Sold-Out: 2021 An Evening With The Best Of Broadway (File photo)
With exactly four months until Dallas Summer Musicals’ 2021 An Evening With The Best Of Broadway takes place, Event Co-Chairs Cindy and Scott Collier and Sara Lee and Stan Gardner are celebrating. The reason? The fundraising event that isn’t until Saturday, November 20, at the Music Hall with a full performance of “Hamilton” on stage is already sold out.
Cindy and Scott Collier*Sara Lee and Stan Gardner (File photo)
In addition to the show, the capacity crowd of 430 will enjoy a pre-show cocktail reception followed by a seated supper and an after-show party.
Another highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Angel Award to philanthropists Paddy and Barry Epstein, who among other things served as the 2014 Curtain Call honorary co-chairs.
If you’re one of the sold-out crowd, then start shopping for a nifty outfit. On the other hand, if you didn’t get your reservation in to make the cutoff, you can still get single tickets for “Hamilton” that will be in-house from Tuesday, November 16 thru Sunday, December 5.
Proceeds of the evening will support Dallas Summer Musicals’ “non-profit mission to deliver the spirit of Broadway to North Texas through robust educational programs and community outreach initiatives serving more than 40,000 individuals in over 100+ zip codes annually.”
When the pandemic ended many needed services and programs, Cancer Support Community North Texas’ (CSCNT) clubhouses in Dallas, Collin and Tarrant counties had to transition to digital support for cancer patients and their families. But on Monday, August 2, the plan calls for the clubhouses with their “warm, welcoming and home-like space” to open their doors for in-person programming and support groups.
Laura and Doug Wheat (File photo)Susan and Scott Salka*
In addition to having live music with professional dance demonstrations, an open bar, tapas, both live and silent auctions and a raffle, the evening will honor The Mary Kay Foundation for its continued support of CSCNT and its “decades-long commitment to finding cures for cancers affecting women through funding cancer research, awareness initiatives, community outreach programs and advocacy for legislation to ensure women are healthy and safe.”
Established in 1996, the Foundation was the result of the impact of cancer upon the late Mary Kay Ash’s family starting with the death of her husband Mel Ash to lung cancer in 1980. Over the years Mary Kay and her colleagues “began raising funds for cancer research.” Today the Foundation, in addition to its continued support of cancer research for cancers affecting women, is also committed to preventing violence against women.
Serving as event ambassadors will be Mary Kay’s great-granddaughter Jessica Bair Williams, Texas Health Resources Founding CEO/CSCNT “Thrive” recipient Doug Hawthorne and CSCNT Board Member/Chief Scientific Officer Lucy Gildea, Ph.D.
According to CSCNT CEO Mirchelle Louis, “This past year during the pandemic, we saw more than ever that cancer support – virtual and in person – is the critical, missing link in cancer care. We are thrilled to celebrate what CSCNT provides thousands of people every year at this memorable, all-in-red event and dance the night away with survivors and thrivers!”
Sponsors already on board include AMN Healthcare Services, Rosemary Haggar Vaughn Family Foundation, Grant Thornton, Locke Lord, Amegy Bank, Jordan Kahn Music Company and Vow to Dance Studio.
Tickets starting at $200 and sponsorships ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 are available here.
“There is something special about being part of a community where neighbors and friends come together to make a difference and what better way to celebrate community than with a Block Party!
“The first annual CitySquare Block Party will take place on Saturday, November 6, from 6:30 until 10:30 p.m. at The Empire Room in the Dallas Design District. Texas fall weather is perfect for the indoor and outdoor event that will include an array of food stations and cocktails, fun interactive neighborhood experiences, a silent auction, all culminating in partying and dancing to the fabulous Manhattan Band.
“CitySquare quickly pivoted our work in 2020 to respond to the devastating impact of a global pandemic and a terrible winter storm. We adapted our programs to respond to the physical, emotional, and economic destruction that so adversely affected our neighbors. Generosity and unwavering support sustained us in the fight and showed our city the power of community.
“Proceeds from the first annual CitySquare Block Party will enable us to continue addressing the issues of poverty while feeding the hungry, healing the sick, housing the homeless and renewing hope in the heart of our city.
CitySquare Block Party**
“Sharing my commitment is the event committee of CitySquare supporters including Gillea Allison and James Ray, Lewise and David Crockett, Wendy and Boyd Messmann, JJ Ponce, Kerry Perez and Lindsey Thomas, as well as honorary committee members Brenda and Larry James, Lynn and Bruce Cope, Karen and Tom Falk, Malahat and Ali Kizilbash, Karen and Tom McCracken and Cathy and Dave Shipley.
