Gee, it’s just August and those Dallas Summer Musicals folks are already thinking to their 2013-2014 season. Just got this report from the field about the DSMs’ Tuesday night announcement party:

“The Music Hall at Fair Park welcomed more than 550 guests of Dallas Summer Musicals, all there to get the first low-down on the announcement for the 2013-2014 Season.

“Jim Lee Catering and Events provided the wonderful reception on-stage, where guests were treated to the sights and sounds of an authentic backstage experience – amongst lighted Christmas trees and music celebrating the season, beginning with the show ‘White Christmas’, running December 17 through the 29th.

“Everyone was then seated in the audience and the show began. Rick Rogers, chairman-elect, left a video message about how sorry he was to be out of town and miss this event, and what a great season it was going to be. Steve Watson, Chairman of the Board, welcomed the crowd and thanked season sponsors Dallas Morning News, WFAA Ch. 8, American Airlines, The Original Cupcakery and Texas Instruments.

“Colleen Coyle, weather girl at WFAA Channel 8′s Daybreak and Midday programs, joined Michael Jenkins, President and Managing Director, DSM on a stage filled with posters of the upcoming season covered in banners, which she revealed Vanna White-style. After revealing each show, a huge screen filled the stage to give a delightful preview of the shows.

“Krystina Alabado, understudy for the title role in the national touring production of ‘Evita,’ performed ‘Another Suitcase in Another Hall,’ and Andrew Black, Lea Kohl, Keely Sheehan and Con O’Shea Creal (last seen at DSM as Bert in Mary Poppins) performed a medley of tunes from ‘White Christmas’.”

Now you’re probably wondering just what is slated for the months ahead. Put your minds to rest. Here is the rollout:

• LORD OF THE RINGS IN CONCERT, Special, Nov. 8-10, 2013. Composer Howard Shore brings J.R.R. Tolkein’s literary imagination to vivid life with his Academy and Grammy Award winning score to The Lord of the Rings – The Fellowship of the Ring.  Shore’s music, performed by Dallas Pops Orchestra, expresses Peter Jackson’s film as an immense symphonic work; a uniquely developed vision drawn from centuries of stylistic tendencies.   Counted among film music’s most complete and comprehensive works, this unique performance of the music of The Lord of the Rings sets the score to the film but allows the music to bear the narrative weight, creating a wholly new and dramatic live concert experience.
• RAIN- A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES, Special, Nov. 23-24, 2013. Direct from Broadway, RAIN performs the full range of the Beatles’ discography live onstage, including the most complex and challenging songs that The Beatles themselves recorded in studio but never performed for an audience.  Together longer than The Beatles, RAIN has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance in this multi-media concert.  From the early hits to later classics, such as “I  Want to Hold Your Hand,” “Hard Day’s Night,” “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Let It Be,” “Come Together,” and “Hey Jude, this tribute will take you back to a time when all you needed was love, and a little help from your friends.
• IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS, December 17-29, 2013. The story of two showbiz buddies putting on a show in a picturesque Vermont inn, and finding their perfect mates in the bargain.  Full of dancing, romance, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, including “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters,” “Blue Skies,” and the unforgettable title song, IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS promises to be a merry and bright experience for the entire family! IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS features Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin with Book by David Ives and Paul Blake and is based upon the Paramount Pictures film written for the screen by Norman Krasna, Norman Panama and Melvin Frank.

  “White Christmas”*

• GHOST THE MUSICAL, January 28-February 9, 2014. Featuring an original pop score from multiple Grammy Award winners Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard, adapted from the hit film by its Academy Award winning screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin. The story follows Sam and Molly, a young couple whose connection takes a shocking turn after Sam’s untimely death.  Trapped between two worlds, Sam refuses to leave Molly when he learns she is in grave dangers. Desperate to communicate with her, he turns to a storefront psychic, who helps him protect Molly and avenge his death.  GHOST THE MUSICAL is “eye-poppingly brilliant” (AP) and “astounding,” according to The Wall Street Journal.
• Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID, Previews Feb. 13-16, runs February 18-March 2, 2014. The “under the sea sensation” brings to the stage a magical kingdom where the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.  Based on one of Hans Christian Anderson’s most beloved stories, with music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, it’s a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages.  Come fall in love with the magic for the first time, or all over again!
• WE WILL ROCK YOU, March 4-16, 2014. From London’s West End, the worldwide smash hit musical features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen, with Ben Elton.  Now in its 11^th year in London, seen by 15 million people worldwide, this hilarious, multi-award-winning and record-breaking phenomenon boasts a fantastic score that you just can’t resist singing along to, such as “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Crazy Little thing Called Love,” “We Are the Champions,” Bohemian Rhapsody” and the title song, “We Will Rock You.”

  “We Will Rock You”*

• THE WIZARD OF OZ, March 18-30, 2014. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new production of THE WIZARD OF OZis an enchanting adaptation of the all-time classic, totally reconceived for the stage.  Developed from the ever-popular MGM screenplay, this new production contains all the beloved songs from the Oscar® winning movie score, all the favorite characters and iconic moments, plus a few surprises along the way, including new songs by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.  Join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog, Toto, as they journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their hearts’ desires.  Watch out for the Wicked Witch of the West and her winged monkeys as you rediscover the real story of Oz in this fantastic musical treat for the family.
• EVITA, April 15-27, 2014. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony Award® winning musical returns at last.  Eva Peron used her beauty and charisma to rise meteorically from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady.  Adored by her people as a champion for the poor, she became one of the most powerful women in the world, while her greed, outsized ambition and fragile health made her one of the most tragic.  Evita’s passionate and unforgettable true story features some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall,” and “High Flying, Adored.”  The new production is directed by Michael Grandage and choreographed by Rob Ashford.

  “Evita” 2012 Broadway Revival* †

   

• MAMMA MIA!, June 3-15, 2014. Over 54 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that makes MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel good show.  Writer Catherine Johnson’s sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise.  On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.  The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship.
• NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT, September 2-14, 2014. The champagne flows and the gin fizzes in this hilarious Tony® winning new musical.  It’s the roaring twenties, and a cast of outrageous characters gather in New York to celebrate the wedding of wealthy playboy Jimmy Winter.  But things don’t go as planned when the playboy meets Billie Bendix, a bubbly and feisty bootlegger who melts his heart.   Featuring a treasure trove of George and Ira Gershwin’s most beloved instantly recognizable tunes, set in a fresh and funny song and dance spectacular with a book by Tony winner Joe DiPietro and direction by Tony winner Kathleen Marshall.  Filled to the brim with such classic songs as “But Not for Me,’ “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” “I’ve Got a Crush on You,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” this sparkling tale combines laughter, romance and high-stepping Broadway magic for an evening bursting with girls, glamour, and those glorious Gershwin songs.

Just hearing about “White Christmas” seems to cool things off a bit. Perhaps buying tickets will cool things down even more.

* Photos provided by the Dallas Summer Musicals

† Photo credit: Richard Termine

Town & Country simply oozes class, elegance and exquisite taste. Its pages are filled with the most incredible places and faces. It seems like no one ever has a split end, wrinkle or thread out of place.

So, it’s no surprise the world-class experts in the publishing world would team up with Highland Park Village, TACA and Tolleson Wealth Management for two days of fashion including T&C‘s “first-ever” Style Spy: Dallas.

With T&C serving as the “premier” media sponsor, you just know what that means. Their touch will set the mood, pace and style of each step. HPV will be the playpen in which all the fashion perfection will originate and take place. And guess who will benefit from the fundraising? Yup, TACA. As for Tolleson, they’re the presenting sponsor.

Highland Park Village (Photo credit: Laura Wilson)*

Here’s the plan:

Jan Strimple*

On Tuesday, October 1, T&C Style Director Stellene Volandes and Beauty Director Jamie Rosen will host “Style Spy: Dallas,” an exclusive fall fashion trends presentation “curated specially for the needs of Dallas women.” Afterwards the crowd “will progress to select designer boutiques” in the Village. Sorry to report, but this is an invite-only event.

But the good news is that next day, Wednesday, October 2, the T&C team will be on hand for “Montage: A Celebration of Art and Fashion” that will take place at the Village Theater. It will be a presentation of fashion and the arts under the skillful direction of Jan Strimple. According to sources, the fashion show will feature “looks from top designers juxtaposed by thrilling performances by some of Dallas’s finest artists.” Afterwards, the guests will party in The Mockingbird Room. Only problem is that the audience is limited to 160, so tickets will be few and gobbled up fast. They’ll be online for purchase on Monday, September 9. As soon as the link is available, we’ll post it.

And, of course, such a fashion celebration requires equally celebrated fashion types as honorary chairs. No problem! HPV First Ladies Elisa Summers and Heather Washburne will fill that role nicely.

* Photos provided by Highland Park 
Village

2012 TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction (File photo)

TACA just sent word. The waiting list is now in place for the TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction. The black-tie soiree sold out in record time.

Stay tuned. The countdown of the 10 out-of-this-world auction items starts this Friday on MySweetCharity. If you can’t make it to the September 20 gala, make arrangements to bid through a friend. The collection of goodies is pretty darn fabulous!

TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction (File photo)

The TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction Gala at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek is just around the corner. In building up to the September 20 black tie TACA fundraiser for the performing arts, we’ll be doing a countdown of the 10 one-of-a-kind items that have been assembled by Auction Item Chair/Neiman’s Exec Wanda Gierhart. They’ll go on the auction bloc following a champagne reception and elegant seated dinner. First of the list is not just a trip; it’s an escape to a a spot that literary and history legends have sought.

