By AML Publisher
Photos Courtesy of George Feder and Associates

Complimentary flip flops encouraged party goers to kick off their heels!

As I pulled up to the sprawling Haverford estate of Ian and Linda Swain on Saturday evening September 20th, I fully expected Belle Watling to be close behind me in her gaudy carriage asking to see “Mr. Rhett Butler.” Yes, the gorgeous grounds of the Swain’s home appeared to be plucked out of a scene from Gone with the Wind. The fantastic white pillared walkway and front lawn had me reminiscing about some of my favorite scenes from the epic film—and secretly hoping an Ashley Wilkes look-a-like might be part of the good-looking crowd.

But in reality, the night was a compelling fundraiser entitled “Margaritavilla” that benefited local charity Mommy’s Light. Linda Swain, founder of Moms On the Move, and Ian Swain, owner of Swain Tours, graciously hosted and co-chaired the party for more than 300 guests at their beautiful home. Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell served as Honorary Chairman.

And, what a successful night it was—with more than $90,000 raised from the silent and live auction. All proceeds will benefit the Exton, PA-based Mommy’s Light Lives On Fund. Mommy’s Light’s mission is to bring joy and comfort to children and teens whose mothers are terminally ill or have died.

Helping to keep traditions alive and simple pleasures children once shared with their mothers, the organization also provides free tradition fulfillment services throughout the Delaware Valley and develops and distributes no-cost bereavement education and outreach materials nationwide. There are more than 626,000 maternally bereaved children and teens living in the United States, including more than 20,000 in the Delaware Valley. Richard Vosler was the special guest of the evening, and gave a heart-warming and loving tribute to his now deceased wife. In August of 2005, Joanne Vosler passed away from a nine month battle with liver cancer. She left behind a husband (her college sweetheart) and their nine children ranging in age from 11-month-old James to 13-year-old Nicole. Thanks to Richard and Mommy’s Light, the Vosler children can now continue to enjoy several traditions they shared with their mom.

CBS3 Meteorologist Doug Kammerer with his wife Holly Roehl Kammerer

In addition to Mommy’s Light executive director Laura Munts, many QVC notables (Kathy Levine, Molly Roncal) and Comcast VIPS (CN8’s Mike and Lynn Doyle) mingled and sipped margaritas during the exciting auction. Other local celebs decked out in their tropical finest included: CBS 3’s handsome meteorologist Doug Kammerer with his beautiful wife Holly, fellow KYW colleague Stephanie Stahl, NBC 10’s Dawn Timmeney, Nancy Glass of Nancy Glass Productions, Sharon Pinkerton (Executive Director of the Greater Philadelphia Film Office), and Waterworks Restaurant owners and power couple Sophia and Leonidas Agoratos.

One hundred and twenty silent auction items gave partygoers reason to donate to a great cause and indulge in a little excitement at the same time. Nine exclusive items were auctioned off live by celebrities including renowned New York make-up artist Roncal and local television personalities and celebrities. Some highlights:

• Nicole Miller Internship donated by Mary Dougherty, owner of two Philadelphia Nicole Miller boutiques, went for a bid of $4,000
• Original artwork by Philadelphia artist Steve Tobin from his “Exploded Clay” series brought $7500
• Trips to Bora Bora and South Africa, donated by Linda and Ian Swain (Swain Tours), combined to raise more than $21,000.

In addition, the Lincoln Mercury Dealers Association raffled off the choice of a brand new Lincoln MKS or $10,000 in cash.

Three Generations of Swains Celebrate a Successful Night

As I was leaving the Swain estate feeling inspired by a fun night for a fantastic cause, I stopped to chat with Ian Swain, waiting for the valet to fetch my carriage… I mean car! I mentioned to Ian that his beautiful home had made me immediately think of Scarlett O’Hara’s Tara. “Funny you should mention that, at one time I thought of having the doorbell tone ring the theme song from Gone with the Wind,” he laughed.

A piece of Tara on the Main Line was the perfect setting for an important cause and a grand party. As for my early evening hopes of bumping into Rhett or Ashley at the tiki hut, well…after all, tomorrow is another day!

To learn more about Mommy’s Light or their upcoming events visit: www.mommyslight.org