Ericsson
Stadium was alive with the Carolinas Host Chapter Party Friday night,
May 10. The "Carolinas Expedition" mapped party attendees across
two culturally rich and diverse states, all under one roof. Party rooms
were developed with themes from the different region of the states, each
complete with regional food, music, décor, and entertainment.
"Other then for everyone to have a great time,
our goal was to let visitors from around the country experience the culture
and flavor of the Carolinas," said AIA North Carolina Executive Director
David Crawford.
In
"The Mountains" attendees could sample three varieties of Carolina
barbecue and tap their toes to the rhythm of a bluegrass band. Volunteers
complete in flannel shirts and hiking boots served beverages at the bars
while the crowd watched mountain cloggers perform traditional dances on
the dance floor.
Over at "The Beaches" partygoers watched
the waves roll in on projected screens while feasting on crab cakes and
shrimp over grits. Beach music entertained those willing to take a stab
at learning the customary Carolinas beach dance called the shag. While
a lifeguard stood watch from her perch, photographers snapped souvenir
photographs of guests posing near boardwalk scenes.
"City Splendor" featured the cosmopolitan
atmosphere of big Carolina cities. Large ice sculptures depicting the
Charlotte skyline towered over tables of city cuisine including sliced
turkey and penne pasta. A swing band provided music while dancers demonstrated
the basics of swing dancing.
Suite
87 played host to "Charleston Jazz" where huge chocolate-covered
strawberries and tiny pecan tarts tempted the taste buds of party guests.
The sounds of smooth, cool jazz entertained guests mingling in the plush
lounge. After-dinner beverages and flavored coffees completed the mood.
"I've been to five Host Chapter Parties and
this is the best one I've ever been to. Good theme, great food, no lines,
it was awesome!" said AIA South Carolina Executive Director Tracey
Waltz.
Sinclair Hui, AIA, of Dallas agreed. "This
is a unique party. It's good with the different themes from the area.
I think people really enjoyed it."
Copyright 2002 The American Institute of Architects.
All rights reserved.
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