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Evening of Hope
Gala '10
February 6, 2010
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August 20, 2009 >>
February 10, 2009 >>
December 8, 2008 >>
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August 20, 2009
Tom Douglas and Jackie Cross to be Honored at "Evening of Hope"
Seattle Hotel Association's Annual Gala Benefits The Market Foundation

SEATTLE - Aug. 20, 2009 — The Seattle Hotel Association (SHA) will honor Tom Douglas and Jackie Cross at the 13th annual "Evening of Hope." Held at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel on Saturday, February 6, 2010, the annual fundraising dinner and gala auction will benefit The Market Foundation for the first time.

Each year, SHA honors members of the community who have shown dedication in improving and supporting Seattle. This year's honorees, Tom Douglas and his wife and business partner, Jackie Cross, have helped define Pacific Northwest cuisine. Over the course of more than 20 years, Tom's creativity with local ingredients and his respect for Seattle's ethnic traditions have helped him win numerous awards and accolades, including the James Beard Award for Best Northwest Chef in 1994. Tom's love of food continues to evolve beyond the restaurant scene; he serves on the boards of Food Lifeline, One Reel and the Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Tom and Jackie own five Seattle's restaurants: Dahlia Lounge (nominated for Best Restaurant by the James Beard Association in 2006), Etta's, Palace Kitchen (nominated for Best New Restaurant by the James Beard Association in 1997), Lola, and Serious Pie. In addition, Tom runs a retail bakery, Dahlia, a catering business, Tom Douglas' Catering and Events, and an event space, Palace Ballroom. He is also a cookbook author and owns a line of kitchen products with Amazon.com and Rub with Love spices and sauces.

Jackie Cross was born and raised in Spokane, Washington. After college in Seattle, she worked for several years at Pike and Western Wine Shop, as well as for two wholesale wine distribution companies. Jackie met Tom in the early 1980's, when she began working in the restaurant business, starting with Café Sport and then continuing on as Tom's business partner for the last 26 years. Jackie also plays an active community role, serving on the boards of Giant Magnet (formerly Seattle International Children's Festival) and the Blue Ridge neighborhood board. She is now working with Food Lifeline and chairing the 2009 Bag Hunger Luncheon.

The 2009 "Evening of Hope" will benefit The Market Foundation. Previous beneficiaries have included Northwest AIDS Foundation, the Puget Sound Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and most recently, Plymouth Housing Group. The Market Foundation was established in 1982 to support the four human service agencies that operate in Pike Place Market – the Pike Market Medical Clinic, Senior Center, Child Care & Preschool and Downtown Food Bank. Together, these agencies serve nearly 10,000 people in need each year in downtown Seattle.

"The Seattle Hotel Association is proud to support The Market Foundation in their efforts to fund critically needed services for low-income and homeless people in downtown Seattle," said Julia Schroder, Seattle Hotel Association president and managing director of Hotel Ändra.

"The Seattle food scene has long been about the food, the farmers' markets around town and the use of food to unite people and create social situations," said Tom Douglas. "Pike Place Market represents all those things. I'm excited about coming together at the Evening of Hope to help raise funds for the Market's services."

The 13th Annual "Evening of Hope" includes a four-course dinner by Executive Chef Gavin Stephenson, live and silent auction, live music, late night breakfast and dancing to Northwest favorite, Shelley & the Curves.

For tickets, contact Suzanne Hight at 206) 236-6167 or via email. Leveraging the collective strength of 58 downtown Seattle hotels, the Seattle Hotel Association gathers an impressive roster of products, services and live auction items each year. The Association has raised over $4.7 million in its charitable efforts.

Media Contact:
Meg Paynor, email, (206) 913-3848

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February 10, 2009
12th Annual "Evening of Hope" Raised More Than Half a Million Dollars
Towards Ending Homelessness in Seattle
Funds Raised by Seattle Hotel Association to Benefit Plymouth Housing Group

SEATTLE, WASH – February 10, 2009 – Hundreds of people in need of affordable housing and supportive services in Seattle will be aided thanks to the generous donations of the attendees of the 12th "Evening of Hope," where more than $526,000 was raised to benefit Plymouth Housing Group (PHG). The Seattle Hotel Association, its 58-member properties and the community have come together to raise more than $1.6 million dollars in the last three years that PHG has been a beneficiary of the annual fundraiser. Held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel, it was an entertaining, lively evening that kicked off the gala season in style. Proceeds from this gala will have an immediate impact to the nearly 1,000 apartment units and 17 retail tenants in 11 buildings of Plymouth Housing Group.

"The need to support and protect our community's most vulnerable citizens is more vital than ever," said Plymouth Executive Director Paul Lambros.

"Through this generous amount raised at the Evening of Hope gala, our model of supportive care will help Plymouth continue to transition homeless people from the streets into permanent housing."