French Mediterranean Retreat* (Value: $14,600)

Cassis**

In Mother Earth’s palette of colors, there is no blue like that found in the Mediterranean. Such true perfection that it has challenged artists for ages to match. It’s not surprising that such ports ‘o call like Cannes and Nice are overflowing with mega-yachts of the rich-and-famous and ocean liners filled with tourists. Perhaps that’s why the hidden treasures of villages along the coastline have become the go-to hideaways for those in the know who want privacy, luxury and escape from the hubbub of the paparazzi.

Such is Cassis, which can boast its beginning before the Roman Empire collapsed. Alongside the fishing boats in its harbor are beautiful yachts belonging to those who have tired of the crowded coastal cities.

Located between Marseille and Aix en Provence, it has been the getaway and inspiration for so many. It was here that Virginia Woolf sought refuge to write. Cassis’s neighboring limestone cliffs and calanques provided the perfect setting for Sir Winston Churchill’s putting paintbrush to canvas.

The winner of this item will enjoy Cassis for a week, thanks to a private apartment at Villa Cassis. In addition to the Cassis stay, this package also includes a two-night stay either before or after at the Mandarin Oriental Paris and round-trip business class transportation to Paris via American Airlines.

* Courtesy of Zannie and Glenn Voss, Mandarin Oriental Paris and American Airlines

** Photo provided by TACA

Guests at the TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction Gala love and appreciate exquisite cuisine. No wonder the September 20th event is held at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek with every room in the place filled with beautiful people.

For that reason, dining is a priority when selecting the limited number of items put up for bid. For this first edible offering, TACA has arranged a first with one of Dallas’ fav foodie couples.

At Home With The Rathbuns* (Value: Priceless)

Kent and Tracy Rathbun (File photo)

One of Dallas’ favorite restaurant couples, Tracy and Kent Rathbun, has been juggling their businesses (Shinsei, Abacus, Jasper’s, Blue Plate Kitchen, KR Elements, etc.), their family including kiddos Max and Garrett and plans for a new home. After enjoying a few years of the penthouse lifestyle across from NorthPark, they found the perfect spot to build their dream home. Plans had to fit their unique demands of raising a family and culinary perfection. Now, the lucky bidding couple and 8 guests will be among the first to experience the Rathbun definition of entertaining excellence in the new digs. Of course, there will be a tour of their kitchen and wine room. But there’s so much more and decisions to be made including:

• A five-course dinner complete with wine pairings masterminded by Kent himself.
• The winning bidder will have the challenge of deciding where in the house to have the dinner — the dining room? The wine room? Poolside? Or, how about in the culinary center around the 20-foot kitchen island watching the chef at work?
• A personal tour of the Rathbuns’ collection of local art.

Make sure you take photos of the meal and home because this is one that your friends just won’t believe.

* Courtesy of Tracy and Kent Rathbun

The fav indoor activity in these parts is shopping. . . and very fashionable shopping at that. It’s a “sport” played with taste by both sexes. Perhaps that’s why this TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction item really hits home. . . or, rather closets.

Fashion Week Through The Eyes Of Vogue* (Value: Priceless)

Vogue Fashion Runway**

The Super Bowl of fashion takes place twice a year in New York — Fashion Week. It’s where anybody who knows rags and riches assembles to see what is being proposed for approval by the likes of Vogue’s Anna Wintour.

Plus there’s the people watching. Forget the Academy Awards. This is where the uber boldface types are sitting shoulder to shoulder scrutinizing everything on and off the runway.

But there is definitely a caste system even among this heady gathering, and the Vogue folks are fashion gods on this Mount Olympus. And since TACA does nothing less than ultimate, this TACA RBC Wealth Management Auction package is geared for two to be among this crowd for the week of February 6-13 by including:

• Two nights in a five-star hotel selected by Vogue
• Breakfast or lunch with a Vogue Market Stylist
• Runway seating for two at a Vogue-sponsored fashion show
• Collection of Vogue Style coffee table books
• Coach-class, round-trip air transportation for two to NYC provided by American Airlines

Just imagine being part of the Vogue crowd! Say hello to Anna for us!

* Courtesy of Vogue and American Airlines
** Provided by TACA

The late Annette Strauss was a mentor for countless people. Her days as the area’s top fundraiser were a legendary chapter in Dallas history. The reason? No, make that, reasons? She was brilliant (her Phi Beta Kappa designation proved that); she supported very worthy causes; and she knew how to create fundraising events that were like her— smart, elegant and worthy of big bucks for the right reason. One of those causes that was especially near and dear to her heart was the Family Gateway for homeless families. While Annette’s own home was always filled with family and friends (can anyone forget those dinners at round tables with white underclothes and pink overlays in the backyard with meals that Annette and “Birdie” cooked up?), she more than empathized with families who didn’t have any form of security. She used her ability and her resources to “spearhead the effort to build a refuge for an increasing number of families living on the streets, victims of the collapsed Texas economy.” It was Family Gateway.

So, what does this have to do with Friday’s Celebrity Waiter Luncheon? More about that later.

Giant “art” eyeball

The crowd that partied did just that Friday, big-time, at the Family Gateway’s Celebrity Waiter Luncheon at the Joule Hotel, with the giant “art” eyeball observing from across the road. Organizers admitted that the past two years had been more than zealous, and a little toning down was needed.

This year’s adjustment was being achieved by moving the event to the Joule’s smaller ballroom, a calmed-down warm-up of the waiters, and a more organized pay-for-play unlike previous years’ free-for-all, with men stripping down and giant hangovers the next day.

As the 30 celebs crowded in a room that was the size of a country-western star’s RV, the guests registered and partied on the opposite side of the second floor with celebrity waiter songbird Aubree-Anna singing like a lone canary.

Stacy Girard and Ron Corning

As Aubree-Anna crooned, the rest of the celebs prepared themselves for their duties. Tracy Rathbun warmed up upside down against a wall. She revealed that foodie partner Lynae Fearing had confided that full splits were passé. If true, what was the stretch du jour that Tracy was practicing against the wall? . . . . Celebrity waiter LeeAnne Locken’s boyfriend Rich Emberlin was in “plainclothes” this year, instead of his police uniform from last year. Ah, but he still had his yellow police tape to capture his table guests. . . While Co-Emcee Stacy Girard talked about her plans for the Christmas season, fellow Co-Emcee Ron Corning chatted it up with Tommy Habeeb of “Cheaters.” Shane Walker allowed a coveted few to check out the very special cake he had created for his VIP guest Cathy Vieth in celebration of her birthday.

2013 Celebrity Waiters

After the traditional group photos of the celebrity waiters were taken, the ballroom doors were opened for guests to enter. Despite the crowd being smaller, Co-Chairs Lindsay Jacaman and Jamie Singer reported they planned to top past goals ($150K) thanks to corporate donations. The gals had decided to “make it more intimate” this year. Instead of 400, they opted for 300, with the 30 celebrity waiters. One waiter confided that many of the celebs weren’t showing up — Jody Dean, Matt Nordgren, Lisa Pinero, Hunter Sullivan, Amy Vanderoef and Anthony Wilkinson. Translation: Some of the celeb waiters were going to be juggling additional tables.

But things were beginning to slow down. Emcee Ron passed it off as, “We’re updating on Dallas time. So we’re a half hour behind schedule.” A Family Gateway staffer put a positive spin on the situation: “We’re just 30 minutes late, which means more drinking, hopefully, and more money.”

Finally Ron called the group to order, saying, “All right, ladies — and the two guys that are here — get in here. Stop comparing shoes — we are ready to raise money for Family Gateway!”

Once the guests were seated, Ron and Stacy told the group that 750 homeless children were helped via Family Gateway and FG has vowed to eradicate homelessness in Dallas.

Things on stage started off with the introduction of the celebrity waiters. In describing Linda Cooper, Ron joked that her new Sunday morning show on WFAA was supposed to be called, “Live, Laugh, Have A lot of Sex,” but that the title was “too racy for WFAA. . . it would be better for HBO.”

2013 Celebrity Waiters being introduced

When Lisa Pineiro’s name was called out during the celeb introduction and no one showed, Stacy suggested, “perhaps D The Broadcast ran over.” Without missing a beat, Co-Chair Ron quipped, ”There’s breaking news at D that somebody broke a nail, and they’re gonna tell you how to fix it!”

Laughter.

LeeAnne Locken and Ron Corning limboing

After the introduction of the celebs ended at 12:45, the first “challenge” took place on the stage in the middle of the ballroom — the Community Trust Bank limbo with Shay Geyer underdoing it baby style. Next up was the Community Trust Bank lip-sync challenge. Despite local songbird Liz Mikel being the first one up to croon, Ron said, “Here’s what I have to say about the lip-sync challenge: It’s a good thing it’s for a good cause!”

Then “The Dougie” hip-hop dance was on the program, with Co-Chair Stacy trying her best to rise to the occasion despite a bad hip.

Pink-boa ladies

But all the action wasn’t on stage. The tables were rocking and rolling, with one group being decked out in pink feathered boas and masks. Across the way, one table had a guest who was into her third glass of wine.

At 1 p.m., Family Gateway Executive Director Rob Alperts told how there were 5,000 homeless children in Dallas. He recalled how Annette Strauss started this group 27 years ago and thanked all who had supported it through the years.

Lisa Garza

Then cooking princess Lisa Garza, who had been reviewing her notes backstage, took to the main stage. She read Bible verses and told how “we do not choose our circumstances. My circumstances led me to be homeless.” Growing up Baptist in an abusive Christian home, she told how her dad was bipolar, her mother detached and working all the time. As a result, Lisa took care of the other kids in the family when she was just 7. At 14, Lisa was sexually assaulted by a schoolmate; at 18 she was into drugs, alcohol and sex; at 19 she was homeless, deciding that the “unknown was better than living in an abusive hell.” It was at that point that she lived on sofas, becoming pregnant at 20 with no self-esteem. But thanks to years of therapy, she stopped being a victim, finally, and “decided to pursue my dreams.” Now a frugal businesswoman, she encouraged the audience to “invest in educating the kids, or invest in sending them to prison!” She then added that “someone said I had a 95% chance of not making it. If we can save just one kid, we’ve succeeded. I won, and I have an amazingly happy life. I ask you to dig deeper. We want to raise $100K today. I think we can do more.”

