The Cattle Baron’s fillies have been partying tonight at Artist Quarter at South Side on Lamar thanks to Clay Cooley Chevrolet.

The reason? To learn who will be the headline entertainer for the October 18 INDOOR fundraiser at Gilley’s.

And who will be on stage? Hold on to your hats! It will be super-duper performer Kenny Chesney.

Sure, you probably heard that Kenny had announced that after his 2013 tour that sold more than 1.25M tickets, he was not intending to tour in 2014.

Ah, but he hadn’t met up with CBB Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum. These two are like the Blues Brothers — they’re on a mission. After two years of rain dampening CBB’s partying, Cindy and Jill were not going to let Mother Nature or less-than-fabulous entertainment in their POA.

Cindy explained, “We have concentrated on creating the most appealing package for new and returning donors at this year’s ball. Kenny Chesney’s exclusive private concert in a customized location for our loyal donors and guests will be amazing and memorable.”

Are the girls happy?

According to Jill, “We are ecstatic that Kenny Chesney will headline the ball this year. We truly have the perfect combination of location and entertainment to ensure a fantastic experience for our guests who support our efforts to raise millions for cancer research.”

Despite a chill that would have frozen lip gloss, the fundraisers proved hardy to get back into the swing of January 23 night hopscotching all over town.

Junior League of Dallas Sponsors Party

Artwork

Joe Garza’s art-filled  mansion on Beverly was a busy place. Wednesday night it had been the site of the Big D Reads gathering to promote the 2014 book-of-choice, “The Outsiders.” But Thursday night the focus was not so much on literary pursuits, but rather on big old thanks-yous for the sponsors of the 52^nd annual Junior League of Dallas ball. Due to the wind and chill, the 150 guests kept the festivities in the main house. Too bad, because the grounds are just made for partying. But with all those pretty JLD-ers in their most adorable party dresses in the equally fashionable surroundings, nobody seemed to care.

Wendy Messmann

Ball Chair Wendy Messmann was predicting 800 to attend “The Marvelous City” ball on Saturday, February 22, at the Anatole that will include a late-night party (11 p.m. to 2 a.m.) with Professor D providing the music.

The Marvelous City poster

The post-ball celebration is meant to attract a younger crowd — Scotch bar, tastings, etc. It was tried a couple of years ago and was such a hit that they decided to resurrect it for this year.

Bob Schneider poster

So, if you want to skip the ball, you can just buy a ticket for the late-night party for $125.

As guests left the Garza mansion, they discovered in their cars CD’s by Bob Schneider, who will be entertaining at the ball. Good reason to do the ball and after-party!

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Deb Underwriters Dinner

DSOL Deb portraits on display

Another thank-you event was taking place at Brook Hollow. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League was hosting a seated dinner for the underwriters of the DSOL Debutante Presentation Ball. While nary a deb was in attendance, each was on display thanks to their James French portraits on the patio. It’s hard to imagine how nearly 50 white gowns could all look so different!

As Ball Chair Dixey Arterburn and DSOL President Ginger Sager checked last-minute arrangements, Barbara Averitt, Sharon Popham and Marena Gault were reviewing the tables in the Oak Room for the seated dinner.

Barbara Averitt, Marena Gault and Sharon Popham

Table setting

Originally, it had been planned to have guests arrive at the Oak Room entrance, but due to the non-stop wind and chill, it was decided to move the arrival/departure to the club’s porte cachere.

Among the underwriters like Lisa and Kenny Troutt and the Hager Foundation, the Jones clan has been doing double-duty in support of the ball. Seems Gene and Jerry Jones will have two of their family bowing at the February 8^th ball — granddaughters Haley Anderson (daughter of Charlotte and Shy Anderson) and Jordan Jones (daughter of Karen and Stephen Jones).

And speaking of grandparents, Sharon and Mike McCullough’s granddaughter Libby Hayhurst will be among the ladies in white bowing at the Meyerson black tie event. Libby’s mother/Sharon and Mike’s daughter, Debbie Hayhurst, made her debut in 1987. You probably already know that Sharon chaired the very first ball and she and Tincy Miller created the event way back when.

Goodness! All these deb connections makes you feel like you should have an Ancestry.com nearby!

Since the announcement of the debs at Neiman Marcus last fall, there has been a Mardi Gras theme running throughout the program. This feeling may be due to Dixey hailing from New Orleans. You think?

Cattle Baron’s Entertainment Reveal

Pretty in pink

Thank heaven the Cattle Baron’s crowd is used to outdoor conditions! The party to reveal the 2014 CBB entertainment was held at South Side on Lamar in the Artists Quarters. Smart guests knew that this location could be a bit drafty, since it’s open on two ends of the quarters. But those CBB’s recognized the opportunity to wear leathers, furs and all types of warm outfits.

Well, most of them. Some ladies tossed aside comfort for show with one pretty-in-pink type causing whiplashes in her silkiest pink half-top. Half top? The front of the blouse was pink silk. The back was a perfect canvas of skin with draping strands of links. Couldn’t get close enough to see if there were goose bumps.

But despite the chill, Ball Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum were quick to remind everyone that the October 18th mega-fundraiser was definitely being held indoors at Gilley’s. Even if the weather is the most perfect in Dallas history, the CindJill team is not taking any chances.

Jill Tananbaum, Ronnie Berg and Cindy Stager

In addition to breaking with tradition and committing to an indoor event, they were also bound and determined to make the entertainment big. . . really big. And to announce it, they arranged to have Clay Cooley sponsor the reveal party. As Cindy put it, “He really went big for us!” That big included having some of his Corvettes at the front doors.

Clay Cooley

Clay Cooley Cool Corvette

Clay, who seems to be on TV more than the Goodyear blimp, reported that he sponsored the reveal because he was asked and “car dealers always want to give back to the community, you know.” He admitted that business was good now, but “we count our blessings.”

In the meantime, the gals and their fellas were gathering and creating great body heat and hot topics. For instance, D’Andra Simmons reported that she and Jeremy Lock will be wedding on February 15. Mother Dee Simmons was glowing over the prospect of welcoming Jeremy officially to the clan. . . Anne Stodghill intimated that she and husband Steve had something in their future with details to follow. Will keep you posted.

