Quiz Bowl Champion trophy

While the DIFFA crowd was at The Joule sneak-peeking the DIFFA auction goodies on Thursday, April 28, other folks, both vets and newbies, were gathering at Frontiers of Flight Museum for the annual “Are You Smarter Than A KIPPster?” benefiting KIPP DFW.

For oldtimers, they knew the word “humility” was the walkaway for the adults facing the KIPP students in the “Battle of the Brains.”

On the other hand, for new-adults-on-the-block, it was a wake-up call to 21^st century education.

Merry Vose

Morgan Meyer

Despite the two, three and four calls for guests to head to their dinner tables, the crowd of over 500 was tardy in heeding the requests. Bobby Lyle told Richard Eiseman that he and Lottye Brodsky were getting hitched this summer. Bobby chuckled when he told Richard that, in breaking the news to their families that he and Lottye were taking the step, he’d explained it was because they wanted to have more kids….Celebrity adult panelists Merry Vose, Jennifer Sampson and Morgan Meyer worked the upstairs reception as if they were seeking votes.

Sarah Weinberg, Barbie Cobb and Michael Horne*

Jozlyn Hall

Co-Chairs Barbie Cobb and Sarah Weinberg introduced Jozlyn Hall, who in addition to being a founding student of KIPP Truth Academy is now a founding teacher at KIPPP Destiny Middle School. Jozlyn told how KIPP had made such a life-changing difference in her life.

KIPP Destiny Elementary Show Choir

Then there was a special performance by the KIPP Destiny Elementary Show Choir. These munchkins are so ready for prime time. Thanks to big screens on either side of the stage, even the folks in the back of the room got to see these little ones knock it out of the park. Once again they could have closed the program with that and everyone would have been delighted.

Then came dinner (miniature wedge salad, white cedar apple bacon stuffed chicken cordon Bleu and a dessert of dark chocolate truffle, mini-coffee bean éclair and lemon cheesecake with fresh berries).

After a special presentation by KIPP DFW Executive Director Designate Michael Horne, host Byron Sanders introduced the two panels for the Battle of the Brains.

Byron and Celeste Sanders

David Brown

Brooke Hortenstine, Karla McKinley and Nicole Musselman

As the KIPP kids (Quentin Casselberry, Alvaro Gonzales, Aijalon Hayes, Brianna McCain, Journi McClought, Oscar Morales, Ariana Mosley, Gerardo Rodriguez, Jozsue Salcedo, Stephany Sanchez, Taylor Williams and Sampson Williford) faced off against the “kids at heart” celebrity contestants (Rep. Rafael Anchia, Chief David Brown, Pierce Bush, Tom Karol, Morgan, Kristie Ramirez, Jennifer, Alex Sharma, Merry and LaShonne Watts), the competition was fierce and funny. But as Brooke Hortenstine so aptly summed it up, “once again, those brilliant KIPPster kids schooled the adults!”

* Photo credit: Kim Leeson

Just back from New York City are two very happy teenagers — Guyer High School’s John Fredrickson and Waxahachie High School’s Kaiden Maines. They represented the 5^th Annual Dallas Summer Musical High School Musical Theatre Awards (DSM HSMTA) at the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (aka the Jimmy™ Awards named after 94-year-old James M. Nederlander) on Monday, June 27.

This year’s national program included 62 students representing 31 regional programs. During the ten days leading up to the awards presentation, “The students auditioned before a panel of judges earlier in the week, singing two prepared songs and participating in a dance call. Based on the audition results, the students were split into two groups: The Medley Group and The Production Group, leading up to when all students performed together throughout the week and received the same amount of coaching. All nominees were eligible for the scholarships and awards.”

And with 5^th Annual DSM HSMTA Chair John Clutts, inaugural Leah and Jerome Fullinwider Award recipient Tina Walsh, DSM HSMTA Manager Tracy Jordan, DSM Board VP Community Relations Nancy Natinsky and DSM VP Education Downie Mathis in the wings supporting them, John and Kaiden impressed the judging panel.

John F. was a finalist and received a $2,500 scholarship from the Barry and Fran Weissler Foundation, while Kaiden received a $2,500 Special Recognition Scholarship presented by Tams-Witmark Music Library Inc.

It was a first for the local program with a representative placing as a “Best Actor” finalist and both students receiving scholarships.

According to John, “The experience at the Jimmy Awards was unbelievable. It was such an honor and a privilege to represent the DSM High School Musical Theatre Awards and finish as one of the top four finalists in the nation. The whole experience was surreal as well as life changing. I cannot be more thankful to DSM for their sponsorship and all of those who supported me through this entire process. The past ten days have been the best time of my life and I will miss it all because it was truly wonderful. Hooha!”

Kaiden’s review was in sync with John’s, saying, “I had such an amazing time at the Jimmy Awards. I met so many talented people and was honored to be one of the six selected for a special recognition scholarship. I had so much fun making my Broadway debut on the Minskoff stage, and I can’t thank DSM enough for making this wonderful journey happen for me. I will miss it, but I’m looking forward to whatever is next!”

Forget camps Longhorn and Waldemar. The summer camp action was at The Rustic on Saturday, May 21, and the campers were of voting age. Leave it to Community Partners of Dallas to take its annual kids-friendly “Change For Good” and create an adult version — yCPD Field Day. Only there were no bounce houses or bungee jumping.

Paige McDaniels and Joanna Clarke

Taking place in the heat and humidity of Saturday, May 21, mist fans were in high roll and icy beverages were just a hand off away. Funny as it may seem, the coolest millennials were gangbusting the are-you-serious activities which were dreamt up by CPD Funmeister Joanna Clarke and Event Chair Sarah Carbonnet. Adding to the off-the-wall antics was KDFW (FOX) meteorologist Jennifer Myers at the mic. (Folks didn’t realize that red-haired Jenny was at the mic-helm. She had doffed her straight auburn wig to let loose her glorious “Annie” red curls and donning Jackie-O shades.)

