With the 2015 TACA Custom Auction Gala just days away, it’s time for the countdown of the TACA Custom Auction Packages. This year’s collection of 10 includes all types of trips, amazing activities and dreamy delights benefiting TACA on Friday, September 25, at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

To lead off the roll call is one that will thrill the person who loves being the leader of the fashionable pack and wants to compare notes with the world’s finest authority on what’s going to hot and what’s not.

2015 TACA Custom Auction Package #10 — Laugh, Lunch And Shop The Legendary*

Ken Downing***

There is a rumor afloat that Neiman Marcus’ VP and Fashion Director Ken Downing has a crystal ball or tea leaves to predict fashions-to-come. Perhaps. The fact is that he doesn’t just stay way far ahead of tomorrow’s trends, he sets the pace for the international fashionistas to chase. That’s why Neiman’s has continued its legendary position as the fashion arbiter throughout the world.

Just imagine picking Ken’s brain for what is on the lifestyle horizon. What colors are going to be picks-of-the-litter? Which ones need to be tossed? Are skirts in or out? Where should hem lengths be? Who is the under-the-radar designer that is going to set Fashion Week fans spinning?

But the winner of this package won’t have to imagine at all. S/he and three friends will have a one-on-one champagne lunch** at the Neiman Marcus Downtown store’s Zodiac with Mr. Downing. Afterward, instead of taking a nap, the four of you will “get the Star Treatment,” complete with a beauty makeover giving you the model look he loves most from the runways of the world.”

* Package courtesy of Neiman Marcus Downtown 
** Date to be mutually agreed upon. 
*** Photo provided by TACA

Only TACA could bring together two leaders in diverse fields together for the benefit of the performing arts. So, this package allows Dallas dance maven Gayle Halperin with legendary Chef Dean Fearing to provide a feast* for the eye and the tummy. No, Dean will not be dancing and Gayle won’t be cooking, but the two of them are combining their talents for this one-of-a-kind package for the TACA Custom Auction Gala.

Outstanding In The(ir) Fields**

Following the death of Dallas’ dance wunderkind Bruce Wood, Gayle Halperin became a driving force to continue his legacy. After all it was Gayle who “approached Wood about restarting the Bruce Wood Dance Project and moving to Dallas in 2011.” Following Bruce’s death, she spearheaded the effort to create Dallas DanceFest with its debut in August 2014 and an encore this past September 4-6 at Dallas City Performance Hall featuring 20 companies over three days.

Dean Fearing (File photo)

The winner of this TACA Custom Auction package will host a private performance of “dance works curated” by Gayle for six couples at the new Bruce Wood Dance Gallery located in the Design District.

Following the presentation, the guests will no doubt be hungry for food and to discuss the evening’s program. No ordinary meal could be served up. Instead it will art-loving, “Father of Southwestern Cuisine” Chef Dean Fearing. The world-famous chef will provide a multi-course dinner.

* Dates to be mutually agreed upon. 
** Courtesy of Fearing's Restaurant and Gayle Halperin

Hate loud music? Don’t always like the tune that the DJ is playing? Well, the Young Friends of Wilkinson Center came up with the perfect solution on Friday, September 11, at Candleroom. Here’s a report from the field about the second annual Silent Disco:

This event was the second annual Silent Disco event hosted by the Young Friends of Wilkinson Center.

We had 6 different DJ’s playing in two sets of three.  From 10 p.m. -12 a.m. we had Bryan Turner, Eric Bodiwala and Shawn Prestridge and from 12 a.m. – 2 a.m. we had the following DJ’s: Luis Sanchez, DJ Feezy and Brady Urrunaga.

Silent Disco*

Each patron was given a set of headphones with three different frequencies and depending what frequency you picked the headphones would light up different colors. Each color corresponded to a DJ that was DJ-ing at that particular time. The reason it is called a Silent Disco is because there is no music playing in the background when you take your headphones off. We sold “Neon Gift bags” for $10 which most people bought upon entry. Each bag included two pairs of light up glow glasses, two glow necklaces, two glow bracelets and one glow cup to go with our theme “Neon Silent Disco.” There were neon fluorescent lights and neon colored tape decorating the venue. The Butchers Son food truck was also at our event just in case anyone got hungry and wanted to grab a quick bite.

Kary Brittingham, Chela Moros and Mackenzie Brittingham*

Grafton Ifill III and Amber James*

Lauren Mason and Zach Lamp*

Jenn Dolim, OJ DeSouza and Baylea Wood*

Sponsors for this event included

• Yoozy, Dallas Executive Club, The Ailshire Family, Signature Baking Company, OJ DeSouza, Roberto Quiroz Mata, Candleroom and Full Spectrum Diagnostics.
• Photobooth Sponsor: KEOPIX
• Transportation Sponsor: OneRide

The evening’s 11 raffle items were:

1. Beyond the Velvet Rope – Private Event at Candleroom (Value: $7,500) Package includes Free Rental of the Entire Venue, Complimentary Valet and VIP table with complimentary Bottle of Premium Liquor and House Champagne for the host. Minimum 50 guests.  Reservations required in advance. Not valid during Special Events or Holidays. No cash value.  Does not include gratuity. Expires March 30^th, 2015.
2. Beyond the Velvet Rope – VIP Table Reservation at Candleroom (Value: $750) Package includes Free VIP Table Reservation, Complimentary Valet and a complimentary Bottle of Premium Liquor and House Champagne. Minimum 8 Guests.  Reservations required in advance. Not valid during Special Events or Holidays. No cash value.  Does not include gratuity. Expires December 30^th, 2014.
3. Custom-made sport coat from Knot Standard. (Donation value: $700.00)
4. Yves Delorme for a mohair throw. (Value: $480)
5. Gift basket from Chocolate Secrets filled with chocolate, wine and champagne. (Value: $250)
6. Package from BeGlammed. Gift card redeemable for one Glam Package, which includes a full-face makeup application and either a blowout or an updo from one of our expert stylists, who come directly to you! (Value: $150)
7. Two $50-cards to Chamberlains steak house, two $50-cards to Chamberlains Seafood, $100-gift-card to The Woolworth and $100-gift-card to So&So’s
8. Shinola Women’s Runwell watch with a blue face. (Value: $550)
9. Mug Mule Package — Two copper mugs, two copper shot glasses, ginger beer and vodka
10. Two Dallas Cowboys tickets to the game Dallas Cowboys-Giants
11. Dinner for two people at Twenty Seven with Chef Dat. (Value: $200)

Tickets were $35 for Young Friend members and $45 for non-members. Each ticket included one complimentary drink ticket, one complimentary raffle ticket and headphones. Candleroom graciously donated their venue for us to host the event.

* Photo credit: George Fiala

Tim McGraw*

One of the most fun games in town is Rumor Squashing. It’s sorta like Whack-A-Mole. Only instead of a mallet smacking pop-up moles, a little legwork and contacting the people-in-the-know for the facts are the way to squash the goofy gabbing.

So, rumor of the day is about Tim McGraw’s appearing Saturday at the Cattle Baron’s Ball. Seems Tim had to cancel a couple of concerts due to allergies.

Now, the Internet trolls have been hard at work suggesting that he was still ailing, in bed feeling poorly and won’t be on stage.

Whoa! Sorry rumormongers, but you’re painfully wrong. According to CCB Co-Chairs Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne, Tim is definitely gonna be on the Andrews Distributing Main Stage in the Texas-size tent adjacent to Gilley’s.

