The mood was bittersweet at the 27th annual Paula J. Carter Wine and Roses Ball recently held at the Coronado on Lindell Boulevard.
It was the first fundraiser for the Paula J. Carter Foundation without the late Gregory J. Carter, former 27th Ward alderman, who died last year in a highway accident at age 54. His presence was greatly missed.
Local artist Daniel Hodges sought to fill the void when he unveiled and presented to Greg Carter’s immediate family a portrait painting of him. Approximately 400 attendees gasped upon seeing the painting depicting the former alderman in his signature suit and tie hovering over the St. Louis skyline.
Hodges emphasized that he wasn’t commissioned and his act of kindness came from his heart.
The Wine and Roses Ball was established by the late Paula J. Carter, pioneering state senator and 27th Ward committeewoman, as a means to give back to the community.
“Every dime that we raise at this event helps our community,” said Alderman Chris Carter, who succeeded his uncle in the 27th Ward seat. “We help a lot of families who are in need, and we’re going to continue to do that.”
Last year’s funds went toward a new air-conditioning unit for one senior, motor scooters for the disabled and turkey dinners for the needy.
“He was raised to do what he is doing, and everybody in St. Louis is benefitting from it,” aldermanic President Lewis Reed said of Chris Carter. “His family has a rich legacy.”
Reed also endorsed Chris Carter for re-election. “There’s a difference between a politician and public servant,” Reed said, “and Chris is a public servant.”
Also in attendance at the event were Treasurer Tishaura O. Jones, her father Virvus Jones, 21st Alderman Antonio French and State Reps. Clem Smith and Michael Butler.
The event concluded with three award presentations. The Community Service Award went to Ciera Simril, the Paula J. Carter Award (given to police officers for service to the community) was given to Chalon Stallings, and the inaugural Alderman Gregory J. Carter Trailblazer Award was awarded to Keith Minor.
