Bishop Lynch grad Danielle Rollins was back in town on Wednesday, September 19, for the 2018 Kappa Kappa Gamma Tablescapes reception at Eiseman Jewelers. Despite not being a Kappa, the nationally recognized lifestyle expert felt right at home with blonde keyholders Tablescapes Co-chairs Sandy Ammons and Peggy Meyer. And while Kappa sister/Co-Chair Kris Terry wasn’t able to make it due to an “under-the-weather” condition, folks like 2018 Tablescapes Key Honoree Elizabeth Mills, Kappa Dallas President Kathy Orsak, Caroline Hunt, Dan Bailey, Anne McPherson, Kim and Maury Purnell and past Tablescapes chairs Mary Hubbard and Kay Weeks with husband Peter Weeks were on hand to meet Danielle.

Adding a personal touch to Danielle’s presence, Parigi’s Janice Provost created hors d’oeuvres inspired from Danielle’s “Soirée Entertaining with Style” (Rizzoli), as well as the signature beverage for guests to enjoy. 

In addition to the party, host Richard Eiseman donated a $5,000 gift certificate for Sloan Street Collection to be raffled off at the Tuesday, October 16th luncheon. He also managed to have Sloan Street designer Charlotte Gadbois was on hand along with pieces from her collection for guests to check out.

Sporting an Eiseman diamond ring as big as a flashlight, Danielle laughed, “There’s a saying in Texas that diamonds shrink as you get older so you have to go bigger!”

Danielle also revealed that she was also adding to the raffle with a $1,000 gift certificate for Danielle Rollins Style, as well as 10% of proceeds from her Sip, See and Shop pop-up shop featuring her Danielle Rollins Style clothing line that will be at Tablescapes.

All types of ticket opportunities are available to benefit Attitudes & Attire – Boots to Heels Program, Buckner International-Bachman Center, The Men of Nehemiah, Promise House, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children – Pirate Camp, Readers to Leaders, Aberg Center for Literacy, Just Say Yes, and Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic..

As thunderstorms rumbled overhead, the Cattle Baron’s Ball gals valet-parked or sought cover at NorthPark’s covered garages on Thursday, September 20. Instead of being glued to the computer screens to monitor North Texas Giving Day, the gals with perfect complexions and no-split-ends looked right at home surrounded by David Yurman goodies.

While the David Yurman motorcycle was parked in the window and an obvious eye-catcher in the side room, there were no takers for a ride and the brilliant CBB silent auction item of gold and diamond bangle bracelet was front and center for guests like 2018 CBB Co-Chairs Katy Bock and Jonika Nix, Heather Randall, Cara French and Tootsie’s’ Nerissa Von Helpenstill and Dustin Holcomb to check out.

CBB committee member Nancy Gopez was still bright and shiny about the North Texas Food Bank’s Harvest just 24 hours away. When someone hinted that a flash-flood warning was on the menu, the Harvest co-founder looked shocked saying, “Really!?”

On their way out to still other events were JB Hayes and past CBB Co-Chairs Cara French and Anne Stodghill, who claimed she was being a dutiful wife for the office-warming at husband Steve Stodghill’s new digs.

Besides gem gazing and grape sipping, the popular activity of the night was filling out raffle chances for a Park Place vehicle valued at $58,000, a $10,000 PlainsCapital debit card, Bachendorf’s diamond earrings valued at $11,000, a $10,000 Highland Park Village shopping spree, a Eiseman Jewels and Rolex watch valued at $10,300 and a $5,000 Eatzi’s Market and Bakery gift card.

One of the big hits of the recent 2018 Cattle Baron’s Ball was the One&Only dream getaway to far off exotic places. Somehow the 2018 ReuNight Co-Chairs Joyce Goss and Kenny Goss have managed to offer The Family Place fundraiser’s own tailor-made One&Only trip to East Africa with such take-alongs as cashmere knit wraps, personalized bags and Akola jewelry. Check out all the details below for the trip for two!

One&Only East Africa Experience* (Value: $17,603)

Travel where none of your friends have gone before! Alongside ancient rainforest, within the lush green expanse of a working tea plantation, One&Only Nyungwe House offers an exclusive window to Africa’s fascinating wildlife and culture. From thrilling outdoor pursuits in the Rwanda National Park, to unique cultural insights and wellness experiences, One&Only curates the most inspiring things to do in Rwanda. Then, hop on a quick flight to the Iconic Resort of Mauritius nestled on a pristine private peninsula- the ultimate tropical playground for romantics and adventurers alike. Bejeweled with swaying palms, carpeted in two kilometers of white sand beaches, along with three luxury pools and five inspired dining concepts, One&Only Le Saint Geran re-defines ultra-luxury living in Mauritius.

Travel in style with your personalized John Hart bag and your lovely Recreo San Miguel 100% cashmere knit wrap, hand-sewn by a collective of women artisans in the highland of Mexico. Start your African collection with your one-of-a-kind hand-made Akola necklace from their brand-new luxury Neiman’s line featuring their signature Karatassi paper bead, grey cultured pearls and grey moonstone.

One&Only Nyungwe House, Gisakura, Western Province Rwanda:

• Three night’s accommodations for two guests
• Roundtrip airport transfers
• Two signature activities per person per day including bird watching, wildlife spotting, stargazing and more
• Two 50-minute spa treatments
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner with beverages are included daily

One&Only Le Saint Geran, Mauritius:

• Three-night’s accommodations for two guests
• Complimentary activities including water-skiing, glass bottom boat trips, snorkeling, and more
• Complimentary access to Club One, including KidsOnly club and state of the art Fitness Centre
• Breakfast and dinner are included daily

Extra Goodies:

• Recreo San Miguel Cashmere Knit Wrap
• Jon Hart Weekender bag with personalization at any Paper Affair Dallas store
• Akola hand-made one-of-a-kind necklace from the Neiman Marcus line

Exclusions: Airfare is not included. Travel packages are valid for up to two people and will expire November 8, 2019. Additional nights at each resort are available at an additional fee. Blackout dates apply and subject to availability at time of request. Each stay must be redeemed on same itinerary and may not be redeemed for separate stays.