With that, the gal known for her bangs and her cooking received a standing O.

Then it was back to the celebrity shenanigans. At one point the envelope was pushed. At least two females who were old enough to be Miley Cyrus’s mamas took to the stage to “twerk,” sorta. While some thought it was uproarious, other guests blanched that the controversial style of dancing was going too far. As one person put it, “There’s a reason why ‘twerk’ rhymes with ‘jerk’.” After one table complained, the activities returned to a more PG-rated level.

All of which brings us back to Annette Strauss. What would that classy, civic-minded lady have thought of such antics?

Dallas is pretty darn proud of all the perks it has — AT&T Performing Arts Center, Klyde Warren Park, Perot Museum, Bush Center and the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. But the one thing it doesn’t have is a coast. Nope, Dallas is landlocked. For art lovers who enjoy the sweep of waves against a sandy beach, they’re out of luck and have to seek sea foam elsewhere. That is, until this item goes up on the TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction bloc.

Art Basel In Miami Beach: A Double Tropic Getaway* (Value: Priceless)

For two couples, TACA has come up with the superb answer! From December 4-6 they stay at the Mandarin Oriental in Miami with access to the vernissage of Art Basel, where the international art world flocks for a winter gathering. In addition to the invitation-only opening and access to the exclusive Art Collector’s Lounge, the foursome will have a customized Art Basel schedule with a half-day private tour led by renowned Los Angeles art consultant Dorothy Goldeen.

Art Basel in Miami Beach**

But Dallasites love their partying, Neiman Marcus style, even when they’re away from North Texas. TACA has thought of that, too. The two couples will have passes for Miami’s Best Dressed party sponsored by Neiman’s.

Whew! All of that art loving and partying will require some recovery time, so the foursome will head to the Rosewood Little Dix Bay on British Virgin Gorda for two nights in two Ocean Cottage rooms.

Travel has been taken care of with coach-class, round-trip air transportation to Miami and Virgin Gorda provided by American Airlines.

* Courtesy of Neiman Marcus, Mandarin Oriental Miami, Dorothy Goldeen Art Advisory, Rosewood Little Dix Bay and American Airlines.

** Photo provided by TACA.

There’s a problem with Pilobolus. They make it look so easy. The muscles and grace that allow bodies to move in such impossible positions seamlessly are simply unimaginable. There’s actually a temptation to go home when no one is looking and try to achieve one of their movements. Don’t. Not unless you have a relative that is a chiropractor or orthopedic surgeon. Just wanted to prepare you for the next TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction item.

A Private Dinner Party With Pilobolus* (Value: $18,900)

Philobolus*

Pilobolus may sound like a Greek feast and it is — a feast for the eyes! The incredible modern dance illusionist company has not only won awards, it’s had “60 Minutes” at its front door with open arms because of its remarkable presentations for more than four decades.

This auction item is not just for one or two people. It’s for box seating for 10 at the TITAS presentation of Pilobolus on January 18 at the Winspear Opera House.

Nancy and Clint Carlson’s residence (File photo)

But that’s only the beginning! Afterward you and your 19 guests will saunter over to Nancy (aka TACA Board of Directors Chair) and Clinton Carlson’s incredibly fabulous Volk Estate residence for a dinner prepared by Neiman Marcus Executive Chef Kevin Garvin. Oh, did we mention that some of the Pilobolus troops will join you for dinner?

Kevin Garvin (File photo)

But the winner of this package deserves something a little extra special just for her/him. How about a “quiet stay in the English countryside” at Coworth Park in a Stable Superior Room? Yes, that Coworth Park, a Dorchester Collection Hotel in Ascot, England, of course.

* Courtesy of TITS/AT&T Performing
 Arts Center, Neiman Marcus 
Executive Chef Kevin Garvin, 
Nancy and Clint Carlson and 
Coworth Park

** Photo provided by TACA

Deedie Rose, Caren Prothro and Bess Enloe*

Their second annual Chairman’s Dinner on September 16 at the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House capped a busy day for the people who run Dallas’ AT&T Performing Arts Center. Earlier in the day the PAC board of directors had held its annual meeting, voting to make three of its most prominent directors—Deedie Rose, Caren Prothro, and Bess Enloe—the board’s first-ever lifetime trustees.

The dinner in the C. Vincent Prothro Lobby of the Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House also was a sort of bittersweet one for PAC Chairman Roger Nanney. While it marked great success for the Center—it just finished its second straight year in the black financially—it also marked Nanney’s final year as board chair. A search committee is looking for his successor.

Don and Ellen Winspear*

While guests including Sarah and Ross Perot Jr., Adriana and Guillermo Perales and Ellen and Don Winspear prepared to enjoy a three-course feast by Wolfgang Puck Catering, Nanney and PAC CEO Doug Curtis threaded through the Prothro Lobby, greeting those at the exclusive gathering of directors, major donors and sponsors and supporters like old friends.

Roger Nanney*

“It’s been great fun to see the Center become as successful as it has,” said Nanney, who’s been on the board since 2002 and was first elected chairman in 2010. “We raised the money, built the buildings, and then had to start up a new business. We learned how the place needs to operate. We’ve had a stable management team, and the venues are creating more revenue opportunities than we could have imagined.”

That’s important, he stressed, because it’s hit attractions like “The Book of Mormon” and the “Seinfeld” show that support the PAC’s resident companies including the Dallas Opera, the Texas Ballet Theater and the Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico. Nanney’s thoughts on leaving the chairman’s post? “I’ll be a part of this forever,” he replied.

Sara and Chris Peck and Doug Curtis*

Not far away, meantime, Curtis, who is the PAC’s longest-serving employee as well as its chief executive, said he was surprised by how quickly the Center had become successful. So how does one do that? “With good business practices and sticking to your principles,” Curtis said. “We’ve been disciplined with our annual budget, and we’ve had to be nimble,” since not every PAC offering can be a “Book of Mormon.”

However, Curtis added, significant challenges remain. The Center needs to “broaden” its reach to more people in North Texas, he said, and, most importantly: “We still have some money to raise to pay for the buildings.” A capital campaign will begin soon to address that, he said, and he hopes it will be a short one.

Dinner*

Later, guests like Jeanne Marie Clossey, Marnie and Kern Wildenthal, and Lynn and Allan McBee finished their meal (black kale and spinach salad, seared halibut) by heading for a sliced-to-order pie bar from Emporium Pies. As the diners lined up for their desserts, many were swaying to the lively, soul-pop presentation of Motown classics by the band Cuvee.

Dance floor*

As the evening began winding down, we asked Caren Prothro and Bess Enloe their thoughts about being named PAC lifetime trustees. “I’m flattered and honored,” Enloe said. But “it’s kind of a ‘sentence’ too.” Agreed Prothro, laughing: “They’ve ‘sentenced’ us to more work!” Then the PAC grande dame turned serious. “What an honor it is,” Prothro said. “It feels like the Center’s momentum, everything, is going in the right direction.” And this momentum, she added, will only help the Dallas community, especially its corporate community, realize the importance of becoming even more involved in the arts.

* Photo credit: Carter Rose

A potential train wreck was on the Dallas fundraising schedule. It was last Friday when two major dinners were in place at the same time. Yipes! Out of 365 days in the year, how could this have happened? Well, the situation started months ago when the Dallas Arboretum announced its gala for the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden would take place on Friday, September 20. (Originally the garden and its gala had been planned for an earlier date, but rain delays caused the garden to open later than scheduled.) Oops! The new date just so happened to be the very same night as the annual TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction Gala at the Mansion.

Déjà vu! Just last year the Arboretum held its gala launch of the Dale Chihuly exhibition on the same night as the TACA Party On The Green.

Such a collision of important fundraising events taking place on the same night might be a problem. After all, how does one choose between biggies? But, luckily, there were enough generous folks to sell out both the outdoor-chic and black-tie events. Why, one TACA veteran couple came up with a Solomon-like solution — they would attend the Arboretum event and send a $10,000 check to TACA.

Then the week before the big night, weather forecasts predicted one minor hitch — rain! After a summer that had been as parched as a wrangler heading up a cattle drive’s final days, the meteorologists were downright giddy at the prospect of 60% showers.

On the other hand, the Arboretum folks who had garnered national press about their expansive garden put into action a rain plan. Just in case the weather guessers were right, the cocktail reception in the new garden would be replaced by cocktails on the terrace next to the Rosine Hall. And, of course, the terrace would be tented. Then dinner and festivities would take place in Rosine Hall.

Across town, the TACA Co-Chairs Heather and Bill Esping and staffers were staying loyal to their annual POA. To them, rain was no big deal. After all, the auction was always indoors. So, the only change would be the transition between the cocktail reception in the Promenade to the tables set up in the restaurant, wine cellar, dining room, bar and various suites. Instead, the well-mannered guests would just take the hallway connecting the hotel proper to the dining facilities.

And the 325+ guests lived up to the look and feel of the black-tie event.

Alexander McQueen, Jimmy Choo and Bryan Atwood

First, there was the fashion snapshots of the night — Event Co-Chair Heather Esping in Lanvin with Jimmy Choo shoes; Christie’s auctioneer Andrea Fiuczynski combining a Naeem Khan shrug with her Jill Sanders cocktail dress; and Honorary Co-Chair Barbara Daseke in a 15-year-old Donna Karan. For shoe lovers, there were Lynn McBee in Alexander McQueen, Auction Item Chair Wanda Gierhart in Bryan Atwood and TACA Chairman of the Board Nancy Carlson in Louis Vuittons.

