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The Inspiration Of A Girl’s Grandparents Lives At The Cotton Bowl To Support The Battle Against Alzheimer’s

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It was nearly 20 years ago that a teenager faced a daunting problem — her beloved grandmother, Mimi Schendle, was changing and not for the better. Over the next decade, the teenager watched her family helplessly assist Mimi’s journey into the web of Alzheimer’s. Like most diseases, this one doesn’t just impact the patient alone. It hits each member of the family. In this case, the girl’s grandfather, JosephJoe-Joe” Schendle, compassionately and tirelessly cared for his wife, as their children and grandchildren supported the elderly couple.

When Mimi died in 2008, the now 20-something decided she was going to find a way to provide funding for research to battle the disease that had touched all ages of her family. Being in the marketing business, she decided to undertake a project that would involve others her age. But to do that it had to be something that was fun while also fundraising. She had heard about a powder-puff football game that had raised some money in Washington, D.C., for Alzheimer’s. That seemed like a good idea, but fundraising vets were skeptical of her plan.

Perhaps it was the fact that she hadn’t faced such a major task like that before that she charged ahead with only the goal in her mind. The reality of the logistics hadn’t really set in that first year. Her 14-year-old sister ran the scoreboard and her close buddy Greer Fulton was quarterback for one side. And, of course, the soaring August heat made more than mascara melt. But she was driven by the memory of the previous ten years, and she had friends. Those two ingredients resulted in the first Blondes vs. Brunettes football game in 2008.

Blondes enter the field (File photo)

Brunettes enter the field (File photo)

Over the next ten years, there were changes. The name was changed to BvB Dallas. The location of the game moved all over (Griggs Field, Highland Park High School’s Highlander Stadium, SMU’s Wescott Field, Bishop Lynch’s Roffino Stadium) and finally in 2014 to its present scene at the Cotton Bowl. Some years the Blondes won. Some years the Brunettes did. Through personal experiences, it was also learned that Alzheimer’s was not limited to the elderly.

Ebby Halliday and Dan Branch (File photo)

As some players aged out, others came on board to practice all summer. And the nets changed, too, resulting in the following:

  • 2008 — $65,000
  • 2009 — $151,000
  • 2010 — $207,000
  • 2011 — $260,000
  • 2012 — $340,000
  • 2013 — $351,000
  • 2014 — $441,000
  • 2015 — $491,000
  • 2016 — $564,000

But there were also constants, like the late Ebby Halliday and her real estate empire, Bud Light and The Ticket coming and staying on board. 

And there was the girl, who was now a 33-year-old married lady, who had a full-time job at the Dallas Mavericks as Corporate Communications and Events Director. But she hadn’t ended her involvement in the event that had handed over more than $2.8M for Alzheimer’s programs.

Greer Fulton, Jay Finegold and Erin Finegold (File photo)

On Saturday, August 12, plans call for the game to pass the $3M mark and provide this year’s funds to the Baylor AT&T Memory Center, the Center for BrainHealth, UT Southwestern Medical Center, and the Center for Vital Longevity. And once again, BvB Dallas Founder/Mimi’s and Joe-Joe’s granddaughter Erin Finegold White will be on the sidelines at the Cotton Bowl and on the frontline in the war against Alzheimer’s.


The Conner Gals And Julie Bagley Will Bring The Inner Child Out For Dallas Afterschool’s Annual Recess At The Dallas Arboretum In March

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Even in the oldest codger, there is a kid just looking for an excuse to get out. Sure, doing a cartwheel may be out of the game plan, but there are other activities that are just too good to resist. And those activities and food groups will be part of 2017 Recess according to Event Co-Chairs Anne Conner and her daughter-in-law Ryan Conner, who will be joined by Honorary Chair /former Co-Chair/Recess Co-Founder Julie Bagley.

Ryan Conner and Anne Conner (File photo)

Julie Bagley (File photo)

The trio has arranged to have the Dallas After School fundraiser at the Dallas Arboretum’s Rosine Hall on Friday, March 23. If you’ve ever been to Recess, the you just know it will be a total kid event for big kids with a night of music, games, food, and adult juice boxes. And even the most gelled nails will be digging in Recess Sandbox for prizes galore.

Recess*

While school uniforms will not be the dress of the night, neither will business attire. This one is strictly comfy clothes.

Proceeds will support Dallas Afterschool’s mission “to improve the quality and availability of afterschool and summer programs in our community.”  Sponsorships are available now!

*Graphic courtesy of Dallas Afterschool

 

 

MySweetCharity Opportunity: 11th Annual Hold’Em For Heroes

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According to 11th Annual Hold’Em for Heroes Co-Chairs Mandy-Lu Ristow and Jo Trizila,

Fall is right around the corner, which means it’s time to put on your poker face and save your seat at the table for the 

11th Hold’Em for Heroes Poker Tournament*

and live auction. Guests are invited to experience three hours of competitive poker playing, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, an open bar and dinner. Tables are run by professional dealers and re-buys are available throughout the evening. Each player will be given their first set of chips and back by popular demand, there will be a sit and go table for those who want to try again after playing out. The top ten winners will choose between a variety of fabulous prizes from trips to gift baskets to sporting event packages. This year’s event will be held at Brook Hollow Golf Club on Thursday, November 2.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Heroes for Children – a unique nonprofit that provides financial and social assistance to Texas families with children battling cancer.

No one plans for their child to have cancer. A cancer diagnosis is expensive in every way and impacts the entire family. Heroes for Children works to alleviate financial pressure by covering immediate financial needs including paying rent and mortgages, transportation costs to and from treatment, costs of hospital visits and, in some cases, even funeral expenses.

The Hold’Em for Heroes event has gotten bigger and better each year. We rely on generous donors, community partnerships and participants at annual fundraising events including Hold’Em for Heroes to support Texas families with children battling cancer.

Texans have always been known for their generosity, and for this along with the 4,500 families we have served, we are forever grateful. We could not do what we do without the time, talent and treasures of the generous people of Texas – whose hearts are as big as our great state.

To purchase a ticket, sponsor the event or for more information about Hold’Em for Heroes please visit, www.heroesforchildren.org/dallasholdem.

*Graphic courtesy of Heroes for Children

Nasher Prize Reveal Draws Dallas Art Lovers To The Warehouse With Rave Reviews

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Nothing can keep art lovers from a new breaking occasion, not even rush hour traffic around the Galleria. So, the Mercedes and Bentleys made their way through the jam fest on Tuesday, September 19, to The Warehouse just beyond the LBJ-Dallas North Tollway square dance.

And what was the draw for the usual Dallas proper artsy types to venture away from their comfort zone? It was the announcement of the third annual Nasher Prize Laureate. The selection had been made by a jury of international collection of art experts.

And even if one didn’t know the difference between a chalk drawing on a sidewalk and a Henry Moore, it was worth the drive just to see the crowd.

