Seller Story
Leonard Slatkin, benefitting WHOO Upscale Resale for a Cause
Since 2006, WHOO U R Upscale Resale for a Cause has been re-selling high end furniture, clothing, jewelry, and home décor from the Detroit region and donating net profits to qualified charities, particularly those that help meet the needs of individuals suffering from life threatening illness.
When Leonard Slatkin, former Director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra — a prominent leader of the city’s cultural community — was looking to sell the contents of his home, WHOO emerged as a natural partner. “ He did a lot to build the Detroit Symphony Orchestra into a world class organization,” says WHOO president and founder Lonna Harlow, of Slatkin, who is moving to St. Louis. “And he took the orchestra into so many communities within the city.”
Proceeds from this collection, the first of its kind in partnership with EBTH, will benefit one of the 5 charities with which WHOO typically works. “We donate to wherever we think we can do the most good,” Harlow explains. Not only does the WHOO boutique recycle goods and put money into worthy causes, but Harlow notes that the organization also plays an important educational role in the community. “When we started working with the Michigan Abolitionists, for example — a group that deals with human trafficking — customers would come in and say ‘Oh, that’s just an urban legend, that doesn’t happen here. Through our work, we raise awareness about real needs in the community."
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Tacori 18K Sonoma Dew Droplets Ring
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
1950s West Germany Floral Brooch and Earrings Set Including Rhinestones
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Pair of Old Staffordshire Figures of Cats
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Alexander McQueen Two-Way Handbag in Floral Leather
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
LeCoultre & Cie "Atmos" Mantel Clock, Mid to Late 20th Century
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Kitchen Aid Standing Mixing
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
BVLGARI Luky Cat Silk Scarf with Box
EBTH Columbus - Hilliard
Block Langenthal Transition Interaction China Luncheon Set
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
C. Liton Copy Oil Painting After Cornelis Springer of Dutch Street Scene
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Hermes "Les Cavaliers d'Or" Scarf 90 in Silk Twill
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Pair of Danish Modern Teak and Custom-Upholstered Side Chairs, Mid-20th Century
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
14K Longines Diamond Dial Stem Wind Wristwatch
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Walter Stomps Abstract Geometric Acrylic Painting "Galactic Border No. 7"
EBTH Columbus - Hilliard
Alexander Calder Color Lithograph from Derrière le Miroir, 1976
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Sterling Amber Ring
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
L. Hils Hafele Desert Landscape Acrylic Painting, 1989
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Stanley Furniture Faux Bamboo Oak, Cane and Glass Illuminated China Cabinet
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Sterling Citrine Necklace
EBTH Cincinnati - Blue Ash
Block "Wyndham" Crystal Biscuit Barrels with Godinger and Other Biscuit Barrels
EBTH Columbus - Hilliard
Carved Wooden Wall Plaque with Floral Design
What are some of the highlights of the sale?
The furniture is just magnificent. I think the excelsior set is incredible, as is the black leather couch. There’s also some beautiful leather goods — Bally, Coach, Montblanc and Calvin Klein bags.
Are there any pieces from Slatkin’s career?
Yes! A full size viola, signed by members of the St. Louis Symphony orchestra, where Slatkin was the Music Director and Conductor Laureate from 1979-1996.
What kind of community has developed around WHOO?
We offer opportunities for service; our volunteers have put in hundreds of hours. The WHOO store has a homey feel: we always have music playing, and people come with their coffee to unwind and look at pretty things. It gives me great pleasure to see people find donated treasures and give them new life.