Niven Morgan, Muffin Lemak and Shelby Wagner

The chatter of the night ranged from Niven Morgan’s preparing for his 15^th anniversary and launching a new men’s product in the following week. . . Margo Keyes being solo due to husband Jim’s being “trapped” in California (but Jim later showed up!) . . . Alicia Wood reporting that 100 more tickets have been sold for Tablescapes this year. In fact they’ve had to add two more tables for the lunch with James Farmer. . . Lynn explaining that husband Allan McBee was in Tyler. . . Adorably cute Vogue Associate Publisher David Stuckey was part of the receiving line meeting and greeting a bunch of new friends. . .Past TACA RBC Wealth Management Custom Auction Gala Co-Chairs Kit and Kemp Sawers breezing in without a care in the world. Past chairs of any event tend to be like that, don’t you know.

DIning in the library

After much cocktailing, catching up and checking out the live auction items on display in the ballroom, the guests headed to their assigned seats throughout the Mansion. For their reward, they discovered beautifully displayed tables and lighting that would have made the Wicked Witch of the West look downright pretty. But being pretty just isn’t enough. Mansion Chef Bruno Davaillon prepared a menu that included chilled ahi tuna with tomato jelly and heirloom tomato in a sea broth followed by Strubb Ranch prime filet and short rib on a sweet potato puree with pickled root salad and Thai herb with Moet Hennessy wines. As delicious as it all sounded, one sushi-loving guest passed on the ahi tuna saying, “It just doesn’t smell right.” No problem. Everyone else at the table dug in.

Main dining room

Following dinner, the guests like children waking up on Christmas morning discovered a bounty of desserts (Chocolate Composition, Classic Carrot Cake, Berries Panna Cotta Glass, Pistachio Cherry Macaron, Blueberry Lemon Cheesecake and Mini Cone) masterminded by Mansion Pastry Chef Nicolas Blouin. And, of course, more of the bubbly and grown-up refreshments.

Everyone was having a good time, except for a couple of people like Faye Briggs, who was suffering from a mighty headache and headed for the valet with Ralph Gorman.

But the partying continued festively and loudly. . . very loudly. But what could you expect when you have more than 325 partiers partying? It was a party, for heaven sakes!

Andrea Fiuczynski and David Stuckey

But the time to get down to business was at hand, and the ballroom started filling with people with bidding paddles in hand. For some it meant reserved places in the rows or at tables near the front of the stage. Alas, some of those special guests either decided to stand on the sidelines or continue their conversations on the promenade. The results? Two or three prime positions were as empty as a Target parking lot on Easter Sunday.

It was going to be an interesting auction. Fewer items than last year and a bigger goal!

Auctioneer Andrea, who does 25 auctions a year, had said earlier in the evening that her job was to “make spending money fun.” Evidently, this group didn’t need any help in the fun department. Despite having one of the swiftest and most finalizing palm gavels in the business, Andrea never seemed to get the guests to turn down the chatter volume. Unlike last year’s herd of guests, this one just wouldn’t settle down.

One couple who had prime seats finally gave up and headed home because of the noise. At one point, Wanda took the mic and tried to get the attention of the chatty Cathies and Charlies. It only seemed to give the C’s something more to talk about.

In a change of POA, the “Farm-To-Table Dinner” offering was on the auction bloc in the middle of the program instead of the tail end. With paddles waving, it added scrambling activity to the noise factor.

Then Chef Kent Rathbun took over the mic to pitch the “At Home With The Rathbuns” package. Let’s face it. When Kent takes over, the big guy is like your junior high school coach — he knows how and with whom to make eye contact to get the message across.

Dawn Spalding, Amy and Les Ware

But despite the hubbub, many happy faces were beaming over their prizes — Bill Esping got a kiss from wife Heather for the “Fashion Week Through the Eyes of Vogue;” Lisa and Bill Ogle snapped up “Art Basel Miami Beach;” the wine cellar diner with Emmanuel Villaume went to Adam Carter; Suzy and Larry Gekiere are headed to Vegas for the “Ultimate Las Vegas Oasis;” after spending part of the summer in London, Nancy and Clint Carlson won the “Luxury in London” package; and still another kiss reward was exchanged by Amy and Less Ware for landing the “Retreat in the French Riviera.”

Barbara Daseke and Heather and Bill Esping

Michele Vobach, John Swords, Tara Lewis, Nick Even, Kent Rathbun, Lynn McBee and Stephen Vobach

As for the Rathbun dinner, it went up for bid twice and was won by a slew of folks including Nick Even, Tara Lewis, John Swords, Michele and Stephen Vobach and the McBees.

Farm To Table bidding

As for the “Farm To Table” package for 40 couples, 26 paddles went up. Translation: Some folks bought more than one pair @ $750 resulting in a swift $30,000 for dining in a pasture. Worth every delicious penny!

Despite the volume and the competition with the Arboretum for this night of nights, TACA Executive Director Becky Young was all smiles. Seems that once again the gala broke another record, raising $615,000 with $195,000 resulting from the auction alone.

Just goes to show — noisy can be profitable.

Susannah and Seth Bame and Dana Arnold

While the rest of Dallas was putting on their jammies on Saturday, September 21, the Dallas Museum of Art’s Junior Associates were just getting things going in the DMA’s Sculpture Garden for their annual “An Affair of the Art”. And why not? Friday’s rain had blown out the heat and humidity. Here it was a perfectly clear night, except for the moon popping through the garden’s trees.

Robert Harris and “friend”

Susannah and Seth Bame had promised a Gatsby meets New York World’s Fair, and they delivered with penguins, who had to leave early, games and all types of fanciful activities and critters to raise more than $75,000 for the DMA’s teen education program. For instance, there was the monkey that hopped from Robert Harris’ arms for a photo opp to the shoulders of other guests.

And speaking of delivery, Susannah hadn’t as of Saturday. Nine months pregnant, she didn’t seem the least bit fazed.

Troy Schiermeyer and Paige Westhoff

As the band cranked things up with “Signed, Sealed and Delivered,” some guests hit the dance floor under the stars with a vengeance, while others like Paige Westhoff and Troy Schiermeyer just strolled through the garden.

Tierney Kaufman and Jarod Hutchins

As the evening wore on and some guests like Nikki and Crayton Webb headed home to relieve babysitters, others like Tierney Kaufman and Jarod Hutchins left in search of late night spots like the Rio Room to carry on the partying. One person shouted out, “How about the Ghostbar?”

Who had the heart to tell him that he had a ghost of a chance of partying there?

TACA’s 2014 Silver Cup recipients were just revealed at Jennifer and John Eagles’ nest. In the crowd that included past Silver Cup recipients (John Eagle, Cindy and Howard Rachofsky, Diane and Hal Brierley, Kern Wildenthal, Joyce Mitchell, Peggy Sewell, Ruben Esquivel, Patsy Donosky, etc.), Laree Hulshoff and Ben Fischer, Holly Reed, Gillian Breidenbach, Randall Graham, Brent Franks, Lynne and Roy Sheldon, Lee Papert, Simona Beal, Barbara and Stan Levenson and Clint Carlson, the announcement was made by TACA President of the Board Nancy Carlson.

Eagle gallery

But this year instead of doing it high atop the Eagle’s spiral staircase, it was made in the gallery with a backdrop of modern art and the outdoor pool. John apologized for not preventing the landscape crew from doing a buzz cut on the lawn.

Holly Mayer, Lucilo Pena and Nancy Carlson

Oh, who were the 2014 honorees? They are Holly Mayer and Lucilo Peña. If these names aren’t front row in your memory banks, don’t admit it. Because those-in-the-know are well aware of their contributions to the arts community. If you’re one of those who have to have the deets, follow the jump and you’ll realize why Holly and Lucilo will be honored at the Hilton Anatole on Monday, March 3.

The Silver Cup was established by the late Annette Strauss “to recognize one man and one woman for their outstanding contributions to the arts in Dallas.”  

Holly Mayer has been a generous philanthropist to performing arts and cultural organizations, including The Dallas Opera, Dallas Theater Center, Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Dallas Arboretum.  Along with her husband Tom, she has worked behind the scenes for decades to build Dallas’ vibrant cultural community, devoting countless volunteer hours to organizations and contributing to their success. In addition to her own efforts as an arts volunteer, she has inspired many others to lend their support, as well. 

Mayer has served as The Dallas Opera Board of Directors’ vice president for development, at which time the organization realized a 50 percent increase in annual giving for a two-year period due to her strategic focus and dedicated efforts.  In addition to development work, she served on the DSO’s executive committee and on the board of governors.  For the Dallas Arboretum, she has served on the finance committee and Chihuly at the Arboretum.

She is the Executive Director/President of the Productive Rehabilitation Institute of Dallas for Ergonomics (PRIDE).  Married to Dr. Tom Mayer, she is the mother of two adult children. 

Joyce Mitchell, community volunteer and recipient of the 1998 Silver Cup Award said, “Holly has led and worked alongside some of Dallas’ most influential and generous philanthropists who happily join her in the work to enrich our community’s cultural life.  She has worked quietly, and she never seeks recognition, making her even more deserving of this honor.” 

Lucilo Peña has been a tireless and constant presence in the arts in North Texas for a number of years.  He serves on several boards that promote building vibrant environments where urban life can flourish, especially in the Dallas Arts District.