Crowd shot

Crowd shot

At 7:45 p.m., CindJill and Clay gathered on the balcony to make the evening’s announcement. Cindy said there was just one entertainer they had wanted, but the booker said, “Well, that’s your dream. Good luck with that. Who else?” The booker didn’t know CindJill. They were then told their entertainer-of-choice wasn’t touring in 2014 and didn’t do private events. Didn’t matter. The twosome were going to have their way. To help them, The Richards Group put together a special video invitation to entice their target. “We sent it to our dream to see what would happen.”

Guests were directed to two screens for a showing of the very impressive invite. Just as the final seconds of the video were winding down, the idea was coming across — Kenny Chesney!

Jill Tananbaum and Cindy Stager

The cheers and arms went up in approval.

Just seconds after the Chesney announcement was made posters were installed at the valet pickup.

So, you have a choice. You can see Kenny’s last 2014 official concert date on June 7 as part of the “George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away Tour” at AT&T Stadium with hordes of peoples, or you can get nice and cozy with the CBB folks at Gilley’s on October 18 for Kenny on stage benefiting the American Cancer Society. Or, you can do both.

There’s nothing like the gals getting together for lunch. But when it’s the Cattle Baron’s Ball lassies and Traffic LA fashions at The Joule Hotel, then it’s fundraising and fun raising.

So, what was the fashion du jour? It was jazzy and snazzy with Matthew Simon throwing smidgets of commentary. Hey, he knew his audience and they didn’t need to be led to the trough to drink in the season’s trends.

Traffic LA fashion

Traffic LA fashion

Traffic LA fashion

For instance, those adorably short skirts that your boyfriend would have approved and for which your grandma would have given you the “stinky eye.”

Just ask Olivia Kearney. Arriving late, the Fort Worth darling made her entrance in between models. Upon eyeing the itty-bitty poof skirts, she giggled that hubby Jeff Kearny would have described the ladies who wore such precious skirts as “ducks”. Excuse me. Come again? You’ll have to ask the Kearneys for a full explanation. Be prepared for a giggle and a blush.

Olivia Kearney

At the head table where CBB Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum were holding court, the topics focused on HP Village rumors. Someone whispered they had heard Deno’s, Tom Thumb and Starbucks were gonners.  Your intrepid MSC crew sent the intern elf to check that rumor out with HPV spokes beauty Kersten Rettig.

But still the girls fantasized about life if the rumors proved to be true. What a major giggle! Without hesitation table guests claimed rights to start cobbling, café latteing and producing produce at their homes.

On the other hand, the more serious among the group included Teffy Jacobs, who reported that her mom, Doris “Mansion-selling Maven” Jacobs, was rehabbing from a v-e-r-y nasty fall. Not to worry about a slow-down in area real estate sales. Doris is on the phone and Teffy is showing the estates. BTW, Doris’ signing hand is just fine and dandy for closing deals.

Susan Harmsworth

Another factoid arising from the luncheon is that since announcing the move to Gilley’s and Kenny Chesney being the headliner, the CBB committee team — Amy Green, D’Andra Simmons, Mary Martha Pickens and Gini Florer — has raised $1.26M so far for the American Cancer Society.

To go with dessert, the Joule’s ESPA founder Susan Harmsworth briefly talked about skincare. She surprised some by reporting that one of today’s problems is “young women using very aggressive procedures and very aggressive products on skin that really should be calmed and soothed resulting in rosacea, middle-aged acne, all sorts of things.” Looking around the room, this problem was not visible with this crowd. Everyone looked flawless. But as a parting gift, Susan provided each with a teaser of the ESPA products and an invitation to visit the spa. It wouldn’t have been surprising to have seen some of the gals opening the goodies before they pulled into their driveways.

Saturday, April 12, resulted in nobody staying at home from early morning to the midnight hours. In addition to the Abby’s Run, the Dallas March for Babies, ManeGait, Joy of Science, the Park Cities Historic and Preservation Society Home Tour, Serving Hope and the Hispanic Communicators Scholarship dinner, there were these for your consideration.

Junior Cattle Baron’s Ball

Rio and friends

The morning of Saturday, April 12, started bright and early at Movie Studio Grill on Technology, even though the parking lot was not jammed like those days when “Raiders of the Lost Ark” debuted. After all, it was before 10 a.m. But the vehicles that were in the parking lot carried VEIP’s (Very Extraordinarily Important People). The occasion was the Junior Cattle Baron’s Ball with a life-sized Rio greeting two types of youngsters — those who had and were battling cancer, and those whose moms were raising funds to support the fight against cancer.

Cate Ford and Jerry Ford

While some of the kiddos were a bit overwhelmed by Rio at first, others like Jerry Ford were captivated by Princess, an 18-year-old cockatoo.

[Editor’s note: 18 cockatoo years is the same as a human at 18. Princess was still a babe.]

The new feathered friend accommodated all ages by sitting on their heads, spreading her wings and cocking her head just so. Talk about a scene stealer!

There was a bounty of food, and photos were taken against the Moody Foundation sponsor wall. Balloon critters were produced. Photo buttons were immediately available for sporting around. And faces were painted as Disney himself had supervised. Even some of the grown-up kids got their faces “decorated.”

Lisa Ogle

Then it was time to head to the auditorium to watch the “real” Rio’s new movie.

Not once during the morning were the words “chemo,” “treatments” or even cancer mentioned. Perhaps that why the smiles were everywhere.

2014 Gala

John Gay

Honorary Co-Chair John Gay’s back was giving him fits. It was also creating a slight problem at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County. The former McKinney mayor found motion to be a royal pain in the back, so he found a comfy chair just outside the Anatole’s Chantilly Ballroom’s lobby, where a mammoth silent auction was taking place. Ah, but his wife of 54 years/former McKinney First Lady Judy knew her husband better. Not only was he happily settled in the most cushy seat around, he was avoiding the temptation of bidding. After all, that Judy is a shrewd buyer. Just check the adorable Mary Frances handbag? Where can it be had? Why, in Cynthia Elliott on the Square in McKinney, of course.

As Judy and John kidded each other, there was a T-shirted passerby of interest. “Wasn’t that Huey Lewis?” More about that later.

But the Gays were hardly missed during the cocktail reception/silent auction among the 1,030 guests. The place was packed.

