Moonshot 2005

Bob Gathany/Huntsville Times Photo

Living Columnist Mary Anne Zollar

Mission MOONSHOT

The historic Huntsville Depot Roundhouse was transformed into the summit of Mount Olympus on July 16 as Mission MOONSHOT took flight for another successful benefit.

"Olympus 2005 was the eighth themed dance event presented by MOONSHOT Inc., with the goal of creating synergy and collaboration in the community to raise money for HIV/AIDS education and services in North Alabama," said organization president David Harwell.

This year's event grossed over $8,000 and was attended by more than 300 guests from Nashville, Birmingham, Atlanta and across the Southeast joining local supporters for the two-night charity weekend.

The patron party on July 15 featured Los Angeles comic Lorne Newman as party organizers took a breather from decorating and preparing silent auction items. The following night, DJ Ron of Nashville and DJ Greg Dean of Atlanta presented the perfect musical entertainment for the tricky venue - thumping disco music to sophisticated lighting by designer Chris Lighthall of Theatrical Lighting Systems. Bill Costello, Keith Baker and David Wester put on an electric video show with live images and spectacular animation as a backdrop to ceiling-high, underlit fabric columns, and Rick Lighthall ensured the quality of the sound program.

A silent auction chaired by Glenn Ferraro was a great success and kept guests on their toes. The "Aristocrats" VIP lounge served Mighty Aphrodite and Zeus Juice specialty drinks provided by Scott Stunkard and Helen Harrand, and Michael Young prepared wonderful food for sampling. The Grecian theme was enhanced by decor masterminded by Mark Eccleston and Karl King. Robed "gods" and "goddesses" were roamin' decorations adding the final festive touch to the evening.

Members of the Metropolitan Church of Christ ran the front desk and ensured the safety of guests traveling home. Karen Robertshaw, general manager of Upscale, orchestrated the bartenders and bar and coordinated talent.

David is ecstatic about the success of this year's party.

"At our award ceremony on Sept. 10th, to be held at the Bevill Center, we will grant the funds raised in 2005 to worthy causes in our area," he said.

For more information on MOONSHOT activities, visit www.missionmoonshot.org on the Web.

Photos Courtesy DJ Derek Johns