Derek and Christen Wilson

Elaine Agather and David Haemisegger and Nancy Nasher

Nasher Prize Co-Chairs Christen and Derek Wilson were works of sculpture beauty just by their presence. In a side room presenting sponsor JPChase/Morgan’s Elaine Agather was chatting with Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger. When asked about the possibility of one of Nancy’s and David’s kids carrying on the Nasher tradition in retailing and philanthropy, Nancy smiled and said, “That’s a possibility.”

Nancy Rogers and Sharon Young

Thomas Hartland-Mackie

Don Glendenning, Mary McDermott and Kern Wildenthal

Donald Fowler

Mike Granberry

Christopher Wynn

Snapshots around the room: Nancy Rogers in a denim jacket with Sharon Young and Cindy Rachofsky… Journalists Mike Granberry, Christina Geyer, Christopher Wynn and Tim Rogers taking note of the surroundings and announcements… Donald Fowler has just taken over the Nasher Sculpture Center’s retail store…and others like Nick Even, Mary McDermott Cook with Dan Patterson, Kern Wildenthal, Suzanne McGee, Carol and Don Glendenning and Thomas Hartland-Mackie, who reported that wife Nasiba Hartland-Mackie was in London and he was batching it with their three-year-old.

Jeremy Strick

Promptly, as promised, the announcement was made by Nasher Sculpture Center Director Jeremy Strick at 7 p.m. Drum roll — Chicago artist Theaster Gates will receive the Nasher Prize and its $100,000 on Saturday, April 7, at the Nasher Sculpture Center. The announcement was greeted with a thunderous wave of shouts and applause.

Alas, when it came to toasting the decision, Jeremy raised his glass. Only a scant few followed his lead. It wasn’t because the others didn’t want to. They just didn’t have glasses in hand.

For more pictures of the people in for the announcement, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

SPCA’s Bark + Build Housewarming Had Guests In The Christmas Duds And “Home For The Holidays” Doghouses Barking For Attention

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NorthPark Center may be entering the real estate business. In the summer, there’s Dallas CASA’s Parade of Playhouses and now the SPCA of Texas is staking claim on housing. With guests like Ken Risser, Heather Nelson, Carolyn and David Kubes, Teresa and William Vit, Andi Cohen and Kim Sheldon in full Christmas attire, the Bark + Build Housewarming kicked off Home For The Holidays 2017 on Sunday, November 19. But these houses weren’t for two-legged munchkins. Think smaller and four-legged types. Here is a report from the field:

Ken Risser and Heather Nelson*

Carolyn and David Kubes*

William and Teresa Vit*

Andi Cohen and Kim Sheldon*

Tacky holiday sweaters were on display in all of their glory as designers, architects, socialites, friends of the SPCA of Texas and members of the American Institute of Architects of Dallas (AIA Dallas) and TEXO, The Construction Association jingled and mingled to kick off Home for the Holidays 2017 at the Bark + Build Housewarming Party on Bark + Build Lane at NorthPark Center on Sunday, November 19, at 6 p.m.

James Bias and Kristen Greenberg*

A plethora of delectable delicacies from the sweet to the savory and bubbly beverages were served. The evening’s superb staffing was provided thanks to KMG Events and Kristen Greenberg

Between grooving to the spunkiest holiday beats, provided by LeForce Entertainment, guests strolled the first floor between Dillard’s and Macy’s at NorthPark Center to view the 24 custom-made dog houses that were created especially for the Bark + Build luxury Doghouse Design/Build Competition and display portion of Home for the Holidays, which kicked off November 13. These one-of-a-kind dog houses on display and up for auction at the Housewarming party, were designed and built by AIA Dallas and TEXO, The Construction Association members, and were there until Sunday, December 3.

Vincelee Stevens, Kenna Hogan, Quinn Hogan and Jeremy Hogan*

SPCA of Texas VP for Communications Maura Davies began the awards ceremony for the Bark + Build awards by welcoming the more than 350 guests to Bark + Build Lane and sharing the SPCA of Texas’ mission to provide every animal exceptional care and a loving home and to rescue. Davies expressed the SPCA of Texas’s gratitude to NorthPark Center’s Lona Crabb, Billy Hines, Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger, as well as AIA Dallas and TEXO, The Construction Association for their generous support, creativity and friendship. She also highlighted the SPCA of Texas’ efforts to heal and find homes for thousands of animals each year through its adoption, spay/neuter and wellness services and animal cruelty investigations and of course the Home for the Holidays event. Then, Jeremy Hogan with Sedalco Construction Services and Mary Butler, Associate at FKP Architects, introduced all of the award winners for Bark + Build. 

Adela Craddock, Macy Craddock and Phillip Craddock*

All entries for the Bark + Build Doghouse Design/Build Competition were judged on both design and construction quality by a jury panel previous to the Housewarming event. This panel included Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Board Member and former SPCA of Texas Board Member Mary Spencer, Crescent Real Estate Senior Construction Manager Miguel Villareal, DPR Construction HR Manager Monica Jacobs, Modern Luxury Texas Editor-in-Chief Rhonda Reinhart, BKD LLP Senior Associate Dustin Clanton, Craddock Architecture owner Phillip Craddock and VCA Central Expressway Animal Hospital’s Dr. Troy Cobb.

Awards presented include:

  • Best in Show (1st place): D2 Architecture with Suffolk for b•ARX;
  • Hot Dog Award (runner up): FKP Architects and Campos Engineering with Skanska for The Doggy Paddle;
  • Teacup Pup Award: GSR Andrade and TLC Engineering with Rogers-O’Brien Construction for WinneBarco Mini Trailer;
  • Big Dog Award: VLK Architects and Cadence McShane Construction for Bird Dog Blind; and
  • Enviro Dog Award: DLR Group | Staffelbach with MAPP for Wag On Inn.

These winning houses were auctioned live at the Housewarming party by Auctioneer Logan Thomas and all other houses were up for silent auction the same night. The auctions raised more than $8,000.

Larry and Joan Rogers*

Additionally, it was announced that voting was open for the final award, People’s Choice, in the Bark + Build Luxury Dog House Competition at NorthPark Center!

Home for the Holidays sponsors include Presenting Sponsor: Dr. Larry and Joan Rogers; Event Sponsors: Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Guaranty Bank and Trust, Kroger and the North Texas Cheddarheads; Hospitality Sponsors: Barefoot Wine and Bubbly, Heineken USA and Central Market; Dog House and Kennel Sponsors: Katy Trail Animal Hospital, North Texas Honda Dealers, Lord Green Strategies, Stand Up and Paint, Hollywood Feed and CareNow; Media Sponsor: CultureMap; and Entertainment Sponsor: LeForce Entertainment.

All money raised will go towards the SPCA of Texas’ important mission to rescue, heal, and find loving homes for homeless animals. So far, the Bark + Build portion of Home for the Holidays has raised more than $77,000 including sponsorships and auction.

