It’s only right to save the very best for last. And this final item in the TACA Custom Auction collection is truly the piece de resistance. From chocolate, champagne to concert, this package will make the winning twosome the envy of all. It will be interesting to see whose paddle is the last one waving for this one on Friday, September 25, in the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek ballroom. Get those paddles and passports ready.

European Escape* (Value: $35,000)

This unique European adventure** starts with a five-night stay in Paris’s five-star Hotel du Louvre. From here the twosome will become true experts on champagne by venturing to the Epernay where Moet & Chandon’s mammoth subterranean wine cellars have been producing the world-renowned champagnes like Dom Perignon.

Speaking of Dom, the duo will tour Hautvillers and the abbey where legend has it that the French Benedictine monk Dom Pierre Perignon invented the champagne.

Of course, all that touring and learning about the French bubbly will require some thirst quenching. No problem. There will be eight champagne tasting in three different locations, lunching on cheese and charcuterie in a small boutique winery and, of course, a three-glass tasting of Premier Crus Champagne at a boutique winery.

But there’s still more. The couple will travel to Vienna for a two-night stay in a “Superior Room” at the Hotel Sacher Vienna. While there, they will have daily breakfast and a candelight dinner at the hotel’s Rote Bar. One of them will be able to relax thanks to a 30-minute “Time To Chocolate” spa treatment. No, it’s not fattening. According to experts, the magic ingredient is the cacao butter that immediately results in “firmer skin and guarantees a radiant look with a long lasting effect.” Sounds yummy.

Jaap van Zweden***

And if the trip is taken in May 2016, they’ll be able to attend the Vienna State Opera’s “Lohengrin” with Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Maestro Jaap van Zweden conducting.

The trip to- and from-Paris will be business class on board American Airlines.

* Courtesy of Arts World Travel, Hotel Sacher Vienna, American Airlines 
and Murad Auctions 
** Trip Must be completed within one year. 
***Photo provided by TACA

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.

Jonathan Martin, Key and Katherine Coker, Glenn Hegar and Jennifer and Coley Clark

Music lovers gussied up big time for the AT&T Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala on Saturday, September 26. While violinist Pinchas Zukerman made beautiful music with the DSO and Maestro Jaap van Zweden inside the McDermott Concert Hall, more than 800 ladies and gents splendiferously wined and dined beforehand with Todd Fiscus’ splashes of gold dazzling in the lobby.

Stay tuned for the write up. In the meantime, check out the fashions and faces at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

If music is the feast for the soul, fashion is its counterpart for the eye. So, before violinist Pinchas Zukerman provided a sensory bouquet with Dallas Symphony Orchestra Maestro Jaap van Zweden at the Meyerson for the AT&T Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala, the fashions of the 2015-2016 fundraising season on Saturday, September 26, were a fabulous showcase of the most elegant black-tie ensembles.

A tip of the hat had to go to the gents who had donned a penguin suit for a second night in a row. They had pulled out their designer tuxedos the previous night for the TACA Custom Auction Gala at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. But with a fresh shirt and perhaps a change of tow tie, they were all set. As for the gals, they had to pull off a whole new look and, boy, did they.

Jonathan Martin, Key and Katherine Coker, Glenn Hegar and Jennifer and Coley Clark

While early arrivals for the sold-out affair entered through the Flora entrance, Co-Chairs Jennifer and Coley Clark and Katherine and Key Coker were downstairs posing for countless photos with DSO President/CEO Jonathan Martin and Dara and Texas State Comptroller Glenn Hegar. Philanthropist Margaret McDermott took a pass on the official photo session and headed for the elevator to go upstairs.

Gotta admit that while Coley and Key looked pretty snazzy in their Hadleigh’s and Armani white tie and tails, respectively, their wives blew it out of the park. While the two ladies had never worked together before, the bond was forged even down to their gowns for the night. While their styles were totally different, they easily topped the evening’s fashion ladder. With Michael Faircloth’s talents, Jennifer had designed a lace blouse, silver pencil-legged pants underneath a partial silk overskirt that matched Todd Fiscus’ sunburst décor upstairs. On the other hand, Katherine channeled Barbie extreme in ever-so-fitted Sherri Hill black mermaid silhouette with a flurry of below-the-knee tulle crinoline upstaged all.

What made the foursome even more spectacular in the photos were their posture. Silly as it may seem, hunched shoulders would have destroyed the perfection of the clothes. But the Clarks and Cokers stood perfectly with posture that would have made their mums and any army sergeant proud.

But back upstairs. The Meyerson never looked prettier. Of course, it helped that the sunshine added a special polish to Todd Fiscus’ Midas touch.

Meyerson lobby

And the guests matched the fabulous look of the setting. As frivolous as it may seem, the DSO Gala is to North Texas couture lovers as the Oscars’ red carpet is to Hollywood fashionistas. It is a time when photographers wait just inside the entry shooting famous faces and fabulous fashions.

