The Fourth of July is not the only big deal patriotic hoop-di-do. On Friday, July 20, Boots and Salutes will be taking place at Texas Horse Park. Event Chair Carolyn Anderson has arranged to kick off at 7:30 p.m. with a fly-over salute by four WWII T-6 Texans at 8:00 p.m.

Afterwards, guests will graze at food stations provided by Asian Mint, Carlton Provisions, Doc B’s Fresh Kitchen, Haute Sweets Patisserie, Lucky’s Café, Savor Gastropub and Taco y Vino with liquid refreshments thanks to Dr Pepper Snapple Group and Real Ale Brewery.

As the sun is setting, Jordan Kahn Orchestra will fill the air with tunes from the big band era.

Funds raised from the event will support Equest’s Hooves for Heroes program that “helps veterans and their families’ transition from military to civilian life and excel as community members, neighbors and civic leaders. The individually tailored programs include mental health counseling, physical and occupational therapy, therapeutic horsemanship, carriage driving and more.”

In the past six years, more than 600 vets and military families have been helped at no cost.

Sponsorships range from $2,500 to $25,000 with perks like branded picnic tables are available. Individual tickets are going for $75. But if you can’t make it, you can always give your ticket to a veteran.

BTW, thanks to a grant from HHSC, all net proceeds from the vent will be matched for H4H.

The following groups/people have already put in their support of the event: Bert Headden and Cindy Thomas, CrossFirst Bank, Hopkins, Luther King Capital Management, SettlePou, Penderey’s, Jordan Kahn Orchestra and Rita Wortham Photography.

* Graphic and photo courtesy of Equest

Plans for Community Partners of Dallas’ annual “Change Is Good” have just been announced with a trifecta of families chairing the uber fun at Brook Hollow. The trio includes six adults and 10 munchkins — Jennifer and Scott Chandler with their children Brooke, Wyatt, Harper Leigh and Samantha; Celia and Kevin Walker with their kids Olivia and Kingston; and Nikki and Crayton Webb with their boys Nelson, Cabot and Mitchell and daughter Lucy.

The afternoon of games, face painting, entertainments and loads of kid-friendly yummies will be taking place on Sunday, October 14, from 3 to 6 p.m.

In the meantime, youngsters will be collecting and earning coins this summer through a variety of activities that “will be turned in at the event in exchange for chances to win exciting prizes.”

And, yes, the Dallas Cowboys will be playing the Jacksonville Jaguars at A&T Stadium at that time. But the Chandlers, Walkers and Webbs will probably tackle that challenge with a Brook Hollow touchdown for fans.

Sponsorships are now available starting at $550. Tickets ($75 per adult and $30 per child) will go on sale Monday, September 17.

According to Dallas Children’s Theater Associate Artistic Director Artie Olaisen,

Dallas Children’s Theater, located at 5938 Skillman St., just one mile east of I-75 off Northwest Highway, brings children’s favorite story books and other adventures to the stage in a way that is entertaining for multi-generational audiences. Our mission is to inspire young children to be creative and productive through the medium of theater. Dallas Children’s Theater offers the best environment for kids to enjoy their first, or even 100^th , live theater experience by watching amazing performances by professional actors in a Broadway-like setting; employing high quality production elements that immerse you in the “story book” world.

Our summer show has already traveled around the country delighting children and families in 60 cities and 26 states. “

,” based on the book by Melinda Long, takes kids into the world of Jeremy Jacob and his pirate pals. It’s a wonderful story about searching for adventures on the high seas and learning pirate life lessons along the way. Making a date to see this musical would be a great way to stay cool while still having a ton of summer fun! This is also a great way to encourage your children to get more involved with their summer reading lists and finding similar activities to keep those creative juices flowing! So splash on into Dallas Children’s Theater for a swashbuckling adventure!

Our remaining show is and a “sensory friendly show” on Saturday, July 7.

Tickets are available for adults $23 to $30 and youth tickets are $21 to $28. To purchase tickets or for more information, you can call our Box Office at 214.740.0051.

Note: tickets are non-refundable/non-exchangeable.

* Photo provided by Dallas Children's Theater

Surrounded by bootleggers and baubled babes, Equest Development Director Christine Volkmer looked downright relieved on Friday, April 20. For the first time in recent years, she wasn’t worried about having guests bused to Texas Horse Park or having to face torrential storms. The decision was made to hold the raise-the-roof Equest Gala fundraiser at The Bomb Factory.

And as unsettling as it may have been for some to be partying in the former plant birthing bombs, Equest Ambassadors Cisco and Dare amazed one and all, like Rob Bertino and Patricia Generes, on how chill the miniature horses were. One insider nudged another claiming that the ponies with feathers placed between their ears were perfectly happy concentrating on their buckets of hay.

And the little horses fit right in with their attire since the “Equest After Dark Gala” invite had suggested cocktail, modern or vintage. While some of the guests like Kumar Vinnakota, Kathy and Michael DeLano and Beth and Chuck Thoele played it safe in cocktail attire, others like Equest Founder Susan Schwartz, Equest CEO Lili Kellogg, Floyd Crews, Gianna Millares and Lara Vinnakota went whole hog in clothes that would have made Al Capone feel right at home.