Jennifer Myers

Another head-turner was the A-Team that may not have won the games, but they sure knew how to pose!

The A-Team team members Angela Edgell, Karie Kieffer, Diana Leach, Crystal Lightbody, Bobby Martin and Paige Martin

Here’s an eyewitness report from the shenanigans:

As they checked in, the 102 participants shopped the Mystery Bag station, which featured a variety of “mystery” prizes valued at $50 or more. For $25 each, purchasers were surprised with items including Texas Rangers and Dallas Mavericks tickets; a four course meal for 6 people in your home by The Cuisine Counselor; gift cards to Dallas favorites spots, such as Neiman Marcus, Javier’s Gourmet Mexicano, The PilatesBarre, Trinity Groves and St. Bernard Sports; Fossil Smart Bracelets; and bottles of liquor and wine.

Sarah and Cameron Carbonnet

Emcee Jennifer welcomed participants before introducing Field Day chair Sarah Charbonnet followed by CPD President/CEO Paige McDaniel, who thanked all for their support of the 2^nd annual event, which is hosted by the organization’s young professional’s group, yCPD. She then shared a recent example of the incredible work CPD does in partnership with Child Protective Services, made possible by the support from the community, including those in attendance.

After Jennifer reviewed the format of the day, the competition began with 17 teams of six competing for the title of “yCPD Field Day Champion.” DJ Andrew Figueroa of Everlasting Sounds provided the vibe as competitors took the field.

Booty Shaking

After the initial Qualifying Round, where all teams competed at 10 different games, including, Egg Race, Suck it Up, Wheel Barrow Relay, Booty Shaker, Gatorade Flip Cup, Bobble Head, Hershey Kiss Relay, Face the Cookie, Noodle Toss and Social Media station, scores were tallied to whittle down the field to the top 10 teams. The top 10 teams then competed in a Potato Sack Race to identify the top 5 teams, but the initial race was too close to call between 7 of the 10 teams and so a “sudden death” potato race was conducted in order to confirm the top 5.

Bobble Heading

Hershey Kiss Relay

The top 5 teams lined up for a classic field day game – the Three-Legged Race. Teams “Beer Pressure” and “McGuire, Craddock & Strother” took the top two spots for a place in the final.

Beer Pressure team members from the left (front row) Tara Callahan, Brianna Riddell and Katie McDaniel; (back row) Nic Waldron, Kevin Allen and Ron Johnson*

Where last year’s final round, Tug of War, showed who had the most brawn, this year’s round, the Obstacle Course, required a different set of skills. The round started with a Brain Teaser, where teams had to solve a word puzzle before moving to the next station. Station 2 called for each team member to leap frog over the other to the 3rd station – Tunnel Crawl. After each member of the team crawled through the tunnel to the other side, the team moved to the final station, which brought back one of last year’s favorite qualifying round activities – Sponge Relay. Both teams rushed to fill up sponges full of soapy water and wring them out in an adjacent bucket, but “McGuire, Craddock & Strother” quickly took the lead and finished well ahead of “Beer Pressure.”

McGuire, Craddock and Strother team members from the left (front row) Claire Carroll and Jack Gannon; (back row) Grant Blair, Jon Mitchell, Michael Trecha, Erin Dowell, Clair Gannon and Walt Prudhomme*

The 2016 winning team (and last year’s champions as well) was McGuire, Craddock & Strother (Claire Carroll, Jack Gannon, Grant Blair, Jon Mitchell, Michael Trecha, Erin Dowell, Clair Gannon and Walt Prudhomme).

Championship prizes for each team member: $50 gift card to The Container Store, a massage at COREhealth Wellness Center, a 2-week pass and swag bag from Orange theory Fitness, 2 class passes from Flywheel Indoor Cycling and trophy.

With the final round complete, all participants stayed for the after party featuring the Rustic’s cocktails and savory fare including double queso, brisket quesadillas, boar meatballs, onion-y rings and French fries.

2^nd Annual Field Day sponsors were:

• Blue Ribbon Winner ($2,500) – Brunswick Group and Apex Clearing;
• Red Ribbon Runner UP ($1,000) – Orange Theory Fitness, Riveron Consulting and Shackelford;
• White Ribbon ($500) – Embassy Suites Dallas Park Central, The Hartnett Law Firm, Sarah and Cameron Charbonnet, McGuire Craddock & Strother, Greg Beane Family Law, Premier Transportation and Paige McDaniel and
• DJ Sponsor – COREhealth Wellness Center.

Despite the heat and humidity, this event was one that proved fundraising is cool.

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Smith

2016 Parade of Playhouses (File photo)

Those adorable little residences that have been lining NorthPark Center’s hallways have evidently been a big, old hit. In just two weeks folks have purchased more than 10,000 raffle tickets in hope of winning one of the Parade of Playhouses for their own. Thanks to Dallas CASA volunteers including Kappa Alpha Theta types, more than 2,000 hours have been invested in the raffle sales that will benefit Dallas CASA.

Insiders report that sales are ahead of last year and 2015 was a record maker.

And as for the voting, there’s been a bit of debating on which one will win. So far, pollsters claim that the Kid Cottage by LRO Residential, African Safari Adventure by Harman and Crest CASA Garage by Crest Cadillac/Crest Infiniti were in the lead.

Kid Cottage (File photo)

African Safari Adventure (File photo)

Crest Casa Garage (File photo)

But that could easily change, since voting doesn’t end until Sunday, when the raffle winners will be revealed in NorthPark’s North Court at 4 p.m. BTW, if you’re thinking about doing an online-ticket purchase, get it in before noon on Sunday.

As for the popularity contest, the voting results will be announced via social media and the Dallas CASA website.

Chance tickets are going for $5 each and a bargain-saving $20 for five. Voting is accomplished by texting dallascasa to 41444 with each vote costing $5 and are “not included” in the raffle drawing.