‘The first Cattle Baron’s Ball was a full-fledged Texas barbecue under the chairmanship of Patti Hunt and Jacque Wynne, who founded the event to raise funds for cancer research through the American Cancer Society.
“More than 500 guests attended the western-themed event in 1974, which was held at Toddie Lee Wynne’s Star Brand Ranch. Through ticket sales and the auction, the inaugural event raised $56,000. Today the ball hosts more than 3,000 guests and raises millions each year. We invite you to join us in continuing this rich tradition.
“Country music’s most revered performers have entertained at the ball throughout its 47-year history, including Tammy Wynette, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, George Strait, Waylon Jennings, Brooks and Dunn, Clint Black, Dwight Yoakam, Big and Rich, Toby Keith, Sugarland and Brad Paisley.
“While some might be hand-wringing at the prospect of continuing a legacy of ensuring more cancer research dollars are spent in Dallas than anywhere else in the country, they probably aren’t familiar with the members of the Cattle Baron’s Ball. This year’s ball is appropriately themed ‘Double Down Against Cancer.’
“Fortunately, the Cattle Baron’s Ball Committee is not comprised of the faint-of-heart – as evidenced by the fact that the CBB is the largest single-night fundraiser in the nation for cancer research through the American Cancer Society. To date, the ball has generated over $86 million in only 47 years.
Double Down Against Cancer*Dierks Bentley*
“After a year without a gathering celebrating our generous donors, we are so excited to put the finishing touches on this year’s ball at Gilley’s on Saturday, October 23, with headliner Dierks Bentley. Our renowned Silent and Live Auctions are among the best in the country with exotic travel, elegant jewelry and one-of-kind experiences that cannot be replicated.
“In addition to tickets and table sales, we invite you to market your business through one of Cattle Baron’s sponsorship opportunities and surprise elements the evening of the ball. This truly is your year to ‘Double Down Against Cancer.’
On Wednesday, November 17, the following recipients will be honored at The Fairmont Dallas:
Art Partnership
Large — Toyota nominated by Debbie Storey of AT&T Performing Arts Center
Small — Patron Magazine nominated by Nancy Cohen Israel
New Initiatives
Large — Atmos Energy nominated by Suzy Jones of ArtCentre of Plano
Small — Gensler Dallas nominated by Diana Pollack of Creative Arts Center of Plano
Art Education — North Texas Performing Arts nominated by Ryan Wayne of Shops of Willow Bend
Arts Philanthropy — Satish Gupta | SB International Inc. nominated by Ravi Srinvasan of thinkIndia Foundation
Business Champion for the Arts — Andy Smith | Texas Instruments Foundation nominated by Melissa Smrekar of Dallas Theater Center
Distinguished Cultural Organization — AT&T Performing Arts Center nominated by Lucilo Peña of Billingsley Company
Juror’s Award — Patty Granville | Granville Arts Center nominated by Sheri Morriss and Michelle Norris of the City of Garland
Lifetime Achievement Award — Ann Williams | Dallas Black Dance Theatre nominated by Zenetta Drew of Dallas Black Dance Theatre
Outstanding Leadership Arts Alumnus — Cathryn McClellan Kelly nominated by Rhiannon Martin of Arts Mission Oak Cliff
Visionary Non-Profit Arts Leader — Kim Noltemy | Dallas Symphony Orchestra nominated by Sanjiv Yajnik of Capital One
Business Council for the Arts*
The Obelisk Awards were created to “honor business, non-profits and individuals for their extraordinary support of arts and culture in North Texas.”
The 2021 sponsors included
Presenting Sponsor — Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger
Collectors Sponsors — Capital One and Neiman Marcus Group
Aficionado Sponsors — American Airlines, The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum, Atmos Energy, Baker Botts LLP, Beck, Bourland Octave Management, Comerica Bank, Corgan, Fisher and Phillips, Gensler, Hall Group, Harwood International, Haynes and Boone LLP, Holland and Knight LLP, Hunton Andrews Kurth, Jackson Walker LLP, Jones Day, Local Profile, McGrath Family Charitable Fund, NorthPark Center, Oncor Parkland, PepsiCo, PWC, Real Page, SMU | Meadows School of the Arts, Tolleson Wealth Management, UNT | College of Visual Arts and Design, UT Dallas and UT Southwestern
Catalyst Sponsor — Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Advocate Sponsors — Andy Smith and Paul von Wupperfeld
Appreciator Sponsor — Southwest
Sponsorship and ticket information is available here.
