Moonpies and fireflies and SEC football … sweet tea and country and floating the creek, y’all — these are just a few of my favorite (Southern) things. Celebrate the South and join the American Cancer Society in its fight to eradicate cancer at “A Simply Southern Night,” Aug. 17 at the Anniston Country Club. This annual benefit gala, which begins at 6 p.m., promises a delightful evening of Southern elegance, and is a big fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

This year’s honoree (and past gala chairperson), Rick Dawson, has recently gone through 39 radiation treatments for recurring prostate cancer. He was first diagnosed in June 2007, and understands the importance of cancer research, which is made possible in part by events like the American Cancer Society Summer Gala. He wants to continue the fight to raise awareness of the disease that affects so many of our family and friends.

Rick attributes his will and strength in fighting this disease to his wife, Pam, his family and his cherished friends. By purchasing a ticket to the gala, you’ll be an important part of the effort to get another step closer to finding a cure for cancer.

Scott Skinner, Yvonne Boothe and Randall Moore will transform the beautiful Anniston Country Club into “A Simply Southern Night.” With those three in charge, expect the venue to be dripping with charm.

Silent- and live-auction items will be as plentiful as cicadas on a hot August evening, and will include beach vacations from Fort Morgan to Destin and points in between, delectable dinners, wine collections, a golf trip for two and a weekend in Pigeon Forge, and something sparkly from Couch’s Jewelers. Auctioneer Steve Taylor expects bidding to be lively (and possibly fierce) for the ever-popular “Instant Wine Cellar,” put together by Terry Paschal and Janet Tyson Prosser.

A delicious menu at stations around the club (by Chef Andrew of Anniston Country Club) will be offered to ticketholders and sponsors, as will a wine tasting, hosted by International Wines and Gena Stephens.

Gala chairperson is Chip Howell; others working hard to make sure “A Simply Southern Night” is simply smashing include Jim Nolen and Gene Heathcock, sponsorship committee; Kara Silvers, invitation committee; Ann Brockwell and Patty King, memorials and tributes; Brenda Shaw, Mandi King, Sabrina Haynes, Theresa Haynes, Elaine Edmondson, Mary Graves, Shawn Crawford, Renee Stewart, Pam Fite, Margo Finch and Scott Skinner (doing double duty along with decor), silent auction; Chris Wright, online committee; and Pam Dawson, at large committee member.

Tickets are $75 per person, and $150 per couple. For ticket or sponsorship information, contact Chip Howell at 256-237-4615.

To share your news with Small Talk, contact Annette Maddox at starsmalltalk@yahoo.com.

Save the Date

Speaking of Southern, Ronnie Dunn (of Brooks & Dunn fame) will be appearing at the Anniston Performing Arts Center, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 11. The concert is presented by Knox Concert Series, and ticket info may be obtained by visiting