H.S. Wright III and Kate Janeway, the gala's honorees, were recognized for their unsurpassed philanthropic dedication. The Seattle couple was introduced by Dr. Elson S. Floyd, president of Washington State University, and received a standing ovation from the sold out audience of more than 350 people. In addition to serving on the Boards of several Seattle foundations and donating time to several associations involved with tourism, the environment and arts and theatre, H. S. Wright III and Kate Janeway have been adamant supporters of Plymouth Housing Group's mission. In their speech, they commented that at a time when the country is struggling with financial challenges, it is wonderful to be part of an organization that helps those most in need and gives back to the Seattle community.

A departure from typical galas, the evening's "pillow fight against homelessness" theme invited guests to wear smoking jackets or elegant pajamas and evening wear, while The Fairmont Olympic's Spanish Ballroom and Foyer, Metropole Room and Garden Court were decorated with velvety-white feathers, romantic candelabras and silk pillows. In honor of the evening's attire, celebrity bar chef Kathy Casey created two signature cocktails, the Pink Fir Slipper and the Luxury Lounge Manhattan, which guests enjoyed while perusing silent auction items in the Metropole Room. Models from Turgeon-Raine Jewellers showcased sparkling jewels and THE FINERIE models sported the latest fashions.

Dressed in green polka dot silk pajamas, auctioneer John Curley set the tone for an evening of high energy and sophistication while calling on eager bidders for the many unique travel experiences and one-of-a-kind auction items. The live auction was a huge success with bidders competing for several premiere items. A king-sized Hästens bed, complete with The Westin's signature Heavenly Bed series sold for $19,000; an eight-day Italian getaway to Villa Maddalena in Medieval Montisi, Tuscany with a live performance from opera singer, Melvyn Poll sold for $6,000, while a sunset champagne-pairing reception at the Inn at the Market and dinner for ten at one of Tom Douglas' restaurants sold for $4,600. Despite the economic situation, guests were generous as they raised $178,000 in the "Raise the Paddle" portion of the live auction.

Dennis Clark, president of Seattle Hotel Association, noted that all donations, whether at the auction or through sponsorships, are essential to help organizations such as Plymouth Housing Group achieve their goals in making the community a better place and giving hope to those less fortunate.

Executive Chef Gavin Stephenson of The Fairmont Olympic Hotel created an exquisite four-course menu, and Pastry Chef Artis Kalsons' finale for the evening was his signature Espresso & White Chocolate Soufflé. The evening's festivities continued in the Garden Court, where guests danced to the grooves Shelley & the Curves.

The 2009 "Evening of Hope" was presented by JPMorgan Chase, sponsored by USA TODAY and emceed by gala co-chairs Julia Schroeder, managing director of Hotel Ändra, and Daniel Spurgeon, general manager of the Executive Hotel Pacific. Leveraging the collective strength of 58 downtown Seattle hotels, the Seattle Hotel Association gathers an impressive roster of products, services and live auction items each year. The 13th annual "Evening of Hope" will take place on Saturday, February 6, 2010. The Association has raised over $4.7 million in its charitable efforts.

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December 8, 2008
Seattle Hotel Association’s 12th Annual "Evening of Hope"
Benefits Plymouth Housing Group
H.S. Wright III and Kate Janeway to be honored at gala to battle homelessness

Dec 8, 2008 - The Seattle Hotel Association's (SHA) 59-member hotels is proud to announce that H.S. Wright III and Kate Janeway are the honorees of its 12th annual fundraising dinner and gala auction, the "Evening of Hope." The highly anticipated gala will once again raise funds for Plymouth Housing Group, which provides supportive housing for more than 1000 individuals who would otherwise be homeless in downtown Seattle. The event will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel.

Plymouth Housing Group (PHG) provides housing that is safe and affordable and opportunities for the homeless to improve their lives. With the funds raised at last year's "Evening of Hope," Plymouth Housing Group completed its $52 million "Building Hope" Capital Campaign, adding 300 units of affordable housing for homeless adults in Seattle. The last project of the campaign, the Langdon and Anne Simons Senior Apartments at 3rd & Blanchard opened its doors to homeless seniors and veterans on January 17, 2008. This year, funds raised at the Gala will help fund Plymouth's "supportive" services for residents, which include one-on-one case management, referral to mental health and chemical dependency counseling, and job training programs.

Mr. Wright and Ms. Janeway were selected as the event honorees for their unsurpassed philanthropic dedication. Community is important to the Seattle couple, and is evident in their work with many local, non-profit organizations and charitable giving.

Mr. Wright is Chairman and CEO of Seattle Hospitality Group, a large event planning and group management operator in the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. He is also a managing partner in a group of hotels including the Sheraton Seattle Hotel and Towers, and the Monterey Marriott (Monterey, California); as well as a stockholder in the Space Needle Corporation. Mr. Wright is also on the board of several affiliated associations involved with tourism and Seattle arts and theatre.

Ms. Janeway is president of Great Governance Group, which leads mission-driven organizations, and family and closely-held businesses, through significant growth transitions. Her particular life-long interest and passion is environmental protection. Ms. Janeway has decades of experience leading Boards and enterprises in environmental, arts and social enterprise arenas. She currently serves on the Boards of five foundations, including the Washington Women's Foundation.

