“We live. We die. The best we can do is leave a worthwhile example for those who come after us.” — Adam Walinsky

HEARD ON THE TOWN

FRIENDS OF Barry and Becki Bradford will be guests of honor during a farewell party tonight hosted by members of St. Luke United Methodist Church in Chattanooga.

According to event spokeswoman Betsy Donahue, the couple will be honored for their devotion to the Chattanooga community.

“Becki has taught at Chattanooga State, worked for Downtown Partnership and directed countless plays for Leap of Faith Productions at St. Luke United Methodist Church,” Ms. Donahue said. “She is no stranger to this community. Becki has spent at least a decade inspiring and encouraging the youth of Chattanooga to follow their dreams and come out of their shells and discover their stage abilities. But most of all, she has given this gift unconditionally. She has always put 100 percent of herself into what she does, and her accomplishments cannot be measured by numbers, fame or recognition.”

The Bradfords moved to Chattanooga from New Orleans 15 years ago, Ms. Donahue said.

“Barry Bradford ran the fine arts department for the Hamilton County Public Library downtown branch,” she said. “He has been hired as executive director for the library system near Hammond, La.”

The Bradfords have one son, Cameron, who graduated from 21st Century Preparatory School in Chattanooga and is presently in college in Louisiana pursuing a degree in theater, Ms. Donahue said.

Ms. Bradford’s interaction with local children will be missed, Ms. Donahue said, noting she has encouraged many youngsters to pursue acting.

“I’ve known Becki Bradford for the past 10 years,” she said. “In the last two years, I experienced Becki during the time when my 11-year-old daughter and I decided to participate in two of her Leap of Faith productions — “Finian’s Rainbow” and “Carousel.” We had zero stage experience, but that was no obstacle to Becki. She completely overlooked that minor detail, met us where we were and made us feel extremely valued in our small roles.”

She did the same with everyone with whom she worked, Ms. Donahue said.

“I was amazed how Becki was willing to spend all the time it took to mentor kids who had never been on a stage. Some of the kids who found their way to her productions had disabilities. She bent over backwards to make them feel important. The big lesson it taught the rest of the cast members was one of complete acceptance of everyone.

“I’ve watched Becki give introverted kids tiny parts in productions that boosted their self-esteem and selfconfidence to the point that they are now singing solos in church/school,” she said.

The Bradfords will leave Chattanooga Saturday, Ms. Donahue said.

Church members will host a going-away party with a Mardi Gras theme from 5:30-7 tonight at the church, 3210 Social Circle. Friends of the couple are invited, she said.

“Bring a card. Bring anyone who has been touched by her. But most of all, bring your gratitude for Becki,” Ms. Donahue said. “She has given much to our community.”

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