilbert who made an adventure out of the trip for the kids by travelling through the Shenandoah Valley, and making stops in Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens.

To create local awareness and excitement for the Hullabaloo, organizers got creative. Campaigns included a “flash mob” bagpipe parade during the lunch hour down Norfolk’s busy Granby Street, and a sidewalk performance for outdoor diners by the French Paratrooper Band later in the evening in Ghent.

Other initiatives as part the Virginia Arts Festival’s education program included in-school performances and demonstrations for area students, and hosting a matinee for 6,000 children.

Boy Scouts Troop 21 came all the way from Hudson, New Hampshire for the Tattoo experience

Hullabaloo for the very young too!

In addition to stage performances and a variety of activities, Hullabalooers enjoyed food from local vendors and beer from the beer garden.

“Wow, this is something,” one Hullabalooer who heard about the event through social media told Hampton Roads Social. “We usually go to a bar around the corner from our office after work, but after we heard about the Hullabaloo we decided to come and check it out,” she said.

“The performances are definitely exciting, and the beer garden doesn’t hurt,” she quipped.

Among the highlights: Colonial Williamsburg Fife & Drums; The French Paratroopers Band; The Norwegian King’s Guard; and the Peanut City Cloggers from Suffolk, Virginia to name a few.

Colonial Williamsburg Fife & Drums

Peanut City Cloggers

Young visitors from Connecticut succeed in making the Scots Guard smile!

One of the most thrilling demonstrations, we thought, was a military Jeep take-apart and rebuild conducted in three minutes by the Corps of Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. [VIDEO BELOW].

Plans are already underway for Tattoo and Hullabaloo 2014 which will take place on April 24 – 27.

The Virginia Arts Festival (VAF) mission is to bring world-class performing arts to our citizens and visitors, impact the lives of students, commission new works, and make a positive and tangible difference in the Hampton Roads community.

For more information about VAF click HERE

Click HERE for more of our PHOTOS from Hullabaloo!

Set in the indoor soccer field of the Virginia Beach Field House, creative event planners transformed the space into several construction-themed sections to ensure a fun-filled evening.

Habitat SHR event committee turns Virginia Beach Field House soccer field into elegant Bash space! Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Cupcake Tower donated by Roxie’s Cupcakes makes 25th Anniversary celebration even sweeter! Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

In the “Nuts and Bolts” games section, guests were invited to put their skills to test at games such as Hammer Head Putt-Putt, Lock It Up Door Game, and the hilarious Potty Racers. Participants earned points which were turned in for a chance to win raffle prizes.

Potty Racers were a big hit! Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Other sections included the Construction Canteen (bar), tables with an array of spectacular silent auction items, and a beautifully appointed dining area featuring construction-inspired tablescapes.

For dinner, guests were treated to a very-fitting-for-the-occasion “Construction Cuisine,” featuring southern style chicken, macaroni and cheese, biscuits, salad and more.

Throughout the evening, the Tidewater Drive band entertained, making it impossible for guests to not get out on the dance floor and dance the night away.

The Tidewater Drive Band brought the House down! Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Guests boogied all night long! Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

The room was brought to a frenzy during the exciting live auction which included items such as one-of-a-kind paintings created by Habitat SHR homeowner kids, a sport fishing trip, and a one week stay on the Caribbean island of St. Kitts.

Live Auction included opportunity to bid on funding for necessary materials for the Habitat SHR Kenley Commons community. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Habitat SHR Supporter Kim Wadsworth entices with diamond and sapphire necklace up for live auction. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

But it was the moving story of special guest speaker Michael, whose family moved into a Habitat home in 2008 that brought the reason for the event full circle.

Special Guest Speaker, Michael, shares his story of what having a home of his own means to him and his family. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Serving Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Smithfield and Isle of Wight County, Habitat for Humanity SHR is a housing ministry financed through private donations and building with volunteer labor. The organization’s purpose is to build homes with families and sell the houses at no profit and no interest to families who could not otherwise afford a home.

In the past 25 years, events like the Tool Box Bash, sponsorships, and other fundraising initiatives have enabled Habitat for Humanity SHR to help nearly 190 low-income families in the area purchase affordable housing.

LeAnne Rains Benedetto, event emcee. Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Helen Hayes Sommer, Executive Director Habitat SHR (far right) and friends all decked out in “Construction Chic.” Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

Photo by Rico Marcelo Photography

“We know that providing children with safe, secure, and stable housing has far reaching benefits,” said Helen Hayes Sommer, the non-profit’s Executive Director in her welcome statement. “Habitat housing provides a family with shelter, not just for one night or one year, but for a lifetime one generation and then the next.”

Organizers hoped to raise $140,000 from the Tool Box Bash.

Learn more about Habitat for Humanity SHR HERE!

See MORE PHOTOS from the Tool Box Bash HERE!

2013 “Tool Box Bash” VIDEO produced by Hampton Roads Social

Always an exciting event that consistently enjoys support from some of the community’s most influential business leaders, elected officials, philanthropists and friends of the non-profit, the Art Auction features artwork created by local children who have come through the doors of ForKids homeless shelters.

“The Song in My Head” by Angel, age 10. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

“Metamorphosis” by Julia and Robin Rogers of the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio & painted by ForKids kid Kira

“King Hot Elf” by Ed Francis and ForKids kid Khyree. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

In addition to children’s art, guests bid on vacation packages, cruises, and a brand new 2013 Scion iQ donated by Checkered Flag Scion.

This year more than 500 guests attended, many enthusiastically embracing the gala’s baseball theme by donning creative baseball attire. The fun atmosphere included “players” in uniform greeting guests as they arrived, baseball cut-out name tags, and baseball inspired tablescapes complete with scattered roasted peanuts and bags of popcorn. Each table also included baseball cards featuring ForKids children.

Guests also enjoyed Casino games and dancing after the Live Auction.

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Guests enjoy Casino games. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Dubbed “Safe at Home,” the theme of the Art Auction and Casino Night was especially poignant as ForKids is also commemorating 25 years of service to the community this year. The organization was started by concerned individuals who witnessed homelessness in the Ocean View section of Norfolk and worked to provide solutions.

Today, ForKids is Virginia’s largest service provider for homeless families in the region.

Thaler McCormick, CEO of ForKids noted that while the organization has grown over the years, the problems of poverty and homelessness have become even more pervasive, especially among the working poor.

McCormick, who has led the fight against homelessness at ForKids since 1996 emphasized that the anniversary was not a celebration, but an opportunity to look forward and ‘set big goals’ toward fixing the problems that often lead to poverty and homelessness in Hampton Roads.

ForKids’ advocates for a number of support services that the agency believes are essential to stability, including health, education, parenting and employment.

“The Magic bullets to end homelessness are housing and education,” McCormick said. “Parents with jobs need safe and affordable housing; and children need education support to advance in school.”

Thaler McCormick, ForKids CEO. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Events such as the ForKids Art Auction and Casino Night help the agency fund programs to help families in crisis get back on their feet. ForKids programs and services include: emergency housing, weekly tutoring for children, budgeting classes for parents, and access to clinical counseling, just to name a few.

The 2013 Art Auction and Casino Night raised over $500,000 for the first time. “It was a record breaking night and important one for the families we serve,” Bill Young, Chief Development Officer for ForKids told Hampton Roads Social.

The premier sponsor for the 2013 Art Auction and Casino Night was The Dragas Companies.

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Marreon sings the National Anthem. Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Photo by KenneWalker Photographer

Click HERE to find out more about ForKids.

Click HERE for more photographs from the Art Auction and Casino Night

Click HERE for event highlights VIDEO produced by Hampton Roads Social