A Sold-Out Affair – Celebrating Turtle Creek Gala benefiting the Turtle Creek Association
(Featured photo: Sharon Ballew, Gala Chair and VIP Fundraising, TCA; JD Trueblood, President and CEO, TCA; Teresa Byrd, Gala Presenting Sponsor.)
The latest model of the Bentley Continental GT, provided by Valet Sponsor Bentley Dallas, created a striking first impression at the VIP entrance of the Turtle Creek Association’s Annual Gala, Celebrating Turtle Creek, hosted at the Virgin Hotel Dallas. Guests were warmly greeted with champagne, sparkling water, and wine, surrounded by an elegant array of pumpkins and fall foliage that set a perfect autumn scene.
This upscale welcome included personal escorts guiding attendees to the elevators, leading to the Champagne Reception in the ballroom, sponsored by honored guest Michael Simon. Flying in from New York for the weekend, Simon’s presence underscored the importance of the celebration, which also featured the Tour of Homes scheduled for the following Sunday.
Adding a modern twist to the festivities, a crowd-favorite photo robot, The Social Hubb, roamed the reception area. Brought in by Sharon Ballew, gala chair and Vice President of Fundraising, this high-tech addition captured moments of joy while attendees engaged in competitive bidding on unique silent auction items, including jewelry, fine wines, and other exclusive offerings.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass panels revealed an enchanting outdoor patio. Guests gathered around a sunken fire pit, surrounded by sparkling tree lights, while enjoying a sunset view from the raised open bar—an ideal prelude to the evening’s main event.
Honorary chairs Elyce and David Walthall, along with their son Christopher Walthall, were joined by notable figures including Gala Presenting Sponsor Teresa Byrd; Tour of Homes Presenting Sponsors THE URBAN TEAM Allie Beth Allman & Associates, Kyle Crews and Ani Nosnik; Turtle Creek Association President and CEO JD Trueblood; Board Chair and Tour of Homes Chair Deborah Stanford; co-chairs Karisti Julia and Wayne Smith; Décor Chair Mari Epperson; and esteemed supporters Dr. Ann Stuart, Luis Julia, Sharon Smith, and more.
The ballroom itself dazzled with rich purple and turquoise lighting. Black satin tablecloths with gold chargers and napkins added an opulent touch, while stunning centerpieces of white orchids in crystal vases and extravagant arrangements of white ostrich feathers added height and drama.
Sharon Ballew opened the evening by welcoming guests and introducing JD Trueblood, who expressed gratitude to Sharon, Mari Epperson, and the Walthalls for their contributions to the event’s success and the Turtle Creek Association’s mission. JD presented David Walthall with a bouquet of Texas yellow roses in recognition of their efforts.
The excitement escalated with a lively auction led by Mike Sadler of Heritage Auctions, featuring exquisite diamond earrings, a six-course tasting menu by Chef Darren McGrady (sold twice!), exclusive vacation packages, and a NorthPark shopping spree. Guests enjoyed a delectable three-course meal, concluding with a decadent chocolate and caramel Turtle Pie.
JD then invited Teresa Byrd, Gala Presenting Sponsor, to the stage, honoring her unwavering support with the TCA President’s Award. Founders Judith Lifson and Jane Manning were also recognized for their vision and dedication to the association, along with Kyle Crews, who received the TCA Founder’s Award for his enduring contributions.
Diamond Sponsor Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Ruby Sponsors Dick Babb and Phil Neely, JD Trueblood and Franco Dooley, Elyce and David Walthall, Gloria and Jerome Westheimer, and Susan and Bill Montgomery were thanked for their generosity and commitment.
Suddenly, the ballroom erupted in excitement as the Dallas Mavericks performers stormed in for a surprise flash mob, raising the energy to new heights. The night concluded with vibrant dancing to the electrifying Emerald City’s Limelight Band, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories.
About Turtle Creek Association
The Turtle Creek Association’s Annual Gala is a cornerstone fundraising event benefiting the nonprofit’s mission to preserve, protect, and enhance the Turtle Creek corridor. A 501(c)(3) organization, TCA is dedicated to ensuring the natural beauty and sustainability of Turtle Creek through projects such as seasonal landscaping, irrigation management, litter removal, and the upkeep of 25 medians and 2,600 trees.
The organization also maintains essential park amenities, providing a welcoming environment for residents and wildlife alike—all made possible by the generosity of donors. To learn more and support our mission, visit www.turtlecreekassociation.org.
*Photos by JD Trueblood. All other photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio.
(Sharon Adams, Adams Communications Public Relations, is honored to represent the Turtle Creek Association and post this Philanthropy Lifestyles Scene.)