* Donated by: One&Only Resorts, Recreo San Miguel, Akola Project and Paper Affair 
** Photo provided by ReuNight

Before Chef Graham Dodds announced his departure from The Statler, one of the last big whoop-ti-dos that he orchestrated was the Friends of Wilkinson Center‘s Fifth Annual Spirit of Taos on Saturday, September 29. Here’s a report from the field:

Balloon arrangements and a sea of colorful cacti set the perfect backdrop for the 5^th Annual Spirit of Taos presented by the Friends of Wilkinson Center! The event also celebrated the move of the event to Dallas’ chic new hotspot Scout at The Statler Hotel!

Upon arrival, guests were treated to the festive sounds of Mariachi Viva Mexico whose booming vocals and guitar medleys filled the foyer of The Statler and set the tone for all the excitement and revelry to come! WFAA “Good Morning Texas” anchor Alanna Sarabia welcomed the audience to the sold-out fundraiser and called co-chairs Caitlin Morris Hyatt and Laurann Cavenaghi to the stage. The two thanked the many sponsors who made the event possible as well as Friends of Wilkinson Center Co-Presidents Meridith and Jeremy Zidell. After the brief welcome, The Blake Martin Band took the stage and entertained guests with hits from the Doobie Brothers and Otis Redding as attendees enjoyed a fabulous fajita buffet by Chef Graham Dodds.

Following dinner, Wilkinson Center Executive Director Anne Reeder acknowledged longtime supporters of Wilkinson Center including Honorary Co-Chairs Marian and Rob Richmond and Wilkinson Center Board of Directors. Folks were encouraged to pick up their paddles for the live auction when auctioneer Filson Graham took the mic! Items included a 14K gold and diamond necklace which event Co-Chair Caitlin Morris Hyatt modeled beautifully for the crowd and an exclusive golfing package with PGA Golfers Austin Smotherman, who was in attendance, and Bryson DeChambeau. The items went quickly and the gifts of love came pouring in throughout the evening.

The fun continued into the night as John and Andrea Cohen (Cohen Electric) and Sarah and Tommy Tucker (SHOP Companies) decided to try out the restaurant’s miniature bowling alley. Remaining party goers opted to dance the night away as The Blake Martin Band closed out the party!

* Photo credit: Nate Rehlander

With her Town and Country posse (T&C Associate Publisher Mara Gredick, Marketing Director Laura Ives Wilson and Hearst Marketing’s Lynn Wisdom), Columbia graduate/jewelry designer Clara Williams and her Retail Sales Manager Emily Garratt found a perfect spot to display her latest collection on Wednesday, October 3. It was Lisa and Clay Cooley’s estate. The digs made possible a shop til you drop benefiting the 2018 Cattle Baron’s Ball.

But unlike fundraisers at the Cooley compound of the past held in the ground-level drawing room or den, this one upstaged the rest by lunching on the treetop upstairs terrace overlooking the magnificent grounds that the late Ruth Altshuler once described as possibly being mistaken for a country club.

While some had been worried about the 80-degree temperature plus humidity, they rose to the occasion in end-of-summer frocks by such designers as Oscar and Herrera. The worry was unnecessary, thanks to the breeze and shade provided by the trees.

As the gals like 2018 CBB Co-Chairs Katy Bock and Jonika Nix, 2019 CBB Co-Chairs Wendy Messmann and Lisa Shirley, Bela Cooley, Tracy Lange, Deidre Bacala and Stephanie Seay checked out the earrings, necklaces and trinkets, Alison Malone looked a bit nervous. Her Crystal Charity Ball Children’s Book was just a couple of hours away. Another couple on the edge for CCB deadlines were Silent Auction Co-Chairs Cara French and Piper Wyatt.

On the other hand, former CBB chairs Cindy Turner (2000), Olivia Kearney (2006), KJ Sanger (2012) and Tia Wynne (2015) enjoyed the scene, the jewelry and the lunch (roasted chicken salad with saffron infused cous cous, dried apricots, toasted pine nuts, sunflower sprouts and harrisa vinaigrette followed by angel food cake with berries, whipped cream and raspberry compote).

CBB has proven to be a good training ground for those with big projects. For instance, Cindy was almost giddy about daughter Hillary Turner’s recent engagement. Seems Chris Calandro popped the proposal poolside during a break watching the Notre Dame-Stanford game.

Instead of a long talk about the jewelry, Mara and Clara briefly addressed the lunching ladies about the need to fund cancer research. As a parting gift, each of the guests was given a leather necklace that could be worn with or without one of Clara’s pieces. She also announced that any sales of the jewelry would benefit Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Hostess Lisa had to dash out just as Cassandra’s staff was closing down. Seems daughter Ciara Cooley’s quarterhorse, Dakota, was showing signs of colic, so Lisa was off to the Fort Worth equine vet’s clinic.

Before opening The Dallas Opera season with a performance of “The Flying Dutchman” on Friday, October 12, the 2018 First Night tip-top sponsors showed their black-tie elegance at a fabulous seated dinner in a dazzling tent adjacent to the Winspear Opera House.

From the blue diamond carpeting to the diamond gems adorning the ladies, the evening supper could have easily been considered a spectacular success on its own merits.

While the post is being prepared, check out the gowns, guys and gals at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

Only weeks before, Jan Showers had redecorated the beautiful Highland Park manse of Lisa and John Rocchio. So for most of the 250-plus guests at the Crystal Charity Ball‘s Underwriters Cocktail Buffet held there on Thursday, November 1, it was a first chance to take in the redone splendors of the Rocchios’ spectacular, historically protected home.

With the fancy ball celebrating children’s charities just a month away, Party Chair Tanya Foster had prepared a lovely setting for friends to catch up and excitedly discuss the approaching, December 1 Big Event at the Hilton Anatole. To ease things along, guests including Emilynn and Claude Wilson, DeeDee Lee, Monica Egert Smith, Catherine New, Tom Addis, Pat and Charles McEvoy, Gigi Sally, Candace Winslow and Ross Ameringer and Jacqueline Fojtasek enjoyed a buffet provided by Cassandra Tomassetti of Cassandra Fine Catering.

