Shelby's Social Diary
Helping the trees: A record $350,000 is raised amid the dying pines and oaks ofMemorial Park
The tree-shaped paddles went up in the air over and over again as the appeal was made at the annual "Rootball" for additional donations to aid Trees for Houston in its drought-inspired program to plant trees in parks across the city.
Surrounded by the dying oaks and pines of Memorial Park and the neighboring Houston Polo Club, the 400 guests couldn't help but be moved to action, resulting in record proceeds of $350,000 for this annual fundraiser.
With a '70s theme and '70s music, many in the party crowd dressed for that decade of Three Dog Night, Abba and the Bee Gees. Pucci colors prevailed not only in the attire but also in the table dressings that included vibrant table cloths with matching glasses. Chairs Laura and Andrew McCullough were part of the contingent that dressed for color.
Among those supporting Trees for Houston's efforts to plant, protect and promote trees were Kirby and Scott McCool, Cathy and Joe Cleary, Patrick Elkins, John Kirksey, Kathleen and Townes Pressler, Windi and David Grimes, Estela and David Cockrell, Sarah and Duncan Underwood, Martha and Jose Oti and executive director Barry Ward and wife Bonnie.