Rebeka Rutledge
The Duncan Banner
DUNCAN —
Although there were no Dalmatians present, a full-house of human beings was on hand Saturday evening, for the Stephen County Humane Society’s biennial Dalmatian Ball, at the Duncan Golf & Tennis Club.
Dozens of area residents attended the event to show support for the Humane Society and enjoy themselves during a meal and three different auctions. Tickets for the ball were sold out long before the big night and it wasn’t surprising organizers were talking about the size of attendance.
“I don’t know if this is a record crowd or not, but it looks crowded,” said Kelly Nelson, event chair. “There are 224 wonderful supporters here (Saturday night).”
This year’s theme was “Denim & Diamonds,” which offered more casual clothing selections than at Dalmatian Balls in the past. Instead of tuxedos and evening gowns, patrons were decked out in their “cowboy boots and bling.”
“It is usually a formal event,” Nelson said. “This year we decided to make it more fun and relaxed.”
The event offered a buffet-style meal of brisket, potatoes, cooked vegetables, Texas toast and cobbler. Additionally, entertainment was provided by the Old Geezers and Friends.
All proceeds from the evening go to funding operations for the Humane Society, with 10 percent of those funds being directed toward the group’s endowment fund.
“We hope to raise $20,000 ,” Nelson said, “but really, we’re just trying to have a fun evening.”
While the evening is an important fundraiser for the Humane Society, it is also a chance for it to show appreciation for those who support facility and its staff throughout the year.
Floyd Winegar presented Bobby and Shirley Richardson the Gene and Jimmie Lee Nelson Diamond Collar Award, which is in honor of the Nelsons and their contributions to the Humane Society.
Speaking about the efforts of the Richardsons, Winegar said, “They not only have given great financial support but have in many ways adopted animals. These longtime Duncan residents are pillars of the community and have become advocates for the Humane Society.”
“It is an honor to be in the same sentence as Gene and Jimmie Lee Nelson,” said Shirley Richardson. “This is just an honor.”
Recognition was also given to Taylor Vaughn, a local Boy Scout, who chose to do his Eagle Scout candidate project by working at the Humane Society facility. During the July and August heat wave this past summer, Vaughn came up with the idea and the funds to build weather protection over six outdoor kennels.
“He is definitely one of our leaders of tomorrow and a friend of the Humane Society,” said Kelly Place, who presented Vaughn with a plaque.
Vaughn said he was very honored and grateful to the Humane Society for recognizing him during the ball, calling it “a real privilege.”
“I’m glad that I chose them (the Humane Society) to do my project with,” Vaughn added. “It feels great to have choose something as special as that.”