“Approaching its 20^th anniversary, the annual McKinney Young Artist Competition is a nurturing weekend experience for pianists age 14-18 that involves recitals, competition performances, master classes, and over $5,000 in scholarships. The standard competition format has been transformed into a win-win situation in which all ten finalists receive scholarship awards and are treated with hometown hospitality.

“Ten finalists are pre-selected every year to compete during the weekend event which begins with a recital from a world-renowned judge. Following their own competition performance, all ten finalists participate in master classes with the judge, and at the end of the weekend play again in a final recital. At the Awards ceremony, four Grand Prize winners receive scholarships of $1,000 each, the other six receive $300, and one pianist is chosen for the Karen Austin Memorial Master Class award. By the time of our 20^th anniversary, 200 young pianists will have been positively affected by this competition.

‘Says one former competitor: ‘I have been to many competitions that have promised a rewarding experience, but none have demonstrated the professionalism of this competition.  Everyone was really treated like a winner, because we all had the opportunity to work with great inspirational artists. I really liked how everyone was given a lot of personal attention, whether they were one of the four Grand Prize winners or not. I felt like they were speaking to me as if I was an artist who was just as accomplished as they were.’

“The McKinney Musical Arts Society is dedicated to excellence in performance that fosters musical enjoyment, education and awareness. Our primary purpose is to support the McKinney Young Artist Competition for pianists while bringing quality musical performances to McKinney. We are committed to diverse and creative musical productions, supporting the performing arts, and encouraging young artists.

“Founded in 1998, this is our first year with North Texas Giving Day. Help us continue to help encourage the young pianists who will be our future artists!”

-By Dr. Mary Humm, McKinney Young Artist Competition Founder and Artistic Director

_________

In seven years, North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $119 million into the North Texas community. In 2015, $33 million was raised through more than 118,000 gifts benefiting over 2,000 nonprofits.

On Thursday, September 22, support McKinney Young Artist Competition by linking here and spreading the word. #NTxGivingDay

While Dallas was getting back to normal after the Red River Rivalry, golfers were hitting the Bent Tree Country Club links on Monday, October 10, to raise funds for the C. C. Young Benevolence Fund. Here’s a report from the field:

On Monday, October 10, C. C. Young hosted its 5th Annual Classic Golf Tournament presented by Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt. Proceeds from the tournament benefited the senior care community’s Benevolence Fund, which serves as a financial safety net and ensures residents always have a place to call home, regardless of their financial position.

Golfers, sponsors and C.C. Young supporters gathered at 10 a.m. for check-in at Bent Tree Country Club and mingled while picking up boxed lunches before the shotgun start, which began promptly at 11 a.m. The Texas-themed day on the course included a photo opportunity at the 14th hole, as well as shots at a hole-in-one on the 5th, 8th, 14th and 17th holes. Prizes included: Golf vacation at French Lick Resort, a set of TaylorMade Rocket Bladez HL Irons 4-AW, a set of Adams Speedline Woods and Irons with bag, and $25,000.

George Linial and Russell Crews*

Following the day on the course, golfers were welcomed to the awards reception by western-clad cheerleaders and proceeded to bid on silent auction items and enjoy a delicious barbecue buffet.  Participants also tried their hand at a round of blackjack and were entered into a drawing for an Apple Watch and a cash prize.

C. C. Young President and CEO Russell Crews congratulated golfers like Rich Scanlon, George Linial, Gerry Hicks, Keith Wilson, Alex McMaken and David Dillard and talked about C.C. Young’s mission to provide a premier senior living community where each individual can grow in body, mind and spirit, no matter their life’s circumstance or limitations.

Gerry Hicks, Keith Wilson, Alex McMaken and David Dillard*

“This tournament is one of our biggest fundraisers throughout the year,” Crews said. “We have made the Top 25 list in Dallas Business Journal’s ‘Top Charity Tournaments’ the past two years thanks to our wonderful sponsors and donors who continue to support us, and because of events like this, we can continue to provide excellent care to seniors in our community.”

Awards were then presented to the winning teams. Ronnie Klein, Chad Dunaway, Mike Oswald and Garrett Perkins of Project Control were announced as the first place winners. Mikel Fears, Matthew Jung, Chase Tucker and Aaron Ellis of Time Warner Cable Business Class came in second place, and third place winners were Rusty Collins, David Hullet, Randy Hunnicut and Alan Magill.

Sponsors of the event included Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, D2 Architecture, Morrison Senior Living, Hill & Wilkinson General Contractors, Time Warner Cable Business Class, CliftonLarsonAllen, Infinity Pharmacy Solutions LLC, Steve Folsom and Park Cities News and The Waters Family.

* Photo credit: Jennifer Griffin

According to your mama bear, there are certain subjects that proper folk just don’t discuss — sex, religion and politics. Bravo, mama bear!

But Tuesday, November 8^th, is gonna be a put-up or hush-up occasion for the election of local, state and national leadership. Despite the anger that has been espoused in days past, there will be no OK Corral shoot outs. Instead it will be an exercise in democracy. Following the nationwide vote, a president will be elected, taxes will be due and the sun will continue to rise in the east.

Old Glories

Let’s face it. That’s what makes this dysfunctional family great. We may all have different backgrounds, ideologies, theories and opinions, but the beauty of this melting pot is that we still have the basic belief that good will reign… eventually.

So, please vote. The folks at MySweetCharity don’t care whom you vote for as long as you vote. There are people in third-world nations that can’t even imagine having the right to input their opinion.

And just remember — if you don’t vote, you’re handing over your rights to someone else. Perhaps it will be that jerk in junior high whom you thought was a real, round-the-clock loser.

BTW, just in case you’re wondering about Queenie, she proudly declared she voted for Roosevelt.

Bless her heart.

For the location of your voting site, check here.

Thursday may be the first day of December, but, alas, it’s the last day of the 5^th Annual Gingerbread Stroll in Highland Park Village. If you haven’t made it yet, stop pussyfooting around and check out the marvelously decorated cookie cottages at Betta Gallery, Bistro 31, Kiehl’s, Leggiadro, Market Highland Park, Robert Talbott, Roberta Roller Rabbit, Royal Blue Grocery, Stella McCartney, Trina Turk and Village Barber Shop.