Marsha Cameron and Michael Halloran

Lynn and Allan McBee

Steven Scales, Sherwood Wagner and Marena and Roger Gault

So, how about a rundown of the fashions of the night? Ruling the night were designers like Armani (Michael Halloran, Jody Grant and Jana and Mike Brosin), Arnold Brant (Guillermo Perales), BCBG (Rachel Michell with Allison Mitchell purse), Bob Mackie (Sherwood Wagner), Brioni (David Haemisegger), Bruno Cucinelli (Mary Potter), Carmen Marc Valvo (Maureen Gault and Linda Ivy), Celine (Doris Jacobs), Chris Despos (Doug Houser), Christian Dior (Steven Scales and Myrna Schlegel), Dolce and Gabbana (Roger Gault), Escada (Nancy Nasher with clutch from Mulberry), Givenchy (Ceron), Harry Rosen (Bob Schlegel), Hadleigh’s (Steve Ivy), Isabel Graham (AC Hoffman), Kay Unger (Kathy Holt), Lanvin (Pat McEvoy), Maria Lucia Hohan (Chrissy Sayare), Michael Faircloth (Lisa Cooley), Monique Lhuillier (Marsha Cameron), Oscar de la Renta (Sheila Grant), Oxxford (Keith Nix), Q Custom (John Michell), Ralph Lauren (Patsy Donosky with Jimmy Galanos stole, Jan Miller and Bob Potter with Stefano Ricci tie), Roland Mouret (Betsy Crousen), Sand (Ferrell Drum), Talbot Runhof (Lynn McBee and Jennifer Houser), Tom Ford (Todd Fiscus), Valentino (Allan McBee) and Zegna (Clay Cooley, Jack Jacobs, Charles McEvoy and Ben Fischer).

Betsy Whitson Crousen and Guinn Crousen

Sheila and Jody Grant

Harold Pruner and Patsy Donosky

Ceron and Todd Fiscus

Mitch and Chrissy Sayare and Myrna and Bob Schlegel

What a fabulous kick-off for the fall fundraising season.

For loads more photos from the AT&T Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery!

What a simply fabulous way to end the week and to look forward to a weekend of beautiful weather! Word just arrived that The Dallas Opera’s First Sight Luncheon and Fashion Show is a done deal. In other words, it’s sold out, but there’s probably a waiting list if you waited too long. The Thursday, October 29th daytime event is being chaired by Dallas First Lady Micki Rawlings and will feature clothes from Mulberry at NorthPark.

Mike and Micki Rawlings (File photo)

As for the First Night red carpet reception and dinner, there are a scant number of tickets left for the black-tie activities preceding the performance of “Great Scott” at the Winspear on Friday, October 30. The word “hustle” may not be strong enough if you’re planning on joining Co-Chairs Ellen and Don Winspear, Honorary Co-Chairs Micki and Mayor Mike Rawlings and Dinner Co-Chairs Anne and Steve Stodghill. So, lock down your tickets and go shopping for that new gown/tuxedo and appropriate trinkets.

Keith and Jennifer Cerny (File photo)

The Dallas Opera is on a roll. Its First Sight Luncheon sold out on October 16. Now, more “sold out” news is coming from the aria set.

First Sight First Night Event Co-Chair Don Winspear announced last night at the First Sight First Night patron party in Hall Arts that the First Night’s red-carpet, seated supper and after-party on Friday, October 29, is sold out, too. Needless to say, the news was greeted with cheers, smiles and applause.

First Night is being presented by Deutsche Asset & Wealth Management.

BTW, The Dallas Opera General Director/CEO Keith Cerny reported that wife Jennifer Cerny has picked out her gown for the big night. To top her gown from last year is gonna be tough, but Keith thinks she just might have done it.

Mother Nature’s tears

The rains are coming and Friday is looking pretty darn soggy. At least that’s what the weather experts are saying. While some of Friday night’s high school football games are being rescheduled for tonight, the fundraisers are also arranging for the umbrella-friendly stuff.

The Dallas Women’s Foundation’s Lunch organizers decided the VIP valet would be vastly better at the Chantilly and Tower entrances instead of the Jade entrance. After all the Chantilly and Tower entrances are more accommodating to guests making their way from vehicle to door in the rain. And, yes, there will also be complimentary self-parking. But if you do that, don’t forget your umbrella and remember to puddle hop.

Dallas Women’s Foundation 30th Annual Luncheon*

Model and Elizabeth Anyaa

The Dallas Opera’s First Night red carpet parade that usually goes from the Flora curb to the Winspear front door has been rethought. After all, you can’t have all those ultra-fabulous gowns being dragged through the mini-ponds. According to the Dallas Opera braintrust, First Night guests will discover the valets in the Winspear’s underground garage. Then they (the guests, not the valets) will take the elevators up to the ground level, where the red carpet will be held in the tent. The models wearing the creations by Geoffrey Henning (Great Scot), Khanh Nguyen (Tosca), Ed Popken (Becoming Santa Claus), Elizabeth Anyaa (Manon) and Michael Faircloth (Show Boat) will be on stages in the Winspear lobby for the reception.

Is there anything better than a rain backup plan? Yup, no need for a rain backup plan.

* Graphic provided by Dallas Women's Foundation

Friday night The Dallas Opera‘s First Night had the black-tie patrons braving the weather wraths of Mother Nature at the pre-performance of the world premiere of “Great Scott.” But they still kept their sense of humor as a video was presented showing that open folks have a sense of humor. Mike Rawlings, Steve Stodghill and Mark Laroe putting a new light on operatic singing and Don Winspear donning braids.

Kristina Bowman (This is not a selfie)*

It seems The Dallas Opera‘s First Night resulted in a visit by paramedics.

Event photographer Kristina Bowman took a very nasty spill shooting the after-party. She ended up being transported to Baylor to have her knee checked out.

Just heard from Lady Kristina, who’s snoozing after pulling an all-nighter in Baylor’s ER.  Instead of calling to check on her, emails would be better.

Guess that cancels out any trick or treating for Kristina tonight.

