On September 27, the Campbell Clinic Foundation hosted its highly anticipated annual soiree, Campbell Celebrates ~ Havana Nights, presented by Gentleman Orthopedic Solutions and Mid-South Imaging and Technology. Nearly 300 guests braved the rain, decked out in tropical attire, fedoras and beach sandals, to support the Foundation’s community outreach programs.
The FedEx Event Center transformed into the vibrant streets of 1950s Havana, where the colorful culture and rich history of the Cuban capital came alive in every detail.
“Why Havana Nights?” Dr. Fred Azar, Campbell Clinic Chief of Staff, asked, as the live program opened. “The founders of Campbell Clinic established an alumni group in the 1940s called the Campbell Club. In 1955, the Triennial Campbell Club meeting took place in Havana, Cuba. Most of the Campbell Clinic staff and some alumni attended.”
“The Cuban hospitality, the Club Tropicana – a vacation hotspot at that time – and the participation of prominent Cuban orthopaedists – made it immensely successful and memorable. While things have changed considerably in Cuba since then, our Campbell worldwide impact continues to go strong.”
“This is a feast for the senses!” one wide-eyed guest exclaimed. Authentic Cuban fare, catered by A Moveable Feast, and an interactive rum tasting experience, facilitated by Buster’s Liquors and Paradox Catering—delighted guests. Live cigar rolling—led by a master cigar roller flown in from Miami— and vintage cars, loaned by Art & Speed and Dr. John Lochemes, evoked the charm of mid-century Havana.
“We host this event to support our community health outreach programs,” explained Jenny Koltnow, Foundation Executive Director. “Our Cerebral Palsy Center, which serves 450 kids and families each year; our residents’ international medical mission trips; and outreach to inspire the next generation of orthopaedic professionals.”
One of the night’s highlights was the impressive live auction, hosted by Pete Pranica, the “voice” of the Memphis Grizzlies. A private wine dinner for eight, catered by Tennessee Restauranteur of the Year, Ernie Mellor; a Pappy Van Winkle Tasting for Ten, donated by Buster’s; a Louis Vuitton handbag; and were among the big-ticket items.
“This evening’s success is a testament to the generosity of our hosts, sponsors, and partners,” said Koltnow. “Thank you for moving lives.”
The Campbell Celebrates Host Committee included Dr. and Mrs. Fred Azar, Peg and Tom Branyan, Susie and Dave Carlson, Ms. Janie Charles, Dr. and Mrs. David LaVelle, Dr. John Lochemes, Kelly and Mark Luttrell, Dr. and Mrs. Jimmie Mancell, Dr. and Mrs. Santos Martinez, Melia and Dr. Drew Murphy, Sally and Frank Navarra, Selden and David Popwell, Mr. and Mrs. Gary Stavrum, Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Thompson, Dr. Norfleet Thompson, Drs. Alyssa and Quin Throckmorton, Barbara and Lewis Williamson, and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Wunderlich.
Sponsors
Presenting Partners:
- Gentleman Orthopedic Solutions, Inc. / Arthrex
- Mid-South Imaging & Therapeutics
Platinum Partners:
- Cigna
- East Memphis Anesthesia Services, PLLC
- Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare
Gold Partners:
- Baptist Memorial Hospital Collierville
- Belz Architecture & Construction
- Campbell Clinic
- CBIZ MHM Thompson Dunavant
- Diversified Trust
- Linkous Construction
Silver Partners:
- Bass, Berry and Sims
- Davis Stokes Collaborative Architects
- First Horizon Foundation
- Gephart Electric
- Novatech, Inc.
- Regional One Health
- Rendina Healthcare Real Estate
A special thank you to our in-kind sponsors!
- Art & Speed
- Buster’s Liquors
- Good Winds Landscape
- Paulsen Printing
- Sign Matters
- Ideas Unlimited
- Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits