Pretty in the Panhandle: SUFOM 2010 Tuxedo Junction: Stomping at the Savoy

Friday, May 7, 2010, the Shepherd University Friends of Music (SUFOM) hosted the third annual "Tuxedo Junction" at the Bavarian Inn, in Shepherdstown, WV. This year's theme--Stomping at the Savoy--channeled the New York night club scene circa the big band era.

As guests arrived, the ladies were given a long-stemmed red carnation, while the gentlemen received a white carnation to adorn their lapels. Since the Bavarian Inn boasts one of the best views in Shepherdstown, tables were set up on the outside terraces where the crowd mingled before heading in for the main event. Once inside, the Bavarian was truly transformed: cocktail tables were set with towering vases holding a single calla lily, and at the base of each arrangement was a pair of evening gloves draped with a strand of pearls. Dining stations surrounded the room, each given the name of a famous NY night club--Rainbow Room Desserts anyone?

The Shepherd University Jazz Ensemble provided the music for the evening as they serenaded the crowd with the sounds of the Golden Age. In between sets, guests perused and bid on the numerous (and very creative) silent auction items which ranged from several hours of yard work to unique dining experiences to jewelry from Christian Caine. However, the generosity of this crowd was really on display when the dance floor was cleared for the live auction led by the ever-entertaining Marty Kable. Live auction items were also quite creative: one lot included tennis lessons with Shepherd University President Suzanne Shipley! All procceds from Tuxedo Junction will benefit the Shepherd University Music Program.