Leading the charge for the look of the night of babes, bids and booze were Event Co-Chairs Susan and Jon Farrier and Honorary Co-Chairs Sue and Ben Casey.

Schmoozing around were Pat and Charles McEvoy, Lynn and Allan McBee (he’s appearing in his fourth performance for The Dallas Opera), Etro’s Melinda Rathke, Cartier’s Bora Song and Denny Carreker, who despite his business suit look was accompanied by his jazz babies wife Connie Carreker, Brook Carreker and Stephanie Anderson.

The place was buzzing for the first hours as guests checked out the rows of silent auction items, the “Wheel of Fortune” and the bathtub sans gin. Then curtains were pulled back and the dining room was revealed for the three-course dinner. To keep up the night’s festivities, there was a dance floor where Arthur Murray dancers performed, a stage with emcee Jocelyn White and auctioneer Wes Pool getting the bids in for the live auction packages.

Afterwards, the night only continued with an after-party celebration that had the dance floor filled thanks to Emerald City.

Mother Nature played hardball with North Texas fundraisers on Saturday, April 21. Like a tease, she threatened showers, hail and end-of-the-world conditions that had back-up plans kicking into play. All day the clouds hovered, and still no deluge. Then the weather radar boded a dumping right around the time that most of the big deal events were to take place.

Over at the Dallas Museum of Art, the 2018 Art Ball’s “Horizon: Now. New. Next” organizers were shoring up for a predicted download of the west stuff. Throughout the day the Todd Fiscus crew had transformed the open-air terrace leading from the North Harwood curb to the tented dining room into an enclosed reception area. Poor old Mark di Suvero’s “Ave” sculpture was left out in the elements as party guests cocktailed and eyed the live auction items in the polished shoulder-to-shoulder cocktail reception.

Regardless of the weather, Art Ball Chair Rebecca Fletcher and the Art Ball team had decided to shake things up a bit with the arrival spot situated halfway between the Flora Street entrance and Ross. To make it from the curb to the terrace level, a stairway was built. On paper it probably was stellar. But for the ladies in stilettos and sweeping gowns, it was a bit challenging. Why, shoot! Just trying to make it from the vehicles to the sidewalk proved a challenge for some like Yvette Ostolaza, who gave thanks to the Jack Boles valets who were johnny-on-the-spot to replace her dropped-off heel.

Fashion note: For those who only read for fashions, Chair Rebecca was doing a bare half-shoulder thanks to Nardos…DMA Board of Trustees Chair Melissa Fetter was in a Calvin Klein pants suit… With hair pulled back, DMA Board of Trustees President Catherine Rose wore a Roksanda Illincic … Lisa Cooley went contemporary in a black jumpsuit with a full-length cape over one shoulder and a light blue sash at the waist by Michael Faircloth… Shelle Sills was in a Lanvin coat … Georgina Hartland was sparkling in Valentino.

And the gents held their own in the looky-looky department. Clay Cooley was sporting Texas flags studs and his buddy Ben Lange opted for the all-in-black Johnny Cash formal look… Ceron was a standout in an Alexander McQueen jacket…Trevor Fetter was in Paul Stuart… Jo Staffelbach Heinz was in Lanvin black, while husband Andre Staffelbach was in Zegna, but that wasn’t the original plan. While in Switzerland, Jo had sent Andre to the Tom Ford shop, where her narrow-as-a-cucumber hubby tried on a tuxedo that was too tight for breathing. When asked for a larger size, the staff said, “Sorry.” No problem; Zegna accommodated him.

So typical for the Art Ball, there was a touch of OMG factor in the sold-out crowd of 500, which also included the likes of Matrice and Ron Kirk, Micki and Mike Rawlings, Robbie Briggs, Brad Kell with Joanne Cassullo, Kelli and Allen Questrom, Tom Dunning, Ciara Cooley with Jake Fraze, Bela and Chase Cooley, Jan Miller and Jeff Rich, Lynn McBee with Nick Even, Fanchon and Howard Hallam, Bess and Ted Enloe, Sharon and Michael Young, Wendy and Jeremy Strick, Lisa and John Runyon, Laura and Walter Elcock, Claire and Brian Gogel, Elaine Agather, Robert Hallam, DMA Board of Trustees VP Shonn and Clarence Brown, Merry and Chad Vose, Mimi Sterling, Kevin Hurst, Lea Ann Laughlin, Clarice Tinsley and Stephen Giles, Carol and Don Glendenning, Jennifer and John Eagle, Moll and Charles Anderson, Deedie Rose, Craig Hall, Jennifer and Tom Karol, Richard and Liz Naftalis, Jessica Nowitzki, Sarah and Ross Perot Jr., Mary McDermott Cook and Dan Patterson. In this case, it was the new head of Neiman Marcus, CEO Geoffroy van Raemdonck and interior designer extraordinaire Alvise Orsini. Word has it that they’re looking for a home in the Preston Hollow neighborhood, and “they love Dallas.” The duo surprised organizers by bringing along their buddy Filippo Tattoni-Marcozz.