If you want to see how healthy he is, check this New York Times article that was published today. Talk about a man who is CrossFit!

Speaking of Tim, one live auction package is for two folks to have backstage seats to enjoy Tim’s performance on stage. They’ll even have cocktail service at their beck ‘n call.

* Photo provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

So you’ve got your outfit all ready for the Cattle Baron’s Ball. No need for rain gear. The weather is gonna be this side of spectacular thanks to CBB Co-Chairs Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne taking Mother Nature to lunch and having a heart-to-heart with the old gal.

Cattle Baron’s
Ball 2015*

But it wouldn’t hurt to remember certain things before heading to Gilley’s Dallas. Here goes.

Temperature And Humidity Forecast:

• 6 p.m. — 77⁰ and 32% humidity
• 7 p.m. — 74⁰ and 37% humidity
• 8 p.m. — 71⁰ and 41% humidity
• 9 p.m. — 69⁰ and 45% humidity
• 10 p.m. — 68⁰ and 51% humidity
• 11 p.m. — 66⁰ and 54% humidity
• Midnight — 65⁰ and 57% humidity
• 1 a.m. — 64⁰ and 60% humidity

Get the feeling that you won’t be suffering a heatstroke. But you won’t be shivering either. It will be the perfect time to bring out that cute vest or denim jacket. Or sling your fav pashmina over your shoulder? It’s been in hiding for months.

Parking and Arriving:

• Get there early, but don’t leave early. There’s so much going on.
• No matter if you’re riding your favorite hoss, driving yourself or being chauffeured to and fro, your parking hangtag is an absolute must. If you didn’t receive a hangtag, contact Cattle Baron’s ASAP at 214.443.9222.
• Driving yourself
  • If you’re wondering where you should park, check your parking hangtag.
  • Shuttles will be running every five minutes, so you won’t have to wait very long for a lift.
  • If you’re now rethinking the “drive-yourself” idea, consider using CBB supporters Wynne Transportation and Cowboy Cab. That way you’ll look like a big spender, save wear and tear on your car and can party hardy without worrying about the drive home. BTW, Cowboy Cab Depot is less than a block from Gilley’s Dallas.
•  Limo-ing

  Cattle Baron’s limo lineup (File photo)

  • Git out of your vehicle lickety-split quick. This street is going to very, very busy.
  • Get your driver’s phone number to notify him/her when you want to leave. Do not keep them waiting at the curb.
• Handicapped parking

  • Gary Ferraro (File photo)

    Those with handicapped parking placard/plates should go directly to Gilley’s Dallas, where the Jack Boles valets sponsored by Brierley + Partners will direct you on where to park.

Don’t Leave Home Without Items:

• Tickets — You’ve gotta have them throughout the night. When you arrive, there will be folks tearing a part of your ticket off. Don’t dump it! Because you’ll need it to get into the concert tent.
• Do not forget your “Favor Bag” ticket. One per couple. Come 10 p.m. the bags sponsored once again by Inwood National Bank will be available for pickup at the main entrance.
• Cellphones…as if you’d go anywhere without it!  You’ll have plenty of peeps and things to cellphoto.

Leave At Home:

• Diets.
• Attitudes.
• Tuxedos and ball gowns.
• Pets.
• Umbrellas, goulashes, rain gear, snow tires, etc.

What To Do

Tim McGraw*

• Bid, bid, bid! Not only will you possibly take something home or win a trip, you’ll be providing funds to fight cancer.
• Eat! There’s gonna be so much food and all types of beverages. Better wear expando-matic jeans. And don’t forget the Midnight Breakfast that will have biscuits with country gravy, spicy-sausage-and-egg tacos and warm-house-made cinnamon rolls.
• Listen! In addition to hearing the bids coming in at the live auction, you’re gonna hear some incredible music and singing — Aaron Einhouse at the VIP Baron Party, The Ray Johnston Band on the Bank of America/Merrill Lynch/U.S. Trust Live Auction Stage, Studio 54 Band at the After Party and hunky Tim McGraw on the Andrews Distributing Main Stage.

* Graphics courtesy 
of Cattle Baron's 
Ball 2015

Bouncing around Dallas on Saturday, September 19, was like a pinball machine that was going through a major power surge. In addition to a ton of morning activities (Tour Des Fleurs, One Love Fits All, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s Friends of the Poor Walk,  etc.), the P.M. fundraisers started in early afternoon. Over at the Winspear, it was Ladies Night Out for Twyla Tharp‘s 50th Anniversary performance. At the Dallas Children’s Theater, it was a gathering of young princesses in diva-like sunglasses attending a performance “Fancy Nancy: The Musical” for the Fancy Nancy and Friends Party. And then, of course, Garth was packing ‘em in at the American Airlines Center for two performances, which made downtown Dallas getting around even more interesting.

The Great Texas Food Truck Rally

The Great Texas Food Truck Rally

It may have sounded like an 18-wheeler cauliflower, but the Executives In Action’s Great Texas Food Truck Rally was far from it.

Even in the glow of the afternoon sun, the crowds were growing to hear musical guests James Otto, CJ Solar, the Ray Johnston Band, Northern National and Cameron Ernst on-stage, and to line up at one of the 20+ food trucks lining the perimeter of the Reunion Tower Lawn. Among the trucks was the EIA’s new food truck that was created to provide random acts and snacks of kindness “without a profit in mind.”

Executives In Action’s Random Acts And Snacks of Kindness

With EIA Founder Ashlee Kleinert waving to all from Reunion Tower and folks settling in for a long stay, the afternoon food festival wasn’t a first timer for this group. No, siree. Last year the event took ….no…overwhelmed Reverchon Park, with 10,000 showing up.

This year EIA Kimberly Westphall orchestrated mini-events to see how the Reunion acreage would handle the estimated 20,000 guests.

By the time the Great Texas Food Truck Rally was opening at 2 p.m., everything was pretty much locked down including portable ATM’s, volunteers like Nancy Gopez checking folks in, perfect views of the tower and Omni Dallas Hotel and, later, the setting sun in the west just past the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge.

Fur Ball

Brian Miller, Mark Soto, Rhonda Sargent Chambers and Phyllis and CJ Comu

Speaking of the Omni Dallas, it was the site of the SPCA of Texas Fur Ball with 800 including Doris and Jack Jacobs, Brian Miller, Mark Soto, Rhonda Sargent Chambers and Phyllis (she’ll be co-chairing the 2016 Fur Ball with Kristen Greenberg) and CJ Comu in black tie and nearly a dozen in tails. Yup, adoptable pups were in playpens toward the back of the reception area on the third level. Very smart placement. Why? Because at points during the evening, the Kaminari Taiko Japanese Drumming Ensemble drummers let loose with earthquake-like performances on the second level near the escalator. As guests passed by the musicians, it was hard to look cool or cop an “I didn’t notice the music” attitude when the room shook.

Kaminari Taiko Japanese Drumming Ensemble

Looking quite stunning were Honorary Co-Chairs Janelle and Larry Friedman.

Larry and Janelle Friedman

Mike and Micki Rawlings

Mayor Mike Rawlings and his bride Micki Rawlings popped by for a greet-and-meet with SPCA’s James Bias and co-chairs Stacey Kivowitz, Katy Murray and Jocelyn White. Then they quickly headed into the sunset, or rather to their vehicle. Seems Dallas’ first couple still had a couple more events on their schedule.