*Photo credit: Thomas Garza Photography

JUST IN: 2018 Mad Hatter’s Tea Chair Venise Stuart Reveals Categories for Annual Head-Turning Competition At The Dallas Arboretum

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Venise Stuart (File photo)

2018 Mad Hatter’s Tea Chair Venise Stuart has put her thinking cap on and just revealed the categories for “A Garden By The Sea” on Thursday, April 12, at the Dallas Arboretum.

What’s the big deal? Well, until the categories are announced, hat designers and guests don’t have a clue how to create heady masterpieces in the hopes of winning one of the categories at the Women’s Council ofthe Dallas Arboretum’s 30th annual fundraiser.

So, start your creative juices flowing and pick which of the following categories will be your “headliner:”

Barbara Bigham (File photo)

  • All That Jazz (Best Group of four or more): Men may participate in this one very special category with or without women in the group.
  • To The Nines (People’s Choice): The best of the best as voted by the attendees.
  • Elegance of Earlier Days (Most Sophisticated): Grace, elegance and whimsy.
  • Gilded Age (True to Theme): Everything from the era of the Astors, Vanderbilts, and Gettys.
  • Grace And Folly (Most Creative): Shells and pearls, stepping out.
  • Peacocks On Parade (Best Botanical): Hats adorned with beautiful flowers. According to one source, this one should be flowers, not feathers. That’s probably because 2016’s “What Was She Thinking” winner Barbara Bigham cornered the market on plucked peacocks.

Venise is holding back on naming the judges right now, but stay tuned.

In the meantime, get those glue guns burning and get your seat for the Jan Strimple-produced fashion show featuring Tootsies fashions with Jocelyn White as emcee.

A Woman’s Garden (File photo)

Proceeds from the event “continues to develop and maintain A Woman’s Garden, the only public garden in the nation built by women and dedicated to the universal spirit of women.”

After Last Year’s Blowout, Dallas Museum Of Art’s Hamon Atrium Will Once Again Become A Speakeasy Complete With VIP Bootleggers Den

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Last year’s inaugural Speakeasy Party in the Hamon Atrium at the Dallas Museum of Art had a pretty impressive turnout for a first time event — 1,200 guys and dolls! It was to celebrate the DMA’s “Shaken, Style, Stirred” exhibition.

2017 Speakeasy in the Hamon Atrium*

Such fundraising success demanded an encore and that one-night-only 2018 Speakeasy will take place once again at the DMA on Saturday, February 24, starting at 8 p.m.

While production guru Todd Fiscus will provide the setting in the Atrium, don’t be surprised to see fun-loving flappers and dapper dandies dress up the place with Prohibition-era attire for a competition to be judged by Kara and Lil of Dallasites201.

Akers and Caitlin Moore and Jessica and Harl Asaff*

Alia Reniers and Linda Snorina*

Bennett and Katie Allen*

Alas, the “Shaken, Style, Stirred” collection won’t be around, there will be plenty to make up for its absence. For instance, there will craft cocktails, the 18-piece band “The Singapore Singers, dance instructors, novelty gaming tables, admission to galleries, a scavenger hunt throughout the DMA’s collection to “Track Down the Bootleggers” and, of course, a photo booth. What would a party be without one!

The raffle is such a deal. The prize is a one-night stay at The Joule Hotel in deluxe accommodations complete with complimentary overnight valet parking and a $100 gift card for food and beverages at the hotel’s underground Midnight Rambler. Each chance is going for a buck. Yup! That’s right. Just one little old dollar.

Tickets for DMA Members at $70 and $85 for the general public. In addition to getting access to the festivities, the tickets will include two drink tickets, live entertainment, dance instructors, gaming tables and buffets.

Ah, but for those highrollers seeking the perks of VIP-ism, there will be the exclusive VIP Bootleggers Den with open bars, hors d’oeuvres, exclusive lounge seating, reserved wait staff, private novelty gaming tables, special photo ops, dedicated dance instructors and live entertainment. The limited number of VIP tickets are going for $100 for DMA members and $150 for the public. Once again membership pays off!

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Smith

Dallas Cowboys War Room At The Star Was The Scene Of Chef Tiffany Derry Serving Up KidLinks’ Symphony Of Chefs Draft

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Jerry Jones‘ legendary War Room at Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters was the location for another big draft on Tuesday, January 23. It was the site of KidLinksSymphony of Chefs pick chefs for the annual fundraiser that will be held on Monday, February 26 at Sixty Five Hundred. Here’s a report from the field:

When your chef selection is set to be conducted draft style, what better location than the state-of-the-art War Room at the newly opened Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, The Star, to conduct it in. And that’s exactly what happened on the evening of Tuesday, January 23, as VIP sponsors and patrons gathered for a private party to select their table chefs for the 8th Annual Symphony of Chefs benefiting KidLinks. 

Tiffany Derry*

Hosted by The Dallas Cowboys And Legends Hospitality, the 2018 VIP Patron And Chef Selection party paid homage to the upcoming draft that Jerry Jones and his team will soon be conducting for the fall football season. But this time Tiffany Derry from Bravo TV “Top Chef All-Stars and Top Chef Junior” fame led the charge in conducting a 23 table and chef selection event.

As guests including Ann and J.W. Brown, Aimee and Adam Hall, Mike Dollar and wife Karen and Founding Event Co-Chairs Bonnie and Nathan Shea began to gather in the stunning grand atrium of The Star for VIP guided tours, they were immediately enamored by the dancing LED sculpture by artist Leo Villareal taking selfies and Instagram videos for their social media followers to see. 

John Kleifgen and UnoImmanivong*

Following the early tour that lasted about 45 minutes and still didn’t cover all of the history, memorabilia and art in the building guests made their way to The Training Table event space for much needed cocktails featuring Tequila Sheela and J.R. Ewing Bourbon. They were greeted with passed appetizers by Executive Chef Orazio Lamana that even included two select Whole30 items for those guests partaking in the health-craze sweeping the nation. As more guests and chefs arrived including Fitzgerald Dodd, former The Cedar’s Social executive chef now turned private chef Justin Box, Anastacia Quiñones of Oddfellows and Nick And Sam’s Steakhouse newest executive chef John Kleifgen, you could tell everyone was anxious to be selected but eager to get the evening started.  A preview booklet of each chefs menu floated around the room from guest to guest and you could hear the chatter from table hosts about who they might select and which menus sounded the most enticing.

Diana Crawford*

Just before the program began, the queen of steaks as she’s called, Dee Lincoln and her executive chef T.J. Lengnick left a packed restaurant and walked over from her namesake Dee Lincoln Prime to join in the evening’s fun. Following a few words of welcome, a story about a recent KidLinks client family by CEO Diana Crawford, some praises given to the many sponsors in the room and recognition of the 29 participating chefs that give of their time and talents, it was now time for the draft! Yet sponsors had no clue what was about to happen.