Meantime, others such as Barbara and Ralph Babb, Kim and Greg Hext and Lisa and Marvin Singleton threaded through the Rocchios’ crowded living room, where Diamonds Direct—which underwrote the $50,000 bash—had DD VIP Yosi Mayer, Calee Dillon and Mallory Kaplan helping guests with their Christmas shopping, thanks to an exquisite collection of gems.

Outside there were heat lamps and a bar offering Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey to ward off the evening’s chill.

On the fashion front, bow ties were the eyecatchers of the night, thanks to Brent Christopher, Gregory Dunbar and Jim Lee.

When it came time for brief remarks to be made from the sweeping staircase in the entry, the crowd spilled over into the living room to hear CCB Chair Claire Emanuelson do the honors, thanking the guests for attending. She also revealed that today was also her husband Dwight Emanuelson‘s birthday. At that, the birthday boy was caught grinning from ear to ear … and with good reason. Surrounded by good friends—and with his wife’s CCB only weeks away—what wasn’t there to smile about?

There was one more reason for the Emanuelsons to smile. Their homestead in Old Highland Park had sold and their new digs in the Volk Estate were in the final stages of completion.

While 2018 Crystal Charity Ball Chair Claire Emanuelson created a true “Celebration in Nouvelle-Orléans” in honor of her hometown’s 300th anniversary and her late mother’s French heritage on Saturday, December 1, at the Hilton Anatole, the 1,500 guests complimented the occasion in designer gowns, exquisite jewels and fundraising for Dallas children’s nonprofits.

Just moving the guests from the reception area featuring Commander’s Palace, the Monteleone’s Carousel Bar and a French Quarter’s courtyard with a fountain was a celebration thanks to New Orleans’ Kinfolk Brass Band parading from the second floor around the first floor into the Chantilly Ballroom all decked out like the Garden District complete with the Booker T. Washington’s singers on stage.

While the post is being polished, check out the polished ones at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery. But be forewarned – because there were just too many, this is just half of ‘me. Part 2 is scheduled for tomorrow.

For 2018 Crystal Charity Ball Chair Claire Emanuelson, the mega-fundraiser for Dallas County children, was a love letter to her hometown, 300-year-old New Orleans, as well as a loving tribute to her late mother. Working with Event Producer Tom Addis and her CCB posse of 99 women plus some sidekicks like Niven Morgan and Shelby Wagner, the Hilton Anatole’s Chantilly Ballroom and reception area was “A Celebration in Nouvelle-Orleans” on Saturday, December 1.

Before the ballroom doors even opened at 9 p.m., the roughly 1,500 black-tie guests wandered from the silent auction on the left side of the upper-level lobby against a Commander’s Palace backdrop to the gaming area on the right side. Across the way, where a Lexus up for raffle was parked, it was like the French Quarter’s antique row with chairs hung on the wall. In the center of the lower level was a marvelous replica of the Hotel Monteleone’s Carousel Bar surrounded by The French Market’s tables and chairs and mammoth buffet tables offering mountains of ginormous shrimps and crab claws, mini-muffaletta lollipops and servers with trays of Hurricanes.

One eager twosome, knowing about the lavish cocktail menu, not only showed up half an hour before the official start, but peeled back the food’s protective covering and began digging in.

The usual photo centerpiece at the entrance, which traditionally has been the sweet spot for the fashionably attired guests, proved to be a bit of a challenge. Looking like a charming Jackson Square courtyard with a fountain and shrubbery, it had all the elements of perfection — except for the dark lighting and the mirror at the back of the Bar reflecting the photographers’ flashes. Another problem was the non-stop traffic of hotel guests with baby strollers trying to make their way through the formally attired throng. Luckily, there were other areas that were less jammed, including the entryway reminiscent of Oak Alley lined with trees draped with Spanish moss.

Dallas Morning News writer Robert Wilonsky, removing his glasses, admitted that “Tonight I’m arm candy” with wife Mary Wilonsky, whose Friends of the Dallas Public Library was one of the 2018 CCB beneficiaries.

And speaking of the faces and fashions in the crowd, this one was a feast for the eyes. Leading the herd of designers was Patti Flowers (worn by Ashley Allen, Marybeth Conlon, Lisa Cooley, Patti Flowers, Susan Palma, Beth Thoele and Emilynn Wilson) followed by Oscar de la Renta (Robyn Conlon, Jennifer Dix, Nancy Rogers, Mimi Sterling, Kristina Whitcomb and Piper Wyatt) and Hererra (Tucker Enthoven, Ashley Hunt, Angie Kadesky, Katy Bock, Cynthia Mitchell and Linda Secrest), Michael Faircloth (Tiffany Divis, Tracy Lange and Elsa Norwood) and Nardos (Garden Gate’s Maria Villanueva and Nardos Imam).

Also grabbing a second look or three were Janie Condon in Rachel Gilbert, Gail Fischer in Pamella Roland, Pam Perella in Galvan London, Pat McEvoy in Monique Lhuillier, Bela Cooley in Bladi Duran, Nikki Webb in Karl Lagerfeld, Muffin Lemak in Di Lorenzo Serafini, Peggy Meyer in Alberta Ferretti, Leslie Diers in Stuart Weitzman, Cheryl Joyner in Rene Ruiz and Ciara Cooley in Basix Black.

While CCB Chair Claire had threatened she was going to wear a straightjacket, she was actually in Zac Posen. … Toni Munoz Hunt showed off the hip-high slit in her Nha Khanh by doing an Angelina Jolie leg extension .… Cara French picked out a hot pink and red satin gown at Neiman’s that “brought back memories of my mom” (Prissy Gravely) and Prissy’s Crystal Charity Ball days. Cara had on a similar dress that was “red silk satin with pink lining that folded back” by Richard Brooks.

