FEATURING
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WE CARE about a Healthy Future.
We are a proud to support Variety the Children's Charity
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Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis presents
Hosted by KEN PAGE
Dinner Chair MARILYN FOX Honoring
Alison Ferring
Danny Ludeman
Featuring
Variety Children’s Chorus Executive Producer JAN ALBUS Technical Production LOGIC SYSTEMS Direction by: Chip Self Production Graphics LAURA BOYLE
Jim Byrnes Director CHRISTINA WILDE
Stage Management Brook Culleton Lindsey Wilde Tom Williamson
Video Production Bill Conerly Chuck Neff Production Manager SEAN SAVOIE
TONIGHT’S EVENT IS TOTALLY UNDERWRITTEN. EVERY DOLLAR RAISED THIS EVENING WILL GO DIRECTLY TO VARIETY CHILDREN.
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From our
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Dear Friends of Variety, Thank you for attending tonight’s festivities, because your presence is making a difference for kids in our community. All over St. Louis there are children who cope with disabilities. It can be very difficult for them. But then there is Variety, with a long history of helping out, to ease some of those struggles. As I began my term as Chairman of Variety the Children’s Charity, I have thought about what this organization means to our community. The economic costs of childhood disability were calculated in 2012 to be an average of $30,500 a year per family. This includes the likelihood that the mother (and less often the father) will either curtail hours of work or stop working altogether. This study found that having a child with disabilities can affect a mother’s own health and put substantial strains on the parents’ relationship. Our mission is to improve the lives of families. All kids need help. Variety kids need a little more. A ramp to get the wheelchair up to the front door, a communication device so their voice can be heard, therapy so they can fully use new equipment, or a specialty bike so they can ride with their friends. Variety provides the practical, tangible help that can make a difference. Whether it is a hearing aid, a stander for a wheelchair, or just a week at camp with friends. Variety is there, because you are here. Sincerely,
Lawrence K. Otto President, Bank of America, Missouri Variety Board Chairman
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the Chairman, Larry Otto.....................4 Message from the CEO, Jan Albus...................................6 About Variety.................................................................................7 Board of Directors......................................................................8 Toni Braxton...................................................................................9
Variety Club Partner – World Wide Technology............................................................................20 Variety Club Partner – Centene......................................21 Variety Club Partner – Edward Jones..........................23 Variety Club Partner – Emerson......................................25
Ken Page.......................................................................................10
Variety Club Partner – Nestlé Purina Pet Care Co.............................................................................27
Variety Children’s Chorus....................................................11
Major Partner – Ameren......................................................29
Jim Byrnes....................................................................................11
Major Partner – Bank of America...................................31
Event Chair, Marilyn Fox......................................................12
Variety child Lenore........................................................ 32-33
Steering & Gala Committee..............................................13
Major Partner – Express Scripts.......................................35
Past Men & Women of the Year.......................................15
Major Partner – Imo’s Pizza................................................37
2015 Woman of the Year.....................................................16
Major Partner – Wehrenberg Theatres.......................39
2015 Man of the Year............................................................17
Media Partner – FOX2 & KPLR 11...................................41
Variety Week Partners...........................................................18
Media Partner – St. Louis Post-Dispatch....................43
Production Team & Variety Staff.....................................19
Encore Society...........................................................................62
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Dear Variety supporters, Every year, we gratefully watch as every corner of the St. Louis community comes together to support children with disabilities during Variety Week. At this thrilling time of year, our supporters don’t just share donations with us. They hear the stories of families whose lives changed thanks to equipment, therapy or recreational programs paid for by Variety. Tonight at Dinner with the Stars, you’ll get the chance to experience some of those stories and see firsthand how dedicated support helps Variety kids to declare, “I CAN!” Variety receives no state or federal support. Families are never charged a penny for any of the services that we provide. All of our funding comes from generous corporate partners, grants and support from people like you! That outpouring of support ensures that Variety can offer another year of peerless services to families raising children with disabilities. We are proud to be one of the first places families turn after learning their child’s diagnosis, and more importantly, we never turn away from a family once we make them a part of our program. We continually support that child throughout their lives; they become a member of the Variety family. Thank you for joining us tonight. Dinner with the Stars is the crown jewel of Variety Week, and we invite you to sit back and savor the show. By attending this event, you have made yourself a part of Variety’s story. We are humbled, and we thank you. Heartfully,
Jan Albus Chief Executive Officer P.S. Please take out the attached envelope and dig deep for the kids. Your heart will be thrilled with joy for it!
Jan Albus with Variety child Kimira
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YOUR SUPPORT HELPS THOUSANDS
From our
MISSION Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis is a multi-faceted organization with one simple mission: To help local children with disabilities reach their full potential by providing services every time they need assistance.
VARIETY’S COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY We help kids with disabilities have the needed tools to thrive: THERAPY, RECREATION, EQUIPMENT, EDUCATION & SUNSHINE COACH VANS
WE MEASURE SUCCESS BY IMPROVEMENT IN: SKILLS Playing catch. Brushing teeth. Hugging a parent. These may seem like small acts, but developing skills like these allow Variety kids to enjoy childhood to its fullest.