Katy Murray, James Bias, Jocelyn White and Stacey Kivowitz

Too bad they didn’t stay around. In addition to Kelly Thompson receiving the Mary Spencer Humanitarian Award, there was a very special item in the live auction: a suite at American Airlines Center for the Tuesday night Garth Brooks concert plus a signed guitar. And to add to the sweetness of the deal, Garth was going to match the bid. Who won that one? Why Andrea Alcorn, who quickly became everybody’s BFF.

Director’s Cut

Maxwell and Jacqueline Anderson and Rachel and Michael Osburn

The Dallas Museum of Art’s Junior Associates were on to a mystery venture. They had been invited to attend the Director’s Cut for an announcement, but were not told where to show up until the last minute. It turned out to be at Harwood International. As they emerged from their cars, they were to follow a trail of stickers leading to the elevator. Once inside there was sticker on one of the buttons. Pushing the button, they found themselves on the second floor of the building and in a raw space that was filled to the gills with a photo booth, never-ending bar, loads of food and Dallas Museum of Art Eugene McDermott Director Max and Jacqueline Anderson in the back of the room with Co-Chairs Rachel and Michael Osburn.

Chela Moros, Tierney Kaufman and Vodi Cook

Bonnie Karamalegos, Brent Crenshaw and Kadi Eykamp

As the body count rose, so did the room temperature. The valets had been told to expect 50, but more than 200 (Vodi Cook, Tierney Kaufman with fiancée Jared Hutchins, Bonnie Karamalegos, Brent Crenshaw, Kadi Eykamp, Kristina Kiik, Valerie Maniscalo, Taylor Zakarin, Rachel Roberts, Cameron Kimmel-Spivey, David Kimmel-Spivey, Tristan Fernandez, Michelle de Metz and Bill DeArman) showed up. By 8:40, the parking garage was already full!

Michelle de Metz and Bill DeArman

Taylor Zakarin and Rachel Roberts

Cameron Kimmel-Spivey, David Kimmel-Spivey and Tristian Fernandez

When the time came for the announcement, Max let Jacqueline do the honors. The announcement was that the annual Affair of the Art had been cut, so JA’s could take on the April 23 Art Ball after-party. Instead of tears, cheers were heard and then it was back to partying.

Little did anyone suspect that another cut was in the works and that this would be the Andersons’ final public appearance for the DMA. Nine days later, Max announced that he was cutting ties with the DMA and heading to New York City to join up with New Cities Foundation.

Nick Even and Barbara and Don Daseke

Those tuxedos and gowns have been hidden away too long. Luckily, the TACA Custom Auction Gala brought them out at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek on Friday, September 25, for the first of the season’s formal fundraisers.

Donna Wilhelm

Ben Fischer

Louis Murad

Laree Hulshoff

There was Bruno Davaillon dining, beautiful peeps and paddles being raised in the live auction. While the post is being prepped, check out the looks of the night at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

In the weeks leading up to the annual TACA Custom Auction Gala, there had been some storm clouds appearing. A couple of the luxury auction packages weren’t locked down until days before the Friday, September 25, event at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

By the big night, some longtime TACA vets were already ‘splaining why they weren’t gonna be at the annual TACA fundraiser. There was SMU’s 100^th anniversary, high school football games, friends in from out-of-town and Pope Francis watching.

But when the event got underway it was obvious that change was in the air. Not so much a dramatic change but rather some adjustments to make things different from years past.  For instance, instead of a Christie’s auctioneer, the auction would be conducted by local Louis Murad, who was familiar with big-time bidders. Besides he was bringing five of the auction packages to the table.

Nick Even, Becky Young and Lynn and Allan McBee

Then as the black tie crowd started to pick up their table assignments in the hotel lobby, word made its way through the ranks that instead of the live auction being held once again in the ballroom with rows of reserved seats for top underwriters, TACA’s Becky Young and her crew had decided a little change might liven things up by having the live auction in the Promenade with only a dozen or so hightops available.

But who cared as the champagne flutes found jeweled hands at the reception. Co-Chairs Barbara and Don Daseke greeted the beautiful and philanthropic guests at the Promenade entrance.

James Campbell, Bob Gibbs, Matthew Wilson and John Phifer Marrs

Bob Gibbs scooted in on a knee scooter with pals Matthew Wilson and just-back-New York James Campbell and John Phifer Marrs. Seems Bob had fallen out of a tree… Another black-tie nursing an injury was Keith Laycock with his right hand in a splint. He fell off his bike riding to the Baylor/SMU game… Dallas Women’s Foundation President/CEO Ros Dawson Thompson and husband/SMU prof Rex Thompson were looking forward to their 16^th wedding anniversary come Thanksgiving. But before that happens, Ros has the DWF 30th Annual Luncheon to take place on Friday, October 30…Communities Partners of Texas’ Brent Christopher and Monica Egert Smith were still recovering from North Texas Giving Day…Christy Coltrin was wearing one of her Tiny Sparks necklaces that she had designed with a story to it. Evidently Christy has sapped her PR cap for a jeweler’s creativity and tools…Chef Dean Fearing was with his fav gal Neiman’s Exec Wanda Gierhart, who had put together a couple of the auction items for the night.

Rex Thompson and Roslyn Dawson Thompson

Monica Egert Smith and Brent Christopher

Brad Oldham and Christy Coltrin

Wanda Gierhart and Dean Fearing

When the chimes were sounded, Simona Beal, Sami Abboud, Brittanie Buchanan Oleniczak and Jason Oleniczak and Wanda  and Dean headed to the main dining room. The Dasekes and Laree Hulshoff and Ben Fischer hosted a gaggle of charming folks like John Clutts, Sami Arslanar and Rachel and John Michell in the Garden Room. Other guests sauntered to other areas of the hotel including the Shepard Suite, the bar and practically any place a table could be set for a seated dinner of chilled lobster, watermelon, lobster essence and black garlic and an entrée of beef tenderloin and braised short rib with smoked hummus, basil and tomato condiment. To accompany the courses, Laree and Ben sponsored C.K. Mondavi wine.

Sami Abboud and Simona Beal

Brittanie Buchanan Oleniczak and Jason Oleniczak

John Clutts and Laree Hulshoff

Ben Fischer

Sami Arslanar

John and Rachel Michell

As for dessert, it was back in the ballroom at a dessert buffet including apple hazelnut macaroon, mint chocolate financier, yogurt passion cake, banana peanut glass, yuzu raspberry tart, lemon meringue lollipop and coffee.

Louis Murad

As for the the live auction, Louis took his place on stage with mic in hand as the black-tied set gathered around despite some bailing before the bidding started.  Try as he might, Louis didn’t seem to get charge of the charity crowd. First on the list of items was the Farm-To-Table auction item going for $750 a couple; it cleared the place of some of the bargain-hunting guests. As a large number of guests settled down in the ballroom for sit and sip, those left in the Promenade kept their paddles lowered, resulting in Black Friday sales Chef Dean Fearing getting the Banff trip for $9K; the guys’ getaway went for $6K; Singing for Your Supper was snapped up for $3K; lunch with Neiman Marcus taste kingpin Ken Downing was had for $43K; the “This is what we’re all been waiting for trip to” Tuscany got a final bid of $12K; Don Daseke snapped up the trip to Paris and Austria for $16K, and Barbara’s fav things including a Mathew Trent ring plus a shopping spree at Allan Knight went to Laree Hulshoff for a cool $30K.