Silent auction

There was a bonging that seemed to constantly be heard throughout the lobby. The sound was music to the ears of organizers. Seems every time a Neiman Marcus surprise bag was sold, a gong would be struck.

But once the doors to the ballroom opened, they discovered a Rusty Glenn vision of oranges, reds and bright pinks. Goodness, the place looked like it was on fire.

Report from the field on what happened:

“The energy in the Chantilly ballroom was truly electric for the CACCC’s annual 2014 Gala featuring the one and only Huey Lewis and the News!

Gretchen Wirth, Cathy and Steve Ramsey*

“Prior to dinner, guests were shown a short video explaining the work of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County to help abused and neglected children in Collin County. The evening’s ‘ask’ was done auction style. Guests simply raised their bidder numbers when the auctioneer (Tim Willett) reached the level at which they wished to give. Every guest was recognized for their gift which really brought up the energy level in the room…filled to bursting with more than 1,000 guests! By the end of the evening, it seemed like every guest had on a blinking star denoting their Wings of Hope gift! So exciting to see so many generous supporters recognized for their gifts! Wings of Hope…sponsored by JC Penney and led off with a $10K gift from Masergy…brought in more than $200,000 to support our children.

Cindy Sutley, Huey Lewis and Christa Carrell*

“Next up was the live auction…an incredible selection of fabulous excursions, experiences and memorabilia. Gretchen Wirth snagged an autographed Johnny (Manziel) football jersey and football…and a photo with Cathy and Steve Ramsey (Cathy is Johnny’s aunt).

Huey Lewis on stage*

“After a brief meet and greet for VIPs, Huey Lewis and the News took the stage. They performed every hit…including the one everyone was waiting for, “The Power of Love.”

Oh, gee! That fella, who wandered through the reception was Huey!

BTW, the evening garnered in more than fun and “news.” It hit over $200,000 for CACCC.

A Legendary Evening

Maggie Kipp and JB Hayes

Sometimes awkward situations turn out to be real giggle moments. That’s what happened for Celebrating Women Underwriting Chair Maggie Kipp. She was found wandering through the Chantilly Ballroom’s lobby looking for her buddies. Texting JB Hayes, she confirmed that a connection would be made. “What’s your connection with Collin County?” she was asked. She said JB would explain. Then she asked, “Have you seen Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones?”

No. Why would they be here? They’re the honorees at The Legendary Evening.

Maggie’s response: “I know.”

Then she was told that A Legendary Evening benefiting Family Compass  and being chaired by Kristine Schwope and Heather Walther was being held in the Stemmons Ballroom in Atrium I. Oops!

Faster than Legendary Evening Honorary Co-Chair Marty Turco could fend off a slap shot, Maggie found her way to the Stemmons. At the check-in table, she told the name taker that her name was Maggie Kipp. This time the response was, “Maggie, it’s me — Nancy Gopez.” Maggie and Nancy have only known each other 20 years.

Crayton and Nikki Webb

Thanks to the grapevine, this story became the giggle du jour of the evening.

But not to worry. Despite the crowded Stemmons Ballroom, Maggie made a beeline to Jan and Trevor. Whew!

Jenny Ebeier, Trevor Rees-Jones III and Jan Rees-Jones

Speaking of JB, she was bubbling over helping out with a couple of Final Four events (Coaches vs. Cancer and Final Four Coaches Huddle). . . Crayton Webb knew just the right thing to say about Wings’ luncheon speaker, Sally Field: “She reminded me of Nikki (aka his wife)”.  . .  Martha and David Tiller were talking about their upcoming NYC trip to see “All The Way”, about LBJ. Of course, you know that Martha was Lady Bird’s press secretary. . . Too adorable Jenny Ebeier was with her steady of six years, Trevor Rees-Jones III or IV. Who keeps count? They met as freshmen at TCU.

No Tie Dinner

Blair Trammell, Deanna Cahill, Rob Cahill and Anthony Padilla

Forget busy. The Frontiers of Flight Museum was so jammed its driveway’s two lanes were locked down for entry level only. After supping at other places, more than 2,000 guests supporting AIDS Services of Dallas No Tie Dinner came together sans ties for dessert. But no wonder. With La Dolce Vita theme and Mark Ridlen handling the tunes, the evening was an example of the very good life.

Two-story lounge

A mammoth, two-story structure curtained in beaded draping was front and center for some guests to settle back to simply observe the bidding and partying by the likes of Co-Chairs David Nelson and Dennis Kershner, Honorary Chair LeeAnne Locken, Sheila Dolezal Humanitarian Awardee Patricia Deason, 2013 Honorary Chair Steve Kemble, Christopher Wright, Don Neubauer, Les Siter, Benny Black, Susan Hawk and ASD President Don Maison.

Mikael Coursey, Mike Ladadie, Chris McCullough, Dow O’Neal, Mason McCleskey and Matt Wilkerson

Associate producer Matt Wilkerson was over the top about Tomato Republic receiving kudos reviews from the Dallas International Film Festival. The film about a political race in the small town of Jacksonville won the Jury Award.

Checking out the more than 400 biddables ranging from hand-blown vases and jewelry to original art pieces and a two-day Ferrari car rental from Platinum Motorcars were guests like Todd Whitley. With a tip of the hat to Pharrell Williams, who had worn a short-pants outfit to the Academy Awards, Todd claimed his look was basically Calvin Klein. To achieve the Pharrell touch, Todd said, “I had ‘em tailored.” The Gucci shoes didn’t hurt.

To satisfy the post-dinner needs, there were grown-up beverages like “Adult Italian Soda” complimented with Reyka Vodka and yummies like Hillstone’s key lime pie, profiteroles from Cafe Gourmet on the Go, and “glittery cake balls” from Dallas Affaires.

* Photo credit: Kristina Bowman

There are raffles and then there are Cattle Baron’s raffles. What’s the difference? Well, the normal, pleasant everyday raffle kick-off usually takes off at someone’s home or in a very cool restaurant.

CBB raffle kick off at Christian Dior

But leave it to the CBB-ers to have their KO at Christian Dior in Highland Village on Tuesday, April 30.