SELF-ESTEEM Variety programs help kids tackle new challenges without fear or doubt. We encourage kids to be stars, both on stage and in their everyday lives.
SOCIALIZATION No kid should ever have to go it alone. Variety programs bring children with disabilities together to create lasting and powerful friendships.
INDEPENDENCE With every therapy session and piece of equipment, Variety moves children toward a lifetime of getting things done for themselves. 7
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman of the Board *Lawrence K. Otto Vice Chairmen *Steve Crimmins *Marilyn Fox *Thelma Steward Secretary *Penny Pennington Treasurer *Leslie Wilson *Mark Abels *Greg Boyce Joe Burgess Mark Burkhart Bill Burnes *Scott Bush *Cathy Dunkin Ray Farris Cheri Fromm Steve Gross Ray Gruender David Hogan Nevada A. Kent IV J. Christopher Kerckhoff, Jr. Adam Ketterer *Lee Kling Patricia Kopetz *Mark Koritz
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Nancy Kranzberg Patrick Larmon Davida Layer *Mike Lefton Danny Ludeman NoĂŠmi Neidorff Ridley Pearson Lucia Rodriguez Steve Schankman Bevis Schock *Kevin Short *Kimberly Springer Michael Staenberg Elizabeth Stroble Chairman Emeritus *David Steward Honorary Life Members Kimmy Brauer William H.T. Bush Nancy Diemer Cliff Eason Margaret Imo Chip Rosenbloom Ozzie Smith Chief Executive Officer Jan Albus * Executive Committee Members
ONSTAGE TONI BRAXTON HER DISTINCTIVE SULTRY VOCAL BLEND OF R&B, POP, JAZZ AND GOSPEL BECAME AN INSTANTANEOUS INTERNATIONAL SENSATION when she released her first solo recording in 1992. Today, with more than 40 million albums sold worldwide and seven Grammy Awards, Toni Braxton is recognized as one of the most outstanding voices of this generation. Braxton’s endlessly expressive voice launched an incredible run of Top 10 singles that included “Another Sad Love Song,” “Breathe Again” and “You’re Makin’ Me High.” But it was the smash hit “Unbreak My Heart” that would become her signature song. Showcasing Braxton’s full vocal and emotional range, the Grammy-winning ballad ranks as the second top-selling single of all time by a female artist. Teaming with longtime collaborator Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Braxton won her latest Grammy in 2015 for the album Love, Marriage & Divorce. In addition to her musical recording career, Braxton had successful runs on Broadway starring in Beauty and the Beast and Aida, as well as headlining her own show in Las Vegas. Braxton and her sisters currently appear in the hit reality show Braxton Family Values on WE tv. Today, Braxton balances the demands of her career with the high priorities of family as she raises her two sons Denim and Diezel, who lives with autism. Braxton’s support and activism on behalf of her younger son led to her becoming a spokesperson for Autism Speaks. As Diezel continues to progress, Braxton is sharing a message of hope. “Today, Diezel is talking and attending a mainstream school,” Braxton says. “He still needs occupational therapy, but he is a wonderful example of what can happen with early detection and intervention.” 9
ONSTAGE
KEN PAGE – HOST A force of nature on Broadway stages and a St. Louis theatre staple, Ken Page matches booming talent with boundless generosity. Variety is proud to welcome back Page for his second year as Dinner with the Stars host. Page rode his commanding stage presence and innate charm to iconic Broadway roles in Cats, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and The Wiz. But the St. Louis native never forgot where he got his start: as a member of the Muny chorus. Over the past 21 years, Page has become a Muny institution by appearing in an endless variety of roles. Page is also known to film audiences for his cackling portrayal of the villainous Oogie Boogie in the animated classic The Nightmare Before Christmas, as well as his appearance in the Oscar-winning Dreamgirls. An active champion for youth efforts and causes, Page has taken time from his life to participate in numerous youth benefits and talent shows. “I think it’s important to help children realize their potential,” Page said in 2013 when honored as Variety’s Champion for Kids. “Despite varying abilities, they need that sense of accomplishment.”
On set of NBC’s production of Aint Misbehavin’ in 1982
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Cover of Life Magazine in 1982 as Old Deuteronomy in the Broadway Production of CATS
Ken Page at The Muny
VARIETY CHILDREN’S CHORUS Music has long been a unifying force between people of different cultures and, in Variety’s case, abilities. Since 2000, the Variety Children’s Chorus – comprised of children ages 8-21, with and without disabilities – has been spreading the “I CAN!” message throughout St. Louis and beyond.
Greg Schweizer, Director of the Variety Children’s Chorus with Variety child Lily
Directed by Greg Schweizer, the Variety Children’s Chorus gains not only musical skills, but also the confidence to perform onstage, the ability to work as a team and the responsibility to take direction in learning their own pieces of the program. The children involved, invigorated by their own powerful performances and the warm reception from audiences, emerge feeling more self-confident and accepted than ever before. The Chorus serves as an ambassador for Variety, performing frequently throughout the St. Louis area.