The Gingerbread Stroll*

The cuisine builders include A Sweet Life, Architecture Demarest, artist Evelyn J. Fallgren, Charlies, Chef Winter Lockwood-Frank, Chocolate Secrets, Hilton Anatole, Hotel Crescent Court, Hyatt Regency Dallas at Reunion, Omni Dallas Hotel and Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek.

And since it is the last day of the stroll, put your bid in for one of the houses… except for one. 

Just heard from Gingerbread founding sweetie Christine McKenny that Evelyn’s  confectionary delight at Leggiadro is off the market. Seems someone snatched it up for the buy-it-now bid of $1,000. Perhaps the Dave Perry Miller folks should post a “Sold” sign out front!

Evelyn J. Fallgren’s sold gingerbread house*

But Evelyn has another masterpiece over at Robert Talbott that is still up for bid. It’s quite a looker, too!

And Christine also revealed there has been a late arrival from Chef Julie Price to the gingerbread development. It’s at Nasiba Adilova’s and Miroslava Duma‘s The Tot pop-up shop. Since it is the holiday season, Christine has decided to let this adorable home stay on the auction bloc after Thursday night. But don’t wait too long to check it out and put a bid in.

Remember, all bids and votes for your favs (except the one at The Tot) end Thursday night when the stores go dark.

Since its inception in 2011, the Stroll has provided more than $40,000 for area children in need through organizations like this year’s recipient Community Partners of Dallas.

* Graphic and photo courtesy of The Gingerbread Stroll

Under The Tuscan Sun*

And the news that Mad Hatters and their chapeau designers have been waiting for has just been revealed. 2017 Mad Hatter’s Tea Chair Linda Spina revealed that in keeping with the “Under the Tuscan Sun” theme, the following categories will be judged at the Dallas Arboretum on Thursday, April 27, for the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum fundraiser:

1. Molto Italiano (“Very Italian”) — Most True-to-Theme. Everything Tuscan, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the art treasurers of Florence to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and everything in between. 
2. Rachel’s Pick — Special guest Rachel Zoe’s favorite hat. The best of the best, from her point of view.
3. Bella Donna (“Beautiful Woman”) — Most Elegant. 
4. A Taste of Italy — The food and drink of Italy.  Wine, cheese, pasta, pizza and more!
5. Bellissima Botanical — Best Botanical. What would Mad Hatter’s at the Arboretum be without hats adorned with beautiful flowers?
6. Fellini’s Follies — Famed late Italian film director Federico Fellini always worked in a group. Best Group of Hats.
7. Mamma Mia! — Most Outlandish. Go wild!
8. Ciao Bella! (“Hello Beautiful”) — People’s Choice. The best of the best, as voted on by the attendees.

Now, get those glue guns warmed up and have a glass of France Mayes‘ Toccare le Stelle, while you’re at it.

When Mary Kay’s Inaugural Women’s Entrepreneurship Summit convened at the Fairmont on Friday, January 27, for an all-day crash course on business development and growth, they literally got more than an “earful” about innovative opportunities and success stories. In fact the day’s Pink Tank proved that point to the letter, thanks to Elyse Dickerson of Eosera, whose pitch had everyone listening. Here’s a report from the field:

Women’s Entrepreneurship Summit*

Two hundred women entrepreneurs attended the Inaugural Women’s Entrepreneurship Summit, presented by Mary Kay Inc. in partnership with the Dallas Entrepreneur Center (The DEC), on Friday, January 27, at the Fairmont Hotel.

As perhaps the #1 creator of women entrepreneurs in the world, Mary Kay designed the summit to convene experts and thought leaders to help encourage and inspire participants’ own business journey, and to provide them with the tools to take their company and themselves as a leader to the next level and stage of development and growth.

The day began with keynote speaker Gloria Mayfield Banks, Mary Kay Independent Elite National Sales Director in the United States, followed by three breakout sessions with the common thread of “Why Women Make Great Entreprenuers.” 

Breakout session*

Breakout speakers included Caytie Langford of Caytie Langford and Associates, Valerie Freeman of Imprimis Group, Mary Kay Independent Senior National Sales Director Cindy Williams, Mary Kay Independent Executive National Sales Director Stacy James, Yasmeen Tadia of Make Your Life Sweeter, private consultant Liz Marshall, Sheryl Chamberlain of Cap Gemini, Jill Scigliano of Dallas Entrepreneur Center and Mary Kay Independent National Sales Director Emeritus Karen Piro and Kristina Libby, S.W.C./SoCu.

Ingrid Vandervelt, Crayton Webb and Gloria Mayfield Banks*

The group then reconvened for a seated lunch and a keynote address by Ingrid Vandervelt, Founder and Chairman of Empowering a Billion Women by 2020, before enjoying afternoon breakout sessions designed around the theme “How to Become a Great Entrepreneur.” Afternoon breakout session speakers were entrepreneur/Junior League of Dallas representative Heather Bonfield, Mary Kay Inc. Chief Marketing Officer Sheryl Adkins-Green, Heather Capps of HCK2, Holly Mason of Mason Baronet, Jessica Nunez of True Point, Julia Taylor Cheek of Everly, Louise Kee of Golden Seeds, Cynthia Nevels of Integrality, Cristin Thomas of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses and Management Consulting’s Melissa Youngblood, LCC.

One of the highlights of the day followed, the Pink Tank business pitch session, with an all-star panel of judges: Sheryl Adkins-Green, The DEC Founder/CEO Trey Bowles, fashion designer/CEO Abi Ferrin, Mark Cuban Companies Director of Business Development Abe Minkara and City of Irving Mayor Beth Van Duyne.  Five women business owners vied for the chance to win $5,000 in startup money from the Dallas Entrepreneur Center, with Elyse Dickerson of Eosera taking home the prize.