Grand Atrium*

As they were guided through the building, up a set of marble stairs and down a short hallway, the sponsors soon found out that they were headed to the infamous War Room. A place where lives are changed forever when they get “the call”, the War Room was set-up for each sponsor representative to pick who would be cooking on Monday, February 26, at Sixty Five Hundred for their table of 10 guests. With chef pictures on one side and sponsor names on the other, the interactive video wall that covered the entire front wall was set-up for a selection experience that sponsors would soon not forget. The fun was just beginning. Meanwhile, a live video feed soon appeared on the screens where the remaining guests and chefs in the event space could see and hear everything going on in the room where it happens. 

Draft in the War Room*

Soon after explaining how the draft would be handled, a rousing banter among chefs, guests and sponsors commenced. There were even financial challenges and draft seats being given up raising an extra $5K+ on the spot for the charity. With the first draft pick being “purchased” by Honorary Chair Faye C. Briggs’ son, Mike Montgomery (who also happens to be serving as Event Chair with his wife Vinette Montgomery), the first chef selected was celebrity chef Ken Patrick best known for his appearance on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen. The draft continued with selections including Tre Wilcox, Gorji from Canary by Gorji, Joanne Bondy from Stocks and Bondy plus 20 plus other featured dinner chefs until all chefs were selected.

Georgia and Marc Lyons and Vinette and Mike Montgomery*

As the evening came to an end, it was clear that Vinette and Mike along with their Co-Chairs Georgia and Marc Lyons had scored a touchdown with the VIP Patron party. Talks about how to top it next year were well under way, but until the 26th of February comes and goes the focus was on selling two more additional tables. So the event chairs work wasn’t done yet and table hosts had some work to do by figuring out whom they wouldn’t be inviting to dine with them in February.

For more information about KidLinks and the Symphony of Chefs evening of culinary composition event and the participating chefs visit www.thekidlinks.org./soc.html.

* Photo credit: Thomas Garza

JUST IN: 2018 Mad Hatter’s Tea Judges Announced

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Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum President Melissa Lewis and Mad Hatter’s Tea Chair Venise Stuart just announced the judges for the chapeau competition at Tootsies.

Melissa Lewis (File photo)

Venise Stuart (File photo)

The collection of judges includes the following: Patti Flowers of Patti Flowers Design Studio, Lee Fuqua of Duckworth Vodka, Empress Gilbert of Empressive GeoDesigns, 2013 Miss Texas/2013 Miss America 5th Runner Up Ali Nugent, WFAA’s “Good Morning Texas” Co-Host Alanna Sarabia, Chef John Tesar of Knife and Knife Burgers and Joe Vilaiwan of Vilaiwan Fine Jewelry.

Patti Flowers (File photo)

John Tesar (File photo)

So get that gray matter reeling and/or designer designing to compete in one of the six categories that include:

  • All That Jazz – Best Group (4 or more).  Men may participate in this one very special category with or without women in the group.
  • To the Nines: People’s Choice: The Best of the Best as voted by the attendees.
  • Elegance of Earlier Days: Most Sophisticated: Grace, Elegance and Whimsy.
  • Gilded Age: True to Theme: Everything from the era of the Astors, Vanderbilts, Gettys.
  • Grace and Folly: Most Creative: Shells and Pearls, Stepping Out.
  • Peacocks on Parade: Best Botanical: Hats adorned with beautiful flowers.

And even if you don’t have competition in your DNA, remember that the theme is “A Garden By The Sea.”

P.S. – While you’re racking your head about what to put on it, don’t forget to get your reservation for the fundraiser benefiting the Dallas Arboretum on Thursday, April 12.

A Gentle Reminder: Beware Greenville Avenue Starting Friday Afternoon

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade And Festival*

After recovering from the daylight saving time adjustment this past weekend, there’s another challenge this weekend for those living on the east side of “the pond (i.e. Central Expressway).” The backbone of East Dallas roads known as Greenville Avenue will be flooded with green. People, floats and pets will be fill the roadway starting early in the morning for the 39th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade And Festival presented by the Dallas Mavericks.

To prepare for the expected crowd of 125,000+, the more than 90 floats and local son/actor Burton Gilliam as the grand marshal, organizers, city workers and beer trucks will begin preparing for the tsunami starting Friday afternoon with portable toilets, barriers and “refreshments.”

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival (File photo)

Oldtimers know that if they have any errands or business in the upper Greenville Avenue area from Blackwell to Yale/SMU Boulevard, they’d better plan on getting it done Friday morning.

On the other hand, for those who love to party and have worked on their tans over spring break, consider walking, cycling, Ubering or DARTing to the area. Parking is gonna be scarce.

BTW, proceeds from the fun fest will “support GAABA Scholarship Fund. More than $115,000 in scholarship money has been awarded to Dallas ISD students.”

* Graphic courtesy of St. Patrick's Day Parade And Festival

JUST IN: Apex Clearing Named Presenting Sponsor For 4th Annual yCPD Field Day In May At The Rustic

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Face The Cookie (File photo)

Suck It Up (File photo)

While many have been lounging at beaches and tackling moguls on the slopes, the Community Partners of Dallas team was in the final stages of selling tickets for their Chick Lit Luncheon featuring Katie Holmes at the Hilton Anatole on Friday, April 13.

Sarah and Colin Philips*

They were also looking ahead to Saturday, May 12, when they’ll be holding their fourth annual yCPD Field Day at The Rustic, where adult beverages are in hand as well as noodle tossing.

Donning sunglasses and sunscreen, six-person teams compete in such “field day activities.” Oh, the memories of last year’s egg races, cookie and cup flippings, candy straw sucking, and wheelbarrow, three-legged and puzzle relays.

And this year Camp Counselors… or rather Event Co-Chairs Sarah and Colin Philips have added Apex Clearing as the presenting sponsor.

According to CPD President/CEO Paige McDaniel, “As an ongoing supporter of the event and of Community Partners of Dallas, we are truly grateful for their commitment to serving the more than 20,000 abused and neglected children we serve each year. By coming in at this key sponsorship level, Apex Clearing is not only helping us to elevate the event, but even more importantly helping us bring hope and healing to countless children.”

Team Apex Clearing at 2017 yCPD Field Day*

After you’ve got your team put together and sponsored, start coordinating your team uniforms and working on those tans. Team registration is limited to sponsored teams only right now. If there’s any room left come May, then non-sponsored six-packs can register.