On the other hand, Cara’s husband, Jim French “had a dream that his tux was blue-and-white striped. I am so thankful this was just a dream.” Jim’s suit was traditional black, as was were the tuxes worn by Richard Dix in Baumann, Claude Wilson in Tom James, Clay Cooley in Chris Depos, Dan Meyer in Jhane Barnes, Vin Perella in Tom Ford, Bryan Diers and Charles McEvoy in Zenga and David Condon, John Corder, Tom Mitchell and Les Secrest in Armani. John Lemak decided to go with a “gorgeous navy” by Robert Talbott.

Other fashion highlights included shoes (Vince Camuto, St. Laurent, Weitzman, Manolo Blahnik, Casadei, Louboutin, Jessica Simpson, Miu Miu, Alexandre Birman and lots of Jimmy Choo), purses (Jimmy Choo, Bottega, Susan Saffron, Pelligrenio, McMalletier, Charlotte Max and loads of Judith Leiber) and jewelry from Eiseman, deBoulle, Sue Gragg, Diamonds Direct and family collections.

Just before 9 p.m., the sound of music was heard from the second floor. Like Quarterites, everyone from the formally attired to the casual passersby directed their eyes and ears to the staircase leading from the upper level. There, they saw New Orleans’ Kinsfolk Brass Band parading jauntily around the perimeter of the lobby leading to the center doors of the ballroom. Right on cue, the doors opened and the Band led the guests into the ballroom that had been turned into a reproduction of the Garden District, complete with a faux cobblestone dance floor, balustrades and a towering “mansion at sunset” covering three of the walls.

While the Kinsfolk performers were joined on the dance floor by the like of Gloria Eulich, 2018 CCB beneficiary Booker T. Washington’s singers performed on stage to the delight of Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse, Kelli and Jerry Ford, Anita and Truman Arnold, Amy Simmons and Joe Crafton, Neiman’s President/CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck and Alvise Orsini, United Air’s Scott Kirby with wife Kathleen Kirby, Moody Foundation’s Francie Moody Dahlberg with husband Kevin Dahlberg, health care types (Chris Durovich with wife Christina Durovich and Jim Hinton with wife Kristen Hinton), legal types (Eric Gambrell with wife Elizabeth Gambrell, Carol and Don Glendenning, Regina Montoya Coggins with husband Paul Coggins, Ladd Sanger with wife KJ Sanger, financial types (Phil White with wife Danice Couch, Rob Bowlby with wife Sarah Bowlby, Martha Martha Pickens with husband John Pickens), jewelers (Lawrence Bock with wife Katy Bock, Richard Eiseman with wife Betsy Eiseman and Yosi Mayer, former CCB Chairs (Tincy Miller, Louise Griffeth, Margo Goodwin, Jill Smith, Gloria Eulich, Debbie Oates, Cynthia Mitchell, Connie O’Neill, Aileen Pratt, Caren Kline, Robyn Conlon, Michal Powell, Christie Carter and Pam Perella) and Claire’s family (papa Dick Stephens, husband Dwight Emanuelson, sons James Emanuelson and Hillis Emanuelson and daughter-in-law Lindsey Emanuelson) and extended family Piper and Mike Wyatt (Claire and Dwight introduced Piper to Mike and, in turn, the Wyatts are the godparents of both Emanuelson sons).

As guests enjoyed the New Orleans-influenced dinner —Crab Louie, Pan-seared Filet of Beef with Parsnip and Potato Puree and Bacon and Balsamic Crispy Brussels Sprouts, and a Chocolate Hazelnut Profiterole — the chit-chat was fast and furious.

Don Huffines was philosophical about losing his state senate seat in the recent election: “It’s unbelievable how much less stress there is.” …  Tiffany Divis’ hubby Paul Divis had been stuck in Connecticut on business for a week, so she had not one but two escorts: John Clutts and Sami Arslanlar … On the other hand, Dee Simmons, Lee Bailey and Doris Jacobs decided to have a girls’ night out… Bob Schlegel was breathing a big sigh of relief after a recent lung-cancer scare (no cancer, a second opinion had ruled)… Kim Hext was effusive about the season: “This is my favorite time of the year,” she said. “We see our friends, get dressed up, and celebrate the holidays.”

While there may seem to be loads of photos here, check out the 140+ over at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

While chapeaus were blowing in the wind at Dallas Arboretum for the annual Mad Hatter’s Tea on Thursday, April 11, the 2019 Cattle Baron’s Ball committee was holding its spring luncheon at Truluck’s in Uptown.

One of the highlights of the luncheon is the reveal of the fundraising gala’s passel of raffle items. 2109 Ball Co-Chairs Wendy Messmann and Lisa Shirley and 2019 Raffle Co-Chairs Joanna Clarke, Debbie Munir and Jennifer Tobin revealed the following line-up of unique and unusual raffle items to the 80-plus baronesses:

$100 for each or $500 for six raffle tickets

• Park Place — The winner will choose between a 2019 Volvo XC40, a Mercedes Benz GLC300, a Porsche Macan or a Range Rover. (Value: $58,000)

$25 for each or $100 for five raffle tickets

• PlainsCapital Bank — The winner will receive a $10,000 debit card from the bank. (Value: $10,000)
• Eiseman Jewels and Rolex — The winner will receive a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 watch from the NorthPark jeweler. (Value: $10,300)
• Highland Park Village — The winner will receive a $10,000 shopping spree with up to three hours of personal shopping team consultation. (Value: $10,000)
• Hawaiian Getaway — The winner will enjoy a seven-night stay in a luxury three-bedroom residence at the Timbers Kauai Ocean Club and Residences. (Value: $12,000)

The winning tickets will be drawn at the 46^th annual Cattle Baron’s Ball on Saturday, October 19, at Gilley’s with featured entertainer Keith Urban.

To purchase raffle tickets or for sponsorship information, visit cattlebaronsball.com or call 214.443.9222. Or, better yet, contact your favorite baroness and she’ll be more than glad to make it happen. Talk about customer service!