Tomato red Mercedes

OK, so the tomato-red Mercedes displayed in front of the salon had the HP Village security not-so-happy. After all, it took up two or three parking spaces. But it was well worth the extra space, since one of its cousins was among the raffle offerings.

While some CBB-ers like Katy Bock toted in their Birkin purses to collect their raffle packets, others like Andrea Weber chauffeured in strollers with future Dior and CBB types.

As Raffle Co-Chairs Kristi Bare, Carolyn Goelzer and Anne Stodghill handed out the packets, the CBB-ers checked out the glittering and bowed heels of Dior shoes. These gals may wear fancy boots to the October 18 fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, but they love their stilettos that smack with personality. Alas, the only thing missing among the heeled pretties were price tags. What’s that old saying about, “If you have to ask the price, you’re way out of your league”?

Christian Dior stilettos

Christian Dior stilettos

But back to the raffle. There are two varieties. First is the $25 each or $100 for five chances. In this category, the offerings range from trips, shopping, debit cards to jewelry like:

• $10,000 Personal Shopping Experience at Highland Park Village — The winner will receive a $10,000 gift card redeemable at any HP Village retailer along with the services of a personal shopper to help him/her find the perfect fashionable choices.
• Sue Gragg Precious Jewels Triple Flower Ring — The winner will receive an 18k white gold, diamond and amethyst triple flower ring that features three amethysts totaling 17.5 carats, surrounded by 571 diamonds totaling 7.6 carats.
• PlainsCapital Bank $10,000 Debit Card — Need we say more?
• Eiseman Jewels and Rolex — The winner will receive a $10,000 gift certificate from Eiseman Jewels that can be redeemed toward a new Rolex watch.
• Crested Butte Five-Night Ski Trip — The winner will receive five nights’ accommodations for two guests at The Lodge at Mountaineer Square, $500 airfare credit, airport transfers and four days of skiing or snowboarding.

The second raffle group goes for $100 per chance or $500 for six tickets and the prize is . . .

• 2015 Mercedes Benz CLS550 — The new CLS550 couple has a retail value of $81,000+. The 2015 model specifics will be revealed at the Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Just in case you don’t know one of the CBB-ers and want to “take a chance,” contact the CBB office by calling 214.443.9222.

Tia Wynne (File photo)

Mary Martha Pickens

As the Memorial Day weekend gets closer and closer, good news is hitting MSC headquarters left and right.

The Cattle Baron’s Ball committee just announced the team that will head up the American Cancer Society fundraiser for 2015. The twosome will be Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne.

Just before thunder, lighting and buckets of rain hit Dallas on Wednesday, May 7, the non-profit swell-egants were in high spirits.

Can Do! Luncheon Patron Party

The Wilkinson Center’s Anne Reeder was thrilled. Her Can Do! Luncheon had its inaugural year in 2013 and had been such a hit that the upcoming May 13^th event was within two tables of being sold out. Last year’s luncheon really tested guests with tornado warnings in the area, but still they came, they saw and they had such a great time, they signed up for this year’s event.

Anne and Terry Conner

The secret to this year’s near sell-out success? Perhaps it was due to the fact the “unsung heroes” like Anne and Terry Conner and the Women of St. Michael were this year’s honorees. Like last year’s awardees — Ellen and John McStay and Highland Park United Methodist Church — this year’s group are well-known for amazing deeds but especially known for flying under the radar. And doesn’t everyone love to celebrate hardworkers, who rarely get appreciated?

Bryan Diers, Susan Hardie and Missy Huber

And since it was such a beautiful evening, Milagros and Horacio Moros opened the backyard terrace and yard of their Preston Hollow home for Leslie and Bryan Diers, Susan Hardie, Missy Huber, Luncheon Chair Christie Carter and Tiffany and Paul Divis to party with Hunter Sullivan crooning away with his musicians.

Genesis Luncheon Patron Party

Jan Hegi, Pat Conroy and Ellen McStay

Just blocks away on the other side of the Tollway, Nancy and Randy Best hosted a seated dinner for 73 patrons of the 21^st Annual Genesis Luncheon. (BTW, Nancy is president of the Genesis Women’s Shelter Board of Trustees.)

Parties at the Best estate are the best, don’t you know! The cocktail reception took place in the entry hall spilling into the living and dining rooms. At one point, a blonde gent appeared at the front door. He was none-other than the guest of honor/luncheon speaker Pat Conroy. Looking more like your best buddy from high school, he quickly was surrounded by new BFF’s and eased into conversation.

Leslie McCabe, Jan Langbein and Barbara Walker

Jennifer Staubach Gates and John Gates

But soon it was time for supper. But before settling back in the fabulous dining room with its stage and grand piano, a little exercise was in order. So, guests like Ruth and Ken Altshuler, Marianne and Roger Staubach, Jennifer Staubach Gates and John Gates, Jan and Fred Hegi, Ellen and John McStay, Jan Langbein, Susan Wells Jenevein, Barbara Walker, Leslie McCabe, Sidney Powell, Victor Sperandeo and Di Johnston took the stairs leading to the “best” collection of antiquities. And we’re not talking Marie Antoinette chairs. Each time one gets to visit the upstairs museum, it’s like discovering new OMG treasures that date back to prehistoric man.

Ruth and Ken Altshuler, Sidney Powell and Victor Sperandeo

Cattle Baron’s Ball Trailblazer Party

Max Stallings band

Before the sun even tried to set, The Rustic was maxed out with all types of Cattle Baron’s Ball sponsors for the Trailblazer to hearty party.

Isabell Novakov

Sponsored by PlainsCapital, the venue could handle the overflow crowd of 400 thanks to the outdoor picnic tables and party grounds with a wall of lanterns and a stage for Max Stallings and his band.

CBB-er Lisa Ogle admitted their timing was perfect realizing that the next 24 hours of storming weather would have created an entirely different scenario.

Gibbs Henderson and Marjon Zabihi Henderson

As Max sang on stage and soft drinks cozied up to Miller Lites in a canoe filled to the brim with ice, the crowd included Isabell Novakov, Janie and David Condon, Nancy Gopez, Anne and Steve Stodghill, Katherine LaLonde, D’Andra Simmons and Jeremy Lock, Marjon Zabihi Henderson and Gibbs Henderson, Elizabeth and Alex Laurenzi, Joanna Clarke, Lauren Chapman, Kristi Hoyl and Dee Simmons looking forward to picking up her new puppy, Maddie, on Saturday.

