2008 SAAC GALA RECAP
"Art Pops"

Lights, action and fun. The "joint was jumping" to the music of MSU's get-with-it band BARK. Laughter mingled with bright 1970's colors of lime green, teal, silver and black. Several guests were heard to say, in different ways, "I remember the 70's well." The beautiful decorations in the lobby and dining room set a playful mood. The artworks, MSU memorabilia, items of unique charm and whimsy graced the silent auction tables; good food filled the buffet tables.

At this year's event, SAAC honored Mayor Dan Camp with the first annual "Award of Excellence in the Arts," following it with carefree awards to the Stars of 2007. Shining Star, Betty Jane Chatham. Shining Star, Bryan and Maria Prather. Bright Shining Star, Wanda Thorne. Bright Shining Star, Andy Gaston. Rainbow, Ruth and Armando de la Cruz. Super Nova, Dan Camp. We cheered, we clapped, and then the show began under a 1970's style disco ball with the music "Saturday Night Live" blaring. Mr. "Club 51" Brian Hawkins hit the dance floor and the crowd went wild. Various beauties from the front tables were pulled out on the dance floor; soon it was clear that "the hustle" still lives in Starkville. Dancing to the hip sounds of BARK finished the evening, and, frankly, this Cinderella's shoes were long gone when the clock struck 11:00.

We thank all those who attended, all those who gave of their time and talents to make it beautiful, Elaine Peterson for her amazing DVD presentation of past events, all those who donated the wonderful silent auction items, the MSU Department of Art as our co-sponsor, and You for supporting us.