* Photo courtesy of 
Kristina Bowman

Event photographers are an important part of the North Texas fundraising scene. As great as it is for them to snap nice-looking photos of folks at all types of activities, they have to get the subjects’ names right, too. In many cases, the organization sponsoring the event arranges to have a “name taker” assist the photographer.

Unfortunately, the stars were not in alignment for the Neiman Marcus-NorthPark black-tie event on Wednesday, October 28. The results? Photos have been distributed by Neiman’s with a couple of major misidentifications that other media outlets are posting/publishing and photo services are offering based on the information provided. Thus, the Internet is starting to show signs of a string of misinformation.

Neiman’s has been alerted to the situation and is “notifying BFA as they provided the ID’s.”

Just in case BFA hasn’t contacted your neighborhood newsletter, the two most outrageous errors involve NorthPark legends who helped the late Patsy and Ray Nasher more than 50 years ago to create a world-famous retail center. Please note the photos below are the correctly ID-ed:

EG Hamilton

EG Hamilton, the award-winning architect who designed NorthPark.

Jacqueline Starr, Louise Eiseman and Lee Starr

Lee Starr, the president of Titche-Goettinger when the department store was one of four original NorthPark anchors, with his wife Jacqueline Starr and Louise Eiseman.

It may not seem like a really big deal to some. After all, these gents aren’t one of The Kardashians or a presidential wannabe. Besides, all gray-haired 90-somethings look alike, right?  Oh, please!

These two men, who worked with the Nashers and the late Stanley Marcus to create a remarkable undertaking, should be treated with the respect that they deserve.

The moon was sneaking peaks from behind the clouds over NorthPark on Wednesday, October 28. Perhaps it was because the Lady Luna hadn’t received a coveted invite for the Neiman Marcus and NorthPark Center’s celebrating their 50-year partnership and benefiting the Nasher Sculpture Center’s Youth Arts Education.

According to sources, there were more than a couple of folks who had creatively come up with excuses for not landing an invite. Shades of Stanley Marcus’ 90^th birthday, when all types of hifalutin types suddenly “were out of town for the occasion” with a wink, wink. One or two had even called Mr. Stanley’s office saying their invitation must have gotten lost in the mail. No, it hadn’t.

David Haemisegger, Isabelle Haemisegger, David Haemisegger and Nancy Nasher

Karen Katz

But on this evening, it was Neiman’s Karen Katz and her husband Alan Katz and Nasher second-generation Nancy Nasher and husband David Haemisegger hosting a gathering of 300 of the fine-feathered eagle class in celebration of the vision of Neiman Marcus and the late Patsy and Ray Nasher.

Nancy Rogers, Tracy Cheatham and Mary Crosland

From the young hot types like Tracy Cheatham, Mary Crosland and Courtney Rider Westmoreland, the OMG setters like Nancy Rogers and the Crystals (Caren Kline, Cynthia Mitchell, Pat McEvoy and Vinnie Reuben) to the NM/NP legends like Eiseman Jewels’ Louise Eiseman, Jacqueline Starr and her husband former Titche-Goettinger President Lee Starr, EAnn Thut and her husband NP architect EG Hamilton, Jean Mahie designer Jacline Mazard with her god daughter Tamara Dorrance and Doris Jacobs and

Roy and Lynne Sheldon, Jacline Mazard and Tamara Dorrance

her husband/The Melody Shop’s Jack Jacobs), it was a truly NM/NP curated crowd.

Of course, the nonprofits were well represented with DSO’s Jonathan Martin and Michelle Burns, Dallas CASA’s Kathleen LaValle, The Family Place’s Paige Flink, Nasher Sculpture Center’s Jeremy Strick and Jill Magnuson and Cancer Blows’ Ryan Anthony.

Michelle Burns, Jeremy and Wendy Strick

Ryan Anthony

While guests mingled, Ryan told of a recent concert. He was feeling not-so-great due to his treatments for multiple myeloma. But he decided that to not perform would be allowing the cancer to score. After the performance, he learned that three friends had traveled miles to show their family members suffering from multiple myeloma how Ryan was rising above it. Ryan admitted that despite the ups-and-downs of fighting multiple myeloma and organizing Cancer Blows, he and his wife Niki Anthony were going to take a brief break to recover.

Still he said that all their efforts had progressed beyond their greatest hopes thanks to Nancy Nasher and her support.

Brief aside: In a few years, Lyda Hill has become an energized, happy person since her involvement with Warren Buffet led to her becoming an even more generous philanthropist. So Nancy and David seem to have been gratified by the feedback regarding their decision to undertake NorthPark50. While not all can share to the degree of Lyda, Nancy and David, they can still enjoy the unique exhilaration that comes with giving with no expectation of glorification.

But back to the party. You just know you want to know the deets.

The black-tie reception took place on Neiman Marcus NorthPark’s second level entering via the Boedecker entrance. After strolling between two rows of servers with trays of wine, champagne and other liquid refreshments, they were greeted by NM VP/GM Malcolm Reuben, who has been managing the story for 14 years.

Jacqueline Starr, Louise Eiseman and Lee Starr

EG Hamilton

NP pioneer Louise Eiseman proved herself to be the historian of the night. After all, it was Louise and her late husband Dick Eiseman who were part of the original merchants when the doors opened 50 years ago. She pointed out Lee Starr, former president of Titche-Goettinger. He along with the late Stanley Marcus took a big leap of faith in moving to a 97-acre cotton field, where the Nashers’ vision of a world-renowned retail center was to take place. On one side of the acreage was the Caruth farm with horses and cows. On another side was Sparkman Hillcrest cemetery.

