"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal."
— Abraham Lincoln
A Letter from The President
As we gather for this year’s Red, White & Blue celebration, we find ourselves on the doorstep of America’s 250th anniversary. It’s a milestone that invites both pride and reflection. Ours is a history that is, at times, messy and imperfect, yet always striving forward. That tension, between who we’ve been and who we hope to become, is part of what makes this country, and its story, so enduring.
At the War Memorial, we see that story through a very human lens. We honor those who served not because history is flawless, but because service itself reflects a deep belief in something better – something still unfolding. Their courage reminds us that progress is not guaranteed; it is carried forward by each generation.
And that brings us to tonight. Your support helps us do more than preserve the past. It allows us to create spaces where our community can gather, learn, reflect, and connect. It helps us deliver experiences that inspire, that challenge, and that bring people together across differences. If the first 250 years have taught us anything, it’s that tomorrow is shaped by what we choose to value today. I’m grateful that you choose to value service, community, and shared experience.
As we celebrate, let’s look ahead with both honesty and hope. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us carry it forward.
With gratitude,
A Letter from The Board Chair
Over more than a decade serving on the Board of The War Memorial, I have had the privilege of watching this remarkable institution grow, evolve, and deepen its impact on our community. Through seasons of change and renewal, one thing has remained constant: The War Memorial’s enduring commitment to service, connection, and remembrance.
I have a profound respect for the dedicated leaders who have served alongside me, individuals who have given generously of their time, talents, and resources in support of this extraordinary place. Their passion, wisdom, and stewardship have helped shape The War Memorial into the vibrant cultural and civic beacon it is today.
This year, as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our nation, we are reminded of the ideals upon which this country was founded: service, sacrifice, civic responsibility, and a belief in something greater than ourselves. Those same principles continue to guide us in our commitment to honoring veterans, preserving history, and creating a place where community and country are remembered, celebrated, and strengthened.
This historic home on the shores of Lake St. Clair stands as a reflection of that legacy. It is more than a landmark, it is a gathering place where those enduring values continue to inspire, connect, and guide future generations.
Thank you for being part of this special evening, for believing in our mission, and for helping ensure its future for generations to come.
With heartfelt gratitude,
It has meant so much to us to play a part in preserving my family’s ancestral home here at The War Memorial. Our hope is that this community will join us in carrying this story forward through your support. This beautiful place holds deep meaning for so many, and it simply cannot continue without you.
Sincerely,
Fred & Veronica Alger
A SHARED COMMITMENT TO THE WAR MEMORIAL
Having both served as board directors for The War Memorial, we feel a profound and lasting connection to this institution. To us, it is far more than a historic landmark; it is one of the greatest assets any community can possess. Its unique setting on the lake makes it a breathtaking sanctuary where art, culture, and patriotism converge in a truly singular way.
“We deeply value and support the core mission of The War Memorial: to honor those who served, enrich our community, and deliver exceptional experiences”
As a space unlike any other in Michigan, it serves as a gathering place where memories are made, laughter is shared, and the legacy of American heroism is celebrated.
Whether through the poignant presence of Les Braves II: At Water’s Edge or the vibrant programming at the Fred M. Alger Center, The War Memorial remains a dynamic hub for regional connectivity. Our tenure as directors was driven by the belief that this historic gem is essential for bringing together people who are like minded. It remains a patriotic, cultural, and community leader that educates and engages generations of families. We are proud to see it continue as a driver of enrichment and a lasting tribute to the surge of brotherhood and service that defines our wonderful community.
Sincerely,
Mary & Ron Lamparter Co-Presenting Sponsors
A SALUTE TO ROBERT GLEN VALLEE, SR.
Robert Glen Vallee, Sr. served the U.S. Army for nearly three years, including active duty in the Korean War. His experiences shaped his life and was the inspiration for many stories (mostly true) that he shared with family and friends throughout his life. To our dad and all those who have and are serving our beautiful country, we salute you.
With
love,
Lisa Vallee-Smith, Jeffrey Smith & Family Co-Presenting Sponsors
Having lived a full life of nearly 96 years, to his dying days my dad would repeat his service number. There weren’t a lot of things he could remember but 55124473 was always on the tip of his tongue.
