Sweeping lakefront views in the Fred M. Alger Center Ballroom. Timeless elegance of the historic Alger house. Les Braves II standing boldly on water’s edge. There’s a certain magic here. A sense of history. A sense of purpose. A sense of belonging. And I know you feel it too because you’re here in support of our mission.
This 115-year-old mansion, once the beloved home of the Alger family, was gifted to the community 76 years ago by Marion Alger. Her vision was clear: to create a place that honors veterans, celebrates culture, and serves as a beacon for learning and connection to the community.
Thanks to your support, that vision has not only endured—it has flourished.
Tonight’s event holds special meaning. The proceeds from this evening will continue to support the restoration of the historic house, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come. As you explore the home, we invite you to take note of the exquisite details—like the intricately restored ceiling in the library—which reflect the care, craftsmanship, and beauty that define the Alger legacy.
Your presence here is more than appreciated—it is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with shared purpose and deep gratitude.
On behalf of all of us at The War Memorial, thank you for standing with us as we preserve the past and build a vibrant, meaningful future.
With heartfelt thanks,
Table of Contents
One Two Ten
Twelve
Fifteen
Sixteen Twenty-Four Twenty-Six Twenty-Eight
letter from the president
order of events
sponsors, board of directors and gala planning committee
coast-to-coast raffle & wine pull
live auction guidelines
live auction items delight in the details thank you to our supporters this evening’s menu
Order of Events
hors d’oeuvres & cocktails
remarks in the ballroom dinner served program & live auction dessert afterglow
Five Thirty Seven O’Clock
Seven Fifteen
Seven Fourty-Five
Eight Fourty-Five
“in appreciation of the grosse pointe garden center and all the stewards of the war memorial gardens.”
Ann & Jim Nicholson
platinum sponsor
“proud to support the war memorial.”
Alicia & Jonathan Taub
platinum sponsor
“in tribute to the work of the war memorial.”
Sharon Shumaker
gold sponsor
“the family of jeff smith and lisa vallee-smith are proud to support this year’s red, white & blue.”
Jeff Smith & Lisa Vallee-Smith
gold sponsor
Thank You
Presenting Sponsor
mr. & mrs. frederick moulton alger, iii
Platinum Sponsors
ann & jim nicholson
alicia & jonathan taub
Gold Sponsors
sharon shumaker
lisa vallee-smith & jeff smith
rick swaine
Silver Sponsors Bronze Sponsors
The Grosse Pointe News
Laura J. & Charles P. Huebner
Susie & Rick Lueders
Jean Azar
Amy & Patrick Chesterton
Counselwoman-Elect Rev. Sierra Donaven
The Edsel & Eleanor Ford House
George Johnson & Co.
Joe Ricci
Mary & Ron Lamparter
Maria Miller
Pointe Capital Management
Molly & Bob Prim
Honorary Hosts
Jennifer & Reed Bingaman, Mary Ann & Bob Bury, Dr. & Mrs. Tymon Totte, Beverly Curtiss Walsh, Strategiz, Lisa & Tim Frasier, David Balle, MD, Hon. William J. & Susan Giovan, Grosse Pointe Garden Center, Jessica & Brad Gregory, Mark Higbie & Gretchen Knoell, Donna Hoban, MD, Patrick McKeever, Ralph & Eileen Mandarino—Pivovary, LLC, Valerie & Patrick Moran, David Nicholson, Beline Obeid, LLC, Kathy Williams, Cheryl A. Wesen, MD & Richard K. Baumgarten, MD, Jamie Rae Turnbull, Aaron & Alma Turk, Jennifer & Christopher Boettcher, Chrissie & Bruce Bradley
The War Memorial Board of Directors
Amy Chesterton, Board Chair
Aaron Turk, Vice Chair
Jessica T. Gregory, Secretary
Edward Russell, III, Treasurer
Maureen Berndtson
Sierra Donaven
Rachelle Economy
Donna Hoban, MD, Immediate Past Chair
Chuck Huebner
Scottie Knight
Salvador Martinez
Jodie Rappe, MD
Nick Ritts
Lisa Vallee-Smith
Terence Thomas Kelly Walsh
Rev. Drew Van Culin, Board Chaplain
Maria Miller, President and CEO
Gala Planning Committee
Mary Lamparter, Val Moran, Alicia Nicholson, Stephanie Nicholson, Molly Prim, Nick Ritts, Danielle Brousseau, Nikki Charbonneau, Claudia Corrado, Meredith Hanoian, Kelly Oliver, Maria Miller, Emily Orttenburger
PROUD SPONSOR OF
An
Coast-to-Coast Raffle
In case you missed it, one lucky winner will choose from six incredible travel experiences with destinations spanning from Coast to Coast!
$100/ticket
The raffle drawing will be at 9pm following the live auction
Only 100 tickets will be sold
Winner will have one week to let the War Memorial know their vacation choice. All travel must be booked within one year for travel within two years. Subject to availability.
Seven nights for up to six guests
Two bedroom condo near Disney
Full amenities, pools, and recreation
Located within five to ten minutes from major amusement parks
NAPA VALLEY FOR TWO
Three nights for two adults
Accommodations at your choice of select hotels
Up to eight hour small group wine tour
$300 resort credit for dining
STAY & CRUISE IN HILTON HEAD
Two-night stay for two at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
America’s Cup sailboat cruise
ORLANDO CONDO
LiveGuidelinesAuction
the live auction will begin at approximately 7:45pm 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.