Just as it seemed that not one more skinny guest could fit in, the doors opened to the tent with orange-clad dining-room tables surrounding a dance floor and fronted by a stage with mammoth screens showcasing whimsical dancers and a virtual “Salvador Dallas” character serving as the evening’s ringmaster. He was like a very toned down “Moulin Rouge!” Harold Zidler. Perhaps it was his accent or the guests just having a grand time, but it took more than a couple or three requests to get the attention of the guests. Perhaps subtitles might have been helpful?

The crowd finally settle down when DMA Eugene McDermott Director Agustin Arteaga appeared on the screen in a pre-recorded video thanking Rebecca for her leadership and the guests for their support of the DMA and its programs. Luckily, his accent was easier to understand. He was followed by Catherine Rose, who also thanked Rebecca and acknowledged the sponsors and Live Auction Co-Chairs Brian Bolke and Faisal Halum.

Then the first course (Sous vide sakura pork belly carbonara, tagliatelle pasta, spinach, English peas and tomatoes) was presented followed by the entree (pan roasted loup de mer, petrossian caviar, Romanesco, purple and orange cauliflower) and a dessert  of caramelia chocolate mousse, candy apple, salted yogurt and peanut brittle.

After more than an hour of wining, dining, chatting and being entertained by Quixotic, it was time for the live auction with Christie’s Americas President Brook Hazelton refereeing a bidding battle for the nine luxury packages surpassing the $340,000 mark.

With the wisdom of Solomon and thanks to the generosity of sponsors, Brook pulled off a couple of sweetheart deals. When he had two guests offering $12,00 for the Bullion dinner for eight, he came up with packages for both. Ah, but that was just the warm up for what he did with the trip for five couples to the Abu Dhabi Art Fair in the United Arab Emirates from November 11 to 18. Like a tennis tournament, guests were turning heads as two bidders raised their offers until it hit a whopping $89,000 each. Once again Brook pulled the “rabbit out of his hat,” resulting in both bidders being satisfied. Needless to say, Agustin is going to be very busy. He’s slated to be the tour guide for the now ten couples.

To celebrate the gangbuster, an after-party commenced with DJ Valida in charge. One poor guest, who had experienced a fall from her chair earlier in the evening, did a repeat landing on the dance floor. Luckily, it produced no broken bones, just a bruised ego.

According to Dallas Zoo’s Zoo To Do Co-Chairs Kim and Greg Hext,

“Without a doubt, Zoo To Do is one of the best parties of the year – but the cause it supports is even more significant.

“The non-profit Dallas Zoo has been one of Dallas’ most beloved attractions for 128 years, and has become one of the best zoological parks in the U.S., featuring the award-winning Giants of the Savanna habitat. Maintaining this type of excellence – and providing great care for more than 2,000 animals – requires support from our community.

“Zoo To Do is a major source of funding for the Dallas Zoo, helping us introduce more people to the wonder of the natural world. With the proceeds from the event, the Zoo is able to continue its mission to serve as an outstanding center of education, wildlife conservation, and entertainment. With 106 acres to explore, thousands of animals to visit, and a wide variety of family activities, the Dallas Zoo is one of America’s best – and Zoo To Do is one reason why.

“The party is held each fall in the expansive exhibit at the Dallas Zoo. The evening begins with cocktails, a stroll through the Savanna, and the opening of an incredible silent auction. It continues with more than 25 of Dallas’s finest chefs and restaurants providing food at different stations throughout the event. It’s a true ‘grazing’ event. Music, dancing and other live entertainment creates a magical evening, and late-night dancing under the stars follows a spectacular live auction that features breathtaking vacation getaways, private dinners by some of the best chefs in Dallas, and more.

“Visit ZooToDo.DallasZoo.com for additional information about this year’s Safari Soirée on Saturday, October 13! Ticket sales for Zoo to Do 2018 are available now.”

According to Fur Ball 2018 Chair Cindy Lindsley and Co-Chair Jennifer Lindsley,

“Fur Ball is the SPCA of Texas’ premier event that raises funds to help rescue, rehabilitate and find new homes for thousands of animals across North Texas. We are thrilled to serve as co-chairs as the organization celebrates its 80th Anniversary. With Honorary Chairs, President and Mrs. George W. Bush, and our fantastic committee working to make the evening a tremendous success, the elegant black-tie gala is sure to be a sell-out!

“Fur Ball will include dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions at the Hyatt Regency on Saturday, September 22, from 6:30 p.m. to midnight.

“Since receiving their charter 80 years ago, the SPCA of Texas remains the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in North Texas. The SPCA of Texas is dedicated to providing thousands of animals with exceptional care and a loving home, which is why our goal this year is to raise over $535,000. All of the proceeds from Fur Ball will help fund their important work.

