Despite October’s traditional wet weather, the night of Friday, October 18, could not have been more perfect. But the Turtle Creek Association‘s Annual Gala made it even more spectacular with a Bentley displayed near the Virgin Hotel Dallas’ Common Club entrance. That was just the beginning of a night, though, that included a roaming photo robot, a flash dance mob, a lively auction and so much more. Here’s a report from the field:
There was no question about where the VIP entrance was for the Turtle Creek Association’s Annual Gala Celebrating Turtle Creek at the Virgin Hotel Dallas. The scene was set with a most elegant Bentley Continental GT provided by Valet Sponsor Bentley Dallas greeting guests at the Commons Club entrance, flanked by servers offering champagne, sparkling water and wines surrounded by plentiful fall décor of pumpkins and fall foliage.

The anticipation of a lovely gala evening prevailed as guests were escorted to the ballroom for a champagne reception showcasing some one-of-a-kind silent auction items and an unexpected fun touch, the Social Hubb, a roaming photo robot, bringing smiles all around. A wide sliding glass panel invited everyone to the outdoor patio complemented with trees lit with sparkling lights and the open bar on a raised platform facing west, framing a perfect sunset.



Gala Presenting Sponsor Teresa Byrd, along with honorary chairs for both the gala and Tour of Homes, Elyce and David Walthall, joined Tour of Homes Presenting Sponsor The Urban Team Allie Beth Allman And Associates, Kyle Crews and Ani Nosnik; Turtle Creek Association President/CEO JD Trueblood, along with Gala Chair and Fundraising Vice-President Sharon Ballew; honored guest Michael Simon, who also sponsored the Champagne Reception; Board Chair and Tour of Homes Event Chair Deborah Stanford; Tour of Homes Co-Chairs Karisti Julia and Wayne Smith; Décor Chair Mari Epperson; Dr. Ann Stuart, Christopher Walthall and more.

Opening the doors to the ballroom revealed walls lit in rich purple and turquoise in an elegant setting featuring tables draped in black satin dressed with gold chargers and napkins centered with tall centerpieces lit in the same rich purples and turquoise, topped with extravagant white ostrich feathers.
“Welcoming the crowd, Sharon introduced JD, who thanked her and Mari for their commitment to the community. He gave special recognition to the Walthalls for serving as honorary chairs and presented David with an opulent bouquet of Texas yellow roses.
Introducing auctioneer Mike Sadler with Heritage Auctions, JD encouraged bidding as supporters competed in a rousing live auction featuring items such as a stunning pair of diamond earrings, a six-course tasting menu for 10 from Chef Darren McGrady (which sold twice), exclusive vacations and a NorthPark shopping spree.
After a delicious three-course dinner, featuring an appropriately chosen dessert of a chocolate and caramel Turtle Pie, JD invited Gala Presenting Sponsor Teresa Byrd to the stage. He thanked her for her unwavering support for the Turtle Creek Association, the significant impact she has made and presented her with the TCA President’s Award.
Recognizing some of the founders of TCA, JD asked Judith Lifson and Jane Manning to stand. Calling on Kyle Crews, a presenting sponsor for the Tour of Homes, JD said that since the beginning of TCA, he has been there for the nonprofit, offering guidance, support and rallying the troops when necessary. He presented Kyle, as one of the original founders, the TCA Founder’s Award.
JD also recognized with heartfelt gratitude Diamond Sponsor, Lyda Hill Philanthropies. Sharon thanked 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.
After presentations, JD spoke to the crowd saying, “Your steadfast commitment and belief in our mission are the cornerstones of our success. Together, we honor our rich history, embrace the present, and look forward to a future where the legacy of Turtle Creek continues to thrive.”
The doors to the ballroom burst open as a ruckus seemed to happen on one side when the music turned up and a flash mob of the Dallas Mavericks performers took to the dance floor, which brought the energy to the highest level, as everyone stood in applause.

The party continued into the night with dancing to the ever popular and dynamic Emerald City’s Limelight Band.
Funds raised from the Gala and the Tour of Homes will support Turtle Creek Association’s preservation, enhancement, and protection of the Turtle Creek Corridor.
To learn more about the Turtle Creek Association, visit the website at www.turtlecreekassociation.org.”
* Photo credit: Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio