Justin Yu, Chris Shepherd, Robert Del Grande and Hugo Ortega
Carrie Wirsing and Jeanette Jenkins
Brian Crawmer, Sarah Crawmer, Marilyn, and David Guion
In true Italian style, the evening began with a lively cocktail hour featuring Aperol Spritzes and a silent auction. Top items included a six-night Colorado retreat, a private casita stay in the Yucatán, and Golden Koi, a striking photograph by Joe C. Aker. Guests.
Dinner in the ballroom followed, where guests — dressed in bright Italian summer colors — enjoyed an Italian meal and an inspiring program. Emcee Kip Altstaetter opened the evening, followed by remarks from CEO Joseph Cooper and event co-chairs Kristen Perrin, Pamela Perilloux and Bryan P. Smith. A moving video presentation highlighted testimonials from those touched by Vita Living’s work.
The live auction brought plenty of energy, led by auctioneer Johnny Bravo. The night ended on a sweet note with an After Event Toast and gelato bar, where guests finished the night in dolce vita fashion.
Kara Willis, Chacole Santiago
Allison Padon and Luke Fechtman
Christina O'Donnell and Larry O'Donnell
Isabel Wynn, Livi Ingram, and Larkin Steen
John Hoffman, Beth Hoffman
Johnny Bravo
Niki Galbert, Lorrie Chretien
Myrla Menn, Roberto Vanegas, and Myrla Vanegas
Peter Cawthorne, Krystyna Cawthrone, John Hoffman, Beth Hoffman
Derrick Shore, Tom Mays and Owen Conflenti (photo by Daniel Ortiz)
“Guests walked into the Grand Ballroom transformed into the colorful streets of Buenos Aires,” noted a rep for the Alley. “The Events Company pulled out all the stops and had guests gasping at Argentine-inspired centerpieces in differing shapes and sizes on banquet-laden tables. The gorgeous florals were designed by Walker Chancey, along with iconic Argentine landmarks and even tango dancers from Marcone Dance Studio.”
Guests loved a video highlighting Gladden’s contributions, and Gladden’s heartfelt remarks, with wife Jane at his side. Dean is the longest-serving director in the Alley’s storied history. Others who took to the podium included chairs Michele and Dheeraj Verma and Artistic Director Rob Melrose.
The live auction was stirring, including items such as a walk-on role in a performance of the Alley’s annual production of A Christmas Carol and one in the upcoming season’s production of Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d.
“Other live auctions included a trip to see The Queen of Versailles in New York, a week-long trip to Buenos Aires, and a 4th of July long weekend at the Ritz Carlon, Grand Cayman,” explained the Alley rep. “The big auction winner of the evening was titled “Seared at Home with Justin Yu”, where the winner’s kitchen will be taken over by James Beard Award-winning Chef Justin Yu alongside Resident Acting Company Member Christopher Salazar and Seared Director and Alley Associate Brandon Weinbrenner.”
Guests included Sen. Ted Cruz and Heidi Cruz, Grant and Angie Dorfman, Beth Madison, Derrick Shore, Cynthina and Anthony Petrello, Connie and Roger Plank, Susana Brener de Stern, Juan R. Stern, Ford Hubbard III, Michelle Elaine, Chris Hutchison, Melissa Molano and David Rainey.
Michele and Dheeraj Verma and Ted and Heidi Cruz (phot by Daniel Ortiz)
Kristen Cannon and Edward Sanchez (photo by Daniel Ortiz)
(Beth Madison, Steve Hamilton and Denise Monteleone (photo by Daniel Ortiz)
Tina Raham Stewart and Bob Nowa (photo by Alida Bonifaz)
Michele Verma and Amanda Austin (photo by Alida Bonifaz)
Julie Goytia, Mignon Gill and Kathy Mann (photo by Daniel Ortiz)
George Stark, Kathryn Ketelsen and Lois Stark (photo by Daniel Ortiz)
Kelly Provenzano and Cynthia Petrello (phot by Daniel Ortiz)
Dean and Jane Gladden (photo by Daniel Ortiz)