JIM BYRNES - BLUES MUSICIAN & ACTOR A St. Louis native and accomplished performer, Jim exemplifies the “I CAN!” spirit. He’s best known for his roles as Joe Dawson on Highlander and Lifeguard on the CBS series Wiseguy, along with a long list of prominent voice acting credits. But his first passion was playing guitar. Even after losing his legs in a highway accident in 1972, Jim continued to perform. That hard work and determination paid off with his acclaimed blues group, The Jim Byrnes Band. The band has released four albums and received multiple awards. Jim has been an active supporter of Variety chapters both in St. Louis, where he has appeared in 20 Telethon specials, and in Vancouver, B.C., where he currently resides. In 2006, Variety St. Louis recognized Mr. Byrnes with a Champion for Kids Award. This is Jim’s 27th year of appearing at Variety’s Dinner with the Stars! 11
Celebrating 19 years with Variety’s
DINNER WITH THE STARS EVENT CHAIR
Marilyn Fox It’s one thing to financially support a charity. It’s another thing entirely to embrace an organization’s mission with spirit and passion. Marilyn Fox, who returns for her 19th year as Chair of Dinner with the Stars, has made Variety and the children it serves a major part of her life. She’s an annual visitor at each summer’s Variety Adventure Camp, where children with a range of disabilities get to push their boundaries. Through the Fox Family Foundation, Marilyn also provides a generous endowment to support the camp. Though an unassuming presence in-person, Marilyn’s fire and drive have made an immense difference for Variety and dozens of other St. Louis institutions. Dinner with the Stars would not be the can’t-miss event that it is without Marilyn’s involvement. This year, Variety International will honor Marilyn’s longstanding commitment to Variety with its prestigious Presidential Citation Award. Marilyn with Variety child Josie
Marilyn also is a member of the Variety Board of Directors and has served on the Nominating and Executive Committees. Her unstoppable energy helps to feed Variety’s ambitions.
“Marilyn inspires me daily,” said CEO Jan Albus, “We are lucky to have her energy, time and talents that allows us to serve more children.”
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DINNER WITH THE STARS COMMITTEES
STEERING COMMITTEE
Nancy Kranzberg Pat Mercurio
NoĂŠmi Neidorff Peggy Ritter
Marsha Rusnack Thelma Steward
GALA COMMITTEE
Lisa & Greg Boyce Pat & Mark Burkhart MaryBeth & Jerry Daniels Cathy & Carter Dunkin Lelia & David Farr Cheri & Ron Fromm Belma & Henry Givens Kelly & Steve Gross Judy & Ray Gruender Vicki & Doug Hill Cathy & Dave Hogan Kerry & Bill Holekamp
Jessica & Chris Kerckhoff Laura & Spencer Koch Pat & Ed Kopetz Sue & Mark Koritz Debbie & Mike Lefton Julia & Larry Otto Lynne & Brooks Parriott Penny Pennington & Michael Fidler Nancy Schnoebelen & Joe Imbs Patti & Kevin Short Beth & Paul Stroble Carol & Tom Voss
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ALL KIDS SMILE IN THE SAME LANGUAGE.
HELP US MAKE MORE
SMILES :) WWW.HELPAVARIETYKID.ORG
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PAST MEN & WOMEN OF THE YEAR 1991
Andrew B. Craig III and Virginia Cornelius
1990
Lee M. Liberman and Barbara Bridgewater*
1989
August A. Busch III and Marguerite Ross Barnett*
1988
Stanley C. Pace and Priscilla McDonnell
1987
Charles F. Knight and Patricia Bush
1986
Sanford N. McDonnell* and Ann Liberman
1985
Zane E. Barnes* and Mary Strauss
1984
George Capps* and Patty Battram
1983
Michael L. Pulitzer and Virginia Barnes
1982
Clarence C. Barksdale and Margie Wolcott May*
Kurt Warner and Barbara Jacob
1981
G. Duncan Bauman* and Mary Patricia Spence*
2000
E. Desmond Lee* and Gloria Waters White*
1980
John R. Weber Sr.* and Jane Harris*
1999
Senator Jack Danforth and Charmaine Chapman*
1979
Harry Bussman Jr.* and Rosalie Ewing
1978
Joseph R. Marion* and Katherine Walsh*
1998
John E. Jacob and Janet McAfee Weakley*
1977
Milton Mandel* and Mary Benes*
1997
John W. Bachmann and Joanne Knight
1976
Leon Neuman* and Gloria Weber
1996
Robert R. Hermann and Marilyn Fox
1975
Tony Peluso* and Lillian Shenker*
1995
William Danforth and Marion Black
1974
Edwin D. Dorsey and Grace Lichtenstein*
1994
Ted C. Wetterau* and Mary Ann Van Lokeren
1973
Frank Chevitz* and Nora Bauman*
1993
Edward E. Whitacre Jr. and Virginia L. Busch
1972
Joseph Simpkins*
1992
Benjamin F. Edwards III* and Kimmy Brauer
1971
John H. Londoff*
2014
Tom Voss and Lelia Farr
2013
Jim Weddle and NoĂŠmi Neidorff
2012
Michael Neidorff and Thelma Steward
2011
George H. Walker III and Pat Mercurio
2010
David Farr and Linda Martinez
2009
Hugh Grant and Marsha Rusnack
2008
Walter Metcalfe and Nancy Kranzberg
2007
Scott Schnuck and Cindy Brinkley
2006
David Steward and Peggy Ritter
2005
Patrick Stokes and Georgia Frontiere*
2004
Dennis Jones and Mary Ann Lee
2003
David Darnell and Donna Wilkinson
2002
Sam Fox and Emily Rauh Pulitzer
2001
* Deceased
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Woman of the Year ALISON FERRING Variety’s 2015 Woman of the Year is an arts supporter and a leading philanthropist in the St. Louis area. Alison Ferring is a 2010 Grand Center Visionary Award winner, a 2003 Woman of Achievement, and serves on numerous boards, including Laumeier Sculpture Park, St. Louis Public Library Foundation, St. Louis Public Library Board, and Sheldon Art Gallery Board. Alison is also on the Sam Fox School National Advisory Board at Washington University. “Alison feels that the arts tap into our humanity in a very compelling way,” says Jan Albus, CEO of Variety the Children’s Charity. “We at Variety feel a kinship to her, through our programs such as Variety Children’s Theatre and Variety Children’s Chorus. We too believe that arts can have the power to inspire. The Variety kids epitomize this spirit of never giving up, and with their performances, they become the true stars.” 16
