For a Wednesday night on the party scene, the bash at Tootsies announcing the ABC-13 Women of Distinction enjoyed high energy and a delightfully eclectic crowd that swelled to 300 by the time the final honoree was introduced.
Well-dressed they were as the invitation called for cocktail attire and even though it was sweltering outside, inside both the climate and the crowd were way cool. Setting the high style pace were the honorees themselves.
KTRK Channel 13 news anchor Melanie Lawson introduced the ladies while family and friends rose in boisterous applause and cheers. Taking bows were Jo Furr, Dr. Sippi Khurana, Alissa Maples, Shawntell McWilliams, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Jessica Rossman, Susan Sarofim, Kim Tutcher, Kelli Weinzierl and Vivian Wise. Judi McGee was named 2017 Ambassador.
The women will be presented at the 30th anniversary Winter Ball, appropriately dubbed "The Diamond Ball," set for February 11, 2017. Gala chair Franelle Rogers, herself a past honoree, welcomed the crowd as did honorary chair Margaret Alkek Williams. The evening benefits the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America.
If you judge the impact of an event by its automobile industry support, the Winter Ball ranks near the top with the Mercedes-Benz Dealers of Greater Houston contributing two vehicles for the gala fundraising — a 2017 SLC Roadster and 2017 C-Class Cabriolet.
Joining the fete were Tootsies fashion director Fady Armanious, Virginia and Dan Steppe, Joshua Espinedo, Alice and Keith Mosing, DeeDee and Wallis Marsh, Lilly Andress, Vicki West, Gordon Bethune, Elizabeth and Alan Stein, Carol Sawyer, and Manlit and Dilawar Singh.
Dr. Sippi Khurana, Alissa Maples, Shawntell McWilliams, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Jessica Rossman, Judi McGee, Vivian Wise, Kelli Weinzierl, Kim Tutcher, Susan Sarofim.