* Graphic provided by Business Council of the Arts
“I started volunteering with Youth First about four years ago when I was early in the process of coming out. It took me almost 30 years to come to terms with my queerness because I grew up in a very conservative area where there wasn’t any kind of queer representation. I spent years hating myself for not being straight. That healing process is long and ongoing. So, when I finally realized it was time to embrace my queerness, I knew I wanted to help LGBTQ youth avoid the shame and self-hate I spent so many years fighting.
Youth First members and Fran*
“Youth First is one of the only LGBTQ-focused programs in North Texas that addresses the challenges LGBTQ teens face at home, school and in the community. A program of Resource Center, it serves LGBTQ and allied youth, ages 12-18 and equips them with the tools and resources they need to live an authentic life through year-round, free programming that decreases high-risk behaviors, reduces social isolation, and increases self-esteem.
“I wanted to be a visibly queer adult who could love and affirm LGBTQ teens in the Youth first program and encourage them to love themselves. What surprised me was how healing it was to spend time with queer and trans youth at Youth First–to watch them affirming and supporting each other, adjusting to name and pronoun changes on a regular basis with no questions asked. There was none of the in-fighting between identities that I was already familiar with in the larger LGBTQ community. It sometimes feels selfish spending time with our Youth First members because I feel like I get so much out of it. Loving on them is almost as good as therapy.
Resource Center’s Back-To-School Talent Show Extravaganza*
“I’m excited to be involved with the upcoming Youth First’s Back-To-School event because it’s been so long since we put on any kind of in-person production. We have a lot of very talented, very creative youth in the program, and it’s important to celebrate that. This is also a big fundraising opportunity for Youth First. The funds from this event will help us with programming throughout the year–which we’re extra excited about now that we’re back in person! I, for one, am very much ready for dances and lock-ins because it’s important to create safe spaces for LGTBQ youth to have normal teenage experiences. Missing events like Queer Prom the last two years was rough. But to make that happen, we need the community to show up and support us at this Back-To-School event. It’s scheduled for Thursday, August 19, at 6 p.m. and will be a free, virtual showcase featuring the talented youth from Youth First. More information can be found at myresourcecenter.org/backtoschool.”
Unlike many other traditional North Texas fundraising activities, the annual Junior Symphony Ball (JSB) maintained its status as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s “longest running fundraiser.” Without losing a step, area teenagers managed to boot scoot through the 2020-2021 pandemic holding the mega gathering each year.
In 2020, the Texas tuxedo party took place on Saturday, February 1, at Gilley’s just before all heck broke loose. In late spring of this year, with COVID cases dwindling, the 2021 event commenced on Monday, June 7, at the Toyota Music Factory.
2021 Junior Symphony Ball*
High school sophomores, junior and seniors from Alcuin School, Bishop Lynch High School, Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, The Cambridge School of Dallas, Cistercian Preparatory School, Dallas International School, Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD), Greenhill School, Highland Park High School (HPHS), Hillcrest High School, The Hockaday School, Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, John Paul II High School, Lake Highlands High School, Parish Episcopal School (PES), Prince of Peace Christian School, Shelton School, St. Mark’s School of Texas, Ursuline Academy and Woodrow Wilson High School carried on the 59-year tradition of supporting the DSOL’s “music education programs for disadvantaged youth throughout North Texas.”
Anne Ligon, Lili Kelly, Jake Robinowitz, Sam Jackson, Emma Sweeney and Kim Noltemy
Last night the big reveal of the 2021 Junior Symphony Ball took place at Angela Jackson’s home. To the amazement of 2020-2021 DSOL President Anne Ligon and Dallas Symphony Orchestra President/CEO Kim Noltemy, a check for $238,456 was presented by JSB Co-Chairs Lili Kelly of ESD, Jake Robinowitz of St. Mark’s, Sam Jackson of Jesuit and Emma Sweeney of Ursuline.
Sam explained that some of the other co-chairs like Fletcher Calvert and Riley Calvert of ESD, Madison Muncy and Harrison Key of HPHS, Kate Wills of Hockaday and Abby Jackson of Parish, were unable to make it due to prior commitments.