“VARIETY KIDS POSSESS A TALENT FOR JOY. THEIR INNER STRENGTH AND DETERMINATION MAKE THEM ALL SHINING STARS IN MY BOOK.” – ALISON FERRING
A founding member of Shakespeare Festival St. Louis, Alison recently co-chaired the $20 million Campaign for the St. Louis Public Library. Together with her husband John, she is also very involved with Children’s Hospital, COCA, Contemporary Art Museum and Forest Park Forever. “Variety kids possess a talent for joy. Their inner strength and determination make them all shining stars in my book,” Alison says.
Man of the Year DANNY LUDEMAN Danny Ludeman, former president and CEO of Wells Fargo Advisors, provided executive leadership for the nation’s third largest full service brokerage firm. Active in industry and civic affairs, he serves or has served on the boards of the United Way of Greater St. Louis, Missouri Botanical Garden, The Muny, CityArchRiver 2015, Washington University, University of Richmond, Opera Theatre of St. Louis and Variety the Children’s Charity. Ludeman also chaired the St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association and was a member of Civic Progress, St. Louis. Since his retirement, Danny divides his time between his theological studies at Covenant Seminary, where he is pursuing a divinity degree, and the formation of an expanded non-profit to assist individuals in successfully re-integrating into society from prison.
“DANNY LUDEMAN INSPIRES THE NEXT GENERATION TO BREAK NEW GROUND AND PUSH SOCIETY FORWARD, JUST AS VARIETY DOES.” – JAN ALBUS, CEO OF VARIETY
Danny is married to Susan Ludeman. They have four children and are members of The Crossing. “Danny Ludeman inspires the next generation to break new ground and push society forward, just as Variety does,” says Jan Albus, CEO of Variety. “We admire how Danny works to improve the St. Louis business community and understands that strong businesses have a responsibility to support the non-profit community.”
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THANK YOU TO OUR VARIETY WEEK SUPPORTERS
MAJOR PARTNERS
SUPPORTING PARTNERS
MEDIA PARTNERS THE ONES
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WHO CARE
PRODUCTION TEAM Jan Albus................................................Executive Producer Christina Wilde...........................................................Director Avatar Studios...........................Audio Production
Sarah Marsden.........................Levy Catering
Eric Bowman.............................Animation Designer
Chuck Neff..................................Feature Producer
Laura Boyle.................................Graphic Designer
Donna Postel.............................Program Announcements
Angie Carr....................................Peabody Event Manager
Julie Probst..................................Front of House Event Director
Bill Conerly..................................Graphics Manager/ Video Producer Brook Culleton..........................Stage Manager
Michelle Rago...........................Ballroom Presentation
Jeremy Goldmeier ................Script Writer
Brittney Reecy...........................Ballroom Presentation Assistant
Diane Gruszka...........................Youth Director
Brian Roy......................................Director of Operations
Patty Haeffner...........................Administrative Manager
Alexandra Santacroce.........Sales Coordinator
Mary Hill........................................FOX 2 Producer
Sean Savoie................................Production Manager
Barb Kramer...............................Youth Director
Greg Schweizer........................Variety Chorus Director
Jean Larson Steck...................Director of Communications
Chip Self........................................Technical Director
Justin Leibrecht.......................Special Events Coordinator
Adrian Silverstein....................Peabody Production Liaison
Julie Hankley..............................Assistant Youth Director
Lindsey Wilde............................Stage Manager
Brian Hornbeck........................Levy Catering
Tom Williamson.........................Production Stage Manager
VARIETY STAFF Jan Albus Chief Executive Officer
Patty Haeffner Assistant to the CEO
Julie Probst Director of Special Events
Christina Altholz Chief Financial Officer
Karen Haglin Accounting Manager
Brian Roy Chief Operating Officer
Laura Boyle Creative Producer
Julie Hankley Program Manager
Linda Sanders Development Director
Misty Burton Therapy Services Manager
Barb Kramer Program Director
Alexandra Santacroce Gift Officer
Jeremy Goldmeier Communications Manager
Justin Leibrecht Event Coordinator
Jean Larson Steck Communications Director
Diane Gruszka Health Services Director
Janna Greenwood Database Manager 19
VARIETY CLUB PARTNER
For World Wide Technology and its founder, Variety is a family affair. WWT’s Founder and Chairman of the Board, David Steward, previously served as President of the Variety Board of Directors for four years, participates on the Nominating Committee and now holds the position of Chairman Emeritus. His wife Thelma has been an active member since 2000. For the past five years she has served as Chair of the Variety Runway Lights Fashion Show. Their children, Dave Jr. and Mary Steward and Kimberly Steward have faithfully served for the last several years in various capacities, donating their time, energy and resources in support of Variety. Over the past nine years, WWT and The Steward Family Foundation have donated more than $4 million to Variety. They have been proud sponsors of the Bikes for Kids Program since 2006 and their generosity helped the Variety Children’s Chorus travel to perform at the White House in 2008.
