Amphitheatre Dedicated to CBC’s Scottie Stephenson

Scottie Stephenson 1921-2002

Capitol Broadcasting Company, along with the City of Raleigh, dedicated the Raleigh Little Theatre’s Amphitheatre to Scottie Stephenson.

In the two years since the death of long-time employee Scottie Stephenson, her reserved parking space at Capitol Broadcasting Company has remained marked and empty as a reminder of her legacy. Now CBC has created a permanent tribute to her memory in the City of Raleigh with the dedication of the Louise “Scottie” Stephenson Amphitheatre at the Raleigh Little Theatre.

Many of Stephenson’s friends attended the event, including long-time pal Porta Vallas.	A large crowd showed up for the dedication and the evening’s theatrical performance.	Stephenson’s niece Alice Ritter (left) & nephew Scott Reid took part in the ceremony.
WRAL-TV Anchor David Crabtree emceed the event.	A myriad of CBC employees chatted about fond memories of Stephenson.	CBC’s Paul Pope (right) serves the martini cake to WRAL-TV’s Bev Parker.

On Thursday, June 24, 2004, a reception took place at 7pm in the Rose Garden behind the Raleigh Little Theatre and a dedication ceremony at 8pm in the adjoining amphitheatre. A performance of Smokey Joe’s Café followed, also dedicated to Stephenson.

CBC President & CEO Jim Goodmon spoke at the event, calling Stephenson the matriarch of Capitol Broadcasting. Only one-year-old when Stephenson came to work at WRAL-AM Radio in 1944, Goodmon said he never remembered a time without her being an integral part of the CBC stations.

A jazz band featuring the daughter of another CBC legend, ‘Uncle’ Paul Montgomery, played at the reception.	Martinis were Stephenson’s favorite drink, so martini glasses etched with “A Toast To Scottie” were distributed as favors.	CBC President & CEO Jim Goodmon spoke of his fondness for Stephenson.
Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker helped dedicate the amphitheatre to Stephenson.	WRAL’s David Crabtree (far left) chats with Stephenson’s nephew Scott Reid (left) and other friends at the reception.	CBC’s Vicki Murray (l to r), her husband Mike & CBC’s Angela Francioni toasted to their dear friend & colleague.

Goodmon also lamented that Stephenson had been responsible for filing all CBC documents with the Federal Communications Commission. Several CBC stations are up for renewal this year, and he said that further reminded him of our loss.

WRAL-TV Anchor David Crabtree emceed the event, presenting an apt simile for the evening. He said that it was fitting to have a plaque honoring Stephenson set in a boulder because she was the rock at the foundation of CBC and its many divisions.

A flower arrangement worthy of Stephenson’s good taste decorated the buffet.	David Crabtree remarked that Stephenson always began phone calls with “This Is Scottie,” her trademark hello.
Jim Goodmon (l to r), Keith Kapp & Charles Meeker wait backstage.	Tents dotted the Rose Garden, providing shelter from the heat during the reception.

Many guests attended to pay tribute to Stephenson, co-workers who retired while she stayed on at CBC for 58 years, as well as community members. Several of her family members attended, including her CBC family and her friends at Springmoor. They all shared fond memories of Stephenson during the event.

Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker and Raleigh Little Theatre Board President Keith Kapp both spoke at the dedication as well, honoring the woman who contributed so much to the Triangle in her 80 years.

Stephenson worked at CBC for 58 years, longer than any employee including founder A.J. Fletcher. She served as Corporate Secretary for 49 of those years, until her death in 2002.