2016 Bijoux Show Stables Equestrian Gala

October 7, 2016

By:

ClearWater Academy

The 2016 Bijoux Show Stables Equestrian Gala benefitting ClearWater Academy (CWA) was a magical evening, filled with enjoyment of the beautiful horses in Bijoux’s exquisitely decorated barn; an equestrian riding exhibition in their picturesque pastures; sumptuous dining including a Hanna Brothers catered dinner, cash beer, wine and coffee bars rounded out by dessert from City Cafe and Bakery; a Dang Chicks runway show; several raffles; both a silent and live auction as well as a ClearWater Academy student performance of “Once A Day by Michael Franti,” entirely choreographed by Daniel de los Reyes of the three time Grammy Award winning Zac Brown Band and founder of DayGLOW Music. The capstone of the evening was a live musical performance by Brian Collins along with Daniel de los Reyes.

We also heard a touching parent testimony about how ClearWater has been a blessing not only to this ClearWater Academy student but also to his whole family. Several students also spoke about the impact that a ClearWater Academy education has had in their lives. One 15 year old celebrated the fact that he progressed during two short years at CWA from a state of illiteracy to reading on a 6th grade level! Another high schooler shared how timid and depressed he had felt during his first year as a high schooler in another school setting and how he felt like CWA has been a “bright light” for him. He is confident now that he will be successful in life because of ClearWater Academy. Mike Holmes, ClearWater Academy Board Member and local Chick-fil-A Franchised Restaurant Operator, has worked for nearly 20 years to make his restaurants a wonderful place in which to work, and he spoke about how this school is the kind of place where he would like his children to work because ClearWater Academy gives its employees and students significance.

Attenders rose to their feet when a proclamation by Tyrone Mayor Eric Dial was read, making October 1st, 2016, Dr. Mohamad and Lynne Kassem Day because of the huge impact of their vision and execution of providing a comprehensive education for children with learning differences on the south side of Atlanta. Parent Kim Weinreb was recognized for her eight years of service to our amazing school. Once again, guests rose to their feet to give her a standing ovation. The school and the community of children with special needs and their families would not be where they are today without the contributions of these key people.

This evening would not have been possible without the tireless work of our staff, teachers, parents, musicians, Master of Ceremonies Stephen Walker of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, models, volunteers, sponsors, donors and big-hearted community partners. Thank you for helping us continue to provide a complete educational program for our very special students. Many thanks to Bijoux Show Stables for hosting our gala this evening! We would like to once again recognize our Platinum, Gold and Event sponsors as well as offer additional thanks.