* Photo provided by Community Partners of Dallas

The Dallas Museum Of Art Was Turned Into A Speakeasy For Nearly 1,000 21st Century Jazz Babies And Their “Jay Gatsbys”

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Giving their tuxedos and flowing gowns the night off, the Dallas Museum of Art‘s DMA Speakeasy guests donned spats and showed plenty of knees for the DMA fundraiser on Saturday, February 24. For one party-hardy evening the crowd of young professional types relived a bygone era when “booze” was verboten, flappers scandalously danced the night away and jazz babies accompanied bootleggers in their roadsters. Here’s a report from the field:

The Dallas Museum of Art was host to nearly 1,000 guys and dolls dressed to kill in their best Prohibition-era fashions for the second DMA Speakeasy on Saturday, February 24. 

Christine Groffie, Doug and Michelle Norton*

As guests arrived at the sold-out event, on view were period cars provided by Keith Weiss and the Dallas Model A Ford Club, providing the perfect backdrop for photos and selfies. Once inside the Museum’s Hamon Atrium, partygoers were transported to a 1920’s speakeasy courtesy of renowned event designer Todd Fiscus. 

Band*

Guests mingled and sipped signature cocktails, including The Outlaw featuring Calamity Gin, Old Fashioned with Title 21 rye, a Nue vodka Watermelon Mule and Roxor Gin’s Rox & Razz, while enjoying the big band sounds of the 18-piece band, the Singpaore Slingers.  Professional dancers from The Rhythm Room showcased their dance moves and provided instruction on the Charleston, the Lindy Hop and fox-trot. Those not cutting a rug enjoyed the gaming tables, and vamping it up at one of the two photo booths sponsored by CultureMap, and then posting their mugs on social media with the dedicated #DMAspeakeasy. For movie buffs, the 1974 classic, “The Great Gatsby” featuring Mia Farrow and Robert Redford, was playing in the Horchow Auditorium. 

Evan Kalstad and Lauren Coe*

Omar Brown and Venita Davis*

Anna Sorenson, Elaine Scarborough, Kali Christenson and Shannon Carl*

Louisa Liu and Davis Zhang*

Hannah Humphrey and Courtney Lewis*

For something to nosh on, a cocktail buffet featured gourmet sandwiches and wraps such as crispy chicken biscuit with honey mustard, roasted vegetables on a Hoagie roll with sun dried tomato pesto, beef fajita wrap with jalapeno aioli, Monterrey jack cheese, grilled peppers and onions, tomato and goat cheese toast with balsamic glaze and Green Goddess veggie cup with baby carrot, celery, cucumber, broccoli and cherry tomato as well as desserts of lemon squares, mini s’mores brownies and strawberry shortcake on a stick. 

Caitlin Hebert*

The Bootlegger’s Lounge provided a perfect hideaway for VIP’s with craft cocktails, tunes by DJ Blake Ward, dedicated dancers from The Rhythm Room and private gaming tables. The cocktail buffet included sweet and savory bites such as deviled egg salad toast with smoked salmon and avocado aioli, olive tapenade and goat cheese tart with tarragon pesto, honey roasted turkey and cranberry mayo on a corn bread muffin, oven roasted beef tenderloin on brioche with caramelized onions and house steak sauce, roasted potato and chive crème fraiche with crisp prosciutto, raspberry tarts, candied orange crème brule and chocolate soup and port -raised strawberries with puffed pastry croutons. 

To encourage partygoers to enjoy the Museum’s permanent collection, the “Track the Bootleggers” scavenger hunt led guests throughout the Level 4 galleries searching for images that harken back to the 1920’s and early 30’s in the vast collection of American art. Using a map featuring Prohibition-era facts as clues, participants snapped photos as they tracked down the bootleggers. Upon completion, they shared their photo forensics to collect a sheriff’s badge. 

Jonathan Smith and Kevin Donovan*

Mid-way through the evening attendees gathered at the main stage for the announcement of the winners of the costume contest.  Contest judge and celebrity blogger Lily Kramlick-Taylor from Dallasites101 presented “Best Flapper” to Caitlin Hebert; “Best Dapper Dan” to Jeff Brown and “Best Couple” to Jonathan Smith and Kevin Donovan. Each winner received a bottle of Ruinart champagne. 

As the Singapore Slingers played their last song, partygoers gathered once more for the announcement of the winners of six 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 $75 gift card to Commissary and a $100 gift card for food and beverage at the premier craft cocktail bar, the Midnight Rambler.  
  • Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck Dinner Package:  enjoy a lavish five course chef’s tasting menu for two at one of Dallas’ finest restaurants while enjoying a 360° view of Dallas.
  • Celebrate the Repeal with a fully stocked bar:  Party-sized ice bucket filled to the brim with premium labels.
  • Arts & Letters LiveVIP Package for Tuesday, March 6, featuring Peabody and Emmy-award winning journalist and producer Maria Shriver as she shares insight into the wisdom gleaned through her life’s journey in her latest book, I’ve Been Thinking…: Reflections, Prayers, and Meditations for a Meaningful Life.
  • Arts & Letters Live VIP package#2 for Friday, April 6, with Lidia Bastianich, best selling cookbook author, beloved television personality, and successful restaurateur.  Includes reserved front section seating for two and a hard-cover signed copy of My American Dream: A Life of Love, Family and Food.
  • Two Tickets to the Turnpike Troubadours at the Verizon Theater on Friday, March 2.

Speakeasy dancers*

Following, partygoers danced the night away as DJ Derek Lynn provided the vibe until the party came to an end.  

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron 

Grovel Alert: Readers 2 Leaders’ Lanes 2 Literacy Is Heading For A Perfect Strike At Bowl And Barrel

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Shonn Brown is right at home in a court room. But put her in an alley and she knows the gutter all too well. Whoa! Before going too far, the alley mentioned is a bowling alley.

Still despite not scoring a “turkey” let alone 300, Shonn is joining her husband Clarence Brown in co-chairing the Lanes 2 Literacy on Thursday, April 5, benefiting Readers 2 Leaders at Bowl and Barrel at The Shops at Park Lane.

Shonn Brown, Lane and Jenna Wimberly, Charmaine Tang, Clarence Brown and GeorgeTang*

BTW, the reason for their involvement is Clarence is on the board of Readers 2 Leaders.

Well known in fundraising circles for such nonprofits as Dallas Women’s Foundation, Dallas CASA and Dallas Museum of Art, Shonn admitted she’s taking a backseat to Clarence’s involvement. “I’m usually dragging him to events, so I’m sorta glad to be in this position.”

Readers 2 Leaders may be new on the fundraising radar, but it was the brainchild of Ted Schweinfurth, who started “working in West Dallas as a youth mentor, coach and community volunteer.” Over the next five years, he became aware of the educational challenges facing the children of West Dallas. It was discovered that

  • 53% of West Dallas residents over 25 never completed high school
  • 6% of West Dallas residents have a bachelor’s degree
  • 65% of incoming high school freshmen drop out
  • 83% of all students are classified as economically disadvantaged

It was in 2010 that he started networking with parents, teachers, pastors, business and nonprofit leaders to come up with a solution. By the end of the year Readers 2 Leaders (R2L) was formed. Ted got in his car and drove around until he found a space for a family literacy center in Lakewest Town Center. In September 2011 Booktown officially opened for business with “one teacher and a group of committed volunteers.” Within five years, “more than 400 children” were annually receiving “high-quality, high-dosage literacy instruction in In-School, After School and Summer Camp programs.”