The evening’s take: more than $400,000, but less than 2013’s $615,000.

Still more “JUST IN”‘s keep coming in today!

This one is the announcement of the 2016 TACA Silver Cup Award plans including co-chairs, recipients, sponsors, dates, etc., that took place at Jennifer and John Eagles’ home tonight!

First things first. Mark down Friday, February 19, and the Hilton Anatole. That’s the date and spot that TACA Silver Cup Award Co-Chairs Pilar Henry and Tara Lewis picked for the 38^th presentation “recognizing two individuals for their outstanding volunteer leadership and contributions to the performing arts in North Texas.”

Once again J.P. Morgan and Neiman Marcus will be the presenting sponsors.

Rebecca Fletcher, James E. Wiley Jr. and Donna Wilhelm

OK, the wait is over. The recipients of the 38^th TACA Silver Cup Award will be two folks who are very familiar with the AT&T Performing Arts District neighborhood. They are Rebecca Fletcher and James E. Wiley Jr.

For their full-blown involvement with the performing arts community, follow the jump:

Rebecca Fletcher is among North Texas’ most celebrated arts and cultural leaders, fundraisers, and philanthropists. Mrs. Fletcher is a longtime champion of the Dallas Theater Center. She has been an active member of DTC’s Board of Trustees since 2000 and served as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2015. Additionally, Mrs. Fletcher has committed her time and expertise to DTC’s Endowment Campaign, Advancement Campaign, and Nominating Committee.

Mrs. Fletcher is a strong supporter of numerous other organizations throughout the North Texas nonprofit community. Since 2004, she has been a member of the Board of Directors of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, and she recently served as the Chairman of the AT&T PAC’s Programming Committee. She also served on the AT&T PAC’s Development Committee and President’s Advisory Council.

Mrs. Fletcher is currently a member of the Board of Directors at the Dallas Holocaust Museum and Center for Education and Tolerance. Additionally, she currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Meadows School of the Arts at SMU. Mrs. Fletcher was a member of the Board of Directors of TITAS from 2000 to 2011, serving as the Chairman from 2007 to 2009. During her tenure, she negotiated a one-of-a-kind presenting partnership between TITAS and the AT&T Performing Arts Center. In 2010, she received the TITAS Award for Leadership in the Arts. Her other nonprofit involvement has included The Hockaday School, KERA, the Visiting Nurse Association, and Planned Parenthood.

Mrs. Fletcher received her Bachelor of Arts in History and Government from the University of Texas at Austin, followed by her Juris Doctor from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. She and her husband, Frank Barron Fletcher III, reside in Dallas and have two children, Claire and Barron.

James E. Wiley Jr. is the President of Wiley Bros. General Contractors, Inc. and Vice President of Wiley Bros. Management Corporation. With his wife, Karen Wiley, Mr. Wiley has championed the arts in Dallas for many years, supporting such organizations as the AT&T Performing Arts Center, Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, and Dallas Black Dance Theatre. He is a dedicated supporter of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, having served on the DSO’s Board of Governors since 2000. Additionally, he has dedicated his time to the DSO’s Building Committee, Stradivarius Committee, and the Gala Host Committee. Mr. Wiley has served on the Executive Committee at the Dallas Theater Center, where he chaired the Individual Giving and Trustee Development Committees, as well as the Board of Trustees at The Dallas Opera.

The Wilkinson Center folks just know how to put the “fun” into fundraising. Perhaps that’s why The Spirit of Taos Co-Chairs Sloan Looney Dix and Stephanie Taylor just sent word that Friday night’s event at The Lot is more than sold out. Adding to the happy faces is the fact that they’ve already taken in more than $60,000. And they still have a silent auction and a raffle to hold!

Emily Dunn, Cindy Zahn Weed, Stephanie Taylor and Sloan Looney Dix (File photo)

With weather predictions saying rain is due Friday, The Lot is the perfect spot to feel comfy with good food, music just perfect for dancing and a lot of great people like Honorary Co-Chairs Emily and Jack Dunn and Cindy and Gary Weed. If you haven’t been to The Lot, it’s just across the road from White Rock and down the road from the Dallas Arboretum.

But let’s be honest. For a nice contribution, who knows? Perhaps they could squeeze a couple of more folks in.

John and Mary Martha Pickens, Steve Moore and Tia and Shel Wynne

For the second year in a row, the Cattle Baron’s Ball team raised funds for the American Cancer Society inside Gilley’s and a nearby mammoth tent. It was also the second year that nary a drop of rain fell in North Texas. Didn’t matter. CCB Co-Chairs Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne and the cowgals threw a party — Cowboy Up, Take Cancer Down — where leather, boots and turquoise abounded along with bids being raised and lean Tim McGraw holding forth on Saturday, October 3.

Tim McGraw

Elizabeth Fischer and Adriane Crosland

While the post is being prepped, take a look at the CBB goings-on at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

The weather was the definition of perfection for Cattle Baron’s Ball — Cowboy Up, Take Cancer Down — on Saturday, October 3. Sure, there were those who made frowny faces that the American Cancer Society fundraiser hadn’t been held in the wide-open spaces of a local ranch or Southfork. But then again there were the wise ones, who painfully recalled the CBB’s of 2009, 2012 and 2013, when it looked so slice-of-nice great just days and even hours before only to face Texas-sized mud baths with boots heading to Deno’s for rehabbing. No, better to err on the safe side of cantankerous Ma Nature.

Then there was the live auction. In years past, it had been a vault of special items that seemed to grow in a never-ending number. This year it was decided to do only 19 packages. Gee, why? The live auction had been a major money-generator and they were cutting it down to less than two dozen. Yipes!

But once the caravan of Ubers, limousines, and Texas three-row gas guzzlers pulled up for the VIP reception, it became apparent that woes and throes had been replaced with fun and fundraising. Baroness Katy Bock was bound and determined to capture the scene on her cellphone. Seems in the past she had no proof of what her memory recalled. On a wall along the official entrance were mini-platforms with boots and plaques representing all the past CBBs.

Aaron Einhouse

Starting at 6 p.m. Aaron Einhouse and his band were on stage in Gilley’s South Side Music Hall for the Group 1200 Media VIP Patron Party. The crowd dined on Mesero Restaurant goodies and Sprinkle mini-cupcakes and downed them with grown-up and G-rated beverages courtesy of Andrews Distributing, Bacardi USA/Grey Goose Vodka, Jackson Family Wines and Coca-Cola.

John and Mary Martha Pickens, Steve Moore and Tia and Shel Wynne

At first, CBB Co-Chairs Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne were on hand to welcome all, but then they seemed to get swallowed up in the crowd. One of the folks in the crowd was Steve Moore, the former CEO of the Country Music Association.

Outside four of the Baronesses made sure that only VIP’s got in. If ever the TSA needs advice on security, they should ask the CBB-ers. There were tickets, wristbands, lanyards and all types of paraphernalia to get guests in to the right spots throughout the night and to get the much-coveted favor bag. As a crowd checked in, one fella was seen walking straight in. This would not do. Seven-month-pregnant Baroness Bina Patel took off like racehorse out of the gate. She returned reporting that the chap was a Gilley’s staffer.

