An Enchanted Gala Benefitting the KELCURT Foundation and Its
Step into a storybook night of magic, mystery, and meaningful impact at Minerva’s Masquerade: Once Upon a Time—a fairy tale–themed evening of fine dining, live entertainment, and philanthropic wonder. Held at the historic Bessie Smith Cultural Center in Chattanooga, TN, this annual gala supports the vital work of the KELCURT Foundation, including the Soddy-Daisy Community Library, KELCURT Farms, our food sustainability initiatives, and the SDCL Read 20 literacy program.
Inspired by our wise and whimsical mascot Minerva the Owl—named for the Roman goddess of wisdom—this year’s masquerade promises to be a night full of enchanted moments and smart fun in support of literacy, learning, and food security in our community.
The VIP Spell Begins at 5:00 PM
For our sponsors and honored guests, the magic begins early. Enjoy an exclusive VIP Hour complete with sparkling champagne (a gift from our Founders, Curtis and Kelly), delicious hors d’oeuvres, and renowned Jazz and Blues Guitarist Tre Powell. You'll also get the first look at our silent and live auction treasures.
An Evening of Enchantment
The grand doors open at 6:00 PM. At 6:30 PM, guests will enjoy a fairy tale–worthy feast prepared by Apron Strings Catering, followed by a decadent dessert spread from the magical Bond Girl Bakery.
Each guest will receive a beautiful masquerade mask to keep and two complimentary drink tickets—perfect for trying our signature Minerva Martini or another favorite from the bar, courtesy of our founders. Tables will be transformed with handcrafted literary-themed centerpieces inspired by classic tales and beloved characters, all available for silent auction bidding.
Mystery, Mayhem & Merriment
Beware... not everything is as it seems. A murder mystery will unfold during the evening, and only the cleverest guests will unravel the clues and solve the crime! Just when you think the story is complete, Victoria Underwood will lead us into a lively auction, offering unique items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Then, as the final chapter draws near, the real magic begins—the ballroom comes alive with dancing with DJ Tyler Sanford! Waltz, sway, or disco the night away as our fairy tale masquerade turns into a true celebration.
Dress to Impress or Dress from the Realm
Fairy godmothers, charming rogues, wicked queens, or woodland heroes—come dressed in cocktail or semi-formal attire, or embrace the theme and arrive as your favorite fairy tale character. Masks will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own!
Your presence at Minerva’s Masquerade: Once Upon a Time helps write a better story for our community—one filled with education, nourishment, and opportunity for all. We can’t wait to welcome you to this unforgettable night of philanthropy, fantasy, and fun.
Minerva's masquerade sponsored in part by
Platinum Sponsors Tennessee Valley Authority
Silver Sponsors CHI Memorial
Bronze Sponsor
Bond Girl Bakery
Your Organization Here
Your Organization Here
Your Organization Here
Become a sponsor
Sponsorship information
A variety of sponsorship packages with a range of benefits, gala and VIP Experience tickets, and marketing/promotion are still available.
General information is available here.
For additional information or to finalize your support as a sponsor, please contact Mandee Michael,
Bessie Smith Cultural Center
The Bessie Smith Cultural Center was established to pay homage to the late “Empress of the Blues", Bessie Smith, through the establishment of a Performance Hall within the complex. The Bessie Smith Performance Hall has become well known in the Chattanooga community as an educational institution and spectacular venue to host performances, banquets, meetings, and various community events.
Bessie Smith Cultural Center
200 E Martin Luther King Blvd
Chattanooga, TN 37403
Centerpieces
From Cinderella to Arabian Nights and from Narnia to King Arthur's Court, each table will be decorated with a different literary motif. A variety of book and design elements come together to tell a story and carry our guests into a happily ever after! Other themes include Dolly Parton, Eric Carle, Foxfire, the Great British Baking Show, Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew, Leonardo daVinci, the Magic Tree House, Monet, Rebecca Yarros, Sherlock Holmes, and the Marvel of Stan Lee.
Upgrade Your Evening with the VIP Experience!
Kick off your magical night in style with our exclusive VIP Experience! Your evening begins at 5:00 p.m. with a VIP Hour, featuring hand-crafted hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy an intimate live performance by renowned jazz and blues guitarist Tre Powell. Plus, be the first to preview our silent and live auction items.
Don’t miss this unforgettable start to an incredible evening—secure your VIP tickets today!
Dinner is served
Apron Strings Catering Co.
http://www.apronstringscatering.com/
Your served dinner includes:
Spinach Salad - fresh greens with Feta cheese, crisp apples, candied pecans, and dressed with a maple vinaigrette.
Your choice of:
Herb Roasted Chicken -
or
Red Wine Braised Beef with Pan Gravy -
or
Roasted Zucchini stuffed Wild Rice, Parmesan, and Sunday Sauce. (vegetarian option)
Potatoes Au Gratin -
Broccoli Casserole -
Yeast Roll w/Butter
Georgia Peach Tea, Lemonade, Coffee and Infused Water
Gourmet designer cupcakes by Bond Girl Bakery https://bondgirlbakery.com/
Alcoholic beverages are not included with ticket, however they are offered in appreciation from our founders, Curtis and Kelly.
Every good fairytale has an element of mystery!
Get ready for a night filled with mystery and surprises! While you enjoy the masquerade, be on alert—a mystery, or even a murder, could unfold at any moment. Relax and revel in the evening, but stay sharp—you may be called upon to help solve the crime!
As the night unfolds, explore a spectacular selection of items in our silent auction, leading up to a thrilling live auction. All proceeds directly support the mission of the foundation, making your bids even more meaningful.
Join us for an unforgettable evening where elegance meets intrigue!
A Fairytale Finale: The Dance Hour
Get ready to step into an hour of pure enchantment! DJ Sanford & Sound brings an electrifying blend of rhythm and atmosphere, creating a dance-floor experience that feels straight out of a storybook. Known for his seamless mixes and intuitive ability to read a crowd, DJ Tyler Sanford transforms any space into a vibrant celebration—where every beat feels like a spark of fairy-tale magic.
From elegant classics to modern favorites, he crafts a musical journey that invites guests of all ages to sway, spin, and lose themselves in the wonder of the night. Don’t miss this dazzling hour of music and movement—the perfect finale to an extraordinary evening at Minerva’s Masquerade!
Our Master of ceremonies and Speakers
Master of Ceremonies Andrew Dinsmore
Biography coming soon!
Tera Byard
Biography coming soon!