“Fur Ball 2018 is sure to be a remarkable success thanks to Auction Chair Julia Howard and Auction Co-Chair Sandra Fite. We would also like to thank Dr. Larry and Joan Rogers for being our 80^th Anniversary sponsors and Russell Dealey for being a Presidential Sponsor this year. We are also excited to announce that NBC 5 News Anchor Brian Curtis will emcee the event.

“Individual tickets are $300, patron tickets are $350 and a table for 10 is $3,000. Tickets are available today at furballdallas.com.”

* Photo credit: Bret Redman 
** Photo credit: Thomas Garza

Belo Mansion was bubbling with early birds like Amy Hofland, Susan Sayles, Cynthia Krause, Lynn Rushton, Boski Sharma, Gail and Robert Sachson, Janet Putek, Cindy and Armand Schwartz, Calvert Collins-Bratton with her mother Susan Sanders, Kevin Hurst and Business Council for the Arts (BCA) CEO Katherine Wagner on the morning of Wednesday, June 6, for the Inaugural Arts And Healthcare Breakfast presented by the Business Council of the Arts. The panel was made up of a trio of experts, who have witnessed and advocated the benefits of including the arts for patients. Here is a report from the field:

Business Council for the Arts hosted its inaugural Arts And Healthcare Breakfast on Wednesday, June 6, 7:30 a.m. at The Belo Mansion.  With more than 150 attendees, the first annual event featured a panel discussion regarding the impact of the arts on advancing healthcare and wellness. After a brief reception, BCA board member Steve Roth welcomed everyone in attendance as they took their seats.  Attendees enjoyed breakfast as they anticipated the upcoming panel discussion. 

Moderator Pamela J. Stoyanoff, executive vice president and COO for Methodist Health System and a member of the BCA board of directors, then took the stage to introduce the featured panelists:  

• Todd Frazier, director of the System Center for Performing Arts Medicine at Houston Methodist.  Frazier is a composer, musician, and healthcare arts director in addition to his role at the eight institutions that make up Houston Methodist Hospital.  He is also the chairperson of the nonprofit organization, National Organization of Arts in Healthcare.
• John F. Harper, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.H.A., is the Ewton chair for cardiology at Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas and a poet who uses literature in his training of medical students.
• Upali Nanda, Ph.D., vice president and director of research at HKS, Inc., is a pioneer in the field of evidence-based visual art and design in addition to her role at HKS, Inc., an international architecture firm with a specialty in healthcare design.

Each shared details on how the arts, including music, visual arts and literature, impact the work they are doing in their respective fields. Afterward Stoyanoff joined the panelists back on stage to moderate a brief Q & A session.  

As the event came to a close, attendees were gifted some take-home treats courtesy of Unrefined Bakery. 

* Photo credit: Steve Foxall

Despite searing temperatures in the 100s, Texas Horse Park was even hotter on Friday, July 20, for Equest’s Boots and Salutes. Not only did the sold-out, USO-style evening have a WW1 T-6 Texan flyover at sunset and loads of food stations from Asian Mint, Carlton Provisions, Doc B’s Fresh Kitchen, Haute Sweet Patisserie, Lucky’s Café, Farm To Marketing Catering, Seasons 52 and Taco y Vino, even the Equest mini-ambassadors were dressed up for the event.

But there was more than grazing around. Veteran/Equest client Mike Maas received the first-ever Mike Maas Circle of Excellence Award … guests stayed cool dancing to the Jordan Kahn Orchestra thanks to industrial fans donated by Global Cooling systems… retired Navy SEAL special operations chief/Emcee William “Wags” Wagasy paid tribute to six World War II vets like Darold Keiser.

Thanks to a live auction of a pretty darn adorable playhouse and a great turnout of folks like Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, Lezlie and Bill Noble, Connie and Denny Carreker, Pam Dealey Petty and Michael Petty, Russell Dealey, Kathleen and Ban Bywaters, Kristin and Mike Reed, Linda and Ray Tunnell, Brad Causey, Susannah Denney, Becky and Dwayne Minyard, Colleen and Jeff Hensley, Laura Lyon, Michele Ritter, Rosa and Fil Martinez, Norma Jean Schaltenbrand, Equest Board Chair Andy Steingasser and Equest CEO Lili Kellogg, Event Chair Carolyn Anderson just sent word that the net amount for the Equest fundraiser was $80,000.

But wait! There’s more. In addition to the $80,000, HHSC provided a matching grant bringing the total haul for Boots and Salutes to a whopping $160,000 to benefit Equest’s Hooves for Heroes program. More than 600 veterans and military family members have been served at no cost since the program’s founding in 2012.

Thank-you notes are on their way to sponsors Bert Headden and Cindy Thomas, CrossFirst Bank, Hopkins Commercial Real Estate, Northrop Grumman, Mizzen + Main, Luther King Capital Management, Pendery’s, SettlePou and USAA.

Looks like the Equest folks proved that fundraising still sizzles in North Texas summers.

