Nothing but death could have kept me from the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis Centennial Gala Saturday night at The Grand Marriott. It was the biggest banquet in the top-rated affiliate’s history, so it goes without saying that I would have to devote the whole Partyline to it if I started naming names. The whole night was full of uplifting inspiration that even had KSDK’s Rene Knott in lowkey Baptist preacher mode during his master of ceremony duties. The fact that the organization’s CEO Michael McMillan is one of my favorite influential citizens made things extra special. I’m sure I’m gonna catch some side-eyes for saying so, but I wasn’t blown away with the speech by Viola Davis. Don’t get me wrong, I got some great nuggets out of it, but it felt a bit cobbled together. Eric Benet, was another matter altogether. He got it in and the folks of all ages were clamoring around that stage to soak in every minute of it. Y’all were taking selfies, getting on Facebook Live and carrying on like I’ve never seen people in evening gowns – well, except for prom. And true to his charming form, Eric just worked y’all into his show. It was a great way to close the night out! I peeped some for real style winners while I was there as well. L’Erin was looking lovely in that little winter white ditty. Daffney Moore’s cobalt blue ruffle gown had me gagging with jealousy! But if I had to pick the best-dressed of the night, Michael McMillan’s mother Ms. Rita would win, hands down. Between that precisely trimmed bob, golden gown and her glowing skin, she needs to be standing alongside that Maye Musk woman representing ageless and timeless beauty on those makeup commercials. And who is that woman with the salt and pepper shadow fade/Gumby cut combo that slays with her sickening style at every_______________(insert new slang for grown and sexy) event in the city? Welp, she was at it again at the Gala. That fuchsia dress (and matching lip) paired with those black patent leather Louboutin stilettos were absolute life.Â