Today R2L has grown to have five trained education professionals and more than 200 volunteer reading buddies plus a six-week summer camp that in 2017 resulted in 94% of R2L campers not experiencing the infamous summer slide.

To support R2L’s efforts in helping “West Dallas kids reach grade level in reading,” the 2018 Lanes 2 Literacy is nearing a sold-out status thanks to the venue, the food, the raffle (Weekend in West Dallas, a Michele Deco Diamond Bracelet Watch and a personalized cornhole from Richardson Boards).

Oh, and about Bowl and Barrel. If you’re thinking yucky bowling shoes, gum stuck on the bottom of tables and stale popcorn, rethink that one. Bowl and Barrel is “Dallas’ first upscale bowling alley” with fifteen world-class bowling lanes, full service modern American tavern, and one-of-a-kind beer hall.” Laverne and Shirley would just die to score a strike here.  

Sponsorships are still available, but tickets are getting scarce, so stop reading and contact Audrey White.

* Photo credit: Holly Kuper

Plans For 2018 Day At The Races Benefiting Oak Lawn Park’s The Conservancy Announced At Uptown Starpower

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The Kentucky Derby may be held elsewhere, but that doesn’t mean North Texans don’t “run for roses” themselves for fundraising. First out of the gate with plans for the Saturday, May 5, horse race was The Conservancy at Oak Lawn Park [formerly known as Lee Park] with a kick off party at Uptown’s Starpower on Thursday, March 8. Here’s a report from the field:

Gay Donnell, Kirsten Swanson and Katie Crnuovich*

The race has officially begun! On Thursday, March 8, The Conservancy kicked off its 10th annual Day at the Races Kentucky Derby event with board members, sponsors and patrons at Starpower in Uptown. The Conservancy President/CEO Gay Donnell and staff members Jane Brecunier and Susan Finlay greeted guests upon arrival. Guests including  Carol and Kevin March, Ashton and Patrick Mayne, Sue Krider, Michael Willis, Francesco Mainetti, Beth Easton, Annette and Eduardo Ponce, Hal Thorne, Sarah and Lee Papert, Kirsten and Peter Swanson, Katie Crnkovich, Lauren Gallo, Tyler Stevens, Dominique Patton, Katie and Josh Ray, Nancy and Al Loehr, Jon Beasley, Tom Houser, Erin Stanwix, Erik Bohdan, Brandi Thompson, Carolyn Headley, Katherine Powell, Scott Berry, Julie O’Brien, Rodney Moore, Colin Beales and Shane Stenger mixed, mingled and browsed Starpower’s impressive collection of home theater equipment, including theater seating with ultra-real motion response simulation while enjoying Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps along with GH Mumm Champagne, selections from Lakewood Brewing and hors d’oeuvres.

Annette Ponce, Jane Brecunier and Beth Easton*

Once the party was in full swing, Gay took the floor to formally welcome patrons and recognize Board Members in attendance. She also announced this year’s Day at the Races honorary co-chairs are Lucian LaBarba and member of the Junior Conservancy founders, his nephew, Gianni LaBarba, Otis Felton will serve as Community Chair, and Day at the Races Junior Co-Chairs are Dr. Lauren Ives and Sean March. Gay then turned it over to Lauren and Sean who proceeded with details of the Saturday, May 5, Day at the Races derby event at the historic Arlington Hall.

The event will include southern cuisine by Food Glorious Food and drinks from Lillet aperitif, Altos tequila, Absolut Elyx, Kenwood wines, Campo Viejo, Glenmorangie scotch, G.H. Mumm champagne and Woodford Reserve bourbon, which are the official brands for the Kentucky Derby as well. The co-chairs recognized early sponsors including: March Family Foundation, Weitzman, Veritex Community Bank, The Barre Code — Design District, Teffy Jacobs and Doris Jacobs of Allie Beth Allman Real Estate, Sue Krider of Allie Beth Allman Real Estate, Jamie M. Bloom/Schwab, Mayne Petroleum Consulting LLI Now, Travis Sartain/Marsh And McClennan and Stuart Weitzman. Sean and Lauren left the audience in laughter after admitting that Sean is more about the business and Lauren is all about the fun, which makes for the dynamic duo’s “business in the front, party in the back” approach.

Sean March and Lauren Ives*

Lauren detailed happenings during Day at the Races, which will take place Saturday, May 5, 2018, from 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Arlington Hall at Oak Lawn Park, and announced music will be provided by the Georgia Bridgewater Orchestra. Guests will also enjoy live and silent auctions, a restaurant gift card pull, a new reverse raffle, and of course, a simulcast of the Kentucky Derby. This lively event celebrates the 144th Run for the Roses and benefits the beautification and thoughtful development of Arlington Hall and Oak Lawn Park. Ladies and gentlemen are encouraged to don their best Kentucky Derby Style and take part in the competitions for Best Dressed Man, Woman, Couple and Best Hat!

The co-chairs encouraged patrons to snag their VIP tickets early and teased that this would be one tent at the event that guests would regret not being a part of! Lauren even offered a three-installment payment plan for VIP tickets, which garnered laughter throughout the crowd. She confirmed that individual tickets are $150 each and VIP tickets start $250 each.

For additional information, call 214.521.2003.

* Photo credit: George Fiala

A Sneak Peak Of The Dreamy 2018 Art Ball Live Auction Items To Be Shared In The Days Ahead

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If you’ve got your best duds picked out and your spots at the Dallas Museum of Art‘s 2018 Art Ball all set, then you’re just about ready for Saturday, April 21.

In the meantime, you have just two weeks to get your paddle-lifting arm in shape. The reason?  You’re gonna want to be getting Christie’s Americas President Brook Hazelton‘s attention when the nine live auction luxury items go on the bloc and the arms start sprouting like bluebonnets in the spring.

Brook Hazelton (File photo)

Live Auction Co-Chairs Brian Bolke and Faisal Halum have found the finest destinations from Denver to Dubai, as well as delicious local finds that include the Highland Park Village experience that makes dreams come true, The Star treatment and a bountiful Boullion  with Bruno.

And, of course, the namedropping with these goodies will include Dior, Fendi, Vuitton and Headington.

For details with photos, MySweetCharity will be posting the packages in the days ahead for your consideration.

So, get those arms exercising and Black Cards warmed up to benefit the DMA.


