Fireside Committee
The Fireside Committee has a rich tradition of supporting the mission of the Art Institute. Initially named the Entertainment Committee in December of 1932, the committee started to meet on a regular basis during the Great Depression for social activities. Shortly thereafter, the group of prominent women became known as the Fireside Committee and the members began meeting around one of the fireplaces in Vanderslice Hall. From its conception, the women of the committee have been dedicated to promoting an interest in and an involvement with KCAI through enjoyable, creative events. To date, the Fireside Committee Scholarship Endowment Fund has raised over $740,800 for scholarships.
La Fête de Noël
Almost 75 years to the day, the Fireside Committee celebrated their diamond anniversary in a truly brilliant fashion. Members and friends rung in the next 75 years at the Carriage Club on Tuesday, December 4th.
After all these years, Fireside is still able to host a fabulous luncheon. Picture furs from Ambiance Fur and diamonds from Halls, Inc., making an entrance to the melodic strains of Kent Barnhart of Quality Hill Playhouse and you can start to get a picture of the excitement experienced by all who attended. The champagne toast was a delightful way to celebrate Fireside's rich history.
The "Bagteria bag" was donated by Churchill in Fairway for the raffle.
The celebration was chaired by the previous three presidents of Fireside: Kathleen Aylward (2006-2007), Jackie Stokes (2005-2006), and Carolyn Hanson (2004-2005) under the presidency of Sunday Siragusa.
Fireside Committee events 2007-2008
You won't want to miss out on future Fireside events. While there's only one left this year,. make sure you check back for upcoming events in the 2008-2009 year.
Tuesday, May 6th Fireside Spring Luncheon, River Club
Fireside's Happy Haunting Party 2007
The Fireside Committee of the Kansas City Art Institute had a great time at the Happy Haunting! The event, which raised money for the scholarship fund at the Kansas City Art Institute, was held on Thursday, October 25th at the Indian Hills Country Club.
The evening was replete with cocktails, dinner, music, and dancing. The costumes were oustanding with so much creativity! Joyce Middendorf chaired the event under the presidency of Sunday Siragusa.
To express the Fireside Committee's appreciation to their sponsors, a patrons party was hosted Tuesday, October 23rd at the Rockhill Tennis Club. Guests enjoyed an enchanted evening listening to the mesmerizing music of "Alfio," international singing star from Australia. The Fireside Committee was privileged to be able to present Alfio at the patrons party. Kathleen Aylward and Jim & Joyce Fox chaired and underwrote the patrons party.
All proceeds benefit the Kansas City Art Institute scholarship fund.