James Click, Peyton Plumlee, Ava Haberer, Nicholas Koch, Anne Rubi, Cade Jordan and Caroline Syler**
As for the 2022 Junior Symphony Ball, Co-Chairs James Click of ESD, Ava Haberer of HPHS, Cade Jordan of Jesuit, Nicholas Koch of St. Mark’s, Peyton Plumlee of PES, Anne Rubi of Hockaday and Caroline Syler of Ursuline have already announced plans for the “State Of The Arts” to be held on Saturday, January 29, at Gilley’s. If you want to join the steering committee, check out the perks and plans here.
* Graphic courtesy of Junior Symphony Ball
** Photo credit: Carol Vig
“The North Texas Folds of Honor Gala is more than just a fundraising event. It is a place where military families, veterans, scholarship recipients and members of the North Texas community unite to celebrate and invest in the Folds of Honor Mission. We are beyond proud of the impact Folds of Honor is making through its provision of educational scholarships to the families of America’s disabled and fallen service members. The sixth annual Folds of Honor Gala is a chance for us to further this impact even more, and we hope you can be a part of it.
“This year’s event will be held Saturday, November 13, on the field at AT&T Stadium. How cool! The night will consist of dinner, an auction and plenty of entertainment from our live musical performer, Emerald City. Not only is the event sure to be a fun time, but it will also be a privilege to gather together and witness all the lives being changed through our collective investment in Folds of Honor.
2021 Folds Of Honor Gala**
“There are close to 1.5 million dependents just in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, and nine out of ten do not qualify for any federal financial assistance. We want to see a change in this frustrating statistic and believe the mission of Folds of Honor is an outstanding avenue to that change. Just in this past 2020 to 2021 school year, we have provided 104 scholarships to North Texas students, and we hope to see that number only go up with your help.
“We are thrilled to be a part of this year’s event and hope you will join us in championing this noble cause. We thank you in advance for standing with us in support of these remarkable families.
“Individual tickets and tables are on sale now here. We are also looking for sponsors and exciting auction items here. We hope to see you on the field for a fun and fulfilling night!”
* Photo provided by Cintia Powers
** Graphic provided by North Texas Folds Of Honor
“The Dallas Arboretum is excited to present the fourth annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Saturday, September 4, and Sunday, September 5, a wonderful way to spend the Labor Day weekend. There will be live musical performances including Havana NRG and Tejano star Gary Hobbs, cooking demonstrations, food, vendors and a National Geographic Explorer. The event is free for all paid garden guests, and advanced online ticket reservations are required.
“To kick off the festival, on Saturday, September 4, at 10 a.m. in the Jonsson Color Garden, the garden will host a celebration of Quinceañera fashion and culture, where selected participants showcase their beautiful and colorful quinceañera dresses and share their favorite traditions and future plans. Afterwards, led by a mariachi band, the young ladies parade through the garden allowing even more guests to see their dresses.
Quinceañera fashions*
“The celebration of Quinceañera fashion and culture is a way to honor the many beautiful young women who often take their quinceañera photos in our garden. We welcome the community to learn about our heritage and traditions in one of the most beautiful places in the city. Special guest Gloria Rinconi, Miss Dallas Latina 2021, joins us to welcome the young ladies.
Havana NRG*Gary Hobbs*Peruvian dancer*
“On Saturday at 2:30 p.m., the popular Latin band, Havana NRG, performs. Earlier in the day, Daniel Rodriguez and Manzanilla Flamenca both showcase their musical and dance prowess, respectively. On Sunday, the Peruvian dancers demonstrate native dances, and then at 2 p.m., Tejano star Gary Hobbs takes the stage to close out the festivities.
“For those wanting to shop and to support our local small businesses, more than 25 Hispanic-owned vendors sell their wares—from clothing to household goods, décor and of course, delicious food. We also host cooking demonstrations in A Tasteful Place with a nod to Hispanic cuisine. Be sure to bring your wallet and your appetite!
“On Sunday, September 5 from 10 a.m. to noon, we welcome a special guest. National Geographic ExplorerAndrés Ruzo joins us in the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden Exploration Center. He is bringing a 20-foot Anaconda skin for viewing and provides autographs. For those interested, we are playing his compelling TED Talk about the Boiling River Project he is leading in the Amazon in our OmniGlobe theatre room.
“Bonus! The weekend, Sept. 4-6, is also a Kelley Family Weekend, so visitors receive free admission to the Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden, thanks to this family’s generous support.