Ellen Winspear and Tiffany Divis

Kimberly Casey and Lynn McBee

Jerry Jones Jr and Lori Jones and Jennifer and Richard Dix

Others who made it through the check-in included Nikki Webb, who was solo on arrival. Husband Crayton Webb had to drop the kids off at their grandparents and would be joining her later…It was girls’ night out for Tiffany Divis and Ellen Winspear. Ellen said that husband Don Winspear was home trying to recover from the Longhorns’ walloping by Ellen’s TCU Frogs (50-7) earlier in the day…Leather was the favored texture of the night according Kathleen Hutchinson, Dawn Greiner, Lisa Ogle, Kris Johnson, Lora Farris, Elizabeth Fischer, Sherwood Wagner, Sunie Solomon, Jennifer Dix and Lori Jones… Boot-scooting babes were KXAS Anchor/CBB emcee Deborah Ferguson, Lynn McBee with her sister Kimberly Casey, and Natalie McGuire… Using silver for their accessory du jour were Luane McWhorter, Lisa Cooley and D’Andra Simmons…On the other hand, turquoise was represented Gail Fischer with her brother John Corder, Vicki Chapman, Barbara Daseke, Elizabeth Tripplehorn Laurenzi, 2016 CBB Co-Chairs Cara French and Andrea Weber and Callan Harrison…The breezy look was accommodated by Jonika Nix and Marybeth Conlon in their cut-out outfits.

Aaron and Luane McWhorter and Lisa and Clay Cooley

Jonika Nix

Marybeth Conlon

An hour later the rest of the 3,000 cowpokes and cowpretties arrived via the main entrance on Lamar via shuttle buses and drop-and-drive wheels. And, no, they didn’t just stand around looking adorable. There was plenty to do including the Deloitte Silent Auction Lounge and the American Airlines Silent Auction venue, as well as the Southwest Bank Big Board. Raffle tickets were being sold everywhere. For vittles, G Texas Catering had buffets and food stations everywhere. And, of course, there was the MetroPCS Ferris wheel with a perfect view of downtown Dallas.

As for music, Ray Johnston and his band were performing on the Bank of America/Merrill Lynch/U.S. Trust Live Auction Stage. As guests started gathering in the South Side Ballroom for the live auction, Ray shifted to cover songs. Despite the setup of tables and hightops, some guests decided to snag chairs and to push tables together to accommodate their passel of pals.

Doak Lambert

Just a bit past 8 p.m. auctioneers Wendy and Doak Lambert kicked off the live auction with baronesses ringing cowbells and whooping it up, as the Lambert crew bird-dogged bidders. One of the killer items was an age-old fav — the Chefs’ dinner with musician Sam Moore providing the tunes. With chefs (Richard Chamberlain, Dean Fearing, Kevin Garvin, David Holben, Kent Rathbun and Jim “Sevy” Severson) on stage along with Sam, a bidding battle got underway between Hal Brierley and Clay Cooley. Just when it was looking like a nose-to-nose showdown, Kent suggesting raising the price to $70K and the dinner for 30 could be had by both Hal and Clay. The marketing mastermind and the car czar smiled and took Kent up on the offer.

Doak Lambert, Kent Rathbun, Wendy Lambert, David Holben, Kevin Garvin, Jim Severson and Sam Moore

But as the last few items went up for bid, some heavy hitters (the Brierleys, Natalie and Mike McGuire, and other $50,000+ type sponsors) exited Gilley’s proper. What gave them away were simple green paper wristbands. They headed for an ultra-exclusive meet-and-greet with the evening’s headliner Tim McGraw. Still, others wearing the super-special wristbands like the Cooleys opted to stay seated, so they could continue bidding and building the ACS coffers to amazing heights that amazed even CBB vets despite the limited number of items. Even Nancy Rogers had a hand in the fundraising, despite not being present. She and husband Richard Rogers were in Paris, but Nancy had her right-hand gal Kris Johnson picking up the Dallas Mavericks Rally on the Road package.

Despite the reduction in live auction items, the numbers were rocking in and organizers were raising eyebrows. Hey, maybe this shorter list wasn’t such a bad idea after all.

Backstage, all went according to plan. McGraw’s peeps checked out the lighting for the photo opp, carpeting was laid in front of the wood backdrop and the warning was given — one photo per group. The photo session would last 10 minutes and there were about 50 guests to photographer. Green-wristband guests were advised — no purses, no cellphones, no shillyshallying.

Before the guests were ushered in one group at a time, a fellow walked by the photo staging area. Wearing torn jeans, an open shirt and cowboy hat, he smiled and said “Hi” to the people setting up the carpeted flooring and lighting. One person nudged another, “Was that Tim McGraw?” Yup. Not only was he just laid back, he was 40 pounds lighter and as toned as a stallion thanks to CrosFit workouts and the Paleo diet.

Natalie McGuire, Tim McGraw and Mike McGuire

Tim McGraw and Kris Johnson

Diane Brierley, Tim McGraw and Hal Brierley

Tim McGraw and Sam Moore

Despite a couple of folks (let’s not be tacky and mention names) talking it up with Tim more than their allotted 20-second allowance, it came off. But word had it that the group had oozed their way into the grip-and-grin despite no green wristband. Even more interesting was that those oozers wanted their $15,000 back because their table wasn’t close enough to the stage.

Regardless, Tim was all smiles and so were the handlers. One photographer asked a McGraw associate, “Are you okay with our work?” He answered, “Yes, indeed, and thank you for asking.”

After the last photo was taken and the people were escorted out, McGraw headed to a table aside the McGraw bus to sign posters and collectibles. Then he nonchalantly moseyed over to the crew at the base of the stage to check things out. Everything was just fine and dandy. This definitely was not his nor his crew’s first rodeo.

When the herds of folks gathered in the tent across the lane from Gilley’s proper, there were three sections. The highrollers were at tables closest to the Andrews Distributing Main Stage. A third of the way back were tables for the next tier of spenders and the final group was placed toward the back of the tent. KXAS Deborah Ferguson did the welcome and introduced Mary Martha and Tia, who thanked one and all.

Over on one side of the stage just beyond sight of the audience, there were four precious chairs. Two had been won by the Brierleys and the other two by Cary Maguire for $37K per pair. Talk about uber front row seats!

Tim McGraw

Still better yet was Tracy and Ben Lange’s placement. Sure, they and their kids had front row table seats for the concert. Okay, so Ben had to ask event staffers to hold back the mosh pit participants, so they didn’t block the view of the seated guests. But Mama Lange and her daughter weren’t gonna use their seats that long. Dad had won the live auction item of being serenaded on stage by Tim. Somehow, the Langes managed to have both Tracy and their daughter join McGraw on stage. Tim not only didn’t mind, he really got into it with the Lange gals dancing up a storm with him. Wouldn’t have surprised anyone if McGraw took them on the road.

Tim McGraw

While the majority of the crowd went wild with the concert, others bailed because there were just too many folks. Even some in the high-roller tier headed out early because the sound was just too dang loud.

Behind the scenes, the CBB-ers were arranging post-concert meals for the McGraw crew and Tim himself. The crew just wanted pizza. As for CrosFit Tim, he wanted steamed vegetables and grilled chicken. No problem. Just past midnight restaurateurs Al Biernat and Brad Fuller delivered the goods plus a bottle of wine and a coconut cream pie at a private jet waiting for McGraw. Nice thought, but Tim gave up drinking eight years ago and coconut cream pie isn’t part of his Paleo diet.