Dean Fearing, Wanda Gierhart and Lucy Wrubel

As DJ Lucy Wrubel was conducting “vintage” music from the ‘60s (“These Boots Are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra, “Shotgun” by Junior Walker and the All-Stars, “Penny Lane” by the Beatles) high atop a stage in the shoe department, NM’s Sandy Marple and Chuck Steelman with headsets in place gave the sign to head upstairs. Upon arriving on the third level, guests were directed to designer sportswear, and a surprising discovery. The men didn’t get it. The women did. The entire area, where most had discovered fashion ultimates, was devoid of clothes. Nope! Not one single mannequin, display case or hangar was in sight. Instead there were racks of spotlights suspended from the ceiling and rows of rectangular tables with place cards.

According to sources, the restructuring of the area had started on Monday. And plans called for work to get underway right after the last guest left to restore it to its fashionable display in time for the store’s opening at 10 a.m. Thursday.

But the guests knew of no time schedule and the Katzes and Nasher/Haemisegger twosome certainly weren’t going clang a triangle to get them to settle down. Still, this crowd knew their manners and despite wanting to stand and chat in the lap of luxury, they took their places for a feast prepared by NM Chef Kevin Garvin that included amuse (fried olives, classic deviled egg, red endive, ricotta, lemon zest and olive oil), salad (little gem wedge, pear, apple, chayote, Texas blue cheese, lemon pistachio vinaigrette, and NM monkey bread), entrée (short ribs, brown sugar Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, fingerling potatoes, roasted wild mushrooms, creamed spinach and red wine demi-glace) and dessert of NM’s traditional pecan ball of vanilla bean gelato with pecans, ganache and whipped cream. And, of course, the wines included Chateau de Sancerre Black (Loire, 2013), William Hill Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley, 2012) and Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Brut (Epernay NV).

Karen perfectly represented the partnership recalling her youth shopping at NorthPark. Instead of sounding like the CEO that she is, she spoke as if she was at a family reunion recalling her days of shopping with her mother. Like many, she listed old, long-gone NorthPark favorites like the Magic Pan and the Carriage Shop. Proudly she recalled a store that even very old-timers had forgotten — Woolworths. Yes, there had been a Woolworths at NP. Then she told how she would hang out with her girlfriends in the center only to eventually become the NorthPark Neiman’s general manager from 1991 to 1996. (As her first store-management job, she admitted, “I was overwhelmed.”) Eventually she led the guests in a toast to Nancy and David.

Ken Downing

Karen was followed by a Ken Downing-curated fashion presentation of 50 models wearing 50 fashion statements for the 50^th anniversary. As Ken described it, “A folkloric fantasy with nomadic nuances, luxurious layers and an abundance of adornment that spins into Studio 54 splendor of glamorous decadence!” Ken went on to say that the look was “nomadic wanderers, popular in the ‘70s. I just moved them into Studio 54.” One observer noted that it appeared in some cases the layer look was in overload. Still, the parade of models received an “all-cellphone salute” with Ken getting a big hug from designer Devon Leigh afterward.

Steve Tyrell

The mood then changed with New York singer Steve Tyrell singing “Come Fly With Me,” “This Guy’s In Love With You,” etc., as guests dined.

At 9:40 p.m. David addressed the guests, thanking Neiman’s and the public relations team. He also recognized EG and Lee for their contributions five decades ago. Ending the event, David led the final toast of the evening to the 50 years of excellence, saying, “Neiman Marcus has been and will continue to be the heart and soul of NorthPark.”

Now on to the next 50 years!

More photos can be found at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery!

The rain and chill of Friday, October 30, gave way to an afternoon break following the Dallas Women’s foundation’s 30^th Annual Lunch at the Hilton Anatole. While some hoped that Mother Nature was leaving the area, weather forecasters warned that she was resting up to unload for the evening.

In fact, Ma Nature was focusing on The Dallas Opera‘s First Night VIP red carpet and pre-performance seated dinner in a tent adjoining the Winspear Opera House.

Forewarned, The Dallas Opera staffers had a back-up plan all prepared. Instead of the usual red-carpet entry from Flora, guests were to arrive at 5:30 in the underground parking and take the elevators to the ground level.

Upon exiting the elevators, the black-tie set strolled a green carpet to the tent for the VIP reception.

Why the green walkway instead of the traditional red? It was to “kick-off” the evening with a nod to the opera’s season opener, “Great Scott,” which had a football theme. Think green playing field. Ah, now it makes sense.

Ellen Winspear and Rhonda and Fraser Marcus

Anne and Steve Stodghill

Laura and Tom Leppert

As the beautiful people checked in at tables just outside the tent, a couple of staffers swept water from the walkway. While the First Sight & First Night Co-Chairs Ellen in Michael Faircloth and Don Winspear, First Night Dinner Co-Chairs Anne and Steve Stodghill and guests like Marnie and Kern Wildenthal, Rhonda in Amanda Wakeley and Fraser Marcus, Honorary Co-Chairs Micki and Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, Lynn and Allan McBee, Donna Wilhelm, Laura and former Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert, Nick Even with Arden Kwan, Kristina Lechowski and “Moby-Dick” and “Everest” librettist Gene Scheer and Holly Reed with Greg Haynes Johnson looked perfect, the tent proved to be not so perfect.

Kern and Marnie Wildenthal and Kristina Lechowski and Gene Scheer

Bart and Jolie Humphrey

Greg Haynes Johnson and Holly Reed

One AARP-vintage gal queried a passerby, “What should I do about my chair?” The lady’s chair was directly under a leak in the tent.