Trey Bowles, Sheryl Adkins-Green, Elyse Dickerson, Beth Van Duyne, Abi Ferrin and Abe Minkara*

The day concluded with a “Champs and Candy” celebratory reception with champagne, cotton candy-infused sparkling water, and sweet and savory popcorn by Make Your Life Sweeter.

* Photo provided by Mary Kay Inc.

While the black-tie-optional Catholic Charities group was filling the Omni’s Dallas Ballroom on Saturday, January 28, nearly 320 more casual types were on the other side of downtown Dallas at the Perot Museum.

Tori Mannes and Bart Showalter

Joe Mannes and Michael Newman

The occasion was the Great Adventure Hunt benefiting ChidCareGroup and chaired by Erin Nealy Cox and Trey Cox and Nicole and Justin Small and presented by
Data Alliance. According to CCG President/CEO Tori Mannes, last year’s GAH wizard-behind-the-scenes/journalist Tom Shroder had begged off  this year, due to his writing two books. To seek a replacement puzzle strategist, Tori killed two birds with one stone. She asked past champ team members John Harris, Joe Mannes, Tom Nynas, Kemp Sawers and Elizabeth and Bart Showalter to create the puzzles for the night. Not only did she come up with some real insiders creating the evening’s challenges, she also allowed for a new team to score the top prize.

Wendy Moore Oglesby,, Peggy Allison, Edward Oglesby Gladys Kolenovsky and Lyda Hill

Rena Pederson

One of those vying for the trophy was the infamous Lyda Hill team (Peggy Allison, Gladys Kolenovsky, Wendy Moore Oglesby, Edward Oglesby and Rena Pederson), whose captain, Lyda, has played in every GAH except the very first one. In preparation for the evening, Lyda reported her team had met twice to strategize and to allow each of their strengths to shine. Lyda recalled that her team had won the competition “several times in a row, but not recently. We have to let others win!” she joked.

When asked about her upcoming Linz Award, Lyda admitted that she was truly taken by surprise. She was told about the honor over the phone while she was driving, and was caught totally speechless.

Doug Murray

On another subject, Lyda was asked why time and time again people think her middle name is “Hunt.” While her brother (Al Galatyn Hill Jr.) and sister (Alinda Hunt Hill Wikert) both have middle names, Lyda doesn’t. But she recalled that years ago, everyone was into monogramming. Since a great monogram had three letters, young Lyda gave herself a temporary “H” to fill the bill.

While the cocktail reception carried on in the Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall on the third level, production coordinator Doug Murray was preparing the acoustics for the dinner on the first level. Some guests didn’t recognize Doug. The reason? He’s lost 50 pounds—going from a 17 1/2 shirt-neck size to a 15 1/2—by exercising and eliminating soft drinks and breads from his diet. However, he admitted that on Sundays he may cheat and have a pizza. His goal is to lose 15 more pounds.

Fencing*

As for the competition, the puzzlemasters proved their worth.The very first challenge took place at the dinner tables with a round of Bingo, Then they were off and running with “puzzles featuring unique items such as edible clues, Mother Goose, a fencing match, ‘The Hokey Pokey’ and Twister. Some team solved the puzzles with ease, and other chose to receive extra hints.”

Tori Mannes, John Matthews, Kat Kunze, Suzanne Smith, Ben Mackey, Melanie Ferguson and Evgeniy Gentchev*

After the final team “crossed the finish line” and made it back to their tables for dessert and the results, it was team Matthews Southwest (John Matthews, Kat Kunze, Suzanne Smith, Ben Mackey, Melanie Ferguson and Evgeniy Gentchev) that not only took home the prize but also proved to have the distance in their effort. Boss John Matthews had flown in from Canada just to participate in the Hunt.

Other winners included the following:

From the left: (back row) Kathy Touchstone, Jenny Murphey and Jason Arneson; (front row) Kathryn Treece, Alyson Trout and Andrea English*

• Second place — Kick-Off Party Sponsor Pegasus Bank and Bright and Bright LLP (Kathy Touchstone, Jenny Murphey, Jason Arneson, Kathryn Treece, Alyson Trout and Andrea English.
• Third place — Meredith and Scott Wallace team
• Rookie team — Meredith and Scott Wallace team
• Best Team Name — Valet sponsor Roach Howard Smith and Barton for “Can’7 5OLV3 TH15”

* Photo provided by ChildCareGroup

The Dallas Museum of Art‘s current exhibition “Shaken, Styled, Stirred: The Art Of The Cocktail” provided the inspiration for more than a thousand guests to turn back the clocks on Saturday, February 4, to the Prohibition era. That’s when the right password provided access to the hottest speakeasy in town with music, dancing and naughty adult libations. Luckily, Prohibition is long gone, but the Hamon Atrium was as hot as a jazz baby. Here’s a report from the field:

The Dallas Museum of Art was transformed into a Prohibition-style speakeasy on Saturday, February 4, in celebration of the exhibition “Shaken, Styled, Stirred: The Art of the Cocktail,” an exhibition of cocktail ware from the late 19^th century through present day.

Speakeasy in the Hamon Atrium*

Over 1,200 guys and dolls like Gwen and Eddie Lee, Melanie Cooke, Allie and Michael Gillam, Stephanie Gregory, Danielle Wessman, Angela and Kevin Jackson, Maria and Richard Von Horvath, Monica Berry, Sarah Stockton, Holly Bosler, Molly Meyer, Gary Beach, Cassandra Davis, Caitlin and Akers Moore, Jessica and Harl Asaff, Alia Reiners, Linda Snorina, Jack Tosi and Maggie Luttrell arrived in their best roaring-20’s attire and entered through the Museum’s Hamon Atrium. The 18-piece band, the Singapore Slingers, provided the big-band sound as guests enjoyed gaming tables, “French 75” specialty cocktails with ROXOR gin, and a buffet featuring sliders, a fries station with choice of sweet potato fries, regular fries or tater tots served in cones with custom toppings, mini carrot cake and cheesecake bites, and strawberry mousse cups.