Despite summer nearing the North Texas fundraisers continued on with reporting results and making plans for the future on Wednesday, May 21. Traffic crammed and jammed the freeways and the local streets and restaurant parking lots were squealing like piglets in an oversized litter.

Equest Luncheon Kick-Off

Looking like a very lost Toto searching for Dorothy, drivers drove on one of the side roads along Preston Road looking for the home where the Equest Luncheon Kick-Off was taking place.

Robin McGonigle

One extremely well-known fundraising socialite was seen throwing her hands up over the steering wheel of her Mercedes as she tried to locate the venue.

Another very savvy type admitted, “We’ve gotten spoiled without valets. It shows we’re clueless.”

But once inside Robin McGonigle’s home, there was a pop-up shop for Trina Turk in the dining room. But guests somehow bypassed the dining room for the friends in the family room.

Sarah Losinger and Fredye Factor

The occasion was the announcement of those to be honored at the October 7th luncheon at Brook Hollow. Event Chair Angie Kadesky revealed that buddies Fredye Factor and Sarah Losinger will be honorary co-chairs and Debbie Oates will receive the Community Service Award.

Flowery footnote: When asked about the peonies, floral designer Cara French told a guest a secret. Seems Cara had an event when she had to get the peonies to open and show off. Using a hairdryer, she tried to encourage the blossoms to come forth and nearly scorched her fingers. The next day she located another collection of peonies. They opened on cue without hesitation. Must have gotten a heads-up from their predecessors. FYI: Peonies are now really in season. They’re like roses on steroids.

Cattle Baron’s Live Auction Preview Party

Joe Pacetti

On the other side of the I-75 pond, the Cattle Baron’s Ball gals and their fellas gathered upstairs at Mesero Miguel for what was billed as a sneak preview of some of the live auction items.

Looking around the room with flutes kissed by a healthy dose of tequila, the only signs of auctionables were a knock-out pair of earrings from Joe Pacetti.

Another gem making the rounds was the news that Mary Martha Pickens and Tia Wynne had been named the 2015 CBB co-chairs for the American Cancer Society fundraiser.

Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County Gala 2014 Sponsor Party

North of the Bush Turnpike, more than shopping was taking place at Willow Bend’s Neiman Marcus. The Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County sponsors were high-fiving about the $615,000 raised at the April 12^th gala at the Anatole. You remember that one. It was where Huey Lewis and the News provided the sounds.

Cathy Riccardi, Xavier Dominicis and Cindy Sutley*

In addition to celebrating the funds raised, plans were announced for the May 2 gala. It will be returning to the Hilton Anatole and the co-chairs will be Cathy and Richard Riccardi. Since Richard “could not make it” to the sponsors party, Cathy did double duty.

Tami Wadlington, Carolyn Anderson and Daryl Kirkham*

Among those hearing the news were Rent-A-Center’s Xavier Dominicis, Cindy Sutley, Anne Davidson, Mark Porter, Cindy and Reed Schnittker, Sharmila and Sunil Dharod, Megan and Brian Angle, 2014 Honorary Co-Chairs Judy and John Gay and First Private Bank’s Tami Wadlington, Carolyn Anderson and Daryl Kirkham.

Stay tuned. The headlining entertainment is still to come.

* Photos provided by Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County

Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better was a memorable tune about women owning up to their God-given talents.

When it came to the Cattle Baron’s mega-buck fundraising all-guy Chefs’ auction package, that the MIA female factor simmered like bacon sizzling on an iron skillet for ages. After thinking about it, the area ladies-of-good-taste decided they wanted to give the good-old boys-chefs a run for the cancer-battling money.

Hayley Hamilton Cogill, Tiffany Derry, Joanne Bondy, Janice Neal Provost, Dunia Borga and Leann Berry

Tuesday night, Janice Provost of Parigi assembled the area’s top female chefs (Top Chef alum Tiffany Derry, formerly of Private Social/Chef Joanne Bondy, winner of several James Beard accolades/former Ciudad Pastry chef/La Duni owner Dunia Borga, sommelier Hayley Hamilton Cogill and mixologist Leann Berry) as she announced they would provide a dinner for the best bid at the 2014 Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Sure, the guys led by Kent “Cuddles” Rathbun have raised $10M since 1992, but the ladies are used to dancing backwards in high heels. So, expect the girls to work the stage on Saturday, October 18, at Gilley’s and give the adorable good old boys a run for the fundraising bucks.

Dunia Borga

BTW, Dunia reported that she held together upon the demise of the Oak Lawn La Duni last Sunday. That is, until she removed the photos taken of her son 10 years ago. Then it was loads of tears. Not to worry. The McKinney La Duni is still thriving and plans are in the works for a future Oak Lawn spot to rise.

What was that? Someone whispered that a spot near Old Parkland is being considered. Until then, head to McKinney for early coffee, bakery pick-ups and regular munching.

According to 2014 Cattle Baron’s Ball Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum,

Jill Tananbaum and Cindy Stager (File photo)

“The 41^st annual Cattle Baron’s Ball, the first one ever intentionally scheduled for an indoor venue, is just a little more than two months away-and the details are becoming an intense focus for the 100 committee members who are toiling away for the world’s largest single-night fund-raising event for the American Cancer Society. It is anticipated the ball will reach sold-out status by the end of August!

“Gilley’s was chosen to house the 2014 Cattle Baron’s Ball, Country Rocks, because it allows us to create the separate spaces that make the ball unique-silent auction, live auction stage, gaming, raffle, food stations and the concert. Gilley’s in-house caterer of choice, G Texas Custom Catering, is planning an incredible variety of fare to satisfy everyone’s taste. To make this in-town site accessible, we are working closely with the city of Dallas to create multi-lane, one direction access on Lamar Street.

“For VIP Baron’s, the top donors, the evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail reception and entertainment by country and western crooner Sam Moore. The fun continues in the American Airlines Silent Auction venue with DJ Brandon Olds at 7:00 p.m. for everyone. Weather permitting, guests can ride the MetroPCS Ferris wheel just outside of the Sporting and Gaming Lounge. Texas’ own trio, Mockingbird Sun, will bring down home music to the cocktail hour.

