While outside we were seeing our first winter wonderland of the season, the inside of The Lit in downtown Grand Rapids was aglow with a joyful celebration on November 18th, as friends gathered for “Wine and the White House: A Holiday Wine Tasting with the Gerald R. Ford Foundation.”
Guests enjoyed specially selected wines and paired hors d'oeuvres from the experts at House of Wine. Each pairing was thoughtfully composed to represent one of the White House state dinners hosted by the Fords in 1976. Archival documents including invitations, menus, and guest lists were on hand to transport us back to these very special diplomatic events. Throughout the evening, music was provided by the very talented Allegro Quartet.
Our guest of honor and speaker for the evening was Mr. David Kennerly, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer who served as the White House photographer during the Ford administration. Kennerly shared some never-before-seen photographs and regaled the audience with behind-the-scenes stories of state dinners…and their renowned guests.
Many thanks to all of our guests and sponsors, especially our presenting sponsor, Bank of America. Proceeds from the evening will support the civic education and leadership development initiatives of the Gerald R. Ford Foundation.
Photos of the Event
When
November 18, 2021
Program Supporters
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