“Creep”

Only seemed right that the world premiere of “Creep” should take place the month which is filled with pumpkins, spooks and scary stuff. But before Donald Fowler’s musical debuted at WaterTower Threatre on Sunday, October 4, Barbara and Don Daseke hosted a seated supper for 125 guests at Table 13.

Barbara and Don Daseke

In keeping with the feel of the Jack the Ripper theme, napkins were red, and so were the floral centerpieces. Luckily, the filet mignons were cooked medium instead of rare. Didn’t want to take the theme too literally.

Margo Keyes surprised Barbara by showing up with husband Jim Keyes. Originally, Jim had been slated to fly to Denver, but he pushed back the start time to join the Dasekes for dinner. And, no, the airlines didn’t charge him extra to change his trip. In addition to painting and running companies, Jim flies his own plane.

While talk of the night ranged from Saturday night’s Cattle Baron’s Ball, the Rangers edging closer to the American League Division title, and the Cowboys playing in New Orleans, the main chatter was “Creep.”

Donald Fowler

WaterTower’s Greg Patterson introduced playwright/composer/lyrist Donald, who looked like a proud father. He expressed his sincere appreciation for so many including Heather Alexander, Nick Even, WaterTower Producing Artistic Director Terry Martin, director Kate Galvin and the entire WaterTower team, because “I have been known to be a bit of a control type.”

Donald then recalled how over the years his “project” came about, thanks to support by old friends and new. “Thank you for being here and for being on my side for so long,” he added. “You’ve made it very comfortable for me.”

Diane Brierley

Hal Brierley

Laree Hulshoff

He then turned the mic over to Nick Even, who acknowledged the great support by many like the Dasekes, Hal and Diane Brierley, Lynn and Allan McBee, and Laree Hulshoff and Ben Fischer, proving that North Texas is thriving with innovative talent and generous philanthropists who appreciate and support such undertakings.

After dessert, the guests like Rachel and John Michell and Hamilton Sneed headed to WaterTower Theatre for the two-act musical that will continue through Sunday, October 25. At WaterTower, 200 guests caught the colorful performance. Better get your tickets now. Thursday, October 22^nd, is already sold out!

There are loads of events being scheduled around Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11. There’s Stand Up For Heroes, Stars and Stripes Film Festival and the Daughters of World War II’s Sixth Annual Veterans Day Luncheon and, of course, the Veterans Day Parade in downtown Dallas.

Clay and Lisa Cooley (File photo)

Joining this passel of activities supporting veterans is the Housing Crisis Center’s 5^th Annual Patriot Party on Friday, November 6, at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Chairing the event will be Susana Gibb along with Honorary Co-Chairs Lisa and Clay Cooley and committee members Emily Brewer, Angela Choquette, Nita Hudson, Greg Nieberding, Jennifer Owens and Ellen Young.

To help set the mood for the theme “A Night At The Officer’s Club” will be the sounds of Ricki Derek and his Big band that will be just perfect for dancing, cocktailing and bidding in the silent and live auctions.

Funds will support “programming that assists veterans and other vulnerable members of the community.”

According HCC Executive Director Sherri Ansley, “We strongly believe these men and women who selflessly served our country, along with other citizens at risk, deserve our attention and service. The event will be fun and will help us achieve our goal of continuing services for this group of Dallasites in need.”

Sponsors included:

• Medal of Honor Sponsor — KIK Custom Products
• Live Auction Sponsor — Bachendorf’s
• Silver Star Medal Sponsors — PoolCorp and Trinity Industries
• Bronze Star Medal Sponsors — Riverbend Sandler Pools
• Purple Heart Sponsors — Emily Brewer and EY
• Print Sponsor — digital3printing

Tickets start at $200 with sponsorships available.

High atop the Mayfair in the Sky Club, the world looked glitteringly perfect on the evening of Tuesday, October 6. With a magnificent view of downtown Dallas and Turtle Creek, it was so amazing that even those with a hint of vertigo sloughed the malady off for the night.

Lee Papert and Susan Stich

The gathering including BCA Board Chair Larry Glasgow, Janice Evans-Page, Barbara Daseke, Lee Papert, Richard Eiseman, Susan Stich, Randall White, Dotti Reeder, David Haemisegger, Laree Hulshoff and Ben Fischer was to reveal The Obelisk Awardees that will be recognized at The Fairmont on Friday, November 13.

Katherine Wagner and Randall White

Originally called the Business Committee for the Arts, the art-supporting nonprofit was the brainchild of the late Ray Nasher. Established in 1987, it was created to bring together the Dallas business community and the arts. Over the years, the organization transitioned into Business Council for the Arts. But it stayed within the Nasher family, when daughter Nancy Nasher took over the role of Founder’s Chair. The Obelisk Awards were created “to salute North Texas businesses and community leaders who have immeasurably enriched arts and culture in the region through partnership, leadership and education.”

Ben Fischer, Laree Hulshoff and Jim Bowman

This year’s awardees are:

• Atmos Energy Corporation nominated by WaterTower Theatre
• Beyond the Horizon nominated by Undermain Theatre
• Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and Plano Children’s Theatre
• Edwin Cabaniss nominated by Steven Roth
• Neiman Marcus Willow Bend nominated by North Texas Performing Arts and Plano Children’s Theatre
• NorthPark Center nominated by Dallas Symphony Orchestra
• Spec’s Wines, Spirits And Finer Foods nominated by the University of North Texas, College of Music
• Stephen A. Waldman nominated by the Dallas Holocaust Museum/Center for Education and Tolerance
• The Dallas Weekly nominated by Dallas Black Dance Theatre
• Virgin America nominated by Dallas Film Society

Kevin Hurst and Larry Glasgow

The 2015 Obelisk Award Host Committee Chair Kevin Hurst and BCA Board Chair Larry Glasgow revealed that North Texas Public Broadcasting President/CEO Mary Anne Alhadeff will serve as luncheon emcee and the special presenter will be Dr. Eric Olson, director of Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine and professor and chair of molecular biology at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

A change in this year’s presentation is the Obelisk Award itself. Breaking with tradition of a tall piece of art, glass artisan Jim Bowman had created a transparent purple, kidney-shaped bowl to be presented to the awardees.

Of the 1200 gathered in the Anatole’s Chantilly Ballroom for the Celebrating Women Luncheon, the overwhelming majority was female. Well, duh! The event benefited Baylor Health Care System Foundation’s efforts to “to increase awareness and generate funding for breast cancer research, diagnosis and treatment.”

Robin Robinson, Nancy Carter, Joan Lunden, Beth Layton, Vicky Lattner, Joel Allison

But before the ballroom filled, a private meet-and-greet with keynote speaker Joan Lunden took place high atop the Anatole in Ser with downtown Dallas serving as a glorious backdrop. Unlike years past when the pre-luncheon took place in the Wedgwood Room, this one had levels and tables for guests like Margo Goodwin, Di Johnston, Emilynn Wilson, Tucean Webb, Caren Kline, Barbara Stuart, Lindalyn Adams, Robyn Conlon, Pam Perella, Lyda Hill, Connie Yates and Isabell Novakov to wait in line for their photo opp with Joan and/or just have a cup of coffee and Danish.