Peña is a founding member of the Development Excellence Committee for the North Texas Council of Governments.  He is a trustee of the Dallas Museum of Arts and chair of the building committee.  He also serves as a director of the Dallas Architectural Forum, and is a member of Downtown 360 for the City of Dallas, and Cornell University’s Dean’s Advisory Council for the College of Architecture, Art and Planning.  He serves on the program advisory committee for the Nasher Sculpture Center, and is a member of the President’s Advisory Council for the AT&T Performing Arts Center. 

A trained architect, Peña is president of Billingsley Development Company.  He specializes in mixed-use pedestrian-friendly project that emphasize connectively and contextually define the public realm.  He and his partner Lee were early proponents of the Dallas Arts District and reside in the area. 

John Eagle, 2011 Silver Cup Award Recipient, stated, “Lucilo has been a tireless supporter of the arts in North Texas.  He is a bridge builder who quietly works to connect the talented people of our community and inspire them to do great things for local arts and culture.  I’m thrilled to call Lucilo my friend and know that many other join me in congratulating him.” 

In the spirit of arts, fashion and giving, Town & Country and Highland Park Village partnered up to benefit TACA the first two days of the month.

Vicki Howland and Heather Washburne

The two-day fundraiser started with a “Style Spy” breakfast on Tuesday, October 1, in HP Village’s Mockingbird Room. Initially it appeared to be more of a mother-daughter fest with Event Co-Chair Heather Washburne with her mom Vicki Howland and Billie Leigh Rippey and daughter Paige Baten-Locke. And, like most gatherings where the gals are gabbing, the program was delayed for a while.

BillieLeigh Rippey and Paige Baten-Locke

Jennifer Levene Bruno

But once T&C publisher Jennifer Levene Bruno welcomed the group, the ladies got down to finding out the T&C predictions of the season’s trends from Beauty Director Jamie Rosen and Style Director Stellene Volanes. Sorry. Cannot share the secrets, but you can find them in T&C. OK, so we’ll share one, but don’t tell anyone. One of the new trends is brow extensions. Yup, you heard it. They’ve come up with a product that adds itty-bitty hair-like materials to your brows in case you’re follicle-ly challenged in that area.

Jamie Rosen

Afterwards, the guests had a jolly good time touring the various HP Village boutiques to apply some of their newly-learned education to use.

The next night, Montage: A Celebration of Art and Fashion started off in the HP Village Theater. Co-Chair Heather was joined by her sister/Co-Chair Elisa Summers and their husbands, Ray Washburne and Steve Summers.

To “kick off” the production, Jan Strimple had Dallas Youth Repertory Project dancers perform a song about TACA and the Dallas arts. So, that may not sound like a big deal, until you realize that while the youngsters were singing, they were also keeping tempo with clapping and stomping Jimmy Choos on the floor as they sang.

Dallas Youth Repertory Project with dancing shoes

After the Summers and Washburnes welcomed the guests, TACA Board Member/VP of Grants Tara Lewis thanked all for filling the theater and adding to the coffers of TACA.

As lively music played in the background, fashions were presented from Hadleigh’s, Lela Rose, Scoop NYC, Ralph Lauren and Carolina Herrera New York. One or two of them caught Nancy Rogers’ eye and she snapped it with her smartphone.

Fashions on stage

Dallas Youth Repertory Project students

Breaking up the fashion presentation was another group from Dallas Youth Repertory who sang and danced with Proenza Schouler handbags from Five and Ten.

Jennifer and Coley Clark and Becky Young

Guests headed to the Mockingbird Room for a post-performance reception. Coley Clark in his Hadleigh suit said Hadleigh co-owner Ed Sheikh was “the best.” Asked for a capsule review of the show, Coley said, “There was a lot of wearable stuff; not too much crazy stuff.”

Ray Washburne, Elisa Summers and Heather Washburne

Ray Washburne, who in addition to his HPV duties is the finance chair for the Republican National Committee, was just back from D.C., where he had put together a private dinner for about 50 big donors at the Willard Hotel. At the last minute he got senators Rand Paul, Ted Cruz and Ron Johnson to show up and talk.

Ellie McFarland and Michelle Gibson

Across the way were Dallas Youth Repertory Project students Taylor Hennings, Kaitlyn Hennings and Addy McFarland. Over on a couch, DYRP student Ellie McFarland joined DYRP choreographer, Michelle Gibson, calling her  “the best teacher in the world!” She must be, because the dance routines, like the fashions, were simply fabulous.

The TACA crowd gathered at Jennifer and John Eagle’s home on Thursday, October 10, for the announcement of the 2014 TACA Silver Cup recipients. This legendary residence designed by Edward Durell Stone for Josephine and Bruno Graf back in the late 1950’s is still mesmerizing, despite its being AARP-qualifying. Thanks to a “refreshening” that made Elizabeth Taylor’s redo in the 1980’s look shabby, the 11,851-square-foot home provides both the showplace for the Eagles’ art and TACA announcements, as well as for their just kicking back.

Dining room with lifeguard

Sure, there is the most talked-about-spot — the dining room a la “a magnificent disk of polished white marble that appears to float on water” — but there’s so much more, too.

There’s the library. It’s not huge like Harlan Crow’s two-story library, but this one-story room blends both the beauty of walls of hardwood shelves filled with hardbound books and one wall of glass windows and door with a flawless view of a courtyard with one of their collectibles. John admitted that this room was one of the couple’s favorites and is where they spend the most time.

Sculpture in the library’s courtyard

But it takes personality to make it all come together, and the Eagles have it. Sure, you’ve heard about the towels given to folks who have oops-ed their way into the pool despite the “lifeguards” standing by. It is a chilly dip. But on this night Cindy and Howard Rachofsky were on the run, so a Food Company doggy bag was prepared.

Jennifer Eagle and Cindy Rachofsky (note “doggy bag”)

In addition to providing for the Rachofskys’ needs, the Eagles have annually hosted the TACA Silver Cup announcement. But you’ve already heard about that.

Talk of the evening included Lynne and Roy Sheldon’s recalling how Roy’s dad was one of the first to step accidentally into the indoor pool here. . .  Kern Wildenthal talking about the upcoming 100^th anniversary black tie gala for Children’s Medical Center with Jennifer Hudson, the Pointer Sisters and the Starlight Orchestra at the Omni Dallas Hotel on November 2. . .  Ebby Halliday’s Randall Graham telling KTVT’s Brent Franks about the Ebby campaign for the North Texas Food Bank. . . Terri Provencal reporting that Sunday’s Taste of the Nation had broken previous records of its 25-year run. . .  Hal Brierley sloughing off the rain woes of the weekend’s past Cattle Baron’s Ball. He added that the reason for Brierley + Partners to sponsor the valet parking was because “it’s the one thing everyone needs there.” Right he is. It was just four years ago that Brierley found himself with his Porsche in the CBB soup and the valet parkers coming to the rescue. . .Holly Reed, just back from yachting with Annette Temple in the Mediterranean for Annette’s “something” birthday, was on her way to a dinner with Texas House Speaker Joe Straus. Heads up Patagonia. Holly has her sights set on you for her next trek. . . U.S. Trust’s Bonnie Rainey told the crowd that “we are committed to . . . support of these institutions here.” Then she added the cherry – an 18% increase over last year’s giving.

Goodness, how MySweetCharity loves to hear about a corporation increasing its support of the nonprofits.

Leave it to Janelle and Larry Friedman to hit it out of the ballpark—again. A couple of year ago, they orchestrated a Children’s Medical Center benefit. The CMC folks were so impressed with their efforts, they came a-calling for the Friedmans to put together an event for the CMC’s 100^th anniversary.

Janelle and Larry Friedman

Talk about tantalizing! But they weren’t going to just have a birthday cake and party favors. No, siree. The Friedmans went for it like a freshman cheerleader after a senior quarterback. Children’s had been vital in the lives of one of their children and the Friedmans were committed to payback in a very good way. They wouldn’t just throw a party. It would be an extravaganza for the Dallas jaw-dropping record books — “Celebrating Our Century”.

On Saturday, November 2, they delivered with just a couple of hiccups. But more about those later.

Vehicles arriving amid balloons

From the curb it was obvious that something was definitely up at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Mammoth white balloons with “100″ on them lined the driveway. As guests handed their cars over to the valet, there was a student drum corp setting an upbeat tempo.

Drum corp

From ground floor to the third floor, CMC seemed to be everywhere. Check-in took place on the ground level right as guests arrived. Instead of the usual rectangular tables with tablecloths and guests having to look down at those checking them in, there was a very professional, hotel-style registration Very smart. This allowed guests to get that registration stuff over with instantly and eliminated the need for tacky old check-in tables in the third-floor lobby.

Guest check-in

Welcome wall

After a ride up the escalators, guests were welcomed by a pink and purple light wall that said, “Celebration of Our Century” behind a glittering netted screen. Making a U-turn they entered a whimsical wonderland of pink and purple lit walls highlighted by tree limbs coated with white and silver. On the right were seven tiers of champagne flutes on a table with Jeroboams of Moet & Chandon ready for pouring. At the far end of the lobby was MASS Ensemble’s Katie Boeck playing the Earth Harp.

MASS Ensemble’s Katie Boeck

Over in a corner of the lobby was a velvet roped-off area. That was the scene of one of the hiccups. It was for the VIP meet and greet with the Pointer Sisters. When the trio arrived, the line had already formed. Guests were there; sisters were there. Only things missing were lighting—and a photographer. Not to worry. Guests were flexible and high tech. When they realized they were on their own, the guests pulled out smartphones and created a buddy system to record the grip-and-grin.

