There are behavioral experts who say that animals bring a calm to human lives. Don’t know if that’s true or not, but on Saturday, September 21, at the Omni Dallas Hotel, two-legged guests came together to celebrate the Diamond Anniversary of the SPCA of Texas helping four-legged ones.
Snoozing puppies up for adoption
At the far end of the reception hall some puppies were all pooped out, other partied hardy and kittens looked longingly up for a “fur-ever home.” While the wee ones stayed protected in playpens, the 1,000 black-tie types knew no bounds in the main reception area outside the Dallas Ballroom, where the silent auction was underway.
Gala Chair Whitney Eichinger had blended the diamond anniversary with a “Diamonds Are Fur-Ever” theme that would have pleased even James Bond.
Sam Saladino, Jenna Turner Alexander and Brendan Higgins
And, of course, what is more synonymous with the world of Bond than beautiful people, and they were indeed there. Jenna Turner Alexander never looked better, revealed that not only were she and KTVT anchor Brendan Higgins engaged, they were exchanging “I do’s” in just two weeks. . . Linda and Steve Ivy were talking about a future trip to Antarctica. She had thought about bringing her Judith Lieber penguin purse, but opted for her Lieber orange dog clutch in memory of her late pooch Tiffany. . .
Steve and Linda Ivy
Jody Dean had two gals on his arms — daughter Maddie and gal pal Fiona Pestell. Seems some of Fiona’s family was due in the next day and Jody was thinking the newly dedicated Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden would be a perfect spot to take them. . . Honorary Co-Chair Jan Rees-Jones stole the show in her Abi Ferrin figure-fitting black gown with feathered insets around the fishtail hem. Wise husband Trevor stepped aside as cameras flashed, saying, “Tonight is her turn in the spotlight.” Jan quickly responded, “You’re embarrassing me. It’s about the animals!” But don’t go feeling sorry for Trevor. His old pal Avery Johnson and wife Cassandra were on the scene. . . And speaking of figures in form-fitting gowns, Diamond Anniversary Co-Chairs Jocelyn White and Stacey Kivowitz stood out in white and black gowns looking like they had been made by Mattel. . . . Animal-loving Ann and David Vondenstein were taking the night off from their twin girls.. . For Holly and Stubbs Davis, it was a bittersweet night. You see, September 21 was the birthday of their old buddy Larry Hagman.
Jocelyn White and Stacey Kivowitz
When the doors to the ballroom opened, the partying continued. While some brought favorite dates (Lisa Fine and Brad Kelly, Judith Lifson and Sam Saladino, Anne Reeder and Frank Hytken, Janelle and Larry Friedman and D’Andra Simmons and Jeremy Locke), others required carriers and leashes for their dates. Arthur “For the Love of Dogs” Benjamin brought his “two-year-old Christmas Miracle” Bandit wearing a black tie; Jean Fine had her Pasha tableside enjoying a glass of water. As for the pooches, they seemed right at home in the room full of guests.
Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones
In keeping with the “Diamonds At Fur-ever” theme, SPCA President James Bias and “Special Agent Scruffy” arrived a la James Bond, via video. This was followed by a proclamation being presented, recognition of Jan Rees-Jones and the presentation of Spencer Humanitarian Award to Claire Swartz, who was truly shocked by the announcement.
Adding to the celebration was emcee Ron Corning, who got the evening started with his wry wit: “By the way, the Kibbles ‘n Bits instead of croûtons on the salad is a really nice touch.” The animal people loved it.
Then auctioneer Mike Jones took the mic and started the bidding with Chef Richard Chamberlain joining him. A dinner by Richard with wine furnished by Wendy Krispin went not once but twice for $16,000. In fact, Wendy peppered other auction packages with additional perks throughout the program.
The Texas Hill Country package that included a trip for the winner’s pet at the Barking Hound Village raised $5,000.
Keith Russell and Luke
When the shout-out for donations came, the Keith Russell family came to the stage with Luke. The mixed-breed pooch had had a pretty miserable life before being adopted by the Russells. He had been chained up and neglected. While Luke looked a little bewildered by all the attention as the rally for funds was underway, he turned to Keith for some reassurance that he wasn’t up for bid. When last seen, Luke and his dad were heading for the comforts of home. Thanks to funds raised at the gala, the efforts to save other Lukes will continue.
For more pictures from the evening, check out the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.