David Steward, World Wide Technology Chairman of the Board, with Variety child Adair
WWT is committed to spurring lasting change in the St. Louis area through scholarship awards, youth development, project support and other community activities. “We are truly honored to support Variety and the children of St. Louis,” said David Steward. For the fourth year in a row, WWT and The Steward Family Foundation are two of the underwriting partners for tonight’s event, ensuring that every dollar raised will go directly to Variety.
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VARIETY CLUB PARTNER
Centene Corporation and Variety make for a perfect match. As a St. Louis-based company that works to support organizations that deal with youth and health-related issues, Centene has been instrumental in helping Variety to carry out its mission to help children with disabilities reach their full potential. In 2012, Variety named Centene Chairman, President and CEO Michael Neidorff as its Man of the Year. His wife, Noémi, followed in 2013 as Variety’s Woman of the Year and also serves on Variety’s Board of Directors. In 2012, the Neidorffs and the Centene Charitable Foundation established a named endowment to help guarantee that Variety’s Adventure Camp will always be available to area children with physical and intellectual disabilities. Centene has consistently been one of Variety’s top-level partners. In 2014, the company won the Variety International Corporate Award to honor its commitment to Variety kids. Additionally, the Neidorffs have been Starlight sponsors of Variety Children’s Theatre for the past three years.
Centene President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Neidorff with Variety child Mia
Realizing how vital the Dinner with the Stars gala is to raising funds for Variety and also awareness of how Variety’s programs impact the lives of disabilities, Michael Neidorff spearheaded the underwriting of the event starting in 2012 to ensure that every dollar raised at the gala goes directly to Variety. Centene returns once again as one of the underwriting partners for tonight’s event!
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CEA-7925B-A © 2015 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Helping Our Children Move Up We are proud to support the important work of Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis.
Member SIPC
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VARIETY CLUB PARTNER
Over the past 18 years, Edward Jones has been proud to support the life-changing work of Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis. It’s all about children and providing the equipment, support and opportunities they need to reach their fullest potential. Every year during Variety Week, Edward Jones associates assist with the Help A Variety Kid Challenge, fielding donation calls from the public. Meanwhile, a number of prominent Edward Jones partners have stepped up to the plate over the years to support Variety’s work with St. Louis youth. In 2013, Variety named Edward Jones Managing Partner Jim Weddle its Man of the Year for his tireless work in supporting area nonprofits. Penny Pennington, Principal, Client Strategies Group, serves as Chair of Variety Women and also on the Variety Board of Directors Executive Committee as Secretary. Edward Jones Senior Partner Doug Hill previously served on Variety’s Board of Directors. John Bachmann, also a Senior Partner, served on the board for six years and for his dedication was named Variety Man of the Year in 1997. In 2015, Variety International rewarded Edward Jones’ commitment with a Corporate Award for outstanding support.
Edward Jones Managing Partner Jim Weddle with Variety child Gracie
Edward Jones believes in the potential of Variety to change children’s lives and is proud to support the organization with both time and financial resources.
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Emerson is proud to support Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis We salute the organizers, sponsors, celebrities and individuals who will donate their time, talent and treasure during the annual Dinner With the Stars to benefit children with physical and mental disabilities in the Greater St. Louis region.