Live Auction Items
Savor the Sunset: Dinner & Sail Experience
Embark on an unforgettable evening of gourmet dining and a private sunset sail. Start with dinner for six at The Little Club, a hidden gem in Grosse Pointe, renowned for its elevated seasonal cuisine and refined atmosphere.
Then, set sail aboard the California Girl, a sleek 40’ J120 sailboat, with your skipper, Bob Eager, for a private 2–3 hour cruise. Enjoy dessert and drinks as you take in stunning sunset views and serene shoreline vistas. Perfect for relaxation, celebration, or simply soaking in the evening’s beauty, this exclusive experience promises lasting memories.
Dinner & Sail shall be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date May through October of the 2025 sailing season.
Donated by Bob Eager and supporters of The War Memorial
Live Auction Items
Detroit: The Ultimate Year of Sports
Show your Motor City pride with this exclusive sports package:
Detroit Lions—Four tickets to a 2025 season home game
Detroit Pistons—Four tickets to a 2025-26 season home game
Wolverines vs. Purdue Game—Four football game tickets
Detroit Tigers—Two tickets to a 2025 season home game plus a $100 food voucher
Detroit Red Wings—Two tickets to a 2025-26 home game
Detroit City FC—Four Rouge tickets to a 2025 home game
Off the field, take home incredible fan collectibles:
Football autographed by Jahmyr Gibbs
Limited-edition Shinola watch with a Lions Honolulu Blue face
Signed photo of #18 Red Wings player, Andrew Copp
Official Wolverines team jersey
Donated by Julie Kelly, Den Uyl, Mathews Long, Inc., Joseph A. Slomski, Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Football Club, and Supporters of The War Memorial
Live Auction Items
Under the Tuscan Sun: Escape to Cortona for Four
Experience Tuscany with a six-night stay for four in a charming two-bedroom, two-bath apartment in the heart of Cortona. Just steps from medieval streets, cafés, and stunning countryside views—this is the perfect Italian getaway.
Enjoy a guided wine tasting at one of Cortona’s top wine bars, led by expert sommeliers. Savor an authentic three-course dinner prepared by a private chef in your apartment, bringing the flavors of Tuscany to you.
Explore cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and historic landmarks, all while soaking in the beauty of the rolling hills. Whether sipping Chianti in a piazza or relaxing in your elegant apartment, this experience offers the best of Italian charm.
This Evening’s Live
Luxury Escape: 5-Star All-Inclusive Getaway
Escape to paradise with a four-night, all-inclusive stay for two at the five-star Marival Luxury Resort in Banderas Bay or Nuevo Nayarit. Whether filled with relaxation, romance, or adventure, this resort offers unforgettable luxury.
Stay in a stylish space with ocean views, a private balcony, king or double beds, nightly turn-down, and a mini-bar or welcome hamper.
Enjoy yoga, sound healing, tennis, non-motorized water sports, multiple pools, and pristine beaches. Savor gourmet dining, sip cocktails at chic bars, or relax with room service anytime.
With live entertainment and curated activities this is your dream escape—wrapped in comfort and indulgence.
Reservations to be made within 12 months for travel within 24 months.
Live Auction Items
Gourmet Gathering: An Evening at the Algers’
Enjoy a luxurious private dining experience for twelve in the cozy setting of the historic Alger House, featuring a multicourse meal curated by Executive Chef Joe Paxton and paired with fine wines. Impeccable service from a top-tier hospitality team ensures a seamless and elegant evening.
Choose from exquisite dinner options such as a Low Country Seafood Feast, French Brasserie Night, Continental Steak House, Michigan Farm-to-Table, or New Orleans Creole Dinner. Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an unforgettable night with friends.
Mutually agreeable date. Subject to availability. May not be available during peak times. No holidays.
Donated by supporters of The War Memorial
because every detail tells a story
Throughout this evening’s event, you may have noticed photos capturing some of the charming details of the historic Alger House—each one a small piece of its 115-year-old story. These intricate embellishments can be found throughout the House, just waiting to be discovered by those who look closely. The details are not only beautiful, but also vital to preserve, as they represent the legacy and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Feel free to take these photos with you as a keepsake, and we invite you to look for and delight in these treasures the next time you visit the war memorial.
We thank you for your support at this year’s An Evening of Red, White & Blue Gala. If these details moved you, please consider making a gift to the historic house fund, and help us continue the important work of preserving this remarkable home, the details, and its stories for generations to come.
To learn more about the historic house fund or to donate, scan the QR code
With Gratitude
From the bottom of our hearts, we extend thanks to our generous supporters whose contributions helped make this evening possible. We are deeply grateful for these partnerships and the belief in our mission.
In-Kind Event Donors
Sohn Linen
Detroit Chiavari
Grosse Pointe Garden Center
Wine Pull Prize Donors
B3 | Bikes, Blades and Boards
Grosse Pointe Academy
Emerald City Design
Dawood Boutique
Fever Up Detroit
Da Eduardo
London Chophouse
Underwriters
Scottie & Gar Knight
Pointe Alarm
Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Moulton Alger, III
This Evening’s Menu
Hors D’oeuvres
coffee-crusted ny strip with boursin cheese served on a crostini comté gougères with truffle and honey
bacon-wrapped dates with smoked almonds and orange zest
tuna ceviche with fresh avocado and citrus on a wonton