Akers and Caitlin Moore and Jessica and Harl Asaff*

Molly Meyer*

Alia Reniers and Linda Snorina*

Gwen and Eddie Lee and Melanie Cooke*

Attendees posed in the nearby photo booth or in in front of the mint-condition period cars from the Dallas Model A Ford Club, posting their mugs on social media with the dedicated #dmaspeakeasy. For those hitting the dance floor, The Rhythm Room instructors provided the steps to 20’s favorites, including the Fox Trot and Charleston.

For VIP’s, the Focus One Gallery provided the perfect Hideaway with DJ Souljah spinning jazz-age hits with a twist, a ROXOR Gin Garden, private gaming tables and dedicated dance instructors. The savory and sweet cocktail buffet featured house-cured Gravlax crostini, dill and mustard dressing, caprese stacks with balsamic and basil, beef and horseradish rolls, home smoked chicken and mango tortilla cups, chocolate mousse shooters, lemon curd tartlets and pineapple upside down cake bites.

Jane Aldridge*

Stephanie and Phillip Robinson*

Mid-way through the evening all the Gatsbys and molls gathered at the main stage for the announcement of the winners of the costume contest. Contest judge and celebrity blogger Jane Aldridge of the Sea of Shoes blog awarded “Best Flapper” to Stephanie Surratt, “Best Dapper Dan” to Bennett Allen and “Best Couple” to Stephanie and Phillip Robinson.

Stephanie Surratt*

Bennett and Katie Allen*

As the fun continued, attendees enjoyed the exhibition that inspired the celebration, “Shaken, Stirred, Styled: The Art of the Cocktail.” Featuring nearly sixty works, predominantly from the DMA’s extensive design holdings, the exhibition explores the culture of cocktails and the wares in which they are prepared and served. As well it follows the development of the modern cocktail from the late 19th century to the present day, tracing the stylistic reflections of the rituals of the cocktail’s preparation, presentation, and consumption. “Shaken, Stirred, Styled” features a range of objects, many of which are on view for the first time, including 19^th-century punch bowls, Prohibition-era cocktail shakers, and Art Deco and modern barware.

Before the night came to an end, partygoers gathered once more for the announcement of the winners of five fabulous raffle prizes:

• The Joule Hotel and Midnight Rambler Package: a one night get away in deluxe accommodations at The Joule Hotel with complimentary overnight valet parking and a $100-gift card for food and beverage at the premier craft cocktail bar, the Midnight Rambler.
• Fossil® Q Wander rose gold stainless+Q Marshal in brown leather
• Victor Tangos and Bella and Chloe: a $150 shopping spree at Bella & Chloe/Brethren Boutique and a $100 gift certificate to Victor Tangos, home to Rising Star Chef of the Year, Chef Kirstyn Brewer!
• Ultra-Luxe ROXOR Gin Experience: six tickets to a private curator tour through the Shaken, Stirred, Styled  Then, enjoy an exclusive ROXOR cocktail-making class, perched 19 floors above Klyde Warren Park and the DMA, in a private residence.
• Arts & Letters Live VIP Package for February 25^th event featuring with Jessi Klein, the Emmy and Peabody award-winning head writer and executive producer of Comedy Central’s critically acclaimed series “Inside Amy Schumer”
• Arts & Letters Live VIP package #2 for May 3^rd event, Happy Hour! A talk, cocktail sampling, and performance inspired by “Shaken, Stirred, Styled: The Art of the Cocktail.”

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Smith

Another state of “Sold Out” has been revealed. Friday night’s Recess at the Dallas Arboretum is a done deal. 

As for those predictions of stormy weather, they won’t be a problem because the NorthPark-sponsored Sandbox, games, spiked juice box and music provided by Prophets and Outlaws will all be safe and sound inside Rosine Hall.

Recess*

And no need to wear stuffy, grown-up attire. It will be strictly “schoolyard chic” (aka casual chic).

Benefiting and celebrating the 10th anniversary of Dallas AfterSchool, Event Co-Chairs Regina Merson and Robyn Siegel and Honorary Co-Chairs Tanya McDonald and Janet Mockovciak have arranged for the following sponsors:

• Capture the Flag ($25,000) – The Baldridge Foundation
• Simon Says ($10,000) – Lydia and William Addy, Baird, Strategic Wealth Partners/Colleen and Peter Bowler and Janet and John Mockovciak
• Red Rover ($5,000) – Anne and Terry Conner, Christina K. Hanger and Tanya and Ken McDonald
• Duck Duck Goose ($2,500) – Philip Theodore Bee Charitable Trust, Kristi and Brian Erickson, Cherri and Jack Musser, Cindy and Howard Rachofsky, Ernst and Young and Tenet Healthcare
• Four Square ($1,000) – Christy Bednar, Sheela and Marc Birnbaum, Kathi and Chris Child, Serena Simmons Connelly, Maria and Douglas Cramer, The Donachie Foundation, Laurie and Craig Dunn, Angela and Mark Frederiksen, Abby and Michael Gregory, Sarah Losinger, Christina and Tim Norris, Tricia and Eric Stammberger, Social Venture Partners Dallas, Stacy and Mack Hicks and The Fijolek Family
• Special Thanks and In-Kind Donors – Aimbridge Hospitality, BANCO, Cindy Ferris, Dallas Arboretum, Kent Rathbun Catering, LeForce Entertainment, Live Nation, McShan Florist, Microsoft, NorthPark Center, Paper City, Pop Parties, Topgolf, Yellow Rose Distilling and Housed Real Estate

* Graphic courtesy of Dallas AfterSchool

For some, auto-spell check has relieved some of the angst of getting words spelled correctly. But a group of area hotshots, they found themselves relying on their own gray matter to compete in the Reading Partners Spelling Bee on Wednesday, March 1, at City Performance Hall benefiting Reading Partners North Texas. Here’s a report from the field: 