“In addition to myself as the HHC chair, additional members planning the celebration include Megan Ames, Maria Gomez, Salma Gottfried, Tatiana Higdon, Ben Leal, Rafael Luna, Regina Montoya, Victor Ornelas, Mary Silva and Aura Vasquez.
“A special thanks to the sponsors: Arredondo Zepeda and Brunz Inc.; Assured Comfort Services; Azteca-Omega Group; Belmar Integrated Logistics; Dallas College; Frost Bank; Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; HOLA DFW, H100 Latina Giving Circle at Texas Women’s Foundation; Linebarger Goggan Blair and Sampson LLP; Link America, Inc.; Lira Bravo Law, LLC; Orenstein Law Group; Phillips/May Corporation; Regional Hispanic Contractors Association; Silva, Mejia and Delgado; VisitDallas and KXTX Telemundo 39.
“Finally, we have an Honorary Council that reads like a who’s who in the city and state. We are so thankful and grateful that they’ve let us use their names to promote this cultural event that is for everyone who wants to learn more about the Hispanic community and our traditions. You can read the list here along with a complete list of events and times: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/hispanic-heritage-celebration/”
* Photo provided by Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
“The Hopeful Theatre Project began as a dream in the fall of 2018 when a group of actors decided they wanted to use their talents to give back to the community. We opened our first production, ‘Two Acts of Love’ on February 16, 2019, to benefit The Ronald McDonald House Charities, expecting it to be the first and only show we would produce. Instead, we were amazed by the amount of support we received from the actors and audiences saying how much they enjoyed it and asking about the next one. That’s when we realized that there was a hunger in the theatre community for something like this. And thus, The Hopeful Theatre Project was born!
“The Hopeful Theatre Project is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in the state of Texas founded on April 11, 2019.
“We’re a little different than most non-profit theatres in Texas. We produce each show with one goal in mind: to raise funds for a local charity or a local chapter of a national charity. 100% of our ticket proceeds from EVERY show go directly to the charity we are supporting.
The Hopeful Theatre Project*
“In the past two years, The Hopeful Theatre Project has been able to raise over $15,000 for our beneficiaries, which include Ronald McDonald House Charities of Fort Worth, Make-A-Wish Foundation of North Texas, The Salvation Army, The Actors Fund, The American Red Cross, Operation Christmas Child and more.
“Last year was our first year to participate in North Texas Giving Day. Unfortunately, it was also a year the arts needed it the most. It’s no secret that COVID-19 impacted the arts community and The Hopeful Theatre Project was no exception. North Texas Giving Day came at the perfect time to help us continue our mission even through a worldwide pandemic. We were able to re envision all the shows in our season, allowing us to continue producing shows that support our beneficiaries in a way that kept our actors and audiences safe.
The Hopeful Theatre Project*
“If there was one thing we took away from our first year of North Texas Giving Day, it was how much people do believe in our mission – to bring hope, love, and aid to the community by utilizing local talent through the performing arts to benefit various charity organizations. When we laid out our plans last year, we set modest goals for the day, hoping we would reach them. We quickly found that we had underestimated our community’s desire to give to our cause because we ended up doubling our goal. After that experience, we’re now much more confident in our fundraising efforts, believing that our people and our communities are beside us. We are ‘hopeful” that this year will continue to help us grow, for although we are small, our hearts are big.’”
* Graphic and photo provided by The Hopeful Theatre Project
In 12 years, Communities Foundation of Texas’ North Texas Giving Day has pumped more than $375 million into the North Texas community. In 2020, more than $58.8 million was raised through more than 106,000 donors benefiting over 3,200 area nonprofits.
Reschedules aren’t all that bad. For instance, the Cancer Support Community North Texas (CSCNT) team just announced the rescheduling of its 2nd Annual Red Tie Gala’s Dance the Night Away. Instead of holding it on Friday, October 15, it will be held on Friday, April 29, at The Empire Room, with guests getting in the swing of things with professional dancers on hand.
Actually, the new date is a double blessing in disguise. Not only is it the organization’s 20th anniversary, it’s also International Dance Day.
According to CSCNT CEO Mirchelle Louis, “While we were so looking forward to hosting the Red Tie Gala once again, out of an abundance of caution, we felt it was necessary to postpone the event until Spring 2022. At the same time, we are grateful to now have the opportunity to celebrate our 20th anniversary as part of this wonderful event!”
In the meantime, she made a “special request” of those who were planning to attend the Red Tie Gala to consider supporting CSCNT on North Texas Giving Day between now and midnight on Thursday, September 23.