55124473
As a supply sergeant, Bob Vallee learned the importance of “keeping the troops happy” that translated into his successful business career. Often during family moments of happiness and strife, he would break the tension with these words:
“Boys,
smoke if you have ‘em”.
“Our mom was the recipient of more than 300 letters from dad over the course of his service, from basic training through his passage home.”
Having proposed to Virginia Johnson before his service, each letter was addressed to “My sweet” and made reference to the future “Mrs. Robert Vallee”.
"The name of American, which belongs to you in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of patriotism."
— George Washington
The War Memorial Board of Directors
Amy Chesterton Board Chair
Donna Hoban, M.D.
Immediate Past Chair
Jessica T. Gregory
Secretary
Aaron Turk
Treasurer
Maria Miller President & CEO
Maureen Berndtson
Sierra Donaven
Rachelle Economy
Charles Huebner
Scottie Knight
Richard Lueders
Salvador Martinez
Brent Ott
Victor T. Peltola
Jodie Rappe, M.D.
Nick Ritts
Terence Thomas
Lisa Vallee-Smith
Kelly Walsh
“PROUD TO SUPPORT THE WAR MEMORIAL”
Alicia & Jon Taub
Platinum Sponsor
In 1962, Jerry and Jean shared their first dance at The War Memorial. Sixty-four years later, Eightfold felt compelled to bring their story to the screen. It was our honor to film the recreation of the night that started it all.
Eightfold is a commercial + documentary film hub. Learn more about our films + collective at:
“IN APPRECIATION OF THE GROSSE POINTE GARDEN CENTER AND ALL THE STEWARDS OF THE WAR MEMORIAL GARDENS”
Jim&Ann Nicholson
Silver Sponsor
E PLURIBUS UNUM
With malice toward none, with charity for all — let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds.”
— Abraham Lincoln.
“IN THIS 250TH YEAR OF OUR REPUBLIC, MAY WE HONOR THOSE WHO SERVED BY SERVING ONE ANOTHER — WITH KINDNESS, UNITY, AND A SHARED COMMITMENT TO THE COMMON GOOD.”
Aaron
& Alma Luisa Turk
Silver Sponsor
“SALUTING THE MISSION OF THE WAR MEMORIAL”
Rick Swaine
Silver Sponsor
Your Source for Audit, Tax, Advisory & Consulting Services
This Year’s Event Sponsors&Underwriters
SPONSORS UNDERWRITERS
Mary & Ron Lamparter
Lisa Vallee-Smith* & Jeffrey Smith
Alicia & Jonathan Taub
Corewell Health
Verizon
Grosse Pointe Garden Center
Activate Detroit
Landmark Financial Planning
Michele & Dennis LaPorte
Northern Trust
Henry Ford St. John
Alma Luisa & Aaron* Turk
Warner Norcross & Judd
Darrene Baer
Jennifer & Reed Bingaman
Andrea Dickson
Jessica* & Bradford Gregory
Donna Hoban, MD*
Julie Henry-Kelly, MD
Susie & Rick* Lueders
Maria Miller, CEO†
Amy Pfaehler & Bradley Miller
Val & Patrick Moran
Stephanie & Tim Nicholson
Marie Boyle Reinman
Boyd Investment Services
McGlinch and Sons
RW Mead
Michael Ugval
Grosse Pointe News
Smith Family Foundation
An American Story
Rick Swaine
The Town Crier
Ann & Jim Nicholson
Sweet Land of Liberty
Amy* & Patrick Chesterton
Table of Honor
Scottie* & Gar Knight
Table of Honor
Charles* & Laura Huebner
Table of Honor
Louisa St. Clair Chapter NSDAR
Table of Honor
Hoover Electric
Table of Honor
Changing Perspectives Counseling
Taste of Freedom
* Member, The War Memorial Board of Directors
† Chief Executive Officer, The War Memorial
"Men, their rights and nothing more; women, their rights and nothing less."
