Rob Giardinelli
Guests Embarked On A Chic, High-Flying Journey Filled With French Flair, Philanthropy & Unforgettable Moments
By Rob Giardinelli Photography By Daniel Ortiz
THE SCENE: The Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston was the setting for the city’s most anticipated fall fundraising event of the season. Nearly 500 of the area’s most notable aviation lovers, community leaders, history enthusiasts, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the annual Jet Setters’ Ball 25. The evening served up a beautiful night of fun and fundraising, leaving patrons wanting more.
THE VIBE: The black-tie attired crowd fully embraced the Destination Paris theme, offering up a sophisticated, elegant mix of formal ensembles. In the crowd, one could spot ballgowns, cocktail dresses, and tuxedos in an array of colors, metallics, and bold prints. Complimenting the crowd were members of the military in uniform. The result was a festive, welcoming environment where everyone felt welcome.
The festivities kicked off with a lively, interactive cocktail hour in the Lone Star Flight Museum. After guests posed for photos in front of an Eiffel Tower replica to commemorate the evening, they grabbed a cocktail and mingled about the museum. This allowed old friends to get reacquainted and new friends to be made.
Others could be seen taking in more interactive and competitive activities. Some enjoyed taking a ride in the MaxFlight Simulator and enjoying the museum’s many fun exhibitions. Others kept a close eye on the Big Board for a series of luxury experiences, including a hunting trip to Cibolo Creek Ranch, a curated case of wines, and a private event at the Lone Star Flight Museum.
Partygoers then took to their seats for the main program. The Events Company transported guests to Paris with beautiful white-patterned linens that complemented the elegant centerpieces on the tables, which were supplemented by red passports for each guest to view the night’s festivities. This was against the backdrop of a giant French Flag, as well as beautiful red flowers on the stage that gave the space an elevated, European garden feel.
As guests enjoyed their delectable, French-inspired meals courtesy of City Kitchen Catering, the night’s emcee, KPRC Channel 2 Meteorologist Justin Stapleton, kept the festivities moving at a fun, brisk pace. During the program, attendees were treated to words from event and organization leaders thanking them for being a part of such a memorable evening. During the program, Ralph B. Thomas was honored for his longtime support of the museum, who gave an inspiring speech that deeply moved the crowd.
The fun continued as Josh Rush with Johnny Bravo Entertainment led a spirited live auction. The paddles and the fundraising continued to climb as revelers bid on an array of luxury travel packages with trips to the US Open Tennis Championship in New York, a food and wine-inspired stay at a Tuscan Villa, and a Ferrari Challenge Race Care experience, emerging as the most popular and with that capping off a beautiful night of fun and fundraising.
THE NON-PROFIT: Jet Setters Ball 25: Destination Paris, chaired by Donna and Matt Noll, raised over $700,000 for the Lone Star Flight Museum. Proceeds from the event will support the museum’s STEM-related programs, exhibits, and the maintenance of its impressive military and commercial aircraft.