What do Don Quixote, Pharrell Williams and Hermione Granger all have in common? Their names were each spelled (not necessarily correctly) by local celebrities at the 5^th Annual Reading Partners Celebrity Spelling Bee on Wednesday, March 1, at City Performance Hall. Following a cocktail reception, Co-Chairs Jenny and Loren Koziol kicked off the evening with powerful statistics about the current state of child literacy in North Texas before introducing emcees Katy Blakey and Kristi Nelson of NBC 5. Byron Sanders, Vice President of U.S. Trust, assumed his position as Official Spelling Bee Judge on stage shortly after. Then, one by one, the five teams entered the stage with hopes of being crowned spelling champions by the end of the competition. Each sponsored by a company or individual, the teams were divided as follows:

• Team Neiman Marcus — Brandon Carr of the Dallas Cowboys; Tyrone Crawford of the Dallas Cowboys; and Jennifer Lassiter, Vice President of Internal Corporate Communications at Neiman Marcus
• Team EY — Ryan Burke, partner at Ernst And Young; Lesley McCaslin, Fox Sports reporter; and Dr. Kent Scribner, Superintendent of Fort Worth ISD
• Team U.S. Trust — Tiffany Bias of the Dallas Wings; DJ Poizon Ivy, DJ for Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Wings; and Janet Ryan, Managing Director and Private Client Advisor at U.S. Trust
• Team Mike And Mary Terry — Bill DeOre, former editorial cartoonist at The Dallas Morning News; Michelle Staubach Grimes, children’s author; and Mary Terry, co-founder of The Mike And Mary Terry Family Foundation
• Team Vinson And Elkins — John Coleman, Executive Chef and Owner of Savor and Relish; Jim Meyer, partner at Vinson And Elkins; and Cary Pierce of Jackopierce.

From the left: (back row) John Coleman, Jim Meyer, Kent Scribner, Ryan Burke, Kristi Nelson, Mary Terry, Bill DeOre, Brandon Carr and his children; (middle row) Byron Sanders, Cary Pierce, Lesley McCaslin, Jennifer Lassiter, Tiffany Bias, Janet Ryan, DJ Poizon Ivy and her daughter; (front row) Katy Blakey, Jenny Koziol, Michelle Staubach Grimes, Tyrone Crawford, Byron Jones*

Just before the competition kicked off, Dallas Cowboy Byron Jones joined Team Neiman Marcus from the crowd as a surprise last-minute addition. The spelling bee then began with one practice round, but not before each team purchased passes for $1,000 each to be used in case they got stumped. Words were pulled from one of multiple categories, such as pop culture, literature or geography. After six or seven rounds—and all passes used on difficult words—a winning team rose to the top. When Team U.S. Trust misspelled the word ‘bourgeoisie,’ Team EY became the 2017 Reading Partners Celebrity Spelling Bee Champions. After posing for a photo with their trophies, the winning team joined their defeated opponents to mingle with guests across the street at Jorge’s during the after party.

Team EY may have taken home trophies, but Reading Partners was the real winner of the evening. The Celebrity Spelling Bee raised $155,000, which supports Reading Partners’ proven child literacy intervention program. In addition to each team sponsor, the event was made possible by Holly Energy Partners, AZZ Inc., Topgolf, Make It Count Family Foundation, Bandera Ventures, Downtown Dallas Inc., ExxonMobil, Frost Bank, Industrial Valuation Services, The Hoglund Foundation, Oncor, Price Waterhouse Cooper and TIER REIT.

* Photo provided by Reading Partners North Texas

Perhaps the Community Partners of Dallas brain trust realized that adults were envious of the organization’s annual “Change Is Good” providing a plethora of kid-oriented activities in the fall. After all, that bounce house and bungee jumping looked pretty inviting even in wet weather.

The CPD Young Friends Group came up with the perfect solution — yCPD Field Day in 2012. It had teams of six competing in three-legged and wheelbarrow relay races. Overtime, the activities got more off-the-wall as the number of teams grew.

Jennifer Myers (File photo)

Hershey Kiss Relay (File photo)

Booty Shaking (File photo)

Word just arrived from yCPD Field Day Co-Chairs Tanner Hartnett and Crystal Lightbody that this year’s games will return to The Rustic from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 13, with KDFW red-curled meteorologist Jennifer Myers emceeing. In addition to the grown-up libations and live music, the competition will be just made for people watching. Just imagine trying to unwrap a Hershey’s kiss wearing mittens!

According to insiders, game-mistresses Paige McDaniel and Joanna Clarke are threatening to come up with some new outlandish games just made for cell-photoing.

Sponsorships start at $500 and teams are $350.

Under The Tuscan Sun*

Mad Hatter’s Tea 2017 Chair Linda Spina is going “green” with the announcement of the eighth judge for the “Under The Tuscan Sun” theme chapeau competition at the Dallas Arboretum on Thursday, April 27.

Hold on to your hats! It’s Kori Green. In addition to being a jewelry designer, an attorney and pretty darn cute, she’s also the wife of Grammy-nominated country singer/songwriter Pat Green and mom to their two kiddos Kellis Green and Rainey Green.

She got in the jewelry designing business while studying law at the University of Texas Law School. It provided her with a creative outlet. In addition to her professional activities and community involvement, she and Pat established the Pat Green Foundation.

Kori won’t be the only “greenie” in the judging line up for the eight categories. She’ll be joining Klyde Warren Park President Tara Green plus celebrity judge Rachel Zoe, restaurateurs Lynae Fearing and Tracy Rathbun (a judge team), Kerrently website editor Courtney Kerr, Kidd’s Kids CEO/Chief Happiness Officer Caroline Kraddick, fragrance guru Niven Morgan and Dallas First Lady Micki Rawlings.

Tickets for the annual eye-popping fundraiser for the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum are available here.

* Graphic provided by 2017 Mad Hatter's Tea

Mad Hatters Tea (File photo)

It seems that Mad Hatters Tea Chair Linda Spina and Vice-Chair Sharla Bush weren’t able to hunt for Easter eggs over the weekend. They were too busy checking the headcount for the Thursday, April 27^th fundraiser for the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum.