* Photo credit: Rita Wortham Photography

According to Night At The Museum Co-Chairs Heather Gilker and Linda Wimberly,

“If you like to play and party for a good cause, then we have just the ticket for you! Get ready to rock your senses at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science’s annual fundraising soiree – Night at the Museum: Rock the Perot – on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 7 p.m.-midnight.

“No seated dinners and formal programs! Instead, experience science in its most spectacular fashion with amazing experiences on every level of the museum, science-inspired cocktails – including glowing cocktails and edible crystals – cuisine from Wolfgang Puck Catering plus scintillating surprises around every corner.

“From jaw-dropping prehistoric giants, glamorous gems and Earth’s breathtaking natural creations, to music therapy, fiber-optic hair and rock star impersonators, Night at the Museum will truly be a celebration for the senses. Don’t miss the “backstage” rock star party plus an iridescent after-party featuring live music by Georgia Bridgwater Orchestra!

“We have had so much fun working with our husbands, Chris Gilker and Ken Wimberly, to co-chair this event. And what an honor to have Fallon and Robie Vaughn as this year’s honorary chairs!

“Underwriting packages are selling fast – beginning at $3,000 for six guests. Dress is cocktail attire.

“Proceeds from the annual Night at the Museum gala support the Perot Museum’s mission to inspire minds through nature and science. This event benefits a wealth of programming – from on-site and outreach programs for pre-K through 12th graders, to financial assistance that allows students to visit the Museum, regardless of their school’s ability to pay. Contributions also fund research and collections efforts and help secure world-class traveling exhibitions.

“Mark your calendar and join us for this fabulous event that will help thousands of North Texas youth get critical exposure to the sciences. For more information, please email NightAtTheMuseum@perotmuseum.org or call 214.756.5805.”

* Photo provided by Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Dallas Black Dance Theatre Founder Ann Williams and Executive Director Zenetta S. Drew are doing cabrioles and echappés with good reason. Thanks to The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation’s providing the International Association of Blacks in Dance a multi-year grant, the five founding dance companies of IABD each received a $100,000 unrestricted grant that “can be applied to general operating expenses.”

Dallas’ oldest leading dance company, DBDT joined Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Lula Washington Dance Theatre and The Philadelphia Dance Company in establishing IABD back in 1991.

According to Zenetta, “This unrestricted grant gives Dallas Black Dance Theatre the financial flexibility to be more efficient and secure in executing season plans for dancers, choreographers, and artistic programs and assists with mitigating the rising costs of employee benefits.”

IABD President/CEO Denise Saunders Thompson further explained, “These grants will enable five leading dance companies, that are all deeply vested in African American neighborhoods across the United States as evidenced by their operations of dance companies, facilities, programs, and schools, to pursue greater innovation and take new risks, both organizationally and artistically. Despite their creative excellence and international acclaim, many smaller and mid-sized Black dance companies have had to come to terms with inadequate capitalization and other business challenges.”

* Photo provided by Dallas Black Dance Theatre

According to inaugural Meadows Museum Masterpiece Gala: The Color of Dreams Chair Pilar Henry,

“We are very excited and honored to announce that guests of the Meadows Museum Masterpiece Gala on Saturday, October 13, will be treated to a very special musical performance by two of the best musicians in the world, both of them SMU scholars and internationally acclaimed: professors Joaquín Achúcarro (pianist) and Andrés Díaz (cellist).

“While they have performed separately in Dallas in the past, they have never played together.  They have generously agreed to do so to help us make our inaugural gala a memorable and unique event.  Their performance will take place in the beautiful setting of the Virginia Meadows Galleries of the Meadows Museum and will kick off the evening, immediately after a cocktail reception on the museum’s plaza. We know this will be the highlight of the evening and are very excited to share the tremendous talent that the Meadows School has to offer.

“In addition to these incredible performances, the black-tie event, which takes inspiration from the work of the Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dali, will include décor from Fleurt by Margaret Ryder, dance performances by SMU students during cocktails, followed by a seated dinner in the Museum’s galleries catered by Cassandra Fine Catering. The evening will continue with live music by Cuvée and dancing.

“Gala attendees will also have the opportunity to view the exhibitions ‘Dalí: Poetics of the Small, 1929–1936,’ comprised of nearly two dozen of Dali’s small-scale paintings from the height of his Surrealist period culled from international public and private collections, and ‘Dalí’s Aliyah: A Moment in Jewish History,’ the first-time display of the Meadows’ recent gift of a rare, complete set of late-career prints by the artist.

“I hope everyone will join us for this first-time Gala which will help launch an endowment fund for the Museum’s Director of Education position.”

Sponsorships for the 2018 Meadows Museum Masterpiece Gala range from $2,500 to $50,000 and are available now; individual tickets will be available in September. For more information or to purchase a sponsorship, contact meadowsgiving@smu.edu or call 214.768.4189 or visit https://meadowsmuseumdallas.org/gala/.

* Photo credit:  Jean-Baptiste Millot 
** Photo provided by Meadows Museum

According to Obelisk Awards Presentation And Luncheon Co-Chairs Victoria and Hunter McGrath,

Please join us, along with Honorary Co-Chairs Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger, for the 30^th Anniversary Obelisk Awards Presentation and Luncheon on Friday, November 16, 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Belo Mansion and Pavilion.

The annual fundraiser benefiting Business Council for the Arts (BCA) will recognize companies and leaders in business and the arts for their invaluable contributions supporting arts and culture in North Texas.  This year’s outstanding roster of award recipients will be announced soon.

The event will include a reception, seated lunch and recognition of the 2018 award recipients. North Texas Public Broadcasting President and CEO Mary Anne Alhadeff will return as mistress of ceremonies.

Tables of 8 begin at $3,500. Individual tickets will be released October 15.  For more information about the Obelisk Awards, visit http://ntbca.org/obelisk or contact Advancement Manager Maegan Hoffmann at 972.991.8300, extension 602.

We hope the community will join us as we celebrate BCA’s milestone anniversary and recognize these outstanding honorees.”

About Business Council for the Arts — For 30 years, Business Council for the Arts (BCA), a non-profit organization, has created strong business/arts partnerships that build world-class communities where people want to live, work and grow in North Texas. Since its inception, Business Council for the Arts has advocated for business support of the arts, developed business leaders for nonprofit boards of directors through its Leadership Arts Institute; fostered employee creativity, engagement and creativity through the arts with On My Own Time, a signature program; guided strategic business support for the arts; and measured the economic impact of arts and culture in North Texas. For more information, visit www.ntbca.org

In the past, the annual Obelisk Awards sculptures have been designed and created by longtime glass artist Jim Bowman. Last year Jim and his wife/artist Mary Lynn Devereux-Bowman announced that they were relocating to North Carolina and the 2017 Obelisk creations would be Jim’s swan song.

2018 Obelisk Awards Luncheon Co-Chairs Victoria and Hunter McGrath along with Honorary Co-Chairs Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger had just received that another area glass sculptor Polly Gessell will be taking over for Jim. The award-winning Polly’s works of art have been including in corporate headquarters, private collection, hotels and restaurants throughout the country. Ironically, one of those glass pieces was commissioned by Kathryn and Craig Hall’s Hall Vineyards in Napa Valley.

Why ironic? Because of this year’s awards that include the following:

• Business Champion for the Arts Award: Craig Hall nominated by Dallas Arts District
• Arts Education Award: Cigna nominated by Chamberlain Performing Arts
• Arts Partnership Award/Large Business: Deloitte nominated by Children’s Chorus of Greater Dallas
• Arts Partnership Award/Small Business: Selig Polyscope Company nominated by Dallas Video Fest
• New Initiatives Award: The Shops at Willow Bend nominated by North Texas Performing Arts
• Juror’s Award: Anne and Steve Stodghill nominated by Dallas Film Society
• The Outstanding Leadership Arts Alumnus Award: Angie Parra nominated by Junior Players
• Distinguished Cultural Organization Award: Thanks-Giving Foundation nominated by Almas Muscatwalla
• Visionary Nonprofit Arts Leader Award: Teresa Coleman Wash nominated by Bishop Arts Theatre Center

According to Victoria, “As Business Council for the Arts celebrates our 30th anniversary, we are honored to recognize this incomparable roster of 2018 Obelisk Awards recipients. As an organization whose mission is to create strong business and arts partnerships throughout North Texas, this year’s field of honorees highlight the significant impact individuals, organizations and businesses can sincerely make in the arts and cultural institutions in our community.”

The awards will be presented at Belo Mansion on Friday, November 16, with North Texas Public Broadcasting President/CEO Mary Anne Alhadeff returning as emcee.

While individual tickets won’t be available until Monday, October 15, tables of eight can be had for $3,500 here.

* Photo provided by Business Council For The Arts

The Firehouse Theatre delivers award-winning live theatre, with Broadway hits like “Grease,” “Gypsy,” “The Music Man” and “Little Mermaid Jr.” Our mission is to present imaginative live performances and training through engaging artistic expression. We are an artistic community and catalyst for growth and education where generations are inspired, spirits are nourished, and thoughts are challenged.

In 2011, a group with a strong desire to promote and support theatre arts founded The Farmers Branch Community Theatre. A search committee identified historic Fire Station #1 on Valley View Lane as the ideal new location.

The Firehouse Theatre Board of Directors kept the theatre afloat initially relying on the generosity of members, performing in community venues, including the public library and local restaurants. In 2014, Firehouse Theatre volunteers began transforming Fire Station #1 into a theatre devoted to artists and patrons. In 2015, the board hired me to lead the non-profit through targeted renovations of better seating, air conditioning and ADA compliance. The Firehouse Theatre remained committed to bringing audiences award-winning productions like “Mary Poppins,” “The Drowsy Chaperone” and “Billy Elliott the Musical” that increased community awareness, resulting in greater financial success and a broader reach for area talent.

In 2017 the City of Farmers Branch decided to end the facility use fee and provided a generous grant from the hotel occupancy tax revenue. The impact of this change enabled Firehouse to pay all royalties in advance, locking in the season and relieving financial pressure for the first time.

Focus on strategic planning and fundraising took center stage in 2017. The Firehouse Theatre first participated in North Texas Giving Day in 2016. The next year we followed NTxGD recommendations for marketing, utilizing yard signs and graphics, implementing a “Why I Give” Facebook campaign, and successfully engaging a matching donor. The number of patrons giving grew by 60%; contributions increased 3.5 times, from $5,800 to $20,100!  As a result, NTxGD is one of Firehouse’s strongest development activities appealing to individual donors.

In 2018, we are experiencing a wave of successes following two years of award-winning shows and sellout performances. We branded our education and youth initiatives under Firehouse JR and are hosting our first annual “Curtain Call” gala on Friday, October 12, featuring our 2019 Season reveal. We are keeping our eyes on the prize with greater participation in North Texas Giving Day events and capitalizing on increasing our matching donors.

By David Moore, The Firehouse Theatre executive director

* Photo credit: Pendleton Photography 
** Graphic provided by The Firehouse Theatre

In nine years, Communities Foundation of Texas‘ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $195 million into the North Texas community. In 2017, $39 million was raised through more than 118,000 gifts benefiting over 2,000 nonprofits.

On Thursday, September 20, support The Firehouse Theatre by linking here and spreading the word. #NTxGivingDay

2018 Zoo To Do Co-Chair Kim Hext is just full of news about the annual Dallas Zoo fundraiser on Saturday, October 13.

First, Heritage Auctions just sent over a gorgeous diamond bracelet to be up for grabs at the auction. Thank heaven they opted for an environmental-friendly material! No ivory here, thank you.

Second, Kim reports there are just four tables left before the evening of feasting, fundraising and festivities is sold out.

Advice: Don’t put off another minute if you were planning on join the Safari Soiree. You can get one of the few remaining spots locked down here. It will be a great opportunity to see the new additions to the Zoo family.

Second piece of advice: Park your stilettos in your closet and toss away your diet for the night. After all, the grazing grounds will have the following chefs will tantalizing tastebuds: Kelly Buckley of 7-Eleven Inc., Chef Christopher Patrick of Abacus, Mark Guatelara of Asador, Chef Carlo Gattini of Botolino Gelato, Chef Patton Robertson of Café Momentum, Chef Nick Walker of CBD Provisions at The Joule, Chef Lan A. Nickens of Chamberlain’s Steak and Chop House, Chef Dan Landsberg of Dragonfly at Hotel ZaZa, El Bolero Mexicana Cocina, Chef José Salmeron of El Bolero Mexicana Concina, Chef Meaders Ozarow of Empire Baking Company, Chef Eric Dreyer of Fearing’s Restaurant, Chef Jacob Williamson of Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck, Chef Stephen Rogers of Gemma/Sachet, Chef Jessica Brown of Hypnotic Donuts, Chef Jennifer Newbold of Imoto, Chef Eduard Ramirez of Lovers Seafood and Market, Chef Nico Sanchez of Meso Maya, Chef Paula Lambert of Mozzarella Company, Chef David Crow of Neiman Marcus The Zodiac, Tara Cooper of Nothing Bundt Cakes – Highland Park, Chef Janice Provost of Parigi, Chef Blythe Beck of Pink Magnolia, Chef Abraham Salum of Salum, Chef Jim “Sevy” Severson of Sevy’s Grill, Chef Carlos Capistran of Shinsei, Chef Gilbert C. Garza of Suze and Chef Jake Derrough of Two Sister’s Catering.

Word has it that Kim is negotiating with Mother Nature to behave herself that night, so the two- and four-legged guests and residents can enjoy the festivities under a starry night. But if negotiations breakdown and Ma Nature has a temper tantrum, there’s a back-up plan already. Check MySweetCharity on Thursday, October 11, if the backup plan is put into action.

If partying a la Cattle Baron’s style is to your liking, then this 2018 Cattle Baron’s Ball live auction package is simply perfect for the lucky bidder. In addition to having the festivities at Gilley’s and Jack Boles take care of parking the guests’ vehicles, The Ticket’s Morning Muser George Dunham and The Bird Dogs will be on stage and Chef John Gilbert will be serving up the BBQ. The hard part is figuring out who will be on the guest list.

Texas-Sized Party At Gilley’s With The Bird Dogs**

Grab 200 of your closest friends and head on down to Gilley’s Dallas for a two-steppin’ private soirée.

The namesake of Mickey Gilley and the host of the 2018 Cattle Baron’s Ball, Gilley’s Dallas is a world-class entertainment venue. Winner can choose from one of their newly refurbished eight spaces to host the event.

Spend the evening listening to George Dunham and The Bird Dogs as they provide a performance that will no doubt pack a punch. The Bird Dogs deliver a powerful blend of Texas-country, gritty rock and three-part harmonies and have shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the Texas country music scene. George is best known as the co-host of the Morning Musers on The Ticket.

A signature BBQ buffet designed by Chef John Gilbert, owner of G Texas Catering will be provided. To make it easy on you and your guests, Jack Boles Parking will take care of valet for the evening.