A departure from typical galas, this year's theme, "A Pillowfight Against Homelessness," will be a feather-filled evening of fun, with attendees donning elegant pajamas and smoking jackets. The fashions of the evening will reflect the latest in evening wear, for at home and for a night out in the town. A delicious four-course menu will be prepared by Executive Chef Gavin Stephenson. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception and silent auction in The Spanish Foyer, as well as a fashion show featuring style and fashion trends from Gene Juarez Salons & Spas, The Finerie and Turgeon-Raine Jewellers.

An "Evening of Hope" mainstay, attendees can still expect one-of-a-kind live auction items such as Washington winemaker diners, tickets to sporting events and a wide variety of distinctive experiences including a behind-the-scenes look at Pike Place Fish market with the Fish Mongers; a Paella Party for 20 and a Poker Party at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel. Unique vacation packages to exotic destinations include Paris, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Luxury auction items include a Hästens bed, valued at over $25,000, and known for its hand made craftsmanship and quality materials fit for a king.

The 2009 Evening of Hope presenting sponsors is JPMorgan Chase, media sponsor is USA TODAY, and fashion sponsors are Gene Juarez Salons & Spas and The Finerie. Local media personality, John Curley, will be on hand to be the auctioneer for the event.

"Evening of Hope" co-chairs Julia Schroeder, managing director of Hotel Andra, and Daniel Spurgeon, general manager of the Executive Hotel Pacific, along with countless volunteers from the Seattle Hotel Association and Plymouth Housing Group, continue to help make this fundraiser a success. SHA hopes to surpass the quarter of a million raised last year. Tickets, priced at $400 per person, are available by contacting Suzanne Hight at 206-236-6167 or suzanne@seattlehotelassociation.org.

Leveraging the collective strength of 59 downtown Seattle hotels, SHA gathers an impressive roster of products, services and live auction items each year. The Association has raised over $4.2 million in its charitable efforts. Visit www.seattlehotelassociation.org for more information.

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February 11, 2008
Seattle Hotel Association's 11th Annual Gala Raised Funds
Towards Ending Homelessness in Seattle

Contact: Meg Paynor
Email: meg.paynor@fairmont.com
Phone: 206-287-4056

SEATTLE – February 11, 2008 – From extraordinary travel experiences to silent auction items, $529,000 was raised during the 11th Annual "Evening of Hope," Seattle Hotel Association’s most glamorous event to date, benefiting Plymouth Housing Group (PHG). Held on Saturday, February 9, it was a magical evening in which the hotel industry and the community came together in one common goal – to help improve Seattle’s downtown core. This year’s Gala proceeds will continue to help PHG in funding supportive services that keep residents safe and independent in their homes.

"There is a vital need for housing for homeless and very low-income people with intensive support," said Plymouth Executive Director Paul Lambros. "Through this generous amount raised at the Evening of Hope gala, our model of supportive care will not only provide tenants a permanent home, but will also give them access to a full range of supportive services including 24-hour staff."

The annual black-tie event was held at The Fairmont Olympic Hotel. The evening began with a cocktail reception featuring Plymouth Mayflower Martinis and from there the generous mood was set as gala attendees began bidding on various silent auction packages. That kindness carried through to the live auction as guests entered the Spanish Ballroom, which was transformed into a colorful Spring oasis of beautiful tulips, greenery and sparkling candles. MaxMara showcased Spring fashions and guests feasted on an extraordinary dinner prepared by the Fairmont's Executive Chef, Gavin Stevenson.

Patrons also opened their pocketbooks for lavish items and dazzling one-of-a kind food, wine, fashion and travel packages. A one-week stay in a private, luxurious Italian villa, complete with a personalized culinary experience went for $8,500 and was sold twice, while a year's supply of shoes provided by Mario’s raised $3,500. One of the unique packages, a Hulu Hula and Karaoke party and a trip to Kauai and Maui, raised $7,000. A day of river rafting on the Wenatchee River with four Seattle Firefighters received some hot attention as General Manager Elisabeth James, the lucky winner, was elevated above the crowd by two of the 2008 Seattle Firefighter calendar hunks!

Dennis Clark, president of Seattle Hotel Association, noted that all donations, whether at the silent auction or during Raise the Paddle, in which $163,100 alone was raised, are essential to help organizations such as Plymouth Housing Group achieve their goals in making the community a better place and giving hope to those less fortunate.

The evening also recognized the efforts of Jeff and Tricia Raikes for their philanthropic efforts on education, youth and community priorities, such as homelessness. "Plymouth Housing Group plays a critical role in addressing homelessness in our community. We're honored to join Seattle Hotel Association in raising awareness and support for their work," said Jeff Raikes.

The 2008 event was presented by WaMu and sponsored by Microsoft and fashion sponsor MaxMara. Leveraging the collective strength of 53 downtown Seattle hotels, the Seattle Hotel Association gathers an impressive roster of products, services and live auction items each year. The Association has raised over $4.2 million in its charitable efforts.

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