World Headquarters 8000 W. Florissant Ave. St. Louis, Missouri 63136 www.emerson.com
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VARIETY CLUB PARTNER
Emerson has supported Variety for more than four decades, donating more than $3.3 million to assist Variety in its mission to help children with disabilities reach their full potential. Emerson, winner of the 2011 Variety International Corporate Award, holds a tradition of support for Variety that extends through the company’s executive ranks. David Farr, Emerson’s Chairman and Chief Executive officer, was Variety’s 2010 Man of the Year. His wife, Lelia Farr, followed as the 2014 Variety Woman of the Year. They were also Patron sponsors for Variety Children’s Theatre in 2014. Emerson’s partnership with Variety initiatives today is overseen by Patrick J. Sly, Executive Vice President. Emerson also is the presenting sponsor of Variety’s Resource Center, which provides valuable information and expert referrals to resolve the legal, social, therapeutic, educational, medical and counseling issues often encountered by families of children with disabilities. Emerson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David Farr with Variety child Madison
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VARIETY CLUB PARTNER
Since 1983, Nestlé Purina has been proud to partner with Variety to provide this tremendous organization with more than $1.8 million in support. Because of Purina’s core belief in the powerful benefits of relationships between people and pets, Purina is pleased to have been able to collaborate with Variety on the introduction of a service dog program, as well as provide many Variety children with food for their pets. Purina funding also has gone toward the purchase of medical equipment, including 11 Sunshine Coach Vans, and programs for Variety children and their dedicated families. In 2013, Purina hosted hundreds of Variety kids and their families for an incredible outing at the Purina Farms Event Center, which included a show led by John Casey with the Purina Pro Plan Performance Team. John also served as one of the judges for a thorough round of canine auditions to cast the role of Sandy the dog in the Variety Children’s Theatre production of “Annie.” The wonderful work that Variety does for our community has also inspired Purina to host several consumer promotions over the years to support the organization, including “Paws for Kids.” Steve Crimmins, Purina’s Chief Marketing Officer, is Vice Chair of the Variety Board of Directors, serves on the Executive Committee and chairs both the Marketing Committee and the Variety Week Leadership Group.
Purina Chief Marketing Officer Steve Crimmins with Variety child Isaac and Isaac’s dog, Daisy
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POWERING THE QUALITY OF LIFE Ameren provides electricity and natural gas that is vitally important to our region, powering the quality of life for an estimated population of six million people in Illinois and Missouri. Ameren proudly supports Variety St. Louis.
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MAJOR PARTNER
With a St. Louis-centric history dating back to lighting up the 1904 World’s Fair, Ameren Corporation is part of the bedrock of our region. Throughout its history, Ameren has gone the extra mile by lending its power to area charities. Variety is proud to be a part of that history. For the past decade, the “Ameren PowerKids” project has brought the latest technology in medical equipment to Variety children. Since 2003, more than 50 Variety kids have received power wheelchairs thanks to Ameren’s gift. In 2013, Ameren employees stepped up to the plate via the “Power to 50” campaign, raising $30,000 to buy Ameren’s 49th and 50th power wheelchairs for Variety kids. This equipment allows children a range of mobility that might not have been possible even two decades ago. PowerKids uniquely links the power company serving St. Louis to kids who desperately need powered medical equipment to reach their full potential. The Ameren PowerKids are featured each year in the Runway Lights Fashion Show, which kicks off Variety Week.
Warner Baxter, Chairman, President and CEO of Ameren
In 2010, Ameren was honored with Variety’s President’s Award — recognizing the company’s overall dedication to Variety’s mission. In 2014, Variety named Ameren’s then-President and CEO Tom Voss as its Man of the Year. His successor, Warner Baxter, helped to emcee this year’s PowerKids segment at the Runway Lights Fashion Show.
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MAJOR PARTNER
Bank of America has been involved at every level of Variety’s success. Over the past 20 years, the company has donated more than $2.1 million to Variety and sponsored 13 Sunshine Coach vans, which transport Variety children to therapy and doctor appointments. Its employees have donated countless hours of support through volunteer efforts and currently serve on Variety’s Board, Programs Committee, Finance Committee and the Variety Week Leadership Group. Variety presented Bank of America with its President’s Award in 2004 for exhibiting outstanding assistance to Variety kids. “Variety and Bank of America share a common mission in providing necessary resources to create stability for families in the St. Louis community to thrive,” said Larry Otto, Bank of America Missouri President. “We cherish our longstanding relationship with Variety as we celebrate their rich history of support and instilling a ‘can do attitude’ in area children with disabilities, helping them to succeed.”
Bank of America Missouri President Larry Otto with Variety child Dominic
In 2015, Variety further solidified its partnership with Bank of America by naming Otto as its Chairman of the Board. Otto is the fourth Bank of America president to hold this role. His enthusiasm for Variety kids is evident, and Variety deeply appreciates his hands-on leadership.
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HELP LENORE SHINE
Lenore
Lenore was a normal kid for the first few years of her life, until a tumor in her spine changed everything. By age three, Lenore could no longer use her legs, and her parents had to navigate a gauntlet of insurance policies and hospital bills. Lenore’s parents Karin and John were at their lowest point—then they heard about Variety. In working with her family to help pay for a power wheelchair, a hand-pedaled bicycle and a life-changing summer camp experience, Variety has made it our mission to keep Lenore’s spirit burning bright. Variety provided an instant safety net: whatever equipment or therapy that insurance wouldn’t cover, Variety would provide. “Just in knowing that Variety was there, it’s miraculous the amount of worry and stress and sleeplessness that Variety took from us,” Karin says. Now Lenore is thriving: she’s an avid bicyclist and enthusiastic participant at Variety Adventure Camp. Thanks to Variety, she can focus on just being a kid!
WHY YOUR GIFT MATTERS Special equipment for kids in need comes in many forms! By donating tonight, you can supply these vital items: • Power wheelchairs that provide revolutionary mobility and independence. • Therapeutic bicycles that get kids off the sidelines to play with friends and family. • Hearing aids that open up an entire new world of sound. • Speech devices that allow non-verbal children to express themselves. • Braces, standers, bath chairs and more essentials that are rarely covered by health insurance. 32
EVERY DAY WE’RE HUMBLED
AND PROUD TO HELP.