* Donated by G Texas Catering, John Gilbert, Gilley’s Dallas, George Dunham and 
The Bird Dogs, Jack Boles Parking and Matthews Southwest 
** Event space determined by group size. Subject to availability and must take 
place on a mutually agreed upon date. Bar costs are the responsibility of the 
winning bidder and will be calculated after winning bidder and Gilley’s Dallas 
confirm the party arrangements and number of guests. Rental duration of Gilley’s 
Dallas is four hours. Winning bidder can extend time at additional cost. Security, 
A/ V staff, cleanup crew and wait staff not included. Expires October 20, 2019.
*** Photo provided by 2018 Cattle Baron's Ball

With Christmas nearing, Jacque Marvin, Kristin Mitchell and Andrea Nayfa and their new best elf friend in the entire world — Santa — have put together big plans for the 30^th Anniversary of Breakfast with Santa Spectacular. The annual fundraiser for the Women’s Auxiliary to Children’s Medical Center Dallas will be taking place on Sunday, December 2.

And hold on to your reindeers! It’s going to take place at NorthPark Center with the NorthPark Santa ho-ho-hoing for photos with guests from 10 a.m. to noon.

Of course, there will be a kid-friendly breakfast plus face painting, balloon art, character appearances, spectacular holiday entertainment including musical performances, dancing, excerpts from the Nutcracker and more.

The Event Co-Chairs Jacque, Kristin and Andrea have even arranged for Lantern Capital Partners and NorthPark to serve as presenting sponsors and to have Jessica Nowitzki and Kimberly Schlegel Whitman served as honorary co-chairs.

According to Jessica and Kimberly, “We can’t wait for the magical morning that brings joy to so many, from the worthy recipients of its fundraising efforts to the children and families who enjoy the event. There is nothing like seeing the excitement on a child’s face when they meet Santa, knowing they are having a memory-making experience for such a worthy cause makes it even more special. We are grateful to NorthPark, Lantern Capital and all of the donors who make this possible.”

Thanks to funds raised by the Women’s Auxiliary such programs as Critical Care, Rehabilitation and Therapy Services, Volunteer Services, Pet Therapy, Child Life, Social Work, Campus Beautification and the Women’s Auxiliary Scholarship Fund are supported. Why just last year the Auxiliary provided Children’s with a check for $677,720.

Tickets start at $85 and are available here. There are also sponsorship opportunities, too!

If you’ve ever waited ages in line for your munchkin to check things out with NorthPark Santa, then you know this get together just became the #1 thing on your must-do list.

* Graphic provided by Women's Auxiliary of Children's Medical Center 
**Photo provided by NorthPark Center

With weather guessers once again issuing warnings of rain, thunder, lighting and basic Debbie Downer conditions for this weekend, some outdoor event planners are scurrying around trying to come up with last-minute back-up plan. But luckily Zoo To Do 2018: Safari Soiree Co-Chairs Kim and Greg Hext were prepared just in case such a situation arose and sent word,

Due to the expected inclement weather, we are relocating Zoo To Do 2018: Safari Soiree to the Hyatt Regency Dallas at Reunion. Please note our updated start time is at 6 p.m. Please drive to the Reunion Tower parking to be met by valet.

“We are still featuring our wonderful Zoo To Do chefs and restaurants, and Emerald City All-Stars will be on hand for your dancing pleasure. And our Dallas Zoo Animal Ambassadors will be on location to greet you!”

The schedule for the night is

6:00 p.m.

• Check-In
• Big Board, Silent Auction, and Raffle Sales Open
• Dinner – Featured food from the area’s top chefs and restaurants along with interactive animal demonstrations

8:00 p.m.

• Live Auction and Desserts

9:00 p.m.

• Zoo To Do 2: The After Party with dancing to Emerald City All-Stars with featured cuisine

10:00 p.m.

• Auctions and Raffle Close

10:20 p.m.

• Raffle winners announced and The After Party Live Auction

12:00 a.m.

• Party ends
• Zoo To Do 2018 Hyatt Parking Image

While it may be disappointing that Mother Nature is throwing a damper on the festivities, the backup plan is in place to provide a great evening of fun and fundraising.

Here’s an idea — Why not make reservations at the Hyatt, check in, spend the night and have breakfast ala room service before heading home?

The reality of a rainy weekend is really setting in. The Saturday’s 2018 Trinity River Kite Festival has been canceled due to possible flood conditions.

On the other hand, Community Partners of Dallas‘ Change Is Good is definitely taking place on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. at Brook Hollow. Luckily, the event annually has loads of indoor activities with food, face painting, food, games, food, dancing and more food.

And for those Dallas Cowboy diehard fans, the game against the Jaguars will be televised.

BTW, the weathercasters have changed their minds about Monday’s high temperature hitting the upper 50s. Now, they’re thinking ten degrees lower with more rain. So, turn off the sprinkler systems for the next few days and dig into those closets for cashmeres, boots and gloves.

* Graphic provided by Community Partners of Dallas