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Russell Simmons, Terrence Howard, and the Infamous Fashionistas Gear up for Dallas Rocks

A major debate was roaring last night. Who was more “WOW”— Russell Simmons or Terrence “Crash” Howard (pictured with Heidi Dillon)? That was the question being mulled in the minds of the Dallas Rocks VIP kick-off party at Matthew Trent Jewelry for the November 14 gala. The place was jammed and everyone looked oh-so-good. Maybe that was because hostess co-hostess Heidi Dillon and her Fashionistas let folks know ahead of time that surprises were in store. That Heidi knew that if she were to compete with Texas-OU festivities, she would have to pull a major rabbit or two out of her chapeau. Let’s say she outdid herself.

In the flesh, Diamond Empowerment Fund co-founder/Dallas Rocks co-host Russell Simmons was a true showstopper. If your favorite dance is the Twist, then you might not know hip-hop producer, fashion designer Russell. Get with the times, baby. Russell is a businessman who makes things happen and people happy. And last night he proved that by bringing buddy Terrence Howard along to visit with the crowd.  

Be still my heart! Terrence was charming, articulate, and just plain hunky. At one point in the evening when the ritual congratulatory, pep rally speeches were given, Terrence really hit home with the crowd by reminding them, “The main reason we’re here tonight is that we’re all part of one race—the human race. We all become more like God when we share.”

As you probably know, Dallas Rocks raises funds for programs that empower through education in African nations where diamonds are a natural resource. This year’s beneficiaries are CIDA City Campus and African Leadership Academy, both based in Johannesburg. Naturally, the diamond folks at Zales are the gold sponsor.

News of the evening included two announcements about some big names that will be at gala:

• Former first dotters Barbara Bush and Jenna Bush Hager will receive the Rising Star Empowerment Award for their work in Africa and
• Legendary singer Smokey Robinson will be handling the special performance duties at the Union Station gala. In fact if you would like Smokey and his wife to sit with you at your table that night, you can bid on it. Bidding starts at $7,501.

Fashion highlights included Heidi sporting the “Africa’s Hope,” $19,000 ear chandeliers (pictured) that will be up for bids at the gala. . . . Lynn McBee in her burntest-orange outfit on her way to a Texas Longhorns party. . . . Russell sporting a New York Yankees baseball cap. . . . The well-known Dallas blondes were brighter and shinier than ever. Colorists throughout the town have been busy getting to the roots of brunette problems. Another  definite sign that the economy is on the upswing: skirts lengths are getting shorter and shorter. Who needs a stockbroker when you just have to check Dallas roots and hems?