Kern and Marnie Wildenthal and Pam and Paul Southern

Alan and Sarah Losinger

Cyndi Bassel, Ross and Margot Perot

Susan and Joel Williams III

June McGuire, Bill and Kandis Hutchinson and Pete McGuire

Kathleen and Robert Gibson

As for the collection of 900 guests throughout the lobby, it was an interesting mix — politicos (Pete Sessions, Chart Westcott and Joel Williams III), socialites (Claire and Dwight Emanuelson, Sarah and Alan Losinger, Connie and Chris O’Neill, Claire and Dwight Emanuelson, Emilynn and Claude Wilson), nonprofit types (Brent Christopher, Kathleen and Robert Gibson, Jennifer Sampson, Marnie and Kern Wildenthal) and heavy hitters (Kathy and Richard Holt, Kandis and Bill Hutchinson, June and Pete McGuire, Margot and Ross Perot, Lynore and Robbie Robinson and Jimmy and Carl Westcott). They were all looking good and feeling better.

Janelle Friedman

Visiting with one and all were the Friedmans. Janelle, who had had back surgery two weeks before, was leaning on a custom-made crystal-laden cane and wearing a form-fitting red Oscar gown. No way an off-track back was going to keep her away. She claimed she was going to be on hand even if they had to bring her in on a stretcher. Like a wise husband, Larry knew his place. In honor of CMC’s red, he sported a red bowtie, socks and even underwear. . . or, at least, that’s what he said.

Dallas Ballroom

As the ballroom doors opened, mouths dropped. While some guests were as familiar with the Dallas Ballroom as their own home, they still weren’t prepared for what lay before them. Nowhere was the usual ballroom, except for the carpet—and who looked down? Across the far back of the room were fabulous light-blue walls surrounding a multi-tiered white stage. Across the way was a production platform that would have impressed Steven Spielberg. One Omni staffer looked at it in awe. Throughout the ballroom were tables of all types, shapes, sizes and décor. Some tabletops were like light boxes; chairs were dressed in a variety of fabrics ranging from glittery covers to elegant woven fabrics. The light around the room was a show in itself.

Dinner table

Even the table setting screamed “WOW!” Butter pats were in the shape of CMC’s red balloons on strings. At one table the confusion of the butter was so great that one man dabbed his finger across the “balloon” and reported, “It is butter.”

Initially the guests took their seats for a hearty four-course feast. But it was soon discovered that dining was going to be leisurely, to say the least, with 20 minutes between courses. On the good side, this time-out allowed for table-hopping, which this group did like youthful kangaroos. On the darn-it side, it resulted in a very extended night.

To get things going, a sponsor tribute video featuring “patient hosts” Ed Brady and Natalie Burraston was presented with a big old tip o’ the hat to million-dollar sponsor Alliance Data. It was a very clever way to reveal the event’s sponsors. So clever that 2013 Crystal Charity Ball Chair Caren Kline smiled in amazement. It ended with Ed being a “talk show” host interviewing CMC President/CEO Chris Durovich. After a thank you by the Friedmans (Larry: “This is just like my house. When my wife is done, there’s nothing left to say”) and an elaborate dance presentation filling the stage with professional dancers and children with red balloons, Chris told how CMC is the fifth-largest pediatric hospital in the U.S. and served 200K children last year.

Starlight Orchestra from New York

Guests had hardly had time to resume their table-hopping/dining when Starlight Orchestra from New York got the entertainment kicked off. They must have been fueled with Red Bull. Gyrating like metal detectors at a coin show, they bumped, bounced and blew everyone away.

Nicole Blue and Carmine Achtman

Carol Aaron

Nicole Blue and her buddy Carmine Achtman were so caught up with the moment, they joined the troupe on stage. Soon they were joined by a gent in a red plaid dinner jacket. As Nicole bounced hips with a female member of the ensemble, Carmine saw something in the audience that caused her to pause. She quickly signaled Nicole that it was time to return to their seats. Someone noted seeing Nicole’s mom, Carol Aaron. Standing in the middle of the ballroom, the diminutive brunette with blue eyes looked fabulous in a black Escada blouse. She also looked like an unhappy-camper parent waiting for an errant teenager past curfew. As Nicole and Carmine decided their stage appearance was done for the night, Tony Miller, who was seated nearby, hopped up and offered his hand to the ladies as they made their way down the stairs in their long gowns.

The Pointer Sisters

Guests at the base of the stage

For those who held out till 11, the wait was well worth it. The Pointer Sisters didn’t just take the stage, they stole it with a vengeance. Songs that rose to the top of the charts in the 70’s “jumped” the room’s energy to new highs. Pretty soon the base of the stage was filled with guests videotaping and bouncing like the Sisters.

Jennifer Hudson

But it was starting to get a bit late and, by the time the Sisters finished at 11:25 p.m., some guests were satisfied with their partying ways and headed home. Others stood their ground waiting to hear Academy Award winner Jennifer Hudson.

With her new pixie haircut and svelte figure, Jennifer took her place on stage just before midnight. While it had been a long day (she had quietly visited the CMC patients in the afternoon and requested no media coverage), Jennifer amazed the guests. When she sang “Hallelujah,” she could have just closed down shop and called it a day, but she continued on, providing everyone with sweet dreams of the night.

Yes, it was a century since the first baby camp in the Southwest opened and eventually became Children’s Medical Center. And over the past 100 years, 5M children have been treated. With the money raised by the Friedmans’ undertaking and support by sponsors like Alliance Data, the next 100 years is off to a good start. Happy birthday to Children’s and the children they have served and will serve.

For more photos, check the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery!

Saturday, November 9, was chock full of surprises. At one event T. Boone Pickens got a personalized guitar from Trace Adkins. At another one, three female impersonators entertained surprised guests. And at the last stop there was guest wrestling. No one can say Dallas isn’t diverse.

Big Black Tie Ball

Honoree T. Boone Pickens arrived too late for the meet-and-greet with Trace Adkins at the Big Brothers/Big Sisters’ Big Black Tie Ball at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Didn’t matter. The two plus Boone’s lady Toni Brinker had spent the day in Stillwater for the Oklahoma State University football win over Kansas. Why, Trace even sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at the game. Just the night before Trace had been in Nashville, where he taped the CMA Christmas special that will be shown on Tuesday, December 2. Then he hopped in his bus and made it to Dallas in time to join Boone and Toni for the trip to Stillwater.

J.W. Williams and Jay Rosser

How did the billionaire and the country-western singer hook up? Well, it seems Trace’s manager, J.W. Williams, called Boone a while back and said that Trace wanted to win Donald Trump’s Celebrity Apprentice. To do that, a donation of $100K to the Red Cross would help. Would Boone provide the assistance? Boone pitched in. In addition, Trace is the spokesperson for the Wounded Warriors, to which Boone also gives.

Marti and Larry Carlin, Ainsley Gibson, McKinley Gibson and Susanne and Chad Gibson

In the meantime, Boone’s team was very much present Saturday. Right-hand man Jay Rosser was introducing J.W. to one and all. Boone’s foundation director Marti Carlin had her whole family on hand including husband Larry and daughter Susanne Gibson with her brood (husband Chad and daughters McKinley and Ainsley).

John and Eryn Bakewell

Stephanie and Travis Hollman

While the VIP’s gripped and grinned with Trace and enjoyed the Roche Bobois-furnished VIP lounge, the rest of the 700 guests including Pat and Charles McEvoy, Eryn and John Blakewell, Stephanie and Travis Hollman, Linda and Jim Jennings, Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne and Irving city councilors Dennis Webb and Gerald Farris checked out the silent auction in part of the Dallas Ballroom.

It was noted that there was a significant odor in the silent auction area that extended into the rest of the ballroom, where tables and staging were set up. Some thought it had the scent of a new car; another thought a doll; still another claimed a shower curtain. Ah, that last one won the cigar. Seems the two-story, custom-made rust and brown curtains that separated the two sections of the ballroom were made of vinyl. The reason for the color was to give the ballroom a “rustic” look.

When it was time to move into the dining room, the curtain partially opened to reveal a stage with the vinyl wall on both sides of the stage.

Toni Brinker, T Boone Pickens and Meredith Lamb

At the base of the stage, Boone greeted guests including Meredith Lamb, Cheryl Hall and Trish and Ron Bassett.

T. Boone’s custom-made guitar

Event Co-Chairs Susan Gray and Katherine Musick arranged to have Trace come out to introduce Boone, but signals got mixed. A video was shown just as a specially created guitar was brought out. It appeared that Trace was to present the guitar to Boone, but a voice over the PA continued. Boone and Trace looked a bit puzzled.

Being a gentleman, Trace was up-front, saying he had made a mistake. Nobody cared about the hiccup. They wanted more of the twosome and they got it.

“Wake Up With the WOLF”’s Liz Tyler interviewed the duo on stage. Trace admitted, “I was a terrible big brother. I had two little brothers; made ‘em jump off the house just to see what would happen. You guys are much better. Happy to report that neither of my two brothers hate me anymore. I’m here because Boone said he’s be here. On Celebrity Apprentice, I said I’m gonna bring Boone Pickens, and everybody else sat down! I worked in the oil field for 10 years.”

Trace Adkins and T. Boone Pickens

Boone recalled that as a youngster, he had no musical ability. In school “they started me on the triangle, and I couldn’t hit it. Then they gave me the sticks. . . Finally they told my mother not to have me come back to the rhythm band.”

About his newly acquired guitar, Boone said, “I’ll show it off, but I won’t play it.”

Other tidbits dropped on stage:

• Boone’s nickname is “Easy Pickens.”
• Boone doesn’t mind giving out his phone number because he’s always trying to make a deal.
• Trace said, “Boone gives more money to charity every year than Donald Trump ever gave in his whole life.”
• Boone recalled how on CNBC, Donald made a silly statement about oil. So, Boone said, “Donald, I won’t talk about real estate, if you don’t talk about oil. . . [But] I believe the guy is patriotic.”
• Boone declared that moving to Dallas in 1989 was one of three best decisions “I ever made.”

Following the interview, BBBS CEO Rob Roby told the assembled group that 5,075 boys and girls are “on our radar, plus the 10K we serve currently.” He explained that it takes $500 to remove a child from the waiting list.

Then the awards of the evening were handed out to:

• Chris Owens — The Neal Hawks Compassionate Spirit Award
• Mark Early — The Frank Bracken Visionary Leadership Award
• Richard R. Kilgust — The Tom Sloane Lifetime Achievement Award

To let guests know the results of being a “Big”/”Little” relationship, Big Brother Steve Burdick and former Little Brother John Richter told of their years together that resulted in John becoming a pilot for SkyWest Airlines. As much as John felt he got out of the program, it was obvious to all that Big Steve also was a better person for the program.

The Yes! Event: One Special Night

While the Big Brothers/Big Sisters were already settling down to dinner in the Omni’s Dallas Ballroom, the Legacy Senior Communities’ “The Yes! Event: One Special Night” was just getting underway across the hall in the lobby of the Trinity Ballroom. The festivities didn’t start until 7:30. When Omni catering service manager Rick Ayala was asked the reason for the late start, he explained the meal had to be kosher, so the cooking could not start until after sundown.

David Stern

David and Stacy Blank

Daniel and Carmine Achtman and Nicole Blue

Trinity Ballroom

Regardless of the time, the crowd of 400 filled the lobby with such folks as Rabbi David Stern, Stacy and David Blank, Lottye Brodsky and Bobby Lyle, Drs. Carmine and Daniel Achtman and sisters, Nicole Aaron Blue and Angela Aaron Horowitz, whose son, Sam, made national headlines and an appearance on “Ellen” with his bar mitzvah performance.

Also present was Neil Goldberg, who explained that his dad, Robert Goldberg, had rehabbed at Legacy after being in a car wreck.

Carol Aaron

Regarding Legacy’s importance for families, Board of Trustees Chair Carol Aaron said, “Our grandmothers, uncles, cousins, mother-in-laws and friends have all been among those treated [there] with dignity, respect and love.” She went on to say that they will be exploring new ways to expand Legacy’s facilities and services. For instance, the $440,000 raised from the evening will “go toward refurbishment of the rooms and common spaces for long-term residents and will help enhance their quality of life.”

As Carol emphasized, “Believe in what you do and do what you believe in. That has been our mantra since we opened in 1953.”

When the doors had opened at 8:15 p.m., the guests discovered a magnificent ballroom looking light a perfect moonlit night. The staging, created by Todd Events, was set against a backdrop of blue, three billboard-size video screens, a DJ booth in the center of the dance floor and two huge food stations on opposite sides of the room.

Lucy Wrubel

Diana Ross, Lady Gaga and Cher

And what about the evening’s entertainment? Since the occasion was to celebrate the 60 years that Legacy has been “providing housing and health care options for seniors of all faiths,” the entertainment spanned those 60 years in addition to DJ Lucy Wrubel in center court setting the pace. Just how did they cover those 60 years? Why, with Diana Ross, Cher and Lady Gaga. No, not in person. They had three fabulous female impersonators fill the bill, much to the delight of the guests.

Alive For 35

Across town, Dallas Contemporary was in great party shape despite having been open for more than 24 hours. Since the Dallas art organization was celebrating its 35^th anniversary, the powers-that-be decided to keep the place open and things happening for 35 hours — Alive For 35! Having started the day before, the fundraiser birthday bash ran from 8 p.m. to midnight. It could have continued for another 35 hours!

The Hensley Ensemble Gospel Choir

Ballet Folklorico Azteca

In the main gallery there were all types of food and G-rated entertainment. At one point in the evening The Hensley Ensemble Gospel Choir all in white sang to the rafters. For their finale, they paraded throughout the audience with colorful parasols. There was hardly enough time for guests like Matthew Simon and Shelby Wagner to jump up, get another drink and settle back at your table before the Ballet Folklorico Azteca started their performance. As colorful as the choir’s parasols had been, they seemed frozen in time compared the beautiful purple, blue and green skirts swirling on stage.

Will Card and Sara Stockstrom

Just a door away, other types of art were taking place. These weren’t quite as G-rated due to the squeamish factor. On one side of the room was the art of body tattooing taking place. With ink-stained white gloves, tattoo artist Will Card used Sara Stockstrom’s back as his canvas. To the side was the design that Will was copying onto her back. With ear buds firmly in place, Sara lay on a table with eyes shut and not a line in her face. On the other hand, observers like Stephanie Roberts and Niven Morgan had appropriate lines as they vicariously experienced the injection of ink.

An artist and his canvas

At the back of the gallery were David Nichols, Kelli and Allen Questrom. Kelli admitted that not only did she not have any tattoos, but her jewelry was very limited due to a skin allergy.

David Nichols, Allen and Kelli Questrom

Across the way from the tattoo studio was true interactive interplaying. James Gilbert was taking on all comers for a tussle of muscle on the wrestling mat.

One chap tested James’ ability and took it for a spin. Observer Brad Beaird reasoned that “chap” had been watching previous bouts and probably realized that James was getting a bit worn out and was ready to be flattened. But he wasn’t that worn out. He won that round.

On the sidelines, Sammey Mihos decided she was game for the challenge. But her party clothes were as appropriate as a suit of armor in a swim meet. So she exchanged her frock for more sporting attire. She didn’t need to go to all that bother. After a couple or three thuds on the mat, she had met her match. Despite sideline pals like Holly Reed, Robert Weatherly and Greg Haynes Johnson’s cheering (“Hey, go Karate Kid!” and “”Do it for Dallas!”), she had been flattened.

Robert Weatherly, Holly Reed, Greg Haynes Johnson and Brad Beaird

As Sammey left laughing, referee Jose Delgado chased after her with something in his hand. Seems Sammye’s lip pencil had fallen out during the match up.

Just returned from the Hilton Anatole where Crystal Charity Ball preparations are way underway. Like who needs to fly to NYC when we’ve got “Magnificent Manhattan” here.

Crystal Charity Ball’s Broadway

By Saturday night, a major case of cabin fever will have set in, so why not take your pretty, sweet time and head on over to the area’s biggest fundraiser for children’s nonprofits?

And that is what it’s all about — the children. Whether it’s teaching children how to swim or addressing the issue of suicide among youngsters, the CCB 100 are raising money for them. You may never know one of the children who benefit from this amazing fundraiser. That’s not the point. The goal of such fundraising is to help others, not to receive thank-you notes from the individuals who benefit from the effort.

And if you’re one of Saturday’s sell-out crowd in attendance, look around. Among the hifalutin types in long gowns and tuxedoes, look for the ones who are on the frontlines of helping the kiddos. They are the beneficiaries of 100 women, who have spent the past year raising millions of dollars to support their efforts to make “a difference for good.”

Nutcracker and Sugar Plum Fairy

With a chill in the air, Nutcrackers seem to appear like fur coats. On Thursday, December 5, the Nutcracker was standing guard with a petite ballerina at his side in the Winspear lobby for the annual Tutu Chic fashion show and luncheon.

Benefiting the Texas Ballet Theater, the event has become a loving and beautiful tradition for ladies who lunch and love fashion.

Unlike past years when champagne-filled flutes were everywhere, this year the stemmed glasses were way outnumbered by boots and black opaque stockings.

While the majority of guests (Lee Bailey, Ashley Hunt, Lynn McBee and Jill Tananbaum) partied in the lobby, a small batch of gals (Olivia Kearny, DeeDee Lee, Claire Emanuelson, Shelle Sills, Jill Rowlett, Kris Johnson and Honorary Co-Chairs Dee Wyly and Niven Morgan, to name a few) sipped and charmed in the green room backstage.

Right on cue, both groups of guests were directed to their seats on stage for the fashion show featuring designs from Naeem Khan.

What makes this fashion show remarkable is the cast of models. They’re not your typical statuesque pros. Rather they’re the itty-bitty Texas Ballet Theater ballerinas with their male partners providing support, literally.

Texas Ballet Theater dancers

After having flowers delivered via male dancers to key people including the event chairs/sisters (Kathryn Munson Beach, Meg Munson McGonigle and Merry Munson Wyatt), Stanley Korshak main man Crawford Brock praised the dancing models for their healthy looks, but he forgot to give a tip of the hat to the male dancers, who jumped sky high and did the “heavy lifting.” OK, so maybe the ballerinas are light as feathers, but they still wouldn’t be airborne without the gents skillfully lifting and catching them.

Missing left strap

The presentation of fashions went off without a hitch. Well, there was that strap. What strap? Well, one of the ballerinas wore a multi-colored dress with bare shoulders. At one point in her dance with her partner, the left clear strap seemed to be MIA. Without missing a beat, a lift or move, the dancers completed the performance with hardly anyone in the audience noticing including TBT’s Artistic Director Ben Stevenson, Naeem and Crawford just a foot or two away.

Crawford Brock and the ballerina models

For the finale, a bride surrounded by a gaggle of beautifully dressed model took their bows with faux snowflakes falling from above. It was then that Crawford returned to the stage to put out a call for support for ballet slippers. It seems that a dancer can go through three pairs a week!

Naeem Khan

Nancy Rogers

Then the auction of a fashion package for Naeem’s fashion presentation in New York City was underway. Hands around the stage raised. Still the bidding was not achieving Naeem’s plan, so he took the mic and added dinner at his house. But he also let the audience know that he expected the package to raise $10,000. The hands that had previously fluttered in the audience, drooped. Then there was a nod from a blue-eyed blonde seated next to jewelry designer Sue Gragg on the front row. Yes, you guessed it. Nancy Rogers had once again saved the day. Smiles lit up the room.