— Susan B. Anthony
This Year’s Event Honorary Committee
FRED & VERONICA ALGER Honorary
Jenny & Chris Boettcher
Amy* & Patrick Chesterton
Dr. Jodie Rappe* & Dr. Brian Dimmer
Ebony Duff & John Gillooly
Gretchen Knoell & Mark Higbie
Brent Ott* & Asif Iqbal
Cherie & James McCloughan
Alaina & Salvador* Martinez
Ann & Jim Nicholson
Alicia & John Nicholson
Stephanie & Tim Nicholson
Beline & Tony Obeid
Monica O’Brien & Brian Hughes Northern Trust
Chairs
Kerry & Victor* Peltola
Marie Boyle Reinman
Marcia & Ed Russell
Elana Rugh
Detroit Historical Society
Nina Holden Sapp
Detroit Institute of Arts
Shane Reeside
Sheila Tomkowiak
Alma Luisa & Aaron* Turk
Jessica & Drew Van Culin
Grosse Pointe Historical Society
Louisa St. Clair Chapter NSDAR
THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR’S PLANNING COMMITTEE
Sierra Donaven*, Julie Henry-Kelly, Mary Lamparter, Val Moran, Alma Luisa Turk, Lisa Vallee-Smith*, Leah Celebi, Nikki Charbonneau, Claudia Corrado, Meredith Hanoian, Maria Miller†, Emily Orttenburger
1776 2026
Celebrating · Reflecting · Honoring
Two hundred and fifty years ago, America launched the greatest experiment the world had ever seen — imperfect, unfinished, and extraordinary in its ambition.
Tonight, we gather not only to celebrate that experiment, but to reflect on the moments, the movements, and the remarkable men and women who have helped carry it forward.
MoldedHistoryby
At each table tonight, four figures join us, honoring the Americans whose lives helped write the great unfinished story we celebrate this evening.
GEORGE WASHINGTON 1st President Declaration of Independence 1776
ABRAHAM LINCOLN 16th President 13th Amendment 1865
FREDERICK DOUGLASS Abolitionist 14th Amendment 1868
SUSAN B. ANTHONY Suffragist 19th Amendment 1920
GEORGE WASHINGTON · who launched the experiment
ABRAHAM LINCOLN · who preserved it
FREDERICK DOUGLASS · who demanded it live up to its promise
SUSAN B. ANTHONY · who ensured it belonged to everyone
Their stories are America's story — imperfect, unfinished, and worth every generation's effort to carry forward.
It is in that spirit that The War Memorial has always stood — a place where the story is honored, and those who defended it are never forgotten.
Run of Show Five-Thirty in the Evening
THE EVENING BEGINS
...in the Historic Alger House with American-inspired hors d’oeuvres, live music, and the signature “Alger Snap” cocktail
Quarter Past Six
Guests are invited to take their seats in the Ballroom.
Half Past Six
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Quarter to Seven
FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA
Dinner & Live Auction Begins
AN AMERICAN STORY
A Message from The War Memorial PADDLE RAISE
An Investment in the Mission
Nine o’Clock
THE EVENING CARRIES ON Guests are invited back to the Historic Alger House for a sweet American finale.
AUCTION CHECK-OUT
Meet our Town Crier
JAMES J. MCDONALD Auctioneer & Master of Ceremonies
After a career in finance, James McDonald discovered a gift for philanthropy and a passion for the auction stage. He has since raised funds for hundreds of organizations across the United States and Europe — among them UNICEF, St. Jude's Research Hospital, the Navy SEAL Foundation, and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Known for his ability to read a room and match its energy, James believes the key to a great auction is simple: be the most excited person in it. Tonight, we are delighted to welcome him as our Town Crier.
Live Auction Guidelines
The live auction will begin at approximately 7:15pm and will continue until all items have been sold.
Guests will bid in person by raising their paddles as the auctioneer presents each package.
A sale is final once announced by the auctioneer.
The auctioneer may set opening bids and has the right to reject bids not aligned with the item’s value.
In case of a dispute, the auctioneer’s decision is final. All items are sold “as is.” No exchanges or refunds.
Please review all restrictions and limitations listed in the program.
