More than 150 people filled Stephenville’s Legacy Center for the annual Cross Timbers Fine Arts Council fundraiser banquet, raising tens of thousands of dollars for the services it brings to local communities.
“People need the joy of art,” said CTFAC executive director Christine Newton. “They need a place to express themselves.”
Citing this need, Newton shared several testimonials with the guests as they enjoyed a prime rib dinner catered by LittleJohn’s.
Newton said a mother and daughter came into the facility and the child lives with chronic pain. She started painting and the mother said she was happy to see her just being a kid.
CTFAC regularly collaborates with the Stephenville Senior Citizens Center for workshops and classes. Newton said she was moved to hear one a woman say ‘it was nice to have something to look forward to.’
“The money you’ve pledge goes right back into our community,” said Newton. CTFAC held more than 90 events last year the majority of which were free to those in attendance.
“That’s what we’re here for,” chimed in Ferron Lucero of Live Big Co. who acted as emcee.
Lucero called on guests who each pledged amounts from $100 to $5,000 and led the live auction of bigticket items like one night stay at The Seeker; tickets to a Lainey Wilson Concert donated by Family & Friends Ortopedics; Christmas lighting installation and spirits donated by The Christmas Lighting Company and Texan Liquor, a private tour of the Art Briles Stadium with Coach Doty; a Ruger 9mm and ammunition from the Gun Vault and Company; a two night stay at The Warmer Place and tickets to a Tarleton football game; a player jersey and a piece of the Wisdom Gym floor donated by Melody and Brad Warmerdam and Tarleton State University; as well as original art from Stephanie Beach and Audrey Calor.
The walls were also lined with dozens of donated silent auction items drawing bids until a lively but fun bingo game and drawings brought the night to a close.
The evening also included the recognition of Patron of the Year Cheryl Dunnells (or Miss D) who first came to CTFAC in 2021 looking to connect to other artist before getting tasked to lead at summer art camps. Newton said Dunnels has taught hundreds of kids in the Erath community and they have all become “super fond of her.”
Newton also recognized the board for all they do for the organization and community: Stephanie Beach, Rachel Truss, Katrina Harris,AmauriMartinez,Lea Contreras, Laura Henson, Daphne Hunt, Jennie Shafer and Brandi Patton.