Margo Goodwin, Caren Kline, Barbara Stuart, Robyn Conlon and Pam Perella

Celebrating Women dance performance

All too soon, the group moved to the Chantilly Ballroom for the fundraising lunch. Following  a dance performance, Luncheon Chair Nancy Carter with her underwriting Co-Chairs Beth Layton and Vicky Lattner by her side told why she had taken on the responsibility of putting the event together. It was her two friends/breast cancer survivors Sue Porter and Debbie Snell, who co-chaired the luncheon years ago. Upon learning their stories and involvement and treatment at Baylor, Nancy decided that she had to raise funds and awareness.

Heather Washburne, Al Hill Jr and Elisa Summers

Jim and Mary Lentz, Jim Joyner and Alan Miller

Kenny and Lisa Troutt

Despite the perception of breast cancer as a “woman’s disease,” there was a strong and influential contingent of men at the tables, including Toyota’s Jim Lentz with his wife Mary Lentz, Hill family patriarch Al Hill Jr. with daughter Elisa Summers and Heather Washburne, Honorary Co-Chair Kenny Troutt with wife/Honorary Co-Chair Lisa Troutt and NM VP Kevin Hurst, who heard former “Good Morning America’s” Joan Lunden describe the past year of battling breast cancer and not just any old breast cancer. It was the Isis of breast cancers — triple-negative breast cancer (aka TNBC). Not only is it an extremely aggressive cancer, but it is not easily detectable due to breast density and not responsive to the traditional treatments.

Time and time again following the luncheon, even the most savvy women ‘fessed up they had no idea that breast density posed a problem for diagnosing this killer cancer.

Evidently, Joan’s talk was more than heard. It made a profound impact on both the women and the men. That night at a gathering of influencers, Kevin was heard describing the evils of the disease to a woman who hadn’t attended the lunch.

Robin Robinson

Another highlight of the luncheon was the announcement of $1.25M by the Andy Horner family and the men and women of Premier Designs to support Hope Lodge on Baylor’s campus. As Baylor Health Care System Foundation President Robin Robinson revealed that gift that arrived the day before, he pointed to a table of women just to the left of the stage. Were they the benefactors? No, they were Premier Designs employees who had conquered breast cancer, and they admitted they were proud and surprised about the announcement.

Robin also remembered a dear friend of the Baylor Foundation  — AT&T’s Cathy Coughlin, who spearheaded the campaign against texting while driving. She also served as the most successful Celebrating Women corporate underwriting chair in 2011. The 57-year-old marketing executive died of pancreatic cancer this past April. In her honor, AT&T made a donation to Celebrating Women.

Joan Lunden

BTW, Joan was a knockout. The daughter of a cancer surgeon who died in an airplane crash when Joan was just a youngster, she had picked up the banner and is carrying on inspired by her father and her own journey.

Need proof? Get her book.

Funny aside: When her co-author had her mammogram, she asked the clinician about her breast density. The exasperated staffer said, “Ever since Joan Lunden wrote about breast density, every woman wants to know her breast density.”

Robin Robinson, Debbie Oates, Elizabeth Selkirk, Bruce Selkirk, Ben Selkirk, Christie Carter and Susan McSherry (File photo)

BTW, it was just two years ago that Bruce Selkirk established the Amy T. Selkirk Fund at Baylor in the name of his late wife Amy Selkirk, who was diagnosed with TNBC. The fund was to support a breast cancer vaccine trail led by Dr. Joyce O’Shaughnessy, the Celebrating Women Endowed Chair in Breast Cancer Research at Baylor, and Dr. Karolina Palucka, a researcher at Baylor Institute for Immunology Research.” It’s already paying off for Baylor clinical trial patients like Mary Morton and Deanna Bernhagen, who are participating in the current trial. Amy may have been a victim of TNBC, but thanks to her husband the crusade is being carried on inspired by her.

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children’s 20^th annual Treasure Street moved across the street to the new section of Old Parkland Campus for its annual Treasure Street fundraiser and the weather was delightful. Talk about being neighborly. This was the first official fundraiser on the grounds of the remarkable undertaking. Another neighbor pitched in with the talent and that was The Rustic’s Pat Green.

Pete and Caren Kline

Don Glendenning and Ruben Esquivel

Barbara and Stan Levenson

Brent and Kay Franks

North of town the art lovers Kay and Brent Franks, Barbara Daseke, Charlene Howell, Pete and Caren Kline, Wanda Gierhart, Kevin Hurst, Barbara and Stan Levenson and past Silver Cup recipients Don Glendenning, Joyce Mitchell, Lucilo Pena and Ruben Esquivel flocked to Jennifer and John Eagle’s home for the announcement of the 2016 TACA Silver Cup recipients. With John flying in from a business visit to California, Jennifer started off the evening doing solo hosting. No problem. This certainly wasn’t her first TACA Silver Cup reveal.

Jeff Woodward

But it was the first for the Dallas Theater Center’s relatively new Managing Director Jeff Woodward. And he had very good reason for being there. Not only did he get to meet some of the performing art leadership, one of the DTC’s favs was named the 2016 Silver Cup recipient — recent past DTC Board of Trustees Chair Rebecca Fletcher.

Bit of trivia: When Rebecca’s inducted into the Silver Cup Club, it will be only the third time that a mother and daughter have received the award. Rebecca’s mother Bess Enloe was awarded the Silver Cup in 1993. Other mother-daughter Silver Cuppers included Margaret McDermott and daughter Mary McDermott Cook and Deedie Rose and daughter-in-law Catherine Marcus Rose.

Bess Enloe, Donna Wilhelm, Rebecca Fletcher, James E. Wiley Jr. and Joyce Mitchell

Tara Lewis

Plus, her fellow recipient James E. Wiley Jr. has been heavily involved and supportive of the DTC by serving on its Executive Committee and chairing the Individual Giving and Trustee Development Committee. But that’s just a smidgen of his involvements in the Dallas arts community. There’s also the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre and the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

But you already knew all of that. Still, you might not know that the luncheon is scheduled for Friday, February 19, at the Hilton Anatole.

Hopefully, the streets and skies will be clear, so folks can safely celebrate the newest Silver Cup twosome. Luncheon Co-Chairs Pilar Henry and Tara Lewis are presently negotiating with Mother Nature to behave herself.

The best-laid plans of mice and men and PR people … what’s that saying? Well, that was the situation at the Hyatt Regency for an event called “Tuesday Night Live” on Tuesday, October 20.

The plan called for politico strategist Carol Reed to be served up for the St. Philip’s School and Community Center fundraiser. Alas, it turned out to be a cluster of base hits and outs.

To get things started, there was a reception in the Landmark Circle. Micki and Bill Lively walked by the St. Philip’s reception and headed for Landmark Ballroom D, where a large crowd was gathering. It turned out to be a convention reception. They recognized their misdirection and turned back toward the reception in the Landmark Circle, where guests like Adlene Harrison, Charlie Pride, Pam and Jimmy Graham, Laurie and Phil Evans, Katy and Ken Menges and other high rollers had arrived for a VIP reception. But later, they discovered that they hadn’t rated the “ultra-VIP” reception upstairs with the honoree, Co-Chairs Gillian Breidenbach and Holly Reed and the other members of the “TNL” cast.

Upstairs the very special ones gathered, but the PR person—who was brought in at the last moment—said s/he was clueless about what was going on because no one at St. Philip’s had informed him/her.