North Texas’ favorite-son writer Skip Hollandsworth thought he was just going to give a talk for 30 ladies of The Senior Source’s Charles C. Sprague Sage Society on Wednesday, May 1. But the day before his scheduled presentation at the society’s 20th annual dinner at the Dallas Country Club, he checked out the guest list, with names on it like Bobby Lyle, Alina and Ruben Esquivel, Sally and Forrest Hoglund, Tucker and Rich Enthoven, Carolyn and David Miller, Margo and Bill Goodwin, Barbara and John Stuart, Sandra Estess, Dee Collins Torbert, Beverly and Don Freeman, Kim and Terry Quinn, Ann and Bob Dyer, Susan Wells Jenevein and Bob Jenevein, Elizabeth and Eric Gamrebll, Marilyn and Ben Weber and Connie and Chris O’Neill.

Immediately, Skip decided to call his friend Debbie Oates, who was co-chairing the dinner with her husband Nickey Oates. Skip wanted to switch the topic of his talk, he told Debbie. Instead of the subject being his book about an Austin serial killer called “The Midnight Assassin” — which asks the question whether Jack the Ripper actually came from Texas — Skip wanted to give a talk about how an unassuming computer nerd and his sweetheart had stolen jewelry from Dallas’ rich and famous back in the 1990s.

Debbie said he couldn’t do that because the invitations, which had already been printed, said the talk would be about the Ripper. But when he took his place at the dinner, Skip pulled a Skip and announced the change in plans. It turned out to be the right move.

Before making the big switcherooo, though, the longtime Texas Monthly scribe was the center of attention at a reception in the DCC lobby. Well-heeled society types were almost giddy to shake his hand. When old friend Beth Thoele reported about her kids getting married, the youthful-looking Skip countered, saying he was already a grandfather. Another guest added, “He’s a step-grandfather.” But Skip as usual had the last word, adding, “They call me ‘grandpa.’”

Across the room, Pam Perella was having a “coming-out” party after months of being MIA. The reason: the 10-month-long project of redoing the Perellas’ Highland Park home. The former CCB Chair said that while presiding over the year-long Ball had been a snap, the house re-do had been tougher. Just moving back into the place took a month.

Another guest reemerging was Pete Kline, who was walking with the help of a cane. Only a week before, he’d had knee surgery. … Christie Carter was back from the East Coast, where, along with Debbie Oates and Pam Busbee, she had attended the funeral of Christie’s 90-year-old aunt. … Scott Chase was excited about having recently joined The Senior Source board of directors. … Max Post, an Honorary Lifetime Director for the nonprofit, was telling how the Texas Instruments Alumni Association — Max is a retired TI’er — had helped raise tens of thousands of dollars over the years for The Senior Source.

Then it was time for the roughly 175 guests to gather for the Sage Society dinner — Eddie’s Salad, Filet Mignon, and Creme Brulee were on the menu — and the evening’s formal program. Following a welcome by Michael Massad Jr., chairman of The Senior Source board of directors, Debbie and Nickey took the mic. Quipped Debbie: “Many of us started with Junior League. Now we’re in Senior Source.”

Also speaking were Stacey Malcolmson, president and CEO of The Senior Source, and board member Carter Tolleson, who noted that the floral centerpieces on the various tables could be purchased for $50 each. “Well, I was promised that those flowers would last until Mother’s Day,” Carter said. “What do you think, honey?”

When it came to capturing the audience, though, Skip proved to be in a class by himself. “When I realized all the VIPs and muckety-mucks in the audience, I changed my speech,” he began behind the lectern. Instead of the announced topic, he said, he was going to talk instead about the 1998 “jewel heist of Annette and [the late] Harold Simmons.” He was well-qualified to do so, having written about the burglary in the February 2000 issue of Texas Monthly.

As Skip told it, the tale focused on an unassuming young computer nerd named Mitch Shaw, who was the burglar, and his big-haired girlfriend, Jennifer Dolan, who served as Mitch’s getaway driver. Skip had stumbled onto their story thanks to a tip from Alan Peppard, who’d heard about the heist at the Simmons’ 12,000-square-foot estate.

“So I called Annette,” Skip told the audience. “She said, ‘Skip, I admire your work … but I just can’t talk about it.’ Well, you know she never read Texas Monthly!” Turned out, Skip went on, that nearly 200 pieces of jewelry worth more than $1 million had been pilfered from the Simmons place. A police officer told Annette, “Mrs. Simmons, for all we know your jewels are at First Monday in Canton.”

Mitch and Jennifer, whom Skip described as living in some “ratty-ass apartments” on Alpha Road, had not only robbed the Simmonses. They’d also snatched jewels from the homes of Nancy Brinker (twice), Clarice Tinsley, and Sharon McCutchin. Mitch fancied himself a Cary Grant figure from To Catch A Thief, using his skills to impress and keep his good-looking girlfriend, who assisted in the jobs behind the wheel of a turquoise Toyota Tercel.

Mitch eventually hooked up with a “fence” named Gerald, Skip went on, and Jennifer became addicted to crack cocaine, trading the jewels — including Annette’s — for bags of dope. It was only when the dope dealers pawned the jewels for cash on Greenville Avenue that the cops were finally able to bust Jennifer and Mitch. During their trial, one jewelry expert testified that Annette’s jewels were fake — the very thought scandalized the Simmonses and their friends, Skip said — but Bill Noble was brought in to counter the expert and attest that the jewels indeed were real.

“So ladies and gentlemen, when you go home tonight, make sure you turn on your burglar alarms!” Skip advised the crowd at the conclusion of his talk. Then he added: “Oh, and I’ve got books to sell you about the Austin serial killer.”

Alas, Luke Lange wasn’t able to attend the Blue Jean Ball raffle reveal party benefiting his Luke’s FastBreak on Thursday, August 1, at Park House. Seems Park House Dallas’ “house rules” prohibit anyone under the age of 18 from being in the Highland Park private club after 6 p.m.

Not to worry. Luke was probably still recovering from jet lag after the Langes’ family trip to South Africa.

Luckily, Luke’s folks, Tracy and Ben Lange, were jolly on the spot along with 2019 Blue Jean Ball Co-Chairs Gina Betts and Lisa Cooley, as well as guests like Pogir, Christie Carter, Jennifer and Richard Dix, Tiffany Divis, Lori Costillo, Ciara Cooley with Hunter Bigger and Becky and Kyle Bowen.