Mary McDermott Cook

On the back wall of the tent was a mammoth scoreboard and the sound of college fight songs could be heard. Philanthropist Mary McDermott Cook in a black-and-white jacket threw her arms sky-high and announced, “I’m refereeing!”

Jennifer Cerny’s one-shoulder emerald green gown put the tent’s green flooring to shame…Jolie Humphrey’s “vintage” gown matched the tables’ gold glittery tablecloths, red-and-white chairs and red-and-white chairs.

Someone asked, “Have you seen Ruth Bader Ginsburg?” Immediately the photographers demanded, “Are you serious?” Yup! Next question: “Where is she?” Answer: A hand pointed to an elevated area of the tent where guests were gathering around tables. Final question: “What’s she wearing?” The answer: A white outfit with black piping.

Off the photographers went in search of the Supreme Court justice. A sudden burst of flashes indicated that the photographer had found the jurist. Only the 5’1” tall Supreme was wearing a man’s tuxedo jacket that hung down past her knees, and she looked rather unhappy.

Mitch and Linda Hart, Ruth Ginsburg, Keith and Jennifer Cerny

To her side a coatless Mitch Hart said, “She needs a blanket.” Yup, she looked pretty unhappy, but wasn’t covering her up with a blanket rather extreme? No. Mitch explained that the 82-year-old was cold and needed a blanket, a stole, anything to keep her from chilling too much.

In the meantime, looking like Nancy Walker’s sister, Justice Ginsburg found herself being photographed with all types of local VIPs. So, why was Ruth at the event? She’s a big opera lover. In the past she had said, “In my dreams, I can be a great diva.” She’s also a big fan of Jake Heggie, who composed “Great Scott.”

And speaking of Jake, while his Supreme groupie was chilling in the tent, he was seen heading past the models in the designer outfits into the Hamon Hall for a private party with a passel of his buds. One woman seeing the passing Heggie parade commented, “It’s probably warmer in there!”

But the weather challenges of the night didn’t end with dinner. After the performance, the after-party got underway back in the tent. With the dinner’s tables and chairs removed, it should have been the perfect place for dancing, partying and celebrating the debut of “Great Scott.” And it was, except the green flooring evidently still had a couple of wet spots creating a bit of a slippery situation.

Michal Powell (File photo)

Surprise! The Crystal Charity Ball is Saturday. It’s the absolute standout when it comes to the glamorous gowns, gems, gals and gents. This year’s CCB Chair Michal Powell is charging ahead to break all-time records for the 63-year-old fundraiser for children. Her goal is not to raise, but to net a “celestial” $6.3M for a record-breaking number of beneficiaries (Callier Center for Communication Disorders, Catholic Charities of Dallas, Dallas Children’s Theater, Dallas Life, Dallas Services, Family Compass, H.I.S. Bridgebuilders, Interfaith Housing Coalition, Mary Crowley Cancer Research Center, North Texas Food Bank and Texas Health Resources Foundation).

To accomplish that goal, she and her team of women have arranged for a king’s/queen’s ransom of marvy-oodle silent auction items.

Ah, but the “contribution tickets” are the ones that always raise eyebrows. Not only for what they are, but who ends up with them. Generous boldfacers who buy a handful of tickets as well as “This-is-the-first-time-I-bought-a-ticket” types perk up when they find out their name is called.

Here’s a roundup of the grab-ables for your consideration. And, no, you don’t have to be present to win, but you do have to buy a raffle …oops, make that … a contribution ticket.

Lexus RC F*

• For a $300 chance ticket — A Lexus RC F, compliments of Sewell Lexus and Park Place Lexus. (Retail value: $75,000) Drawing is limited to 500 tickets.

  LegacyTexas*

• For a $275 chance ticket — A prepaid $25,000 VISA card from Legacy Texas Bank.

  NorthPark Gold*

• For a $250 chance ticket — $20,000 in NorthPark Gold plus Two VIP Valet Parking Cards.

  Forty Five Ten*

• For a $225 chance ticket — A year of Forty Five Ten with four seasonal $5,000 gift cards (total of $20,000).

  Exclusive Resorts*

• For a $200 chance ticket — An Exclusive Resorts 7-Night Gateway Escape to a destination of the winner’s choice. (Options include resorts in Hawaii, Mexico, Cayman Islands, California, Costa Rica, Colorado, Georgia, South Carolina and Arizona).
• For a $175 chance ticket —A $10,000 Timepiece Gift Certificate to Eiseman Jewels NorthPark.

Grand Homes*

By the by, Grand Homes is the official sponsor of the 2015 Contribution Tickets.

If your dance card is already filled and you just can’t make Saturday night’s festivities, you can still take a chance and buy a contribution ticket by contacting the CCB office at 214.526.5868. Who knows? Not only will you help area kiddos, you just might help your sweet self.

* Graphics and photos provided by Crystal Charity Ball

According to Junior League of Dallas (JLD) 2016 Ball Chair Ashley Allen and Honorary Chair Debbie Oates,

Ashley Allen, Meredith Mosley and Debbie Oates*

“The JLD’s wish this holiday season is for the community to make plans to join us for the 54^th annual Junior League of Dallas Ball, themed ‘To Dallas With Love,’ on Saturday, February 20, 2016.

“Inspired by James Bond, this year’s theme will embrace the hard work of the more than 5,000 trained JLD volunteers, who with every act of kindness, serve as secret agents within the community. Together, our members provide more than 130,000 uncompensated hours of community service each year. Our wish is for you to help us continue to do so by providing funding in support of the JLD and our annual Ball.

