On a picture-perfect fall evening, 450 supporters of the American Cancer Society gathered alfresco at the Fort Worth Zoo for the 29th annualCowtown Ball.
Appropriately themed "Spurs on the Savanna," the September 30 gala welcomed guests outfitted in their best Western chic, from custom cowboy hats to designer boots. First stop? The chance to feed giraffes and pose for photos in front of the majestic animals in the African Savanna exhibit.
Patrons also purchased blinking cowboy-boot lapel pins as a ticket into a rollicking game of "Heads or Tails" later and perused dozens of silent auction items while mingling with top-shelf cocktails. Couples and groups mugged for an interactive photo booth, honored loved ones at an Honor Wall, and purchased embroidered bandanas from Chainstitch Embroidery, who was custom-stitching them on site.
A buffet of chicken and pork entrees, spicy cheese grits, crisp green beans, rolls, and rich chocolate cake was served under The Reserve pavilion.
Emcee Mireya Villarreal, a national correspondent for ABC News, welcomed guests and introduced event chairs Christian Burton and Virginia Durham and Paige Chappell Pritchett and Wade G. Chappell, who paid tribute to their parents and event honorees, the late Ann and David F. Chappell. Both had been prolific volunteers and left a strong legacy throughout Fort Worth, they said.
A live auction of fabulous trips and luxury items brought fast and furious bidding; among the most coveted items were getaways to St. Thomas, Argentina, and Italy; and a package called "Vacation Like a Royal" that included regal hot spots in London. Also up for grabs were luxurious diamond earrings from Bachendorf's; "sweet" suite experiences at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo and Texas Rangers; and a VIP experience at next year's Cowtown Ball.
Those who couldn't fork over the biggest bucks in the live auction regularly checked their phones for bid updates on silent auction items, which ranged from shoes from the new Fort Worth Gucci store to booze, gift cards, jewelry, and works by local artists. Even if last-minute bidders left others empty-handed, everyone got the chance to donate what they could to ACS through a "raise the paddle" initiative.
The party ramped up when featured entertainer Shane Smith & The Saints took the stage. Some couples headed to the dance floor for some two-steps and twirls, while others sang along from their tables or refilled their beverages and lounged on couches just outside.
When the auctions closed, bars shut down, and band played its final notes, guests grabbed their customized wine glass party gifts and left knowing they'd made a difference for those affected by cancer in Tarrant County. In total, the night raised $453,758.
Ninety-five percent of the money used for cancer programs at ACS comes from events like Cowtown Ball - for groundbreaking research and trials, patient care like rides to treatments, and more.
Enjoying the evening were numerous Fort Worth patrons, as well as ACS staff, medical professionals, and Cowtown Ball committee members, including: Paige Pritchett, Blair Chappell, Lindsey Kennemer, Jenna Kincaid, Ashlee Brenner, Janie Skillman, Rachel Quisenberry, Merrill Rhynsburger, Ashlee Brenner, Cortney Pelley, Travis Taylor, Avery Amador, Brian Jones, Terri Jones, Joy Ann Havran, Melissa Mitchell, Harrison Froeschke, Robin Froeschke, Christian Burton, Jordan Burton, Trevor Baker, Loren Baker, Robin Braden, Donna Sudberry, Dena Thomas, Bernadette Davila, Jennifer LeBlanc, Leigh Brown, Wynne Brown, Kelley Roberts, Lauren Von Kerens, and many more.
Photo by Canon Elizabeth Photography
Lindsey Kennemer, Jenna Kincaid, Ashlee Brenner, Janie Skillman
Claire Messerle, Betsy Price, Katie MesserlePhoto by Savanna Romano
Guests bid in the live auction.Photo by Savanna Romano
Champagne Yacht Club Band kept the dance floor lively.Photo by Savanna Romano