Cattle Baron’s Ball*

“The renowned Live Auction begins at 8:15 p.m. with auctioneer Louis Murad encouraging guests to bid big for cancer research. Once that bit of major fund-raising is done, everyone will move to the Andrews Distributing Main Stage Tent where Kenny Chesney will perform around 10:00 p.m. NBC5 TODAY Anchor Deborah Ferguson, Cattle Baron’s Mistress of Ceremonies, will keep things moving.

“At midnight, the After Party moves inside Gilley’s for more fun and dancing to Studio 54 Band. G Texas Custom Catering will offer late-night breakfast to keep guests and the party going.

“Last, but not least, the much-anticipated Inwood National Bank favor bag (gotta have your ticket to claim it) will be available with lots of cool loot to remind of you the incredible effort and dedication that went into making Country Rocks a success.

“For sponsorship information or table sales, please visit www.cattlebaronsball.com.”

* Graphic provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

Tuesday evening a couple of women heading to Mi Cocina in Highland Park Village were heard wondering, “Is Jimmy Choo having a sale?” The reason or the question was the gaggle of gals filling the shoe boutique.

Jimmy Choo shoes

It was actually the unveiling of JC’s new autumn/winter collection being hosted by Claire and Dwight Emanuelson for the Cattle Baron’s folks. Spotted among the ladies were some gents. No, CBB hasn’t opened its membership to the guys. Rather, the couture footwear has added a men’s collection.

Evidently the organizers knew they were going to have a full house, so a bar was set up outside.

In addition to “a portion of proceeds” being donated to CBB, some smart cookies, like Anne Stodghill, were working the raffle ticket sales at the party. No wonder Anne’s team is leading chance sales.

Cindy Stager and Gina Betts

Legendary CBB fundraiser Gina Betts admitted that despite focusing her efforts on her law practice, she was still going to be Thursday’s Crystal Charity Ball 10 Best Dressed Luncheon…2014 CBB Co-Chair Cindy Stager reported that the October 18^th American Cancer Society fundraiser with Kenny Chesney is 88% sold out. Underwriting Co-Chairs Gini Florer, Amy Green, Mary Martha Pickens and D’Andra Simmons have raised more than $3.5M. Silent Auction Co-Chairs Katy Bock, Mary C. Corrigan and Paige Westhoff have collected items valued at more than $1.1M. For the live auction, Co-Chairs Sunie Solomon and Merry Wyatt had managed to score a “1976 Chevy Truck originally built in Texas by Gas Monkey Garage Richard Rawlings.

Loretta Albaral

But ticket sales and beautiful peeps weren’t the only eyecatchers within the walls. JB Hayes, Angela Choquette, Isabella Novakov and Dee Simmons sporting a new short haircut were checking out the shoes on the shelves.

And speaking of shelf life, Robert Albaral watched “my lovely wife” Loretta three or four nifty clutches on a tiered display table. Somehow three glittering purses on the other side of the table ended up toppling domino-style on to the floor. Guess they were trying to get Loretta’s attention.

The “definite indoor event” at Gilley’s is just five weeks away. So if you haven’t locked down your place or purchased a handful of raffle ticket, better settle down and get busy.

With just 18 days to go, the Cattle Baronesses were seen coming and going at Louboutin in Highland Park Village on the morning of Tuesday, September 30. No, they weren’t shopping for boots. Well, maybe they were eyeing the shoes, nail polishes and accessories, but the real purpose was to start turning in raffle tickets for the upcoming October 18 fundraiser at Gilley’s.

Mercedes Benz

Out front a dreamy Mercedes was nicely parked just to serve as a reminder of one of the raffle prizes.

Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum showed no sign of exhaustion. Okay, so Jill admitted to a “chair moment,” when her son pointed out that she had just put a china dish in the trash.

Cindy Stager and Jill Tananabaum

But Cindy and Jill are no newcomers to teamworking together. When they were “baby lawyers” in their 20’s, one of their first assignments was in Pittsburgh for a one-day assignment. All they had taken were their purses and briefcases. The one-day-only project ended up being five days with their having to buy everything from toothbrushes to clothes.

Another assignment had the two in Buffalo in the winter. When they went down to drive their rental car in the snow to catch a flight home, no car. It seems someone had stolen it.

Over the years, they’ve shared personal challenges and happinesses like sisters. All of this goes to show that CinJill have been preparing for this mega-moneyraiser for decades.

Anne Stodghill

Oh, and the raffle gathering? Word has it that Team Stodghill is in the lead. Anne Stodghill had no comment. She was too busy counting raffle tickets and checking out the kind of shoe that husband “Stodgie” wouldn’t likely being wearing.

BTW, raffle tickets are still available and you do not have to be present to win. But wouldn’t it be fun to be there when your ticket is pulled? It’s not too late to get your reservation to spend the evening with Kenny Chesney on stage.

Oh, pooh! George Clooney and his BFF Rande Gerber were proclaimed by the social media as the go-to-guys a year or so ago when the word “tequila” came up. Nowadays, that’s like saying that Tupperware is the place to register for fine China dining.

This package will provide just eight folks to really learn and appreciate the finer points of the blue agave plant liquor. No worm was killed in the making of this post.

Tequila Trip To La Casa Dragones And Dinner At Mesero Miguel (Value: $34,000)

Tequila Trip To La Casa Dragones And Dinner At Mesero Miguel*

With this package, the winner is gonna be the most popular person around. S/he and seven BFF’s will travel thanks to American Airlines roundtrip ala coach class to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Whoa! That might just be enough. But they’ll enjoy a five-night stay at La Casa Dragones with a private Casa Dragones tequila tasting and daily complimentary breakfasts. They’ll also learn “Casa Dragones’ unique approach to crafting to sipping tequila, tour the town of San Miguel and the historic 17^th century stables of the Dragones cavalry, now transformed into an elegant private home.”

When you return, you have show off your brilliance when restaurateur Mico Rodriquez hosts “a sensational fete for 50 guests at Mesero Miguel, featuring sips provided by Casa Dragones,” of course.