Halfway through the reception, the reveal of the two raffle items took place for the fundraiser at Eddie Deen’s on Saturday, September 21. For the ladies, there are 18kt white fold diamond fringe earrings donated by jewelry gem Sue Gragg and valued at $11,290. For the gents, the raffle prize will be a custom three-piece suit donated by Q Clothier and valued at $3,000.

To rev up ticket sales, Lisa reported that Sue and the Q team had kicked in a couple of incentives. The top ticket seller of the earrings will be rewarded with an 18kt white gold diamond cross pendant valued at $4,000. For the person selling the most chances for the suit, it will be a Q Clothier custom blazer valued at $1,000.

Gina and Lisa previewed some of the live auction items that included an array of stays in Argentina, Telluride, Lake Cypress Springs, Sea Island and Cabo San Lucas.

As soon as the announcements were done, raffle sales went into overdrive.

Chance tickets are going for $25 each/five for $100. And if you don’t know Lisa, Gina, the Langes or anyone on the committee, you can always go online and buy a couple dozen here.

* Photo provided by Luke's Fast Breaks

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There’s always that person who’s totally impossible to shop for. Their wine collection’s cheapest bottle is four figures; there isn’t a Hermes bag they don’t have; and never you mind about a his-and-hers facelift certificate. They’re already stretched to the max. Luckily, the 2019 Crystal Charity Ball Silent Auction/Special Gifts Co-Chairs Jennifer Dix and Kim Quinn have searched high and low for 700 luxury must-haves, including trips, jewelry, fashions, sporting events and your typical glamorama items that will go up for bidding at the Hilton Anatole this Saturday at the annual children’s fundraiser.

Here’s just a smattering of the hundreds that will be available for taking home that night:

Contribution Tickets ($325 per ticket)

• Lexus Contribution (Compliments of Sewell Lexus and Park Place Lexus) – More than a care. A feeling. Experience a world-class luxury coupe crafted for a new era of uncompromised performance and design. With a platform built specifically for the LC, a highly rigid chassis and a thundering engine note, it connects you to the road like never before. MSRP: $99,000
• $20,000 NorthPark Gold Plus Two VIP Valet Parking Cards (Compliments of NorthPark Center) – Enjoy spending $20,000 in NorthPark Gold at any of the legendary shopping center’s 230 stores and restaurants plus complimentary valet parking through December 2020 for you and your significant other. Gold works like cash at all participating NorthPark Center retailers, restaurants, spas and AMC NorthPark 15 theatres. Value: $20,000

Silent Auction

• Adolphus In Home Catered Dinner for 10 (Compliments of The Adolphus) – In home catered dinner for ten guests prepared by Executive Chef Jeramie Robison from City Hall Bistro. This dinner includes dessert by Adolphus Pastry Chef Ruben Torano and wine pairing by French Room Sommelier Leslie Hartman. (Restrictions: Subject to availability. Advance reservations required. Blackout dates apply. Gratuity not included. Date to be mutually agreed on. Expires December 31, 2020.) Value: $10,000

• Casa Hidago Private Beachfront Estate For 30 In Los Cabos’ Golden Corridor (Compliments of Engel And Völkers/Snell Real Estate) Casa Hidago is centrally located in Las Cabos’ famed Golden Corridor and boasts an encompassing beachfront estate with forever views. A sprawling property, Casa Hidago, unlike any other, includes over 2.5 acres, comprised of four homes, a tennis court, four infinity pools, two spas, 23 bedrooms, 23 full baths, three bars and a beachfront garage. Your package will include a five-day, four-night stay for up to 30 guests. Included daily housekeeping, concierge service during planning and stay, a chef for breakfast daily and price airport transfers. It’s the perfect place to gather friends and family, cocktail in hand and tell stories in paradise as the stars come out. (Restrictions: Dates to be mutually agreed upon and must be used prior to June 30, 2020.) Value: $140,000
• Clements and Church And Michael Faircloth Custom Tailoring Experience for Men And Women (Compliments of Clements and Church and Michael Faircloth) – Experience British tailoring’s best kept secret with Clements and Church. Understand the meaning of perfect fit and the luxury of fine details with a custom-made wardrobe and complete tailoring experience for men. This package includes a selection from custom categories and is valued up to $10,000. Custom categories include formal suit, jacket, outerwear, shirts, jeans. Shoes, sneakers and luggage. In addition, renowned women’s designer Michael Faircloth will design a custom one-of-a-kind couture gown or two dresses/suits for you with a value of $10,000. (Restrictions: Expires December 7, 2020) Value: $20,000.

• Slip Away To The French Countryside (Compliments of French Country Waterway LTD.) – Experience the finest tradition in luxury canal cruises with a French Country Waterways cruise through the canals and rivers of France. Enjoy six all-inclusive nights for two in a luxury stateroom. Dine on world-class gourmet cuisine and savor exclusive wines. Visit historic chateaux, medieval villages and world-famous vineyards. Or, relax on deck with a fine wine in hand while the beautiful French countryside slowly unfolds before you. Cruising on a French Country Waterways luxury barge allows you to gain a rare, insider’s perspective of provincial France. (Restrictions: Personal purchases and gratuities for the crew are not included. Must be 18 older and will be required to sign a standard Booking form. Cruise must take place between April 12 2020 and August 29 2020. Choice of vessel and departure date will be subject to space available. Every effort will be made to offer the recipient as wide a selection of departures dates and vessels as possible. Early reservations are recommended to ensure the optimum choice of departure dates.) Value: $14,900
• Hall Experience for Six (Compliments of Hall Arts Hotel and residences and Hall Group) – Enjoy a private reception for you and five guests at Kathryn and Craig Hall’s personal home at the Hall Arts Residence, including a special Hall Wine tasting and light bites along with unparalleled views of the Meyerson Symphony Center and Winspear Opera House. Next, join Kathryn and Craig Hall and indulge in a special four-course dinner for your group in Ellie’s at the Hall Arts Hotel. Wind down the evening by sipping aperitifs outside on Ellie’s Terrace. (Restrictions: Package is based upon availability at time of booking. Valid April April 1, 2020, through December 7, 2020.) Value: Priceless