The group adjourned to the lobby for lunch and memories of Sugar Plum Fairies who had dominated the day’s catwalk.

Dallas was sheathed in ice. The kind of frozen tundra that causes school systems to cancel school the night before. It was looking bleak for Dallas-area activities the first weekend in December. Already the Adolphus parade had been cancelled for Saturday and the Dallas Marathon was on the verge of cancelling for Sunday.

Caren Kline

Still the 100 ladies of Crystal Charity Ball carried on. Perhaps it was because Chair Caren Kline had been stoking up her energy level all year with chocolate. She does love her chocolate, don’t you know.

Or, perhaps it was the inspiration of the children’s organizations that would benefit from the year-long efforts.

Regardless, these gals were going to have their event no matter what Ma Nature threw at them. But they did warn, “If you’re apprehensive about conditions, stay at home.” No way they were going to let someone venture out if they felt it unsafe.

If guests showed, wonderful. If not, the evening of “Magnificent Manhattan” would still go on. After all only once in the CCB’s history had a ball been cancelled. (FYI: It was 1963, just days after the Kennedy assassination.)

Actually, many didn’t want to stay home. Cabin fever was setting in and there was the loyalty factor, but some committee members and guests had lost power at their homes. So moving into the Hilton Anatole for the weekend with a special discount rate made the electrical loss not so bad.

Friday, December 6

But things don’t just magically happen for CCB. There was a heck of a lot of preparation to undertake with hands-on attention by committee members. Thursday and Friday were spent schlepping and setting up alongside event producer Tom Addis’ team. On Friday night, the members celebrated their year creating the event in Caren’s suite. In addition to the ladies-who-fundraise, Caren’s husband, Pete, and New Yorkers, Caren’s sister (Dale Pinto) and parents (Bettye and Robert Whiteman) were on hand. (How about a factoid? Papa Whiteman owns the rights to Liberty Magazine and the licensing rights for “Ripley’s Believe It or Not”.)

But it was an early evening because setting up the next morning was to come too soon.

The greatest challenge of the night was crossing the black-iced parking lot for cars. But the Anatole staff crossed their fingers and promised that by Saturday night, it would be safe and sound.

Saturday, December 7

By jingo, the Anatole staff not only lived up to their commitment to have a safe driveway, they created a heated enclosed tunnel leading from the porte cochère to the main entrance of the Chantilly ballroom lobby. Not a silk slipper or flowing train suffered from the damp surroundings. The only thing that could have been more preventive would have been having guests literally carried in chairs on board litters.

Even the drive to the event was pretty easy, thanks to slo-mo driving. According to Mike Wyatt, the trip was nothing compared to his recent traffic experience in Brazil. It took him seven hours to go 24 miles from the hotel to the airport in Sao Paulo.

If anyone had thought a poor attendance would result due to the icy weather, they were so on the wrong track. Reservations Chair Christi Carter admitted that even she was amazed and delighted at the turnout of nearly 900. Ninety percent of the guests showed up! One CCB vet decided that it was because “everyone had so much invested in the event’s year-long efforts to raise money for the children.”

Living statue

But once inside there was no sign of the frigid exterior. Along the entry were living statues on pedestals holding metal balls against art deco scenery. Surprised Anatole guests schlepping luggage through the lobby must have been danged impressed with the local sights, including Hunter Sullivan crooning in a white dinner jacket and backed by his band.

Hunter Sullivan

Bettye Whiteman and Caren Kline

In front of the bandstand was Ball Chair Caren Kline in a dazzling Marchesa looking like a beautiful cousin of Glenda the Good Witch of the West greeting one and all personally.

Pink Lady and driver

On the walls were life-sized tableaus with moments of NYC grandeur. One glamorized gal was in a shimmering white Gatsby-era party gown. The lady was a John Clutts model and the dress was on loan from Yvonne Crum, who was home nursing a painful knee.

And there was that Pink Lady who wandered through the crowd followed by a chauffeur loaded down with packages.

While some guests checked out the casino, the great majority filled the silent auction area, where delicious items were up for bid. And, of course, the food was everywhere, as were the to-the-ceiling scenes synonymous with Manhattan like Broadway and 42^nd Street. The only thing missing was honking taxi cabs. . . oh, and the mammoth Prometheus ice sculpture that had been slated to be part of the decor. Ironically, the icy conditions had prevented the sculptor from making the delivery the frozen versions of the Rockefeller Center titan.

But as yummy as the auction, munchies and scenery were, the guests still were the eye-catchers in their marvelous formal wear. After all, this evening has rightly earned the reputation for being the scene of the most glorious fashions of the year.

Of course, you want names and designers to be dropped, so here goes:

Francie Moody-Dahlberg

Carol Reed

Alicia Wood

Naturally, a sea of black filled the crowd with Carol Reed and Heather Furniss, and Francie Moody-Dahlberg causing whiplash head-turning in her Zuhair Murad. Maybe it was because of the Big Apple theme that the color red gave black a definite run for its money. Baring shoulders in red gowns seemed to be

Wendy Messman

Brian and Leslie Diers and Sharon and Mike Jones

the look du jour, thanks to Alicia Wood in Carmen Marc Valvo, Pam Perella in Monique Llhuillier, Sharon Jones, Leslie Diers, Wendy Messman and Claire Emanuelson. On the other hand, Annette Simmons and Mary Clare Finney opted for a long-sleeve look with necklines just made for fabulous necklaces. And, what would CCB be without plenty of Carolina Herrera designs on the scene (Marilyn Augur, Tavia Hunt, Peggy Sewell, Catherine Cox and Maryellen Spears).

Pat McEvoy

However, the one who stopped traffic was Pat McEvoy, who will be in charge of the 2014 10 Best Dressed Fashion Show and Luncheon. Whoa! The blonde must have Jean Harlow in her DNA makeup. She was dazzling in a white and silver Naeem Khan figure-hugging gown with a neckline that dipped just enough. As if that weren’t showstopping enough, Pat topped it off with a snow white marabou jacket. From top to bottom, she was like a diamond. Why, even her toenails were painted pearl white!

When the doors opened to the Chantilly ballroom, it was a spectacle that would have made any New Yorker proud. Against a backdrop of nightlife blues and glimmering whites, mammoth white floral centerpieces were highlighted by suspended spheres with votive candles. The Chantilly’s chandeliers seemed right at home among the glitz and glamour.

Marc and Kailey Shatzer, Megan Somerville and Keith Conlon

Among those filling the room were Angels of Grace Underwriters Annette and Harold Simmons, Gene and Jerry Jones, Lisa and Kenny Troutt, Nancy Rogers with Michael Flores, Caroline Rose Hunt, Mary McDermott Cook with Dan Patterson, Keith Conlon with Megan Somerville, Holly Reed and Brad Beaird, Kailey and Marc Shatzer, Kay Bailey Hutchison, Doris and Jack Jacobs, Kate Rose Marquez with Gillian Breidenbach (husband Mark Breidenbach was supposed to be hunting. Only it was canceled and he showed up briefly in hunting gear to the delight of friends. Then he was gone in the icy night.) Ron Spears, Janie and David Condon, Brent Christopher, Gail and Gerald Turner, Myrna and Bob Schlegel, Mary Clare Finney with Niven Morgan and Megan and Beau Brooks, Carrie and Craig Levering, Katherine and Key Coker and Aileen and Jack Pratt.

Kilgore Rangerettes

On cue, the Kilgore Rangerettes did a mean version of the Rockettes, in between performances by Broadway Babies. The only thing missing was the Empire State Building. But wait! That was still to come.

Back-to-back photographers

After the Rangerettes finished their high-kicking, guests adjourned to fabulous dinners prepared by the Anatole’s Executive Chef Thomas Welther, Executive Banquet Chef Jorge W. Carvajal and Executive Pasty Chef Anwar Kahttabi. And what was served up? How about first course: Maine lobster in frisée, snow peas and sauce Louis with country French and Kalamata rosemary rolls; main course: New York (of course) strip with Delmonico sauce, potatoes Dauphinoise and baby vegetables; and dessert: slices of New York cheesecakes (classic, dark chocolate and milk chocolate) with caramel sauce. Sharing the plate with the cheesecake was a mini-Empire State Building.

Perhaps it was due to the cabin-fever mentality, but the crowd seemed more jovial and relaxed than in years past. Like mischievous children, one table of young bon vivants decided to play with their food. Seems they thought that the lobster shells would make funny noses. Who says CCB is a stuffy affair? And, of course, it didn’t hurt to have the James Davis Orchestra get guests dancing. Then to keep the evening going, Starlight kept the tempo upbeat. Kristen Johnston Sanger leading the way on the dance floor and Marilyn Augur joining the band on stage.

But let’s face it. Some folks were just plain glad to get out of the house, like Nina Vaca-Humrichouse and her husband Jim Humrichouse. They’d been holed up for two days or so in their home with a house-full of relatives, neighbors and kids — eight kids — due to loss of power. Jim confessed, “Xbox works wonders” when you have that many kids around.

As guests left, they found themselves looking like they could have used that Pink Lady’s chauffeur. In addition to the bag that they found at their table that had a Tiffany coffee mug with a NYC theme, the CCB Children’s Book and calendar, they discovered stations where they could fill handy sacks with all types of delicious chocolates and candy. And before making it out the door, they were presented with still another bag containing three bagels and cream cheese for the morning after.

At the beginning of her term as chair, Caren had presented all the committee members with laminated cards listing each of the 2013 CCB beneficiaries to serve as a constant reminder of who was depending on them. The cards may be put aside as keepsakes, but the funds raised for Educational First Steps, Good Street Learning, New Friends New Life, Network of Community Ministries, Parkland, Suicide and Crisis Center, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital and YMCA will soon be put into action for the good of Dallas children.

More photos can be found at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.