What: Junior League of Fort Worth Grand Entry Gala
Where: Will Rogers Memorial Coliseum
The 411: It was a night of fun and fundraising at the Junior League of Fort Worth’s 2018 Grand Entry Gala. Headlined by singing sensation LeAnn Rimes, the sold-out event, which kicks off the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, saw a crowd of nearly 900 attendees.
The Grand Entry Gala has become one of the hottest tickets in town, this year attracting such notable guests as Fort Worth mayor Betsy Price and Tom Price, Ed Bass, Brad Barnes, and Gail and Bill Landreth.
Donning their most chic Western wear, party-goers descended on the rodeo arena floor to sip cocktails and bid on silent auction items. Later they danced and sang along to tunes by DFW-native Rimes — including a lengthy roster of her greatest hits, several new arrangements, and a moving performance of "Amazing Grace."
Giving attendees reason to pause — but only long enough to fuel up — was delicious fare provided by rodeo favorite Reata, including carne asada, jalapeño cheese grits, and traditional Southern desserts.
Event chairs Susanna Bartolomei and Blair Walker, along with honorary chairs Jennifer and Philip Williamson, helmed the star-studded evening, while Junior League president Natalie Martin presided.
Funds raised benefit the Junior League of Fort Worth, whose mission is to promote volunteerism, develop the potential in women, and improve the lives of women and children in the community. Junior League continues its partnership with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo by "yelling and selling" official rodeo programs throughout the event, which continues through February 3, 2018.
Who: Will Leavitt, Toni Leavitt, Martha Williams, J.R. Williams, Brant Martin, Colin Bailey, Sonia Bailey, Philip Williamson, Jr., Talia Bailey, Olivia Kearney, Jeff Kearney.
Natalie Martin, Brant Martin
Maestro Robert Spano leads the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra on opening night at Bass Hall.Photo by Randal Vanderveer