5th Annual Women LEAD Scholarship Speech Competition And Awards Ceremony Celebrates 10 Outstanding Young Women

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Today’s leaders celebrated tomorrow’s leaders on Thursday, March 22, at the Fifth Annual Women LEAD Scholarship Speech Competition and Awards Ceremony presented by Mary Kay and sponsored by Dr Pepper Snapple Group at the Junior League of Dallas. Here’s a report from the field:

Ten high school females shared their personal and inspirational stories Thursday, March 22, at Junior League of Dallas headquarters where Junior League of Dallas held the fifth annual Women LEAD Scholarship Speech Competition and Awards Ceremony, presented by Mary Kay and sponsored by Dr Pepper Snapple Group. The event featured the finalists chosen by a committee for the speech competition, which was open to female seniors attending Emmett J. Conrad High School, South Oak Cliff High School and Thomas Jefferson High School.

Katharine Fife, Kara Sewell and Kirsten Gappelberg*

To be eligible for the scholarship, each student must have had a 3.0 GPA at the end of her junior year, have plans to attend a two- or four-year college or university, and have a good record of character and service to her community. In September of last year, the committee held workshops at the three schools to review the application and scholarship program. After the finalists were selected in February, JLD members re-visited the schools to hold public speaking workshops. The committee scored applications based on the criteria of academic performance, resume, letters of recommendation, transcript and an essay. The top 10 ranked applicants were invited to present their speeches Thursday evening in front of three judges including Junior League of Dallas President Jennifer Tobin, Mary Kay Inc. Chief Legal Officer Julia A. Simon and Dr Pepper Snapple Group director of HR Strategy Nisha Shah and guests like JLD President-Elect Alicia Hall, Women LEAD Chair Katharine Fife, JLD Signature Projects Vice President Taylor Morrison, Mary Kay Inc. Manager of Media and Public Relations Seila Jenkins, May Kay Inc. Director of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Kirsten Gappelberg, Neda Bahramnejad, Christie Carter, Pam Busbee, Emily Fuquay, Amanda Klein, Ryan Parley, Deana Scofield, Liz Cappon, Audrey Cho, Ana Essl, Lauren Kelly, Julia Santosuosso, Sayeda Mahler, Kylie Dwinell, Diana Lopez-Negrete, Amy Rembert and Theresa Remek.   

Before the finalists addressed the crowd, WFAA News 8 Anchor/Women LEAD Emcee Kara Sewell visited personally with the young women to get to know each of them and to encourage them about the many incredible opportunities to come. The students spoke of hardships they have faced, obstacles they have overcome, and their biggest dreams after college, leaving the audience of family, friends and supporters with tears in their eyes. After the speeches concluded and votes were tallied, the judges determined the winners and awarded a total of $40,000 in college scholarship funds to all ten students based on the merits of their scholarship application and speech presentation, thanks to the generous support of Mary Kay and Dr Pepper Snapple Group.

Sonya Soto, Elia Espinosa, Eh Kaw Thaw, Annette Morales, Ingrid Romero, Yasmin Milan, Carol Flores, Albana Gllareva, Alondra Martinez Gallegos and Lal Lawmi*

Fifth through tenth place winners Eh Kaw Thaw, Elia Espinosa, Yasmin Milan, Ingrid Romero, Annette Morales and Albana Gllareva each won a $1,000 scholarship; fourth place winner Sonya Soto won a $4,000 scholarship; third place winner Alondra Martinez Gallegos won a $5,000 scholarship; second place winner Carol Flores won a $10,000 scholarship and first place winner Lal Lawmi won a $15,000 scholarship. All winners received beautiful bouquets of flowers from McShan Florist and special goodie bags from Mary Kay. 

The young women expressed how these scholarships would make it possible for them to be able to go to the colleges of their choice and shared their dreams for the future, which consisted of helping women and the world. All ten finalists were truly inspirational, and guests eagerly congratulated the winners as they enjoyed cookies provided by Tiff’s Treats and other light bites. 

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Smith

After Last Year’s Blowout, Dallas Museum Of Art’s Hamon Atrium Will Once Again Become A Speakeasy Complete With VIP Bootleggers Den

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Last year’s inaugural Speakeasy Party in the Hamon Atrium at the Dallas Museum of Art had a pretty impressive turnout for a first time event — 1,200 guys and dolls! It was to celebrate the DMA’s “Shaken, Style, Stirred” exhibition.

2017 Speakeasy in the Hamon Atrium*

Such fundraising success demanded an encore and that one-night-only 2018 Speakeasy will take place once again at the DMA on Saturday, February 24, starting at 8 p.m.

While production guru Todd Fiscus will provide the setting in the Atrium, don’t be surprised to see fun-loving flappers and dapper dandies dress up the place with Prohibition-era attire for a competition to be judged by Kara and Lil of Dallasites201.

Akers and Caitlin Moore and Jessica and Harl Asaff*
Alia Reniers and Linda Snorina*
Bennett and Katie Allen*

Alas, the “Shaken, Style, Stirred” collection won’t be around, there will be plenty to make up for its absence. For instance, there will craft cocktails, the 18-piece band “The Singapore Singers, dance instructors, novelty gaming tables, admission to galleries, a scavenger hunt throughout the DMA’s collection to “Track Down the Bootleggers” and, of course, a photo booth. What would a party be without one!

The raffle is such a deal. The prize is a one-night stay at The Joule Hotel in deluxe accommodations complete with complimentary overnight valet parking and a $100 gift card for food and beverages at the hotel’s underground Midnight Rambler. Each chance is going for a buck. Yup! That’s right. Just one little old dollar.

Tickets for DMA Members at $70 and $85 for the general public. In addition to getting access to the festivities, the tickets will include two drink tickets, live entertainment, dance instructors, gaming tables and buffets.

Ah, but for those highrollers seeking the perks of VIP-ism, there will be the exclusive VIP Bootleggers Den with open bars, hors d’oeuvres, exclusive lounge seating, reserved wait staff, private novelty gaming tables, special photo ops, dedicated dance instructors and live entertainment. The limited number of VIP tickets are going for $100 for DMA members and $150 for the public. Once again membership pays off!

* Photo credit: Tamytha Cameron Smith

Dallas Cowboys War Room At The Star Was The Scene Of Chef Tiffany Derry Serving Up KidLinks’ Symphony Of Chefs Draft

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Jerry Jones‘ legendary War Room at Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters was the location for another big draft on Tuesday, January 23. It was the site of KidLinksSymphony of Chefs pick chefs for the annual fundraiser that will be held on Monday, February 26 at Sixty Five Hundred. Here’s a report from the field:

When your chef selection is set to be conducted draft style, what better location than the state-of-the-art War Room at the newly opened Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters, The Star, to conduct it in. And that’s exactly what happened on the evening of Tuesday, January 23, as VIP sponsors and patrons gathered for a private party to select their table chefs for the 8th Annual Symphony of Chefs benefiting KidLinks. 

