Jewel of the Lake
White Rock Lake Foundation's inaugural gala dives in to raise $78K for 'the jewel of Dallas'
What: The White Rock Lake Foundation Jewel of Dallas Gala
Where: The Granada Theater
The 411: The White Rock Lake Foundation, which aims to help maintain and improve the Dallas lake, pulled together a roster of top chefs, entertainment, and auction items for its successful inaugural Jewel of Dallas Gala.
Held Thursday, October 13, the event's highlight was dinner courtesy of chefs set up at stations, serving signature menu items, around the room. They included: Chef Peja Krstic (Môt Hai Ba), Chef Irwin Torres (Sfuzzi), Chef Ross Demers (Cry Wolf), Chef Steven Dawson (Sundown at Granada), Chef Junior Borges and Chef Tony Ibarra (La Mina), and Chef de Cuisine Josh Healy (Loro).
In addition to noshing and sipping cocktails, guests were entertained on stage by Ricki Derek and his 15-piece band.
Andrea Sanders, of presenting sponsor Oncor, welcomed guests. Then WRLF board member Joe Kidwell and Dallas Park and Recreation Department director John Jenkins underscored the importance of the organization's mission.
“The foundation has been around for over 30 years, supporting the lake, and when we say White Rock Lake is the jewel of this city, it is truly a jewel,” Jenkins told the crowd.
Kidwell announced that the money raised during the gala would renovate the historic Winfrey Point, an event space that, he enthused, has “one of the best scenic views in Dallas.”
Motivated guests put in big bids on fabulous auction items, including private sailing cruises on White Rock Lake, a private dinner for eight prepared by Chef Junior Borges, a backyard BBQ for 10 provided by Ferris Wheelers, luxurious stays in homes in North Carolina and the Texas wine country, and more.
At the end of the evening full of celebration, fundraising, and entertainment, more than $78,000 had been raised for the foundation.
Who: Brittany Grignon, John Boerger, Michael and Lisa Mellon, Aimee McClanahan, Rachel Richards, Bill and Beth Dunham, David and Debbie Holley, John Jenkins, Ted Ellis, Kate McCoy, Scott and Brittany Lowe, Robin and Wade Lowe.