* Graphic provided by Cancer Support Community North Texas
Sold-Out Alert!: The Spirit of Taos (File graphic)
Despite postponements and cancellations of events, some are still charging ahead with success for the fourth quarter of 2021. In fact, Wilkinson Center’s Spirit of Taos Co-Chairs Karrie Cato, Ida Gleaton and Lindsay Morris and Friends of Wilkinson Center President Caitlin Hyatt have just announced that the fundraiser on Friday, October 15, at Arts District Mansion is sold out.
And it’s no wonder, since for the festivities the gals have arranged to have former WFAA sports chieftain Dale Hansen — who has a reputation for going “unplugged” — as the emcee, plus the Jimmy Stadler Band and DJ Lucy Wrubel.
For guests who have already locked down their spots, it’s time to start exercising those bidding arms for the auction. For the tardy types, they won’t be able to participate in the live and silent auctions since there will be no online opportunities. However, it’s never too late to make a donation to support Wilkinson Center’s mission “to transform the lives of Dallas families by providing pathways to self-sufficiency with dignity and respect.”
If you had your heart set on two-stepping back into the Texas swing of major fundraising at the 2021 Cattle Baron Ball presented by Texas Oncology, you’re running out of time. CBB Co-Chairs Diana Hamilton and Heather Randall have just sent word that there are only two tables left for the American Cancer Society of North Texas’s fundraiser at Gilley’s on Saturday, October 23.
Thanks to the pandemic, this event was two years in the making and evidently folks are just busting to pull out their cowboy boots and Stetsons.
According to the CBB evening’s protocol, “Service personnel, such as food and beverage servers, will be wearing masks.”
In the meantime, the CBB Digital Auction Book has gone live online. The Big Board Auction and Silent Auction are available for bidding tomorrow morning (Friday, October 15) at 9 a.m. You can get a head start on bidding by registering now!
After suffering through a tornado, a pandemic and a lollapalooza ice storm, 2020/2021 Cattle Baron’s Ball Co-Chairs Diana Hamilton and Heather Randall are on the eve of finally pulling off the legendary hoedown for their near-and-dear 2,600 cowboys and cowgirls Saturday at Gilley’s.
2021 Cattle Baron’s Ball committee
Today as the committee of 100 was setting up tables, chairs and VIP centerpieces in the overly chilly main building, oldtimers were a bit in awe at how organized and smooth things were going. On the other hand, Diana and Heather were still wary of any possible problems that might stand in the way of their fundraising for the American Cancer Society of North Texas.
One surprise for the girls was the arrival of new American Cancer Society CEO Dr. Karen Knudsen, who briefly congratulated the baronesses and told them that she was looking forward to attending her first CBB. Karen has only been officially on the job since June 1 and is the first female CEO for ACS in its 107-year history.
Custom caps for 2021 Cattle Baron’s Ball committee
Another surprise happened during lunch. With the building’s AC in overdrive, the baronesses opted to eat outside. It was then that 2016 CBB Co-Chair Andrea Weber and 2018 CBB Co-Chair Jonika Nix appeared with custom-made baseball caps as gifts from the past CBB chairs including Olivia Kearney (2006), KJ Sanger (2012), Mary Humphreys Parker (2013), Jill Tananbaum (2014), Tia Wynne (2015), Katy Bock (2018), Wendy Messmann (2019) and Lisa Shirley (2019).
From the left: (standing) KJ Sanger, Lisa Shirley, Wendy Messmann, Tia Wynne, Jonika Nix and Katy Bock; (seated) Jill Tananbaum, Mary Humphreys Parker, Olivia Kearney and Andrea Weber
When asked about changes this year, insiders reported that the Ferris wheel was on hiatus, but a mechanical bull would be bucking. Instead of favor bags, there would be a very nice favor. There would be plenty of music thanks to Cole Swindell and Dierks Bentley, but no meet-and-greet with the boys. For the first time there would be a presenting sponsor — Texas Oncology. And, yes, there are absolutely no more tickets available. BTW, if you do have a ticket, do not forget your wristband. Without it — no entry.
Just in case COVID restrictions tightened up, Dallas CASA organizers decided to play it real safe for its annual Champion of Children fundraiser on Thursday, October 14. Instead of a seated supper in a hotel ballroom with a speaker, they staked claim on The Rustic’s outdoor with singer Bob Schneider on stage to the delight of the hundreds of guests who partied the night away. Here’s a report from the field:
Kathleen LaValle, Cynt and Kenneth Marshall and Priscilla and Corey Anthony*
Dallas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) gathered to celebrate the annual Champion of Children dinner Thursday, October 14, at The Rustic. The event annually recognizes those in the community who are standing up for the best interests of children. The evening marked Dallas CASA’s first, unlimited in-person event in more than 18 months.