The results? They discovered that the “Tea is officially sold out.”

Does that mean it’s really, truly a done deal? True, the “buy tickets” links aren’t going to do much good, but there’s still hope. So, before putting away that Easter bonnet, send Sue Ringle an email and see if she can squeeze you in.

Sharla Bush

The MySweetCharity weather elves have been monitoring the wet conditions, since they were knocked out of their bunk beds this morning. The question was: “What about Thursday’s Mad Hatter’s Tea‘s ‘Under The Tuscan Sun’ at the Dallas Arboretum?”

After reviewing the various scientific resources, they turned to their reliable Ouija boards. Their decision: The rains should be history with the sun shining by the time the cars filled with hatted folks arrive.

That’s the good news for the sold-out Dallas Arboretum fundraiser.

The not-most-marvelous-news is that the temperatures will be in the upper 60s and a tad bit chilly for sundresses… unless they’re under cashmere coats.

It’s a little ironic, actually. Thursday’s forecast for Tuscany, Italy, predicts a 70% change of rain with temperatures in the low 60s. Mamma mia!

Cathy Vieth and Shane Walker

It’s that event of the year in which creative juices are let loose resulting in jaw-dropping expressions by passersby. Benefiting the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum, the Mad Hatter’s Tea has become a feast for gawkers and showboaters.

Amber Griffin’s hat

On Thursday, April 27, “Under The Tuscan Sun” had some of the guests’ chapeaus reaching for Old Sol at the Arboretum, while others looked like an Italian platter had taken residence on their heads. Mamma mia!

While the post is being prepared, check out the hats and faces at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

While former Park Cities society writer Agness Robertson was being feted in the air-conditioned surroundings of The Reserve for her turning the century mark on Saturday, May 20, 126 millennial types were shaking their booties at The Rustic for the Community Partners of Dallas’ yCPD Field Day.

Puzzle Relay

Face the Cookie

Face The Cookie

Wheel Barrow Relay

Needless to say, the attire was strictly lightweight cottons, shorts and tank tops accessorized with sunglasses, baseball caps, sneakers and tattoos. Checked at the door, or rather the registration table, was any type of dignity as some of the ten games (Egg Race, Wheel Barrow Relay, Booty Shaker, Gatorade Flip Cup, Suck it Up, Puzzle Relay, Face the Cookie, Noodle Toss, pin the “y” on the yCPD and Social Media station, where all team members had to send out a selfie or team photo with the signature hashtag of the day – #ycpdfieldday) required some unusual physical requirements in the competition.

Suck It Up

Suck It Up

Booty Shaker

Gatorade Flip Cup

Pin The “Y” on yCPD

How about some examples? There was Face the Cookie requiring individuals to flip an Oreo cookie from their foreheads to their mouths. The Suck It Up having team members with straws maneuvering up M&Ms from the table into bowls. Pin the Y on yCPD had blindfolded competitors spun around and then trying to pin a “Y” on the yCPD banner with a little coaching from a fellow teammate. And, of course, The Booty Shaker proved to be the one where swiveling hips was a plus. With tissue boxes tied to the back of the waist, the goal was to jiggle, wiggle and move the white ball out of the box onto the ground.

DJ McCrae and Sonia Azad

KDFW meteorologist Jennifer Myers, who has handled the emcee duties in the past had to bailed at the last minute due to reschedule eye surgery. No problem. WFAA health reporter Sonia Azad stepped in looking pretty darn adorable and was a real trooper.

Paige McDaniel and Haley Urschel

With DJ McCrae providing the music to keep things cool despite the heat, Community Partners of Dallas President/CEO Paige McDaniel, HaleyUrschel, CPD VP of Development and Communications Joanna Clarke, Co-Chairs Crystal Lightbody and Tanner Hartnett, who brought along baby Bode Hartnett, were having a great time just watching the action.

Tanner Hartnett, Bode Hartnett and Crystal Lightbody

Of the 19 teams of  six in the opening competition, the top ten teams competed in the quarterfinals’ “Present Yourself” relay, which “had one team member moving down the field as their teammates wrapped them in wrapping paper, added ribbon, then a bow and finally a gift tag, to identify the top 5 teams.

“After a tight competition, 5 teams were declared the winners and prepared to compete in the Three-Legged Race.   With decisive wins, teams ‘Beer Pressure,’ a runner-up last year, and ‘Geriatric Millennials’ took the top two spots to compete for the title of ‘yCPD Field Day 2017 Champion.’

Hungry Hungry Hippo*

“The final competition was also new – a classic game of Hungry Hungry Hippo, but with a twist, people.  With two members from each team serving as the ‘hippo’ and collecting balls as their teammates pushed them on a scooter, it was a race to see who could collect the most balls first.  

From the left: (front) Haley Urschel, Crystal Lighbody, Tara Callahan, Tanner Hartnett, Sonia Azad; (back) Katie McDaniel, Katie Sears, Caroline McDaniel and Ian Hayashi*

“The competition was close, but team ‘Beer Pressure’ came away with the win. Team ‘Beer Pressure’ included team members Katie McDaniel, Tara Callahan, Haley Urschel, Caroline McDaniel, Katie Sears and Ian Hayashi. Each member of the championship team received a massage at COREHealth Wellness Center, a gift card to The Container Store, a 2-week pass and swag bag from Orange Theory Fitness and a commemorative trophy.”

Sponsors for the event included:

• Qualifying Rounds Sponsors ($5,000) — APEX Clearing;
• Red Ribbon Runner Up ($1,000) – Brunswick Group; McGuire, Craddock & Strother, P.C.; Riveron Consulting; and Rodney and Linda Tow;
• White Ribbon Honorable Mention ($500) – Anistos Gobal; Greg Beane of Verner Brumley Mueller Parker; Embassy Suites Dallas Park Central; Longvista Consulting, LLC; Paige McDaniel; Orangetheory Fitness; Premier Transportation Services; and
• DJ Sponsor – COREhealth Wellness Center.

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron