(MURFREESBORO) The St. Thomas Rutherford held its 13th Annual Rutherford Society Gala Saturday night in the ballroom at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center.
Grammy-winning artist Amy Grant combined her musical talents with a heart-warming story of life. She grew-up the daugther of a Nashville physician and had wonderful memories to share.
She also thanked everyone for getting her out of the house, stating that her husband, Vince Gill, is at home with the flu.
Amy noted, "I'll enjoy the drive home, and then have to put on the surgical mask when I walk into our home."
In addition to the music, the evening was a night of celebrating individuals who go the extra mile to make our community better.
Frances and Donald McDonald were presented the Dr. Liz Rhea Philanthropist Award.
This incredible couple definitely has an open heart and a desire to help others. Their gifts have made a dramatic difference in the lives of everyone who call this home, and yet in their senior years--the two enjoy life passionately with Donald flying his airplane from his home hangar on a daily basis.
Dr. Britt Mioton received the Physician Champion Award. Dr. Mioton is a well know local cardiologist who is very involved in the community.
Dr. Mioton gave a glimpse into his life, and shared the romantic story of how he met his wife while doing his internship. He was surrounded by family who came to be a part of the special evening.
The black tie event also thanked members of this community who donated $1,000 or more to the Society in 2019. Other special guests included the clergy and young professionals under the age of 40 who gave $5oo or more.
Since the event's inception in 2008, the Rutherford Society Gala has become one of Murfreesboro's most high-profile social events. Through the gala and other initiatives, the Saint Thomas Rutherford Foundation continues to support its mission of caring for the poor and vulnerable in Rutherford County.
The St. Thomas Rutherford Foundation also shared appreciation for the community leaders who made-up the gala committee: Debbie Cope, Candyce Corcoran, Vicki Eastham, Jennifer Hassan, Jamie Jackson, Shannon Parsons, Kit Ramsay, Melanie Shipp, Ellen Slicker, Adrienne Tarola, Joyce Taylor and Lina Warden.
