Two-Steppin' for Land Conservation
"Nature Rocks" at boot-scootin' good time gala with country star and celebrity chef
With chef Bryan Caswell in the kitchen and Texas country music star Jack Ingram on stage, the Nature Conservancy's annual gala easily lived up to its title, "Nature Rocks."
Caswell's team of cowboy-clad waiters circulated through the party tent at Houston Polo Club offering platters of tempting caviar "twinkies" and jalepeno cheese biscuits with chicken. Once the filet mignon dinner was served, it was Ingram's time to shine.
Among the first on the dance floor were honorees Anne and Charles Duncan, recognized for their long-time support of the conservancy. Dinner chairs Alie and Dave Pruner were quick to join the dance party as well, along with co-chairs Dee and Jeff Boswell and Judy and Elliott Bouillion.
After last year's steaming heat and lengthy program, the 400 guests in jeans and boots welcomed the breezy fall weather and the abbreviated program that delivered the message without guests wanting to shoot the messenger.
Texas State director Laura Huffman and sponsor Chevron's Joni Baird welcomed the crowd and thanked all for their support, which totaled more than $520,000 for the conservancy kitty.
Supporters included Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, Kristen and Lee Nix, Sue and Gary Hanna, Lisa and Dana Roy, Kim Cagle, Tim Mullin, Abbi and Rob Antablin, Aimee and Wynne Snoots, Hallie Vanderhider and Phoebe and Bobby Tudor.