“By purchasing a ticket or sponsoring a table, you allow the opportunity for us as a League to further serve the city of Dallas, by carrying out our mission, which is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Whether tutoring students, rocking infants, or providing scholarships to further our youth’s education, our members strive to be truly connected to the community and are dedicated to ensuring each donated dollar is put toward helping those in Dallas who need it most.

“This year, the annual Ball will feature three entertainers throughout the evening, including: Dallas-based singer/songwriter/band leader Hunter Sullivan and his trio; the Lone Star Wind Orchestra; and the upbeat Think Big Party with the Bulletproof Brass Band. Not to mention, Tom Addis Productions will bring James Bond to life for guests and create the exciting 007 inspired evening, which will also feature a fantastic big board silent auction.

“For individual tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.jld.net or contact the JLD Development Office at 214.357.8822, Ext. 118, for more information.

“Secret agents of the community, your mission is to join us for the 54^th annual Ball! We hope to see you there.”

-By Ashley Allen, 2016 JLD Ball Chair and Debbie Oates 2016 JLD Honorary Chair

* Photo credit: Rhi Lee

Crystal Charity Ball performer

Stars above! The Crystal Charity Ball was out of this world with its “An Evening of Celestial Radiance” theme at the Hilton Anatole on Saturday, December 5. And to match the starry, starry night, the guests’ adornments ranged from glittery starbursts of jewels to gowns that reflected the cosmos.

Michal Powell and Tucker Enthoven

Kenny and Lisa Troutt

Key and Katherine Coker

And to add to the occasion, all types of acrobats on the ground and in the air were just part of the festivities, with the well-known types raising their eyes to the heavens. The original stars from the Broadway production of Jersey Boys, now performing as the Midtown Men had the dance floor filled.

Midtown Men

Jerry Fronterhouse and Annette Simmons

While the post is being prepped, check out over 65 photos at the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery. And don’t forget to check the second page of pictures!

Some may have wondered if 2015 Crystal Charity Ball Chair Michal Powell had joined Wynken, Blynken and Nod, as she cast her net at the sea of stars in the universe. After all she had decided her theme for the sold-out Saturday, December 5^th fundraiser would provide a whopping, hold-your-breath $6.5M benefiting area nonprofits for children.

Throughout the past year, she and her team met, lunched and turned 24-hour days into 36-hour efforts. With her crew of 99 committee ladies, Michal’s “An Evening of Celestial Radiance” shone at the Hilton Anatole with a “big bang” thanks to event producer Tom Addis and an army of professionals from Gardens Gate and Lamberts.

Some guests may have thought Michal had changed her theme as dozens and dozens of costumed Irish dancers wandered through the CCB black-tied types in the Anatole’s Chantilly reception area. No, she hadn’t. It seems there was a gathering of Irish dancers holing up in the hotel for a dance-off.

The moment anyone spotted Michal sparkling in her heavenly Michael Faircloth creation, there was no doubt that the universe was still in place.

Deborah Cone, Loyd and Michal Powell

Still, some wondered what the Texas-size camellias behind Michal and her husband Loyd Powell as they welcomed guests had to do with the evening’s plan. Didn’t matter one iota as the crowd grew to true capacity with locals and out-of-towners like Michal’s sister, Deborah Cone, in from Amarillo and her son, Cameron Cone, in from L.A.

As usual, flutes of champagne found their way toppling off silver trays smashing on to the floor. Hey, it isn’t easy to balance a half-dozen stems on a tray with one hand through a crowd of swells and Irish dancers. Thank heaven, chivalrous types like Pete Foster and Ken Betts steered passersby away from trodding on the wet shards. Attorney Ken joked, “I’m getting business cards.”

Pete and Tanya Foster and Gina and Ken Betts

Speaking of Ken, his better half, Gina Betts, had to rethink her fashion plan for the night. Her dazzling Oscar de la Renta had fallen victim to the Betts’ fox terrier, who mistook it for a chew toy. No problem. Gina’s closet had a few backup-choices like the moonlight Elie Saab ready-in-waiting.

And while on the subject of fashion, here are just some fashion highlights of the night. BTW, these folks own their duds unlike a lot of red carpet types and wannabes, who do a “lending library’ arrangement:

Katie Bivins and Cameron Cone

Lisa and Clay Cooley

• Libby Allred in Patti Flowers
• Katie Bivins in Vera Wang gown, earrings from Grange Hall
• Doug Carney in Commes des Garçons dinner jacket
• Janie Condon in Naeem Khan
• The Cooley clan — Chase Cooley in Brioni; Ciara Cooley in Isabel; and mama Lisa Cooley in Patti Flowers gown, Louboutin stilettos and jewelry from husband Clay Cooley (in Chris Despos tuxedo) via Bachendorf’s and Eiseman’s
• Claire Emanuelson in The Row gown with Jimmy Choo heels, Judith Leiber* purse, Eiseman and Sue Gragg jewels
• Tucker Enthoven in Rubin Singer gown with Michael Kors shrug, Jimmy Choo heels, Bottega Veneta purse and Susan Saffron jewels