Champion of Children*Bob Schneider*
The event raised more than $300,000 for Dallas CASA, which provides trained community volunteers for child victims of abuse or neglect living in the protective care of the state. Volunteers are often the only constant adult during a frightening time in a child’s life.
Although a tent was in place in case of rain, the evening was dry and guests enjoyed a performance by Austin singer-songwriter Bob Schneider who played many of his award-winning hits and took requests from the audience. Boots and jeans were the attire for the evening.
Food followed a Texas theme with passed appetizers of wild boar meatballs, cactus fries and deviled eggs, followed by grilled ribeye and sides served with jalapeno spoon bread, topped off with banana pudding and a S’mores station for dessert. Canned drinks were served from a canoe, and blankets covered hay bale seating. Wood fires were surrounded by circles of casual seating.
Sally Hoglund, Kristy Hoglund Robinson and Forrest Hoglund**Hannah and Greg May**Linda and Rob Swartz**Jana and Mike Brosin**
Attendees included Dallas CASA board members Corey Anthony, Mark Berg, Beth Cholerton, Stephanie Stewart, Kristy Hoglund Robinson, Dave Kroencke, Laura Losinger, Cynt Marshall, Greg May, Scott Orr, Megan Sterquell, Terese Stevenson and Linda Swartz. Judges Kim Cooks, Rhonda Hunter and Drew Ten Eyck were also in attendance, along with Dallas County Commissioner Elba Garcia.
Sponsors for the evening included
Presenting Sponsors Cynt and Kenneth Marshall and the Estate of Nancy and Rex Spivey;
Live Music Sponsor Pioneer Natural Resources;
Gold Sponsors Priscilla and Corey Anthony, The Fran and Mark Berg Family, Cynthia Comparin / Retta Miller, Crest Auto Group / Jana and Mike Brosin, Dallas Mavericks, Denise and Russell Harper, The Hirsch Family Foundation, The Hoglund Foundation, Linda and Rob Swartz and Leslie and Geoff Wayne.
Silver Sponsors Rachel and Greg Barnes, Kimberly and Joe Colonnetta, The Rosewood Corporation and Russell Reynolds Associates.
Bronze sponsors Suzanne Bryan, Debby and Hugh Comer, Janice Z. and Richard Davis, Nancy and Scott Fitzgerald, Tracey Nash-Huntley and David S. Huntley, InfoDefense, Inc., Lynn Brooks and Jeff Kindig, Kathleen and Michael LaValle, Laura and John Losinger, Hannah and Grey May, Gina and Russell Porter, RealCom Solutions, Susan and Paul Robinson, Sendero, Stream Realty, Quilling Selander Lownds Winslett and Moser P.C., Texas Security Bank and The Wales Family Foundation.
* Photo credit: Tim Heitman
** Photo credit: Rosanne Lewis
Postponing its annual Big Dreams Gala this year due to vaccination activities was a hard one for The Concilio. The original plan was to use it as the kickoff for the organization’s 40th anniversary. Instead they decided to celebrate with a birthday party on Saturday, October 16, at Kiest Park. In addition to dancing, treats and creating a mural for The Concilio office, there was a surprise, courtesy of the Dallas Mayor’s office. Here’s a report from the field:
The Concilio originally planned the kickoff of its 40th anniversary year with its annual Big Dreams Gala this month. But with its team busy in the field doing vaccine outreach, President/CEO Florencia Velasco Fortner and her team decided to put off a formal celebration to next spring. Instead, an outdoor celebration seemed the right approach, so a new 40th birthday party was born.
The Concilio 40th Anniversary group photo*
On a perfect Saturday, with cool weather and sunshine, The Concilio gathered families and community members at Kiest Park in Oak Cliff. “Juntos Podemos” (“Together We Can”), was the theme for the day commemorating the 40-year history of this nonprofit organization that unlocks opportunities for Latino and other diverse families in North Texas.
Florencia spoke about the importance of Latino families to the strength of the North Texas community and The Concilio’s promise to continue championing them: “Today, 41% of the population in Dallas-Fort Worth is Latino. The strength of the Latino community is critical to the health of our region. And the foundation of the Latino community is families. We know Latino families are ready for opportunity. We all want our children to have even more opportunity in the next generation. We share your dreams, and that’s why, as the Latino community has grown, The Concilio has too.”