• Pinehurst Resort And Country Club (Compliments of The Dedman Family) – Enjoy the Ultimate golf experience at famed Pinehurst. The Donald Ross Package includes deluxe accommodations for four people (double occupancy) for three days and two nights, including breakfast and dinner daily. This package includes one round of golf daily for four including green fees and cart fees (included is one round of golf for four on Pinehurst No. 2). Transportation to and from the Raleigh/Durham Airport is included. (Restrictions: Reservations are required and subject to availability. Certificate is not transferable or exchangeable for cash value. Expires December 7, 2020). Value: $8,401.
• Alto Lifetime Membership (Compliments of Alto) – Ride with Alto and take control of your journey. Get a safe ride in a clean car, delivered to your door in minutes. Enjoy a lifetime membership and $300 in-ride credits from Alto. (Restrictions: Expires December 7, 2020). Value $1,050.

Special Gifts

• Design And Bejewel – Value: $3,500
  • Abi Ferrin – Enjoy a unique and personalized design experience for you and seven friends. Create your own scarf or wrap, enjoy champagne and light bites and shop exclusive stock.
  • The Jewel Box – $1,000 gift certificate  to The Jewel Box, a family owned destination for new and estate jewelry plus vintage collectibles, furniture and home accents.

So warm up your Black Card for a workout Saturday night.

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The chill of the evening might have discouraged some folks from venturing out on Thursday, November 11, but the guests for the 2019 Crystal Charity Ball underwriters party were rewarded with a feast of food in a marvelous setting at Tavia and Clark Hunt‘s home. In addition to the dining room table filled with goodies, there was an extra glow thanks to collection of diamonds. It was the perfect opportunity for some folks to do early Christmas shopping.

While the post is being polished up, check out the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

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As if brazenly taking on Mother Nature, catering czarina Cassandra likes to claim, “It never rains on my events.” On Thursday, November 7, that statement appeared to be challenged as the temperature not only plummeted several degrees from the previous day, but the forecast was for 100% precipitation. Right on cue, however, the day’s rain ended by mid-afternoon, but the chill stay put. No problem for the 2019 Crystal Charity Ball underwriters cocktail party. It was at Tavia and Clark Hunt’s Highland Park home that glowed with diamonds and food. Why even the outdoor terrace with its fireplace was just right for guests to get comfortable.

The only hint of the cold outdoor weather was due to the front door being open as guests arrived. Blonde Tavia was sorry it was so cold, she told guests, but at least it wasn’t raining! She’d been busy. Two days before, Tavia had been in Kansas City helping honor a number of military moms on behalf of the Kansas City Chiefs, the NFL team that Clark owns. And before that she and daughter Gracie Hunt had celebrated Halloween dressed as “before” and “after.”

While the Hunts, along with the evening’s Co-Chairs Kim Miller and Piper Wyatt, greeted all the guests like Louise and Joe LaManna, Cara and Jim French, Leslie and Bryan Diers, Libby and Al Allred, Tucker Enthoven with her mom Julie Ford, Lisa and Kenny Troutt, Joan Eleazer, Mersina Stubbs with Mackay Boynton, Charles McEvoy, Michael Sills, Margaret and Barry Hancock, Rick Kumpf, Delilah and Sam Boyd, Katy and Lawrence Bock and Kim Quinn in the entry, servers passed trays of appetizers and beverages nonstop.

But that standout gem of the night was found in the family room. Evening sponsor Diamonds Direct VP Yosi Mayer and his associates had what seemed like a king’s/queen’s ransom of jewels there for eyeballing. Word had it that some husbands locked down their Christmas shopping on the spot.

After 2019 CCB Chair Pat McEvoy formally welcomed the evening’s 225 guests — the place was so packed, it was hard to hear her — Pat headed outside to the covered terrace. There, she found Beth and Chuck Thoele and Sarah and Rob Bowlby sitting by the fireplace. Pat reported that the 2019 ball, scheduled for Saturday, December 7, was on track to log record revenues — and the money was continuing to pour in. “What was her secret?” someone asked. Replied Pat: “The team.”

In the meantime, the doors to the dining room opened to a treasure trove of feasting for all. Sunie Solomon had arrived at the party solo, since husband Steve Solomon was in Cabo helping to celebrate Ken Schnitzer’s birthday. … Car aficionada Lee Bailey had recently returned from a jaunt hob-nobbing with Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer and Laura Schwab, president of Aston Martin the Americas. … Courtney Wang said he’s been supporting CCB for 32 years. In fact, he met his future wife at one of the balls. Last year, he took his daughter to the black-tie fundraiser. … Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse had to duck out early, due to a previously scheduled dinner with Jerry’s son.

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As the 2019 Crystal Charity Ball wound up its year of gathering more than $6.8M for the 2019 beneficiaries (Child and Family Guidance Center, Community Partners of Dallas, Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep, For the Nations Refugee Outreach, Interfaith Family Services, Jubilee Park and Community Center, Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic, Mercy Street, Promise House and Readers 2 Leaders), CCB Chair Pat McEvoy and her committee chairs (Anne Besser, Jennifer Dix, Kim Quinn, Shelle Sills and Kristina Whitcomb), held their “wrap up” luncheon to present the top achievers with a charm from Scott Polk for their efforts. And speaking of top, they held the luncheon high top Forty Five Ten in Mirador on Tuesday, November 12.

For the occasion, Pat and her team reflected this year’s theme “South America Mosaic” by wearing jaguar prints and ears.