Donated by: Casa Dragones, Mesero Miguel and American Airlines

* Graphic provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

Downed tree on house

A big, old guest of wind changed the scenario for Thursday, October 2, festivities. Throughout North Texas, especially Dallas, giant trees were uprooted. While some might have suspected that Ma Nature wanted to remind Cattle Baron’s Call Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum that she’s still a player, she didn’t discourage the CBB underwriters.

Despite 70 MPH winds and blackouts that stymied the city, the CBB co-chairs talleyhoed and held their underwriters’ party at Elaine and Trevor Pearlman’s estate. Only some adjustments were required. Seems that like much of the area, the Pearlmans lost their electricity. But unlike the other electric-lacking homeowners, the Pearlmans had a generator.

Cindy Stager, Richard Rawlings and Jill Tananbaum*

So as guests like Lee Bailey, Leigh Bailey, Carol Seay, Di Johnston, Gail Fischer, Lisa Ogle, Dee Simmons, Elizabeth Gambrell, Teffy Jacobs, Capera Ryan, Kristi Bare, Anne Stodghill, Olivia and Jeff Kearney, Paige Westhoff, Katy and Lawrence Bock, D’Andra and Jeremy Lock, Katherine LaLonde, Kristen and Ladd Sanger, Nancy Gopez and Samantha Wortley pulled up, they were told that the party was going to be outdoors since it was cooler and dry. Also, the party would close down at sunset.

Lawrence and Katy Bock*

But as it turned out the evening was so perfect post storm that the party continued until 9 p.m. with the sound of chainsaws humming in the distance.

* Photos provided by 
Cattle  Baron's Ball

2014 Cattle Baron’s Ball

As Saturday’s Cattle Baron’s Ball nears, there’s great news and a warning to go with it. The great news is that guests will not have to have a tankful of gas to get there. It’s at Gilley’s on the outskirts of downtown Dallas.

The warning is that parking is going to be very different. Because the event is going to have thousands in attendance and it’s taking place in Dallas, the Dallas Police are running the logistics of parking. Word has it that they’re planning on running a tight operation. No sweet-talking your way in with this team.

Here are suggestions…very strong suggestions on how to arrive for the blowout:

• Allow plenty of time to arrive.
• There will be no self-parking at Gilley’s.
• You must have one ticket per guest for the check-in.
• Parking hangtags are an absolute must to park, valet or drop off.
• For those who opt for commercial transportation like Uber, taxi, RideCentric, Premier Transportation, Wynne Transportation, they can be dropped at Gilley’s only if they have a hangtag. This night might be the perfect one to let the chauffeurs do the driving.
• There are three tiers of parking:
  • General admission parking — Garage at 1800 Wood Street (corner of Wood St. and Saint Paul). It opens at 6:30 p.m. with shuttle service to and from Gilley’s, with the last run from Gilley’s departing at 2 a.m.
  • Baron VIP parking — The Jack Boles team will handle vehicles arriving at 777 Sports St. (corner of Sports St. and Memorial Drive on the site of the old Reunion Arena). It opens at 5:30 p.m. with shuttle service to and from Gilley’s with the last run from Gilley’s departing at 2 a.m.
  • Rockstar VIP parking — At Gilley’s with the Jack Boles team receiving cars starting at 5:30 p.m.

Like we said before, no hangtag=no arrival and no ticket=no admittance.

BTW, if you decide to ride your pony to the event, you might want to put your hangtag on the saddle horn.

Some folks think Cattle Barons and Baronesses just love their horses, boots and oil wells. So very wrong. They also have a reputation for having top-notch taste in food and art. Don’t you know, we’re not talking chicken-fried steaks swimming in grease and black velvet paintings.

This Cattle Baron’s Ball Live Auction package is ideal for the guest who knows the best when s/he tastes it or sees it.

High Art And Fine Dining (Value: $55,000)

Combining the talents of Nick & Sam’s Chef Samir Dhurandhar and Samuel Lynne Galleries’s artist extraordinaire JD Miller, this package is feast for the eye and tummy. Plus the winning bidder will impress 14 of his/her friends, families or new BFF.

What a night it will be! While Samir will orchestrate the dinner in the Samuel Lynne Galleries, JD will entertain the guests as he “combines chromatic expression with a sculptor’s application of paint to manifest his signature 3-D oil painting techniques.” Over the years he has mesmerized art lovers near and far with his ability to “transform a blank canvas into a multi-dimensional masterpiece.”

High Art And Fine Dining*

But the evening doesn’t end with dessert and the finished painting. Nope! The winner has the problem of choosing between taking home the JD’s painting of sunflowers (see above) on display at the Cattle Baron’s Ball or the one created at the private dinner. Alas, decisions, decisions!

Donated by: Samuel Lynne Galleries, JD Miller and Nick & Sam’s

* Graphic provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

If your preference is a ever-green bicycle or a green-munching hoss, then this item might not tickle your fancy. But if your fav vehicular memory was that muscle car or hot rod of the past, then start exercising your bidding arm for this sweetheart of a deal at Saturday’s Cattle Baron’s Ball.Who knows? You may just get a car and become a monkey!

Gas Monkey Garage And Richard R. Rawlings (Value: $200,000)

Richard R. Rawlings*

Richard R. Rawlings is to vintage cars as Nip/Tuck’s Christian Troy and Sean McNamara were to plastic surgery. Except Richard is the real thang!

He and his Gas Monkey team search Texas for once stellar cars, bring them back to their Dallas garage and meticulously bring them back to OMG status.

Their handiwork and “Blood, Sweat and Beer” mantra have earned them a reputation throughout the country thanks to their No. 1 show on the Discovery Chanel.

Gas Monkey Garage*

Somehow the Cattle Baroness managed to rope Richard into putting one of his gems on the auction bloc. That in itself would be enough, but no! the lucky winner will receive the full VIP Gas Monkey experience. IN addition to leaving with “the keys to a custom, one-of-a-kind, classically restored GMC ride,” they’ll get to explore the hot rods and classic in the garage, as well as “hang out” with Richard and his “mechanical prodigy” Aaron Kaufman.