Bill Esping shoes

Michael McCray, Gonzalo Bueno, Faisal Halum and Rajan Patel

• Bill Esping in Chihuly painted shoes.
• Tiffany Divis in Michael Faircloth
• Michael Flores in Mochino tuxedo
• Patti Flowers in Patti Flowers (duh!)
• Faisal Halum in Balmain tuxedo jacket, Lanvin tuxedo pants and Givenchy patent leather shoes
• Kathleen Hutchinson in Alexander McQueen and Sue Gragg jewelry
• Angie Kadesky in Carolina Herrera
• Lisa Longino in Worth gown with Manolo Blahnik heels and Judith Leiber* purse
• Francie Moody-Dahlberg in Naeem Khan
• John Nolan in Brioni tuxedo and Hadleighs shoes

Beth Mazziotta

Nancy Rogers and Michael Flores

• Beth Mazziotta in a gown that was made and hand-painted by San Miguel de Allende designer Almudena Olazabal
• Lynn McBee in Marchesa gown, Louboutin stilettos, Judith Leiber* purse, “family” pieces (of jewelry that have been passed down) and husband Allan McBee in a Valentino tuxedo
• Peggy Meyer in a Carolina Herrera gown with Valentino heels and Judith Leiber* purse
• Pat McEvoy in Giorgio Armani gown, Judith Leiber* purse with husband Charles McEvoy in Zegna tuxedo
• Pam Perella in Carolina Herrera gown, Manolo Blahnik heels, Judith Leiber* purse and “my own jewelry” with husband Vin Perella in Isaia tuxedo
• Hal Reid in Brioni tuxedo
• Nancy Rogers in Oscar de la Renta gown, matching blue-and-white fur stole and Sue Gragg and Bachendorf jewelry
• Sarah Perot in Monique Lhuillier gown and William Noble jewels
• Karen Perry in Patti Flowers
• Vinnie Reuben in Pamela Roland gown, Gucci heels with husband Malcolm Reuben in Giorgio Armani tuxedo
• Shelle Sills in Rick Owens gown with J Mendel fur, Lanvin heels, vintage Lacroix purse, Faerber Collection 4510 jewelry
• Barbara Stuart in Patti Flowers
• Lisa Troutt in Carolina Herrera gown, Manolo Blahnik pumps, Sue Gragg and William Noble jewels and Judith Leiber* clutch with husband Kenny Troutt in J. Hilburn tuxedo
• Piper Wyatt in Lisa Perry design (“It is very different and probably weird but hopefully in a good way and it makes me happy”) and Eiseman jewelry

Ross and Sarah Perot

Kenny and Lisa Troutt

Throughout the evening the waves of 1,700 CCB supporters flowed from casino games on one side of the reception to the silent auction treasures spread along the opposite side with CCB sisters offering “contribution tickets” (aka in others parts as “raffle tickets”).

In the center of the area were mountains of all types of yummies including shrimp that Jim Falk described as “the biggest ones I’ve ever seen. They’re like lobsters!”

Robbie and Nancy Briggs

Jeremy Lock and D’Andra Simmons Lock

But food wasn’t the only feast. It was the platter of chatter that provided food for thought. Ross Perot Jr. said that his new Turtle Creek headquarters would open next December…D’Andra Simmons Lock and husband Jeremy Lock were headed to Europe with mom Dee Simmons, who was with Dr. Cristina Hartley, for the Christmas holidays…Robbie Briggs with wife Nancy Briggs was amazed at being on the cover of Fort Worth Business CEO, explaining, “I’ve never been on the cover of any magazine!” Robbie’s been busy over in Cowtown, having recently bought three companies over thar.

Jerry Fronterhouse and Annette Simmons

On the other hand, no one was talking about adorable couple “Angel of Grace” sponsor Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse getting married on Valentine’s Day. That’s because the twosome was keeping it mum until after the holidays.

And there were some who could only make it for the reception. For example, Nancy Rogers and her entourage of Donna Brittingham, Sue and Jimmy Gragg, Kathleen Hutchinson with John Nolan, Michael Flores with Doug Carney, Michael McCray with Gonzalo Bueno, Faisal Halum, Rajan Patal, the Betts and Greg Gonzalez with Hal Reid, made the rounds at the reception and then had to head off to The Mansion for dinner….Kathy and Harlan Crow were calling it an early night, as Harlan explained, “Like someone said, it stretches out so long, I’m never gonna do that again!”

Performers

Those who stayed for the opening of the Chantilly Ballroom found a Milky Way cluster of smoke with acrobats both in the air and on the dance floor performing with a host of harpists providing the sound and a dreamy moon hovering overhead.

Midtown Men

Christi and Hal Urschel

Rhonda and Fraser Marcus

Sara Lee and Stan Gardner

AB and Scott Aston

After the mist calmed down and the performers and harpists disappeared, the Midtown Men took over the entertainment a la Jersey Boys style. The response? The dance floor was jammed with Rhonda and Fraser Marcus, AB and Scott Aston, Sara Lee and Stan Gardner, Susan and Addison Wilson, Muffin and John Lemak, Carol and Frank Riddick, Angie and Kevin Kadesky and Christi and Hal Urschel.

