Longtime San Luis Obispo residents and dedicated Symphony supporters Beverly and Jim Smith have been selected as this year’s recipients of the 6th annual Symphony Honors Award to be presented at this year’s gala Symphony Ball on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. to midnight at the Embassy Suites Hotel’s grand ballroom. Preceded by five previous Honors recipients, Gene Shidler and the late Clifford Chapman in 2008, Pam Dassenko in 2009, Jim and Lyn Baker in 2010, Sandy Dunn in 2011 and Clifton Swanson in 2012, the Smiths were chosen for their longstanding commitment to the Symphony, and for their commitment to maintaining a vibrant, interesting and “artful” community for all.
“When I think of long-time, steady supporters and donors to the Symphony, I think of the Smiths,” said two-time Symphony Board President, Liz Summer. “They recognize the importance of the arts and what it brings to the cultural fabric of San Luis Obispo.”
Jim Smith practiced law in San Luis Obispo for more than 38 years, retiring in 2006, and is a former chairman of First Bank of San Luis Obispo. Beverly is a lifelong lover of classical music and inspired Jim to become a fan as well. They first heard the Symphony at the former Cuesta Auditorium many years ago and have been loyal patrons and supporters ever since. The Smiths also support the Foundation for the Performing Arts Center, Festival Mozaic, The Civic Ballet, and the SLO Museum of Art and have been dedicated supporters and promoters of the Symphony’s Music Education programs from the very beginning.
This year’s Ball will carry the theme “Speakeasy” and guests will be invited to travel back in time to 1925, to the world of flappers and wiseguys at a musical “gin joint” or “Speakeasy.” The RedSkunk Jipzee Swing Band will perform 1920’s-style swing and jazz music and the Cal Poly Swing Club will lead off the dancing that will go on till midnight. The event also includes a sumptuous multi-course dinner and silent and live auctions. Reservations for the Ball and Honors celebration are $125 per person. Tribute ads honoring the Smiths can be purchased for a small donation and will be printed in the program booklet for the evening. All proceeds support the Symphony’s Music Education Programs that reach more than 16,000 children and adults every year. For more information or to make your reservations, please call the Symphony office at (805) 543-3533 or visit the Symphony website at www.slosymphony.com.