A special Thank You to
This AuctionEvening’sItems
NORTHERN RETREAT: LAKE CHARLEVOIX ESCAPE
Five days, four nights on Lake Charlevoix — 117 feet of private lake frontage, sweeping water views, and a beautifully updated fourbedroom home sleeping up to ten guests.
Unwind in the hot tub, gather around the firepit, or settle into a chef’s kitchen and spacious living areas designed for both relaxation and celebration. The primary suite features heated floors and a steam shower.
Also included: two complimentary passes for skiing or golf, a two-night stay at a Boyne Resorts property, and a $350 gift card to Café Santé in Boyne City — the full Northern Michigan experience, in every season.
DONATED BY Dr. Jodie Rappe & Dr. Brian Dimmer, Boyne Resorts
THE MEASURE OF A MAN: A 250TH ANNIVERSARY SARTORIAL EXPERIENCE
Elevate your wardrobe with a bespoke experience from Carl Sterr Men’s Clothing. A private consultation guides you through the creation of a custom-tailored look, centered on a handcrafted Belvest suit made in Italy, paired with a Finamore shirt and Calabrese 1924 tie — timeless craftsmanship, effortlessly worn.
Completed with a $500 dining experience at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar — the perfect occasion to celebrate or debut your new look.
DONATED BY Carl Sterr, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
DETROIT PRIDE: THE ULTIMATE FAN EXPERIENCE
Four tickets each to a Detroit Lions regular season game, Detroit Tigers vs. Kansas City on July 26, Detroit Red Wings (2027, mutually agreed date), Detroit City FC, and Detroit Pistons — plus four tickets to Michigan Wolverines football vs. Iowa on September 26 in Section 41, Row 46. Tigers package includes garage parking. All tickets transferred electronically.
Take home an autographed pin flag from the 2024 “The Match Superstars” featuring Bill Murray, Mark Wahlberg, Charles Barkley, Wayne Gretzky, Michael Phelps, Nate Bargatze, Ken Griffey Jr., and Blake Griffin.
DONATED BY
Mark Mathews, Joseph Slomski, Michael Ugval, Julie Henry-Kelly, Stephanie Nicholson, Detroit City Football Club, Dennis Hyduk
A CURATOR’S VIEW: THE O’KEEFFE EXPERIENCE
A museum visit reimagined. Your private chauffeur departs from The War Memorial, transporting up to ten guests to the Detroit Institute of Arts for an exclusive curator-led tour of the Georgia O’Keeffe exhibition
Explore 35 works spanning the 1920s–1960s, gaining rare insight into her vision, technique, and architectural perspective — the colors, forms, and landscapes that made O’Keeffe one of the most celebrated American artists of the twentieth century. This is not a gallery stroll. It is a private audience with one of America’s most extraordinary creative minds. Your chauffeur returns you to The War Memorial at the close of the evening, completing a seamless and elevated cultural experience from door to door.
DONATED BY
Detroit Institute of Arts, All Star Chauffeured Services, Friends of The War Memorial
STARS & SPARKLES
Bold yet timeless, these are the pieces that turn heads without trying. Crafted in radiant 18k yellow gold, these elegant hoop earrings are adorned with vivid rubies accented by the brilliance of diamonds that catch the light with every movement.
Classic in form yet striking in detail, these hoops offer a perfect balance of sophistication and bold beauty. Whether worn for an evening out or treasured as an everyday signature, they bring a warmth and richness that never goes unnoticed.
They are equally suited as a meaningful gift or a well-deserved indulgence, something chosen out of appreciation for beauty that lasts.
DONATED
BY
Ahee Jewelers
GLOW FOR GLORY
The most luxurious moments are the ones that leave you feeling completely renewed. This thoughtfully curated collection brings together wellness, beauty, and everyday elegance— designed to refresh, restore, and elevate.
Begin with cutting-edge treatments at iCRYO, where advanced therapies support energy, recovery, and overall well-being. Continue the experience at home with personalized services from Oli at Home, transforming your space into a private retreat. Indulge further with a $1,000 gift certificate to Girlie Girl, allowing you to curate your own spa experience from a range of treatments.
