More than 800 guests enjoyed a “license to thrill” at this year’s SPCA of Texas Fur Ball, themed “Diamonds are Fur-Ever,” held at the Omni Dallas hotel. Make no bones about it: This party, which celebrated the nonprofit’s 75th year, was buzzing with amazing energy that only animals lovers can generate.
Well-heeled attendees — including Kellie Rasberry, Mark Hopper, Jocelyn White, Stacey and Don Kivowitz, Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones, Jacob Decker, Cassie Evans, Bridgette Garcia, Mark Soto, Rhonda Sargent Chambers, Mary Spencer, James Bias, and Arthur E. Benjamin with his pup Bandit — dressed the part for this year’s James Bond theme to help support the biggest animal welfare agency in North Texas.
The evening started on an exceptionally high note, when the SPCA received a proclamation from Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings, designating September 21 “SPCA of Texas Day” in Dallas. Master of ceremonies Ron Corning told guests their mission was to “celebrate 75 years of love, care, hope, smiles, wags and purrs; to look back at how far our community has come; and to look forward with the SPCA of Texas to another 75 years of changing the lives of animals and the people who love them.”
Supporters sipped signature Fur Ball martinis and sat down to a scrumptious dinner in the ballroom. Did we mention there were puppies onsite? Yes, any party with puppies is bound to be a hit.
When the bites and auction bidding came to a close, 13-member band Professor D got everyone on their feet and onto the dance floor. But the fun didn't stop there; partygoers also got to test their luck at casino tables.
And we saved the best news for last: Previous Fur Ball fundraising records were busted wide open as committee members raised nearly $500,000 to help the SPCA of Texas serve 50,000 animals and their people.
Don Kivowitz, Stacey Kivowitz, Jan Rees-Jones, Trevor Rees-Jones
Photo by Steve Foxall
Don Kivowitz, Stacey Kivowitz, Jan Rees-Jones, Trevor Rees-Jones
