Tuthilltown Spirit’s Watch-Your-Back Bourbon Bar kicked things off at 8 p.m., and it didn’t take long for toes to start tapping to the beat of the band, Grand Central Station. Grabbing seats near the dance floor were the theme- attired Chris and Melissa Zieker, with her sister and brother-in-law, Melanie and Keith Manuel. Matt and Erika Gough, David and Traci Jersen, and Allison and David Meyers joined them, along with Tommy Uccellini and his wife, Rachel, who admitted that her big Texas hair had required at least half a can of spray.
Corralled stations on either side of the hall offered an assortment of Lone Star fare. Among those enjoying the grub were Bill Peterson, Fran Dingeman and Joseph Tardi, one of the new owners of the local FM radio station known until this week as Star 101.3, now “The Jockey.”
Stepping south of the border with top-shelf tequila from Corinth Wine & Liquor, ‘Margarita Mania’ added a splash of fun to the festivities. For $10, attendees could purchase the ticket for a margarita and a chance to win prizes from Tutilltown’s, Violet’s and Stella’s of Saratoga and Frank Adams. Bringing classic Dallas bling to the scene with their giveaway and sparkling attire were jewelry associates Denise Smith, Mary and Bob Dessormeau, Laura Palkovich and Claire Burke.
The bourbon was flowing, the margaritas were salted, and beer and wine were complimentary, thanks to Saratoga Eagle, Purdy’s Discount Wine & Liquor, Southern Wine & Spirits and Empire Merchant North. It was the perfect mix to draw a crowd to the bar, including Jenna Clarke, Ryan Hotaling, Rebecca Primm, Larissa Hawley, Peter Rosecrans, Richard and Nancy Bambara, Kevin Johnson, Lois Celeste and Alan Thigpen. Alyson Cutler, Tracie Williams and Elizabeth Macy toasted a girls’ night out, and nearby, Nanci Beyerl of Peaceful Acres relaxed, off her own horse rescue ‘ranch’ for the evening with friend Steve Conklin.
Visiting the Southfork saloon infused several with the courage needed to hop on the mechanical bull provide by NY Bounce House. Seen holding their own against the bucking beast were Maryanne Moerschell, Lois Celeste, Nancy Bambara, Leah Burnett and Colin Gerritt. The animal challenged riders for hours, while across the room, others were inspired to lasso partners for a classic shoot ‘em out photo by Heather Bohm-Tallman. Jillian Petercsak roped herself a stud in Brendan Dillon, and the West was won by ‘Sheriff’ AJ Palkovich with his posse of outlaws, James McHale, Meredith and Paul von Schenk, John Flavin and Briana Bailey.
The night culminated with the Ball’s now infamous costume contest. This year, the ladies competed for the title of Texas Beauty Queen to complement the men’s “J.R.” Oil Baron. Five nominees were pre-selected for each, and though it was close, votes of applause indicated Brenda Chouffi and Sam Chabot the winners.
After more boot-scootin’ spins and a few do-si-dos, the event closed at midnight as a smashing success for SPAC. Through the support of numerous beverage donors and sponsors like Miller Printing, Mionetto, Star 101.3 (now The Jockey), the Gideon Putnam Resort, Turbine Services, Ltd. and Tri-City Rentals, preliminary figures hint that it was the most successful Junior Committee fundraiser to date.
“This year’s Dallas-themed Winter Ball was one for the record books,” said Co-Chair, Andrew Parsons. “We are so grateful for the generosity of our sponsors, honorary committee members, and volunteers who invested their time and talent to make this event the best yet, and to all the guests whose enthusiasm created an unforgettable evening.”