Donated by: Gas Monkey Garage and Richard R. Rawlings

* Photos provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

The boys are back and they’re bringing their grills. For 20 years Richard Chamberlain, Dean Fearing, Kevin Garvin, David Holben, Kent Rathbun and Jim Severson have provided one of the ultimate favorite live auction items. Maybe that’s why this package alone has raised more than $1.7M over the years at the Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Barbecue With Dallas’ Finest Gentlemen Chefs (Value: Priceless)

Barbecue With Dallas’ Finest Gentlemen Chefs*

This year’s feast is not for the doily set. It’s an over-the-top barbecue. The winner gets to pick the spot — their home, their ranch, their lake house, whatever. Then the winner will join “the barbecue boys” in creating the menu and joining in the behind-the-scenes fun. If you’ve ever seen these six in action, you just know there’s a lot of talent and personality. Any one of them would be enough, but six!

While it’s doubtful that hot dogs and burgers will be on the menu, but who knows? When it comes to this group, they just might put a new twist to it.

As for the guest list, that’s up to the winner. They’ll have a devil of a time coming up with the 30 because they’ll suddenly discover they have loads of BFF’s, who love barbecue and spirits.

And for since safety is key to any successful event, the guests will be transported to and from the party thanks to Wynne Transportation.

Here’s a thought: If you’re the winner, have somebody video tape you grilling with the boys because nobody will ever believe barbecuing could be so much fun.

Donated by: Kent Rathbun, Dean Fearing, Jim Severson, David Holben, Kevin Garvin, Richard Chamberlain and Wynne Transportation

Graphic provided by Cattle Baron's Ball

Highland Park Village Senior Marketing Manager Rachel Michell was making a last minute check like a dorm mom of the 70’s on the evening of Wednesday, October 8. Was all in place? Yup.

Over at Beretta, the partying of the blue-jean set was spilling out on the sidewalk and almost into the street. On the other side of the Highland Park Village Theatre, it was a different story.

YSL purse

In front of the Saint Laurent salon, a Bentley was running as its owner Nancy C. Rogers hosted a champagne-fueled fest for Cattle Baron’s committee. Eying a spectacular black crocodile YSL handbag, Nancy bought it. But not for herself, for heaven sake. Nope! She no sooner told the YSL staff to wrap it up, then she turned around and gave it to CBB Co-Chairs Cindy Stager and Jill Tananbaum to add to the CBB Big Board auction for the October 18  fundraiser for the American Cancer Society at Gilley’s. The price tag of the purse? A nice monthly mortgage payment in the five-figure range.

Jill Tananbaum, Cindy Stager and Nancy C. Rogers

Just back from delivering three-plane loads of supplies to Cabo San Lucas, Nancy reported that Cabo residents were pulling together after being slammed by Hurricane Odile. She also added that the Humane Society in San Lucas was also in a recovery mode. BTW, all of the Rogers pets were shelter rescues.

As the champagne flowed and a couple or three flutes shattered on the floor, the place filled up with gal talk. Christina White told JB Hayes that daughter Caroline was showing sign of diva-ism. She simply refuses to dress before arriving at her destination.

Sunie Solomon

Samantha Wortley

Fashionistas Sunie Solomon and Samantha Wortley proved that the CBB fashion spectrum ranged from flirty shorts to leg clinging slacks with matching boots.

Joanna Clark reported that Sunday’s coin count at Change Is Good for Community Partners of Dallas was in. The 92,807 coins had added up to a whopping $16,886.14.

Katy Bock and Holly Deason

Others in attendance were Katy Bock, Holly Deason, Carol Seay, Nancy Gopez, Cara French, Isabell Novakov and Lisa Ogle and a nicely dressed security gal packing more than her lipstick in her purse.

Just back from the Cattle Baronesses setting up for tomorrow’s Country Rocks extravaganza at Gilley’s. Even Mother Nature was cooperating with a beautiful day. Favor bags were being stuffed. Silent auction items were being put in place. The Gas Monkey truck was parked right next to the Bank of America/Merrill Lynch/U.S. Trust Live Auction Stage. In the big tent…no, make that the hugest big tent on concrete flooring had the Andrews Distributing Main Stage of matching size being set up for Kenny Chesney’s performance.

Carol Holmes, Cate Ford, Isabell Novakov and Lisa Ogle

Everything is so organized that birthday girl/Co-Chair Cindy Stager and Co-Chair Jill Tananbaum had time to have past CBB chairs in for lunch along with the rest of the 2014 CBB committee.

Lynn McBee, Kristen Sanger, Kristi Hoyl, Mary Gill, Cindy Stager, Jill Tananbaum, Cindy Turner, Gina Betts, Tanya Foster and Janie Condon

Understand that the raffle tickets will still be on sale at the party, but in the pre-event competition Anne Stodghill’s team beat the other teams and Lauren Chapman sold the most as an individual.

The weather tomorrow is going a new definition of the word “spectacular” with the high in upper 70’s and the sun closing down at 6:29 p.m. The waning moon will join the party a little later, but don’t wait for the moon. The official partying starts at 7 p.m. with Mockingbird Sun on the live auction stage and the silent auction in full operation! Check out your program about what you’re going to bid on.

WARNING: Remember those instructions about arriving tomorrow night? They are staying right in place and the Dallas police will be enforcing them. Here are a couple of updates provided by Traffic Baroness Andrea Weber:

Handicapped Parking:

• Handicapped parking will be curbside valet at Lamar Street entrance. This status only applies to those who are genuinely physically challenged with “handicap” designated signage.

Limousine Parking:

• While chauffeurs do not need parking tags to get onto Lamar Street, don’t leave your tag at home…just in case.
• Exit your vehicles quickly. No dawdling. This street is going to very busy. Think of this as an elementary school drop off and you just know how irritating it is to wait and wait for kids to get out of their cars.
• Printed cards will be provided for chauffeured drivers on where to exit Lamar Street.
• The Convention Center Lot E is for limos and chauffeured card holding area.
• Get your driver’s phone number to notify him/her when you want to leave. Do not keep them waiting at the curb. Again, think of this as after-school pickup. Circling the block ain’t gonna be pretty.

Tickets:

• You’ve gotta have them throughout the night. When you arrive, there will be folks tearing a part of your ticket off. Don’t dump it! Because you’ll need it to get into the concert tent.

Leave At Home:

• Any temper tantrums.
• Tuxedos and ball gowns.
• Pets.
• Umbrellas, goulashes, rain gear, snow tires, etc.
• Frowns.