WILL YOU? Hand the attached donation envelope to Variety staff, or mail it in at a later date!
www.helpavarietykid.org
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MAJOR PARTNER
Express Scripts, a major-level sponsor since 2010, has played a vital role in launching one of Variety’s newest and most successful programs. TherHappy Kids ensures that children with disabilities not only have the medical equipment they need, but the therapy to support them while they use it. Variety assists with funding for more than 230 children to pursue physical, occupational, speech, equine and aqua therapy. With Express Scripts as a founding partner, Variety is able to pick up co-pays or bills when insurance money runs out for families. In 2014, Variety awarded Express Scripts with its Corporate Partnership Award to celebrate the company’s impactful support. Variety and Express Scripts share a common goal of helping children reach their full potential. Express Scripts is proud to support initiatives that provide access to health and medical services for those in need, educate underserved youth to prepare them for success, provide Express Scripts Chairman, President and CEO George Paz with services to U.S. military troops and their Variety child Jenna families, and strengthen communities by aiding children and families in need. Every day, Express Scripts employees work to help patients, caregivers and medical professionals make better decisions to achieve healthier outcomes. The charitable giving of Express Scripts and the Express Scripts Foundation, coupled with the generous giving and volunteer efforts of its employees, make a positive difference in the communities where it operates, particularly in its hometown of St. Louis.
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Beyond Compare - Nathan’s Smile
We at Imo’s know our annual Imo’s For Kids Day helps to bring smiles to the faces of thousands of local children, including Nathan. And, we feel so grateful to be able to help.
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MAJOR PARTNER
For 50 years now, St. Louisans know and love Imo’s Pizza as “The Square Beyond Compare,” producing thin-crust pizza that serves as a regional calling card. But for more than 17 years, Imo’s has redubbed itself “The Care Beyond Compare” in helping to raise money for Variety. Each year during Variety Week, the company presents Imo’s For Kids Day. Spinning pizza into a great cause, St. Louis-area Imo’s Pizza locations donate 10 to 20 percent of sales for that day to Variety. This program has raised more than $1.5 million to date for Variety. What’s more, Margie and Ed Imo have personally donated funding to build the “Observation and Relaxation” Deck of the Dennis and Judith Jones Variety Wonderland Playground in Forest Park. They also generously support Variety Adventure Camp. And now, the next generation of Imo’s is contributing. Margie and Ed’s son Carl Imo and his wife Kelly have spearheaded a new Imo’s Vice President Margie Imo with Variety child Lindsey fundraising program, the “Variety Pizza Pack,” which provides groups and companies the opportunity to sell private label pizza packs to benefit Variety. The Imos are especially proud of receiving the Variety’s 2007 President’s Award, recognizing their company’s many contributions to the Variety mission. Margie was further recognized in 2014 with the Variety International Presidential Citation Award for her exceptional and sustained contributions to Variety St. Louis.
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MAJOR PARTNER
Wehrenberg Theatres and Variety share more than just a love for putting on a great show. The two organizations have been linked from the very start: Wehrenberg’s founder and namesake, Fred Wehrenberg, served on Variety’s first Board of Directors. This makes it only natural for the local theatre chain to embrace the major supporting role in the Variety Gold Heart Pin Program, which features the sales of a different movie-themed Gold Heart Pin each year. The 2014 Campaign, featuring Star Wars characters Darth Vader and Yoda, raised more than $150,000, with the sale of 33,000+ pins. The ongoing 2015 campaign, which features the Minions from Despicable Me, is doing just as well! This summer, Wehrenberg went the extra mile and provided free movie passes to more than a dozen Variety families, which included accessible seating for kids with disabilities.
Wehrenberg Theatres Executive Vice President and COO Bill Menke with Variety teen Libby
Throughout 24 years of fundraising campaigns, Wehrenberg Theatres has helped Variety to raise more than $1.1 million for St. Louis children with disabilities.
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OF PROUD SUPPORTERS
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MEDIA PARTNER
FOX 2 and KPLR 11 are the official television partners of Variety. From the Runway Lights Fashion Show segments, to promoting the Help a Variety Kid Challenge to live news from Dinner with the Stars, Variety Week and the kids of Variety are a priority for FOX 2 and KPLR 11. In 2014, FOX 2 and KPLR 11 aired hundreds of Variety PSAs and featured Variety kids on air over 50 times. These stories and PSAs covered everything from Variety’s Runway Lights Fashion Show, Imo’s for Kids Day, and live interviews with kids in the studio. For their dedication, FOX 2 and KPLR 11 received the 2014 Variety International Media Award as one of the most valuable media partners for any Variety chapter in the world! “Both of our stations have a long history of serving the St. Louis community, and every year all of us here are eager to bring awareness and support to the Variety kids,” said Spencer Koch, President and General Manager of KTVI FOX 2 and KPLR 11.
FOX 2/ KPLR 11 General Manager Spencer Koch with Variety child Sofia and her dad.
