THE END of May buzzes with anticipation as locals await upcoming vacations, festivals, and holidays. Live on the Lawn, hosted by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Centennial Woman’s Club, is one of the earliest celebrations of the summer season. It was held on May 23 at the South Jackson Performing Arts Center’s outdoor stage.
“It’s casual, fun, and has been tremendously successful thanks to the generosity of the community,” Tanya Sheeley, chair of Live on the Lawn, said. She and co-chair Martha Grantham organized the event.
Funds were raised through ticket sales and a live auction hosted by Joe Orr. Auction items included Woodard’s jewelry, a weeklong vacation at a Mexican resort, gift baskets, handmade quilts, and more.
The band Slice of American Pie provided music. Attendees brought blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the evening with friends. Each ticket holder received a souvenir picnic bag, a boxed dinner, and a drink ticket. Additional drinks could be purchased separately.
Proceeds benefited two local causes: the South Jackson Performing Arts Center and Horse Play, a therapeutic riding center for children with disabilities or needs. The donations allowed South Jackson’s executive director, Greg Gressel, to offer drama camp scholarships this summer, while Horse Play’s president, Ken MacKay, will provide riding scholarships and horse care supplies. The women’s club chose groups that support Tullahoma’s children.
“Everyone in our club takes on some sort of responsibility that night,” Donna Rhoton, president of the GFWC, said. “We exceeded our goal! Whatever we don’t donate to the selected charities will go to other local nonprofits throughout the year.”
The event was supported by generous sponsors, including diamond-level sponsor Weichert Realty; gold-level supporters Dement Construction, Barrett Construction, and Jack Daniel’s; and numerous silver-level community businesses. Ole Shed and Liquor Locker provided the beer and wine. Make sure to catch this incredible event next year. GN