Completing the collection, enjoy a timeless Caraby Stone Bangle by Julie Vos paired with a sophisticated clutch from Il —because feeling your best should look as beautiful as it feels. A complete experience designed to leave you glowing inside and out.
DONATED BY Girlie Girl, iCryo, Oli at Home, Pearl
18 ON THE HILL: LUXURY AFRICAN SAFARI ESCAPE
Set within the exclusive Maseke Game Reserve in the Balule Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park ecosystem, 18 on the Hill offers an extraordinary safari where wildlife roams freely across unfenced land.
Welcoming just 18 guests at a time, this intimate luxury lodge blends privacy, elegance, and an authentic connection to the wild. Your four-night stay includes a beautifully appointed Luxury Tented Suite featuring a private plunge pool overlooking the bush, a spacious air-conditioned bedroom, and a spa-like bath with indoor and outdoor showers, double vanity, and refined finishes throughout. A stocked mini-bar, coffee station, and furnished viewing deck complete the experience.
Each day, set out on two expertly guided safari game drives in search of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Between adventures, enjoy chef-prepared meals, house beverages, and curated snacks—all included.
From the moment you arrive in Africa, every detail is seamless, with regional flights to and from the lodge included, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this once-in-a-lifetime safari, experienced in unmatched style and exclusivity.
AN EVENING OF HONOR: A PATRIOT’S INVITATION
Be part of history as Detroit hosts the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention during America’s 250th anniversary — a powerful tribute to the courage, service, and sacrifice that define this nation’s enduring legacy.
Two tickets to the culminating Patriot Awards Gala — seated alongside co-presenting sponsors Mary & Ron Lamparter — place you at an elegant evening with living Medal of Honor recipients, national leaders, and distinguished honorees. Awards presented include the Patriot Award, Distinguished Citizen Award, Bob Hope Award for Excellence in Entertainment, and the Tex McCrary Award for Journalism.
A rare invitation. A gathering of heroes. A moment in American history, experienced firsthand.
DONATED BY Mary & Ron Lamparter
BEST OF AMERICANA DINNER
There is something special about gathering around a table where conversation lingers, glasses are raised, and a meal becomes a memory.
Choose your setting — the Ballroom, the Historic Alger House, or the breathtaking lakeside grounds — and host up to twelve guests for a multi-course dinner prepared exclusively by Chef Joe Paxton, paired with expertly selected wines.
Every detail is seamlessly handled from first course to final toast — leaving you nothing to do but relax, connect, and savor an evening as effortless as it is unforgettable.
DONATED BY The War Memorial
THE WAR MEMORIAL
A place to come home to
2025 Metrics
These are not just numbers. They are neighbors, veterans, and families whose lives are richer because The War Memorial exists — and whose stories continue because of your support.
Help Us Write The Next Chapter
For 77 years, The War Memorial has stood on the shores of Lake St. Clair as a place of honor, remembrance, and community — a living tribute to those who have served this nation and a gathering place for the community they fought to protect.
Tonight, we ask you to help ensure that this mission not only endures — but grows. Every gift made during our paddle raise goes directly toward expanding our veteran programming and resources, and deepening the community offerings that make The War Memorial a place where service is celebrated and community is always welcome.
When the moment arrives, our Town Crier will lead us in our paddle raise — an opportunity for each of us to invest directly in what comes next for the veterans and community members who call The War Memorial home. Every paddle raised matters. Every gift makes a difference. Thank you for being part of this story.
“I know of no rights of race superior to the rights of humanity.”
— Frederick Douglass
This evening wouldn’t have been possible without an amazing team of vendors and generous in-kind event donors.
VENDOR TEAM
Event Planning & Design
Festoons & Flourishes
Event Decor, Rentals & AV
Studio Terrain
Event Theory
Event Source
Black Tie Events
Display Group
Entertainment
Gary Greenfelder
1st Michigan Colonial Fife & Drums
Shelby 5
Media
Inner Circle Photography
Blaine Siesser Photography
TenThirty Films
Sprouts Content
IN-KIND EVENT DONORS
Crispelli’s Sohn Linens
Grigg Graphic Services
32 Lake Shore Drive, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI