Sporty Dallas philanthropists took their opponents to task at the sixth annual Blondes vs. Brunettes powder-puff football game. But the action was all in good fun — and for a good cause: raising money and awareness for Alzheimer’s research.
Although the blondes managed to sneak away with an 18-15 win, both teams were all smiles post game when they presented a check for $350,000 to Keith Ashburn, chairman of the board, and Becky Prince, CEO, of the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Dallas. This money helps more than 75,000 North Texans suffering from Alzheimer’s, as well as their families and caregivers.
Rowdy supporters — including Daniel Andino, Daniel Jacob, Suzy Collins, Bryan Hendricks, Lisa Price, Sarah Seboboda, Elise Christmas, Blanca Pena, Kevin Bender, Hal Snyder, Seth Brown, Anna Darcy, Rachel Mentesana, Liz Sirois, Mary Sirois, Lauren Flake, Ashley Peyton, Heather Peyton, Jason Armstrong, Tommy Ribaric and Parker Bleam — packed the stands of Bishop Lynch High School’s Roffino Stadium to cheer, chant and cat-call their friends, who worked hard to raise major funds.
Erin Finegold founded the Dallas chapter of Blondes vs. Brunettes in memory of her grandmother, who was taken by the disease, and her grandfather, who cared for his wife.
“In the two hours that the blondes and brunettes were battling it out on the field, more than 105 people were diagnosed,” Finegold said. “And that’s why we play.”
More than 70 percent of the participants in Blondes vs. Brunettes have been affected by Alzheimer’s. To celebrate reaching their goal, the teams, coaches and fans headed to a Bud Light-sponsored post-game party at Life in Deep Elum. Texas country star Kyle Park was the headlining entertainment, but DJ Joe Ramirez kept supporters on the dance floor.
The Blondes vs. Brunettes Dallas chapter is the most successful in the country. It has raised more than $1 million in the last five years.
Keith Ashburn, Greer Fulton, Meredith Wilson, Becky Prince
Margo Johnson, Lauren Swope, Cathrine Rowsey, Nina Byrd, Chelsea Hargrave, Lauren Ott, Ashley Newton, Emily Fuquay Photo by ASHGPHOTO
The Taste of the Masters group.Photo by ASHGPHOTO
Emcee — and self-proclaimed Georgia peach —Laura Harris.Photo by ASHGPHOTO