Mary Elbanna and Florencia Velasco Fortner*
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson ‘s Chief of Staff Mary Elbanna then took her place on the stage to announcing that the mayor had officially proclaimed October 16, 2021, as “The Concilio for Latino Equity Day.”
Grupo Juvenil de Ballet Folklorico Hispano de Dallas*Popsicles being handed out*40th anniversary mural*
Sponsored by Atmos Energy, the event featured something for everyone. Families enjoyed scrumptious tacos from Taco Deli, music, live performances by Grupo Juvenil de Ballet Folklórico Hispano de Dallas and family portraits. Children were treated to popsicles from Encanto Pops, balloon animals and a chance to decorate a mural that will be displayed at The Concilio. And, after singing “Las Mañanitas,” the traditional Latino version of “Happy Birthday,” Helpful North Texas Honda Dealers presented families served by The Concilio with a “birthday present” of groceries and gift cards in honor of the occasion.
Prentis Murphy*
Among those who helped The Concilio kick off its 40th anniversary year were Dallas City Plan Commission from District 1 Enrique MacGregor representing Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Chad West, Helpful North Texas Honda Dealers’ Jorge Romero, Texas Rangers Community Relations Director Ray Casas, State Farm’s Princella McNair, MoneyGram’s Prisma Garcia, Dallas ISD Deputy Superintendent Susana Cordova, The Concilio Board Chair Prentis Murphy, board members Michelle Hicks, Matthew Michalak, Gaston Sirito and a very special canine friend accompanied by board member Michael Broder.
The Concilio has served 250,000 people since its founding in 1981 and is proud to be a trusted resource for Latino and other diverse families seeking to build a better life for themselves and their children.
It’s not too late to get in on helping The Concilio celebrate their anniversary. Mark your calendars for the Big Dreams Gala at The Virgin Hotels on Thursday, April 7, 2022.
COVID-19 is still providing some “hiccups” for North Texas non-profits.
While the Dallas Summer Musical’s “2021 Evening With The Best Of Broadway” fundraiser featuring “Hamilton” took the spotlight on Saturday evening, the DSM’s performance of the Tony-award-winning musical at Fair Park’s Music Hall proved to be a disappointment tonight. Not because of the quality of the staging or the talent of the cast, but rather because of someone testing positive for COVID.
2021 Evening With The Best Of Broadway (File graphic)
One hopeful audience member and her family showed up in the Fair Park parking lot only to be told, “It’s canceled because of COVID in the cast. It might be rescheduled for [Sunday] December 5.”
Even Saturday night’s black-tie optional benefit had its unexpected developments, due to Music Hall “plumbing concerns” resulting in mobile restrooms having to be made available.
As the world tries to emerge from the pandemic tsunami of upsets, it may be a challenge to adapt to the new world of “normal.” As North Texans gird up for the ever-changing challenges for area non-profits, programs and organizations like the Dallas Summer Musicals should prepare for the unexpected to be expected.
According to 2020 and 2021 Jewel Charity Volunteer President Michelle Marlow,
“COVID-19 truly affected our ability to raise funds for Cook Children’s to the extent in which we are used to and the patients rely on us to provide.
“The largest fundraiser that we have is our annual Jewel Charity Ball and the raffle and silent auction that takes place at the Ball.
“The Ball unfortunately had to be cancelled in 2021 and the amount of funding we were able to provide to Cook Children’s was in-turn negatively affected. We are thrilled to announce that the Ball is on for Saturday, March 5, 2022, and that means we have a lot of financial support to make up for.
“Our one wish is to sell more raffle tickets than ever before so that we can provide Cook Children’s with the largest check possible. With your support, we can achieve that goal.
“The raffle is a benefit to so many different facets of Fort Worth. One, it provides wonderful prizes at various price points to meet the needs of anyone, whether attending the Ball or not. Two, the raffle also helps our local businesses and corporate partners receive awareness and marketing during this tough economic time. Three, the raffle enables Jewel Charity Ball Inc. to remain the largest third-party funder of Cook Children’s and lastly but most importantly, the patients and families at Cook Children’s are the true benefactors from the raffle ticket sales. The cost increase of quality medical care, especially for extended illnesses, and the surge of patients due to the pandemic, has given Jewel Charity’s fundraising efforts an even greater significance as Cook Children’s uncompensated care costs