No Ties Required
Reality TV couple lends star power to Dallas’ sweetest fundraising fête
More than $150,000 — and those are just the early tallies — now fill the till at AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD) thanks to the 11th annual No Tie Dinner & Dessert Party. This year the Bond-inspired theme was “You Only Live Twice,” in honor of the nonprofit’s history of providing a second chance at life for its residents.
The party had some star power this year, courtesy of honorary chairs Marie and Angel Reyes, of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Dallas. Together with chairperson David Nelson, they welcomed 1,500 supporters for a night of sweet treats — cupcakes, cookies, cheesecake, and chocolate — and cocktails. The signature libation was the Reyka Double Bond with vodka, cranberry, and a splash of ginger ale.
Deanna Cahill — who could be spotted atop a cupcake platform dressed in Bond girl sexy black leather — produced a surprise dance performance by the Dallas Cowboys R&B team, with help from husband Rob and Alika Ray. The requisite live auction included such goodies as a Louis Vuitton chaise lounge and vacation packages to Belize and a restored 800-year-old French chateau.
These events often honor those who fight the good fight on behalf of the organization. In this case, Carol Hatton was the recipient of the Sheila Dolezal Humanitarian Award for her volunteerism and community support, and the newly retired Dennis Kershner received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his seven-year service as ASD chairman of the board and 10-year stint as chairperson of No Tie.
Notable attendees included ASD president and CEO Don Maison, ASD chairman of the board Don Neubauer, Blake Baker, Chris Huffstutler, Sara Fangmeyer, Dylan Orrell, Sterling Deason O’Donnell, Patricia Deason, Tricia Sims, Merlene Phillips, and Tony Fielding.
AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD) creates and strengthens healthy communities through the delivery of quality, affordable, service-enriched housing for individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS who are economically disadvantaged.