Silent Auction/Special Gifts co-chaired by Jennifer Dix and Kim Quinn

• Lisa Cooley
• Margaret Hancock
• Cara French
• Katherine Coker
• Tucker Enthoven
• Tiffany Divis
• Janie Condon
• Ann Dyer
• Ola Fojtasek
• Kim Miller

Foundations chaired by Kristina Whitcomb

• Susan Farris
• Brooke Shelby
• Alicia Wood
• Bunny Cotten
• Susan McSherry
• Paige Slates
• Mary Martha Pickens
• Candace Winslow
• Elizabeth Gambrell
• Leigh Anne Haugh

Underwriting chaired by Shelle Sills

• Libby Allred
• Meredith Bebee
• Tucker Enthoven
• Suzy Gekiere
• Beth Thoele
• Patty Leyendecker
• Lisa Cooley
• Amy Hegi
• Angie Kadesky
• Jennifer Dix
• Sunie Solomon

Children’s Book chaired by Anne Besser

• Alison Malone
• Elsa Norwood
• Suzy Gekiere
• Libby Allred
• Lynn McBee
• Margaret Hancock
• Stacey Walker
• Linda Secrest
• April Abney-Lambert
• Leigh Anne Haugh

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When the 2020 Cattle Barons’ Ball was canceled, it only meant that the in-person whooping and hollering were scotched. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the 2020 CBB silent and live auction arose for one mammoth online auction that kicks off Friday morning at 9 a.m.

Oh, the joys of bidding and checking updates on the monitor from your keyboard without having to put on your kabuki makeup! Just imagine getting all your Christmas shopping done and even secretly splurging on yourself with a bargain bid.

And the best thing is that it costs absolutely nothing to browse the 250 biddable items. All you have to do is register.

Sponsored by Pendery’s, the auction has three levels of packages, services and items on a literal wall of goodies up for bid. The Premiere Level is sponsored by American Airlines and makes perfect sense, since the six luxury packages include trips to Aspen, Santa Fe, Beverly Hills, the Bahamas, U.S. Open and Napa. The other two are for a dreamy luxury home package and a party for you and 99 of your friends at The Artisan.

The Big Board Level also include all types of trips, shopping ventures and events.

And let’s not overlook the last level, which is jammed to the max and sorta mind-boggling with restaurants, services, retailers and even a state representative’s offer — “a VIP tour of the state capitol during the legislative session, one secured spot for ‘page for a day’ program on the house floor and one flag flown over the capitol on the date of the recipient’s choosing.”

Face it — there are things that you’ve probably wondered about and here’s the chance to snap them up for a bargain and to help support North Texas cancer research.

The bidding for items ends at 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 17. That’s just an hour after the CBB raffle drawing that will take place on the CCB Facebook page.

Inside tip: If you register for the auction by Friday, you’ll also get “a chance to win a Bachendorf’s gift certificate valued at $1,000.”

* Graphic provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

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The final 2020 Crystal Charity Ball raffle item is a gem of a deal. While it’s a girls-only goodie, it’s the perfect Christmas gift for a fella to give to the gal in your life. Well, it might not be so right for a grade-schooler muchkin. But it sure would make her mom or grandest mon downright giddy.

Suite of Vintage Black Onyx Diamond Jewelry* (Value: $11,000)

Contribution ticket**: $150

Talk about sweet suite***! It’s a jewelry trio of black onyx, diamonds and 18K gold. In addition to a necklace that begs to highlight a fabulous low-cut gown, there’s a pair of perfectly marched earrings along with a ring that would look yummy on any finger.

And, of course, in keeping with Eiseman Jewels NorthPark’s two-generation reputation for only carrying the superlative of jewels, these onyx are the highly touted blackest of black onyx looking spiffy with diamonds and set in gold.

If onyx is not in your collection of baubles, rethink that one. According to one source, the ultimate Egyptian diva Cleopatra “used to wear black onyx for its protective features.

Sensing negative energy, the crystal would vibrate, alerting the queen of potential danger.” Nowadays, onyx “is thought to increase regeneration, happiness, intuition, instincts” … and, boy, could we use some of that now!

If you want to regenerate and alert yourself to potential danger with vibrations, snap up your contribution ticket** now.

* Compliments of: Eiseman Jewels NorthPark Center 
** Available by calling CCB office (214.526.5868) or from a CCB member
*** Restriction: May not be exchanged.
**** Graphic/photo provided by Crystal Charity Ball

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Perhaps the most ignored part of the body is the wrist. Without it the hand would be pretty useless. It requires so little attention — no need for botox; no massages; no special diet. When was the last time they gave an award for the best looking wrist?

But that can change for one lucky, little wrist with the winning bid for this 2020 Crystal Charity Ball silent auction item.

Thanks to this Jude Frances cuff, the winning wrist will feel so elegant and dazzling all dressed up in gold glittering with diamonds.

Jude Frances Narrow Stackable Diamond And Gold Cuff ** (Value: $8,380)

From the Moroccan Collection of Jude Frances, this pave cuff features 18-karat, yellow gold with pave and bezel set round diamonds and the signature brushed Jude Frances finish. Totally diamond weight is 1.22 carats.

* Compliments of: 
Susan Saffron Jewelry 
Boutique
** Restrictions: No returns or exchanges.
*** Graphic/photo provided by Crystal Charity Ball

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It may be Black Friday, but the winning bidder of this 2020 Crystal Charity Ball silent auction item will have scored the brightest find of the year. With its rows of dazzling diamonds, this spectacular diamond- and-white gold bracelet will prove that the expression “diamonds are forever” is absolutely true.

And as everyone knows, diamonds simply go with everything from courtside seats at a Mavs game to being the breathtaking standout at a black-tie gala.

But it can only be yours, if you have the winning bid when the online auction ends at 5 p.m. (CST) on Sunday, December 6. Remember to register now and start your bidding at 9 a.m. (CST) on Wednesday, December 2.

BTW, if you’d like an in-person visit with this knockout bracelet, pop by Diamonds Direct Dallas on Preston Road.

One-Of-A-Kind Diamond Bracelet** (Value: $20,000)

This breathtaking piece features 19.25 carats of round brilliant diamonds and is set in 14 karat white gold. Recipient will be provided with an appraisal from Diamonds Direct.

* Compliments of: Diamond Direct
** Restrictions: No returns or exchanges.
*** Photo provided by Crystal Charity Ball

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