Mary Clare Finney and Chris Branscum

Tracy and Ben Lange

Reed and Kristen Gibbins, Rachel Roberts and Alex Harrell

David and Stacy Blank

Mike and Micki Rawlings

For those who still had room, like Laura and Jason Downing, Stacy and David Blank, Nikki and Crayton Webb, Caroline Rose Hunt with Del Frnka, Jan and Fred Hegi, Kelli and Jerry Ford, Tracy and Ben Lange, Micki and Mike Rawlings, Cammie and Brian Helfin, Mary Clare Finney with Chris Branscum, Stacey and John Relton, Mimi Sterling with mom Michele Crume, Elizabeth Fischer with Caleb Goodman, John Clutts with Sam Arslanlar, Alicia and Scott Wood, Shannon and Ted Skokos, Phyllis and CJ Comu, Carmen Surgent, Laree Hulshoff and Ben Fischer, Margo and Jim Keyes, AB and Scott Aston, Katherine and Key Coker, Kristen and Reed Gibbins, Rachel Roberts with Alex Harrell, Heather and Ray Balestri, past CCB chairs (Margo and Bill Goodwin, Jill and Bob Smith, Debbie and Nickey Oates, Aileen and Jack Pratt and Caren and Pete Kline), Niven Morgan and Shelby Wagner, Betty and John Crawford and Brian and Leslie Diers, dinner was on with first course (Main lobster claw and remoulade, lolla rossa and baby kale in radicchio, star fruit and pomegranate, parmesan frico and champagne vinaigrette), second course (filet mignon and crab cake with sauce bordelaise and béarnaise, potato and horseradish puree, roasted Thumbelina and baby yellow carrots and Romanesque and purple cauliflower) and dessert (celestial chocolate dream and white chocolate cognac truffle).

Mimi Sterling and Michele Crume

Ray and Heather Balestri

Dwight and Claire Emanuelson and Shelby Wagner and Niven Morgan

Kelli Ford

Bob and Jill Smith

At their places, guests found the treasured “Children’s Book,” the CCB date book and a favor—a heavenly little sculpture of a captured universe—that seemed to reflect the entire evening.

For a look at the fashions and the beautiful peeps, check our MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

* Editor’s note: Does anyone get the impression that Judith Leiber should be an underwriter for the Crystal Charity Ball?

According to DIFFA/Dallas Chairman of the Board Justin W. Bundick,

Justin W. Bundick*

“The goal of DIFFA/Dallas in 2016 is to continue to increase the amount of funding DIFFA/Dallas grants to the eighteen HIV/AIDS direct-care service providers we support in North Texas so that they can continue their work with the over 20,000 individuals infected with or impacted by HIV/AIDS.

DIFFA Dallas*

“Since DIFFA/Dallas was founded in 1984, we have granted more than $7 million to over twenty-five North Texas AIDS Service Organizations and emergency. As in every year past, these funds will be used for education, transportation, housing, mental health and meal programs; especially for women, children, and those in low income situations.

“For more information about DIFFA/Dallas or to purchase tickets for House of DIFFA: Circo Rouge, please visitwww.diffadallas.org or email dallas@diffa.org.”

Evidently good news doesn’t take the day off even for Presidents’ Day. With the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s Debutante Presentation Ball this Saturday, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala Co-Chairs Marena and Roger Gault are breaking news about the DSO’s fall fundraiser plans.

Marena Gault and Sherwood Wagner (File photo)

They’ve even tapped their best buddy Sherwood Wagner to serve as their honorary chair for the Friday, September 16^th black tie gala at the Meyerson.

According to Sherwood, “Marena and Roger are so passionate about the symphony and its place in the community. I am excited to become involved with this year’s Gala to help further the exceptional work of the Dallas Symphony.”

Margaret Hancock (File photo)

Kristi Hoyl (File photo)

Adding to the leadership will be Margaret and Barry Hancock and Kristi and Ron Hoyl, who will be the underwriting co-chairs.

And who will be joining DSO Maestro Jaap van Zweden and the orchestra on stage? International piano super-duper star Lang Lang!

If you’re interested in tickets to all the gala perks and/or sponsorship, contact Tab Boyles at 214.871.4045 and he’ll make you very happy. But if you just want to attend the concert and after-party, hold your horses. Those tickets can be gotten by calling 214.TIX.4DSO, but not before Monday, February 22.

Then start thinking what you’ll be wearing. After all, this gala is the official start for the fall black-tie season.

Whoopsie! A change is in the air over at the Dallas Museum of Art. No, a new director has not been named. Rather, those adorable Junior Associates have added some youthful, price-friendly splash to the much-vaunted Art Ball.

Rachel and Michael Osburn have shifted the group’s fundraising efforts. They shifted dynamics from the age-old An Affair of the Art to partner up with the 2016 DMA’s mega-fundraiser, “Art+Architecture” on Saturday, April 23.

Here’s the plan. As the high rollers are bidding on auction items and lavishly dining/partying in other parts of the DMA with Co-Chairs Ann and David Sutherland, the Junior Associate black-tie optional guests will starting partying at 8:30 p.m. in the Hamon Atrium at Folly at the Art Ball.

They’ll also crack the champagne bottle for the official reveal of the Dallas Museum of Art’s new north entrance and Eagle Family Plaza.

Then, as the Art Ball beautiful peeps stroll down the DMA Concourse, they’ll join the Junior Associates as they dance to the tunes provided by DJ Lucy Wrubel and the Georgia Bridgewater Orchestra.

BTW, tickets for “Folly at the Art Ball” are going for only $200. That’s such a bargain compared to the Art Ball’s grown-up price tag of $4,500 for two. And if you get a bunch of your pals together, they have choices for you. There’s the Lounge seating for eight going for $2,000 and the VIP Suite seating for 10 that can be picked up for $3,500.

And while in the spending mode, check out the raffle. Rachel and Michael have arrange for a snazzy 2017 Jaguar F-Pace Prestige valued at $60,000, with raffle tickets going for $100 per chance and only 1,000 being offered. This Jaguar SUV is being provided thanks to Park Place Jaguar of Dallas and Plano.