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MEDIA PARTNER
For Variety, it’s essential to have committed media partners like the St. Louis Post-Dispatch to help spread the word about its work. The newspaper has teamed with Variety ever since the charity’s first annual telethon in 1967. Each year, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch provides Variety with a gift of advertising space to promote events and activities related to Variety Week through ads and special advertising sections in the newspaper, as well as advertising and contests on stltoday.com and in Ladue News. The Post-Dispatch fulfills a vital role in driving the awareness and funding for the children of Variety. With more than nine pages of advertising space and more than 1.5 million online impressions, this year’s campaign drove awareness of Variety’s mission to the entire community. The Post-Dispatch brought its commitment to a new level in 2015 with its online promotion of the Help a Variety Kid Challenge. Over the years, Post-Dispatch leaders have shared their vision and generosity with Variety. St. Louis Post-Dispatch Publisher Ray Farris with Variety child Zach Publisher Ray Farris serves on the Variety Board of Directors and its Executive Committee. In addition to four decades of this outstanding media relationship, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has sponsored 18 Variety Sunshine Coach vans for Variety partner agencies. For this, and all of the work the Post-Dispatch has done for Variety, the newspaper received Variety’s International Media Award for print in both 2003, 2007 and 2015.
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More than meets the eye. Midtown Printing is now Modern Litho-St. Louis. And that is just the tip of the iceberg...
To learn more about our offerings visit MODERNLITHO.COM 2115 59th Street | St. Louis, MO 63110 | 314-781-6505
WISHING VARIETY CHILDREN’S CHARITY SUCCESS! SKIP BRAY, Account Representative sbray@modernlitho.com
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Thank you,
Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis, for helping children and families.
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We are Proud to Support Variety the Children's Charity of St. Louis ST. LOUIS
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Hanger Clinic is dedicated to serving children with orthotic and prosthetic needs in Missouri. We specialize in pediatric bracing and offer the most advanced technology and unsurpassed customer service. Hanger Clinic provides the following services:
PROUD SUPPORTER of
VARIETY
• Burn Garments
• Pediatric Orthoses & Prostheses
• Pediatric Cranial Remolding
• Scoliosis Treatment
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• WalkAide® – Technology for Foot Drop
150 St. Peters Centre Boulevard, Suite A, St. Peters, MO 63376 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 636-922-3260 13131 Tesson Ferry Road, Suite 121, St. Louis, MO 63128 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-849-5026 4483 Forest Park Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63108 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-535-5755 9719 Olive Boulevard, Olivette, MO 63132 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-567-6844 3533 Dunn Road, Suite 226, Florissant, MO 63033 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314-831-7844
Facebook.com/HangerNews Twitter.com/HangerNews YouTube.com/HangerNews EmpoweringAmputees.org
1-877-4HANGER
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ENCORE SOCIETY According to the Office of Special Education Programs, the number of students with disabilities has increased 36% over the past 20 years. You can do something today to ensure that St. Louis children with disabilities can always turn to Variety for help. Please consider joining Variety’s Encore Society, created to honor and recognize those who want to provide for local children by denoting a gift to Variety in their will, trust or estate plan. The process is simple, beginning with a conversation with your attorney regarding your wish. All Encore Society members receive a certificate of appreciation and are recognized in our Annual Report (unless you prefer to remain anonymous). If you have already arranged for a bequest or other planned gift, we ask that you notify us so we can honor your support. Otherwise, if you are considering such a gift, please contact Variety so we can help you and your advisors during the process in order to benefit your estate while making clear your intention to support Variety the Children’s Charity of St. Louis. 314-720-7700 or www.varietystl.org
ENCORE SOCIETY MEMBERS Mark & Merri Abels Albert Becker Linda & Cliff Eason Sam & Marilyn Fox Arabella R. Gieseler Judith & Raymond Gruender Marcella Hager Mike & Laura Herring Margaret & Edward Imo Mary E. James J. Christopher & Jessica Kerckhoff Mark & Susan R. Koritz Dorothy F. Krekeler
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Ruth M. Kourkafas Living Trust Steven Leach Joan & Michael Malloy Lyn & Michael Niemann David Pasternak Trust Katie & Steve Schankman Mr. Russell Schrempp Bob & Kimberly Springer Ms. Eula Strothers Marie Winningham Martha M. Wallin Trust Florence Westaver Trust Edith & Alan Wolff
VARIETY CHILDREN’S THEATRE PRESENTS
OCTOBER 23-25, 2015 TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER OCTOBER 23 – 10 A.M. & 7:30 P.M. OCTOBER 24 – 1:30 & 7 P.M. OCTOBER 25 – 1:30 P.M. ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN IF YOU LET IT. www.varietychildrenstheatre.org 63
WWT IS PROUD TO SUPPORT VARIETY THE CHILDREN’S CHARITY OF ST. LOUIS
World Wide Technology, Inc. (WWT) is dedicated to supporting the community and non-profit organizations who work to broaden opportunities and increase the potential for all individuals. WWT is fully aligned with Variety’s mantra of “I CAN!” and honored to play a role in making this year’s Dinner with Stars possible. Visit us online: www.wwt.com
60 WELDON PARKWAY
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ST. LOUIS, MO 63043
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800.432.7008
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www.wwt.com