Tiffany Derry*

Hosted by The Dallas Cowboys And Legends Hospitality, the 2018 VIP Patron And Chef Selection party paid homage to the upcoming draft that Jerry Jones and his team will soon be conducting for the fall football season. But this time Tiffany Derry from Bravo TV “Top Chef All-Stars and Top Chef Junior” fame led the charge in conducting a 23 table and chef selection event.

As guests including Ann and J.W. Brown, Aimee and Adam Hall, Mike Dollar and wife Karen and Founding Event Co-Chairs Bonnie and Nathan Shea began to gather in the stunning grand atrium of The Star for VIP guided tours, they were immediately enamored by the dancing LED sculpture by artist Leo Villareal taking selfies and Instagram videos for their social media followers to see. 

John Kleifgen and UnoImmanivong*

Following the early tour that lasted about 45 minutes and still didn’t cover all of the history, memorabilia and art in the building guests made their way to The Training Table event space for much needed cocktails featuring Tequila Sheela and J.R. Ewing Bourbon. They were greeted with passed appetizers by Executive Chef Orazio Lamana that even included two select Whole30 items for those guests partaking in the health-craze sweeping the nation. As more guests and chefs arrived including Fitzgerald Dodd, former The Cedar’s Social executive chef now turned private chef Justin Box, Anastacia Quiñones of Oddfellows and Nick And Sam’s Steakhouse newest executive chef John Kleifgen, you could tell everyone was anxious to be selected but eager to get the evening started.  A preview booklet of each chefs menu floated around the room from guest to guest and you could hear the chatter from table hosts about who they might select and which menus sounded the most enticing.

Diana Crawford*

Just before the program began, the queen of steaks as she’s called, Dee Lincoln and her executive chef T.J. Lengnick left a packed restaurant and walked over from her namesake Dee Lincoln Prime to join in the evening’s fun. Following a few words of welcome, a story about a recent KidLinks client family by CEO Diana Crawford, some praises given to the many sponsors in the room and recognition of the 29 participating chefs that give of their time and talents, it was now time for the draft! Yet sponsors had no clue what was about to happen.

Grand Atrium*

As they were guided through the building, up a set of marble stairs and down a short hallway, the sponsors soon found out that they were headed to the infamous War Room. A place where lives are changed forever when they get “the call”, the War Room was set-up for each sponsor representative to pick who would be cooking on Monday, February 26, at Sixty Five Hundred for their table of 10 guests. With chef pictures on one side and sponsor names on the other, the interactive video wall that covered the entire front wall was set-up for a selection experience that sponsors would soon not forget. The fun was just beginning. Meanwhile, a live video feed soon appeared on the screens where the remaining guests and chefs in the event space could see and hear everything going on in the room where it happens. 

Draft in the War Room*

Soon after explaining how the draft would be handled, a rousing banter among chefs, guests and sponsors commenced. There were even financial challenges and draft seats being given up raising an extra $5K+ on the spot for the charity. With the first draft pick being “purchased” by Honorary Chair Faye C. Briggs’ son, Mike Montgomery (who also happens to be serving as Event Chair with his wife Vinette Montgomery), the first chef selected was celebrity chef Ken Patrick best known for his appearance on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen. The draft continued with selections including Tre Wilcox, Gorji from Canary by Gorji, Joanne Bondy from Stocks and Bondy plus 20 plus other featured dinner chefs until all chefs were selected.

Georgia and Marc Lyons and Vinette and Mike Montgomery*

As the evening came to an end, it was clear that Vinette and Mike along with their Co-Chairs Georgia and Marc Lyons had scored a touchdown with the VIP Patron party. Talks about how to top it next year were well under way, but until the 26th of February comes and goes the focus was on selling two more additional tables. So the event chairs work wasn’t done yet and table hosts had some work to do by figuring out whom they wouldn’t be inviting to dine with them in February.

For more information about KidLinks and the Symphony of Chefs evening of culinary composition event and the participating chefs visit www.thekidlinks.org./soc.html.

* Photo credit: Thomas Garza

JUST IN: 2018 Mad Hatter’s Tea Judges Announced

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Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum President Melissa Lewis and Mad Hatter’s Tea Chair Venise Stuart just announced the judges for the chapeau competition at Tootsies.

Melissa Lewis (File photo)
Venise Stuart (File photo)

The collection of judges includes the following: Patti Flowers of Patti Flowers Design Studio, Lee Fuqua of Duckworth Vodka, Empress Gilbert of Empressive GeoDesigns, 2013 Miss Texas/2013 Miss America 5th Runner Up Ali Nugent, WFAA’s “Good Morning Texas” Co-Host Alanna Sarabia, Chef John Tesar of Knife and Knife Burgers and Joe Vilaiwan of Vilaiwan Fine Jewelry.

Patti Flowers (File photo)
John Tesar (File photo)

So get that gray matter reeling and/or designer designing to compete in one of the six categories that include:

  • All That Jazz – Best Group (4 or more).  Men may participate in this one very special category with or without women in the group.
  • To the Nines: People’s Choice: The Best of the Best as voted by the attendees.
  • Elegance of Earlier Days: Most Sophisticated: Grace, Elegance and Whimsy.
  • Gilded Age: True to Theme: Everything from the era of the Astors, Vanderbilts, Gettys.
  • Grace and Folly: Most Creative: Shells and Pearls, Stepping Out.
  • Peacocks on Parade: Best Botanical: Hats adorned with beautiful flowers.

And even if you don’t have competition in your DNA, remember that the theme is “A Garden By The Sea.”

P.S. – While you’re racking your head about what to put on it, don’t forget to get your reservation for the fundraiser benefiting the Dallas Arboretum on Thursday, April 12.

A Gentle Reminder: Beware Greenville Avenue Starting Friday Afternoon

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade And Festival*

After recovering from the daylight saving time adjustment this past weekend, there’s another challenge this weekend for those living on the east side of “the pond (i.e. Central Expressway).” The backbone of East Dallas roads known as Greenville Avenue will be flooded with green. People, floats and pets will be fill the roadway starting early in the morning for the 39th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade And Festival presented by the Dallas Mavericks.

To prepare for the expected crowd of 125,000+, the more than 90 floats and local son/actor Burton Gilliam as the grand marshal, organizers, city workers and beer trucks will begin preparing for the tsunami starting Friday afternoon with portable toilets, barriers and “refreshments.”

St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival (File photo)

Oldtimers know that if they have any errands or business in the upper Greenville Avenue area from Blackwell to Yale/SMU Boulevard, they’d better plan on getting it done Friday morning.

On the other hand, for those who love to party and have worked on their tans over spring break, consider walking, cycling, Ubering or DARTing to the area. Parking is gonna be scarce.

BTW, proceeds from the fun fest will “support GAABA Scholarship Fund. More than $115,000 in scholarship money has been awarded to Dallas ISD students.”

* Graphic courtesy of St. Patrick's Day Parade And Festival
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