On Thursday, September 26th, over 200 guests gathered at the Millennium Center in Downtown Winston-Salem for the annual Birthday Blast for the Children’s Law Center of Central North Carolina. The Children’s Law Center was founded 14 years ago and has been a lifeline for children exposed to high-level conflict and violence in their own homes.

This year’s birthday blast was set into motion with entertainment provided by the Camel City Jazz Orchestra. As guests mingled to the spirited entertainment, they enjoyed small bites and wine, donated by The Village Tavern and by Rooster’s—A Noble Grille. A fabulous buffet dinner was provided by Greg Carlyle of the Millennium Center.  Local favorite Dewey’s Bakery made the creative cake with the scales of justice as the topper, which was edible.

The Founding Leadership award was presented to Dean Suzanne Reynolds and the Volunteer Leadership award was given to Pollyann Holthusen.  The evening’s Presenting Sponsor was Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton, Entertainment Sponsor was BB&T and the Voice Sponsors were Penny & Bill Spry.

The Hospitality Chairs were Melanie Lawless York and Sandee & Mike Lawless.  This year there was a new twist added, a Wine Pull in which every raffle ticket buyer won a bottle of wine. The Wine Pull committee was Emily Fletcher, Haley Mellert and Jane Morgan Smith.

Proceeds of the evening benefit The Children’s Law Center’s advocacy for children who are caught in the middle of their parents’ domestic violence and high-conflict custody cases.

Dr. Mike Lawless, a member of the Board of Directors, said, “We want children to have the means and the inspiration to find HOPE in their lives. I want them to know that all of you here tonight, the leaders of our community, are standing behind them on their journey.” 

For more information on the Children’s Law Center visit www.childrenslawcenternc.org