Toward the tail end of the reception period, Carol was asked whether she was nervous about the upcoming roast. “Yeah, because I haven’t had any control over this thing,” she replied. ”And that is not what I do.”

Someone said it had been Carol’s idea to put together a roast called “Tuesday Night Live”—patterned as a takeoff on NBC-TV’s “Saturday Night Live” show—but, whoever made the call, the results were decidedly mixed in terms of the entertainment, the stage management, and the fundraising.

According to emcee Cappy McGarr, the blend of monologues, skits, and musical performances had a goal of raising $50,000 via text or donation card. But, by evening’s end, St. Philip’s headmaster Dr. Terry J. Flowers announced that just $25,500 had been raked in.

After a snappy opening skit by Nancy Munger as Hillary Clinton and Monique Ridge-Williams as Michelle Obama—Michelle told Hillary that if she really wanted to win the presidency she needed to hire “the fixer” Carol Reed—McGarr quipped that Carol on occasion has been called a “Mack truck.” He also noted that she had helped elect Dallas’ first black and first Jewish-female mayors (Ron Kirk and Annette Strauss).

Next came a lively performance by St. Philip’s students as the group Earth, Wind & Fire—Carol joined them dancing onstage—and then a bit by Chris Heinbaugh, taking a turn as Dana Carvey’s “Church Lady” character.

While guests dug into their dinner—lettuce wedge, sirloin, crab-meat cake, asparagus, sweet potato flan and carrot cake or a “dark chocolate bag”—Heinbaugh and Breidenbach came out next as the SNL “cheerleaders,” before giving way to the evening’s first roaster, Gloria Campos, without any fanfare at all. “So much for a grand introduction,” Campos said sarcastically, sitting at the “anchor desk.” The former WFAA anchor presented a “Reed Update,” also telling the crowd there was no truth to Dale Hansen’s report that Gloria was now living in an assisted-living center in Mesquite.

Campos was followed by a black-bewigged Holly, who tried hard to become “Roseanne Rosannadanna,” a character popularized by Gilda Radner on “SNL.” Then the evening got lively again, as WFAA sports anchor Hansen, Roaster No. 2, stormed out and snapped to Gloria, “Get your ass off the stage. … I hope like hell you people didn’t pay for this tonight,” Hansen bellowed, before turning back to Campos: “Seriously, get your ass off the stage. You’re retired now.”

“My problem is, I don’t know who the hell Carol Reed is,” Hansen continued. “I was invited to one of her famous ‘salon’ dinners. And later Craig [Holcomb, who presents the dinners along with Reed and Heinbaugh] sent out an email saying I spoke too much. Which immediately made me rethink my position on gay rights in America.” When some in the audience groaned, the broadcaster shot back: “Hey, after my Michael Sam commentary, I’m golden!”

Hansen also took a few potshots at Ron Kirk, who would be the evening’s third roaster, saying, “Ron Kirk is fat. What the hell has he been trading: minerals rights for cheeseburgers?” Before bringing Kirk on, Hansen did have a few kind words for Reed, calling her his longtime friend and one who pushed hard to get the American Airlines Center built.

Kirk, the former Dallas mayor and U.S. Trade Ambassador, said Reed is one of Dallas’ true “steel magnolias,” someone with a “fierce dedication to her clients, and an insatiable appetite for winning.” But he also joked about her cultural sensitivity (or, rather, her lack of it). When they worked together on his mayoral campaign, Kirk recalled, “Carol decided she wanted me to drive her around,” like Hoke chauffeuring Ms. Werthan in the movie, “Driving Miss Daisy.” Also, Kirk said, Reed once asked, “When the hell is Cinco de Mayo?!”

When it was finally Carol’s turn onstage, the veteran PR consultant graciously thanked everyone, but not before getting off a few shots of her own. Dale Hansen is “the Denny Crane of the news,” she said, referring to William Shatner’s character on TV’s “Boston Legal.” Of McGarr, she added, “No one can tell me what the hell he does. Does anybody know?”

Then, just as the guests were exiting the ballroom because they thought the roast was over, Dr. Flowers appeared on stage as Eddie Murphy playing in “Mr. Robinson’s Neighborhood.” “It’s an interesting night in the neighborhood,” the headmaster warbled as everyone scrambled back to their seats. “St. Philip’s thanks all of you!”

If you had your hopes on dancing to the tunes of Ricki Derek and his Big Band and having a grand old time at the Patriot Party Friday, you’d better get your digits dialing or pounding the keyboard.

According to Event Chair Susana Gibb and Honorary Co-Chairs Lisa and Clay Cooley, the Housing Crisis Center benefit at the Rosewood Mansion Turtle Creek is almost a done deal.

Of course, there will be lots of Mansion goodies to eat and drink. And what would a North Texas fundraiser be without auctions, both live and silent.

Monies raised from the event will “help continue the programs that help us help vets and other members of our community who are at risk for homelessness.”

Nothing can keep the Friends of Wilkinson Center home when it comes to fundraising for The Wilkinson Center. And their annual Spirit of Taos was a perfect example. Here’s a report from the field:

The Spirit of Taos partying*

Hosted by the Friends of Wilkinson Center, The Spirit of Taos took place at The Lot in Lakewood. This event sold out despite the earlier torrential downpour that swept Dallas and took out several power lines leaving many without electricity. More than 200 millennials and baby-boomers needed to escape their cabin fever so they dusted off their Taos chic attire and braved the weather to support Wilkinson Center.

David and Sloan Looney Dix, Stephanie Taylor and Matt Muckleroy*

The event kicked off with a cocktail hour from 7-8pm that featured margaritas and hors d’oeuvres like quesadillas, mini pimento cheese sandwiches, tostadas and chicken flautas. Guests were welcomed by Anne Reeder, Executive Director of Wilkinson Center and Spirit of Taos event chairs, Sloan Looney Dix and Stephanie Taylor.

Jack and Emily Dunn, Anne Reeder and Cindy and Gary Weed*

A seated dinner followed with southwest-flavored food from The Lot and dessert by Emporium Pies. Special remarks were made by Honorary Co-Chairs and long-time Wilkinson Center supporters Emily and Jack Dunn and Cindy and Gary Weed. Guests like Sherry and Gary Stevener, Anne and Terry Connor, Laura Reeder and Andrew Johnson listened and danced throughout the evening to tunes from Frank in the Middle and Downtown Fever.

Sherry and Gary Stevener*

Laura Reeder and Andrew Johnson*

Terry and Anne Connor*

Missy Huber and Cathy Brittingham Saxon*

The silent auction featured unique items like a weekend at a luxury resort in Taos, New Mexico and a Matthew Trent tourmaline necklace. The raffle put together by Missy Huber and Cathy Brittingham Saxon  included custom made Olsen-Stelzer boots and a cooking collaboration at the Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Farms in Blanco, Texas.

If you weren’t interested in what the silent auction or raffle had to offer, there was also a Kendra Scott station set up where mystery jewelry boxes were sold for $50/per box. Each box contained a piece of jewelry that ranged in value from $50-$120.  KeoPix Photobooth was set up to commemorate the evening with photos and funny props.

We are so grateful for everyone who came out, supported and had a great time! We could not have done it without our loyal constituents. The money raised from this event allows us to continue to provide pathways out of poverty for our clients. Until next year….

* Photo credit: Lisa Means