The night of treacherous storms did not deter the many friends and family gathered at Tootsies for this year’s ABC 13 Women of Distinction announcement party. It is always a joyous night when 10 women are recognized for their outstanding volunteer and community accomplishments. This year was no exception, as over 250 guests were greeted by this year’s chairs, both former Women of Distinction themselves, Lesha Elsenbrook and Bobbie Nau.
The main event, this year’s gala will be held on January 25, 2020 and will be called Warm Friends On A Winter Night, where the women will be formally presented.The Gala benefits the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. This year’s honorary Chairmen are Sidney Faust and Cora Sue Mach.
The enthusiastic crowd was welcomed by Tootsies owner Norman Lewis who then turned it over to ABC 13 news anchor Melanie Lawson, to introduce the 2020 Honorees to their cheering fans and supporters.
This year’s Women of Distinction Honorees are: Cheryl Byington, Zane Carruth, Theresa Chang, Elsie Eckert, Myrtle Jones, Brigitte Kalai, Kelley Lubanko, Joy McCormack, Hannah McNair and Mary Terre Perusquia. This year’s Ambassador is Betty Hrncir.
Women of Distinction Honorees & Their Friends…
Diane Gendel, Betty Hrncir, Judy McGee
Other notables in the crowd were Leigh Smith, Monica Hartland, Kristy Bradshaw, Leisa Holland-Nelson, Bill Baldwin, Cyndy Garza Roberts, Megan Cushing, DeeDee Marsh, Andy Cordes and Brian Teichman, Christina Stith and more.
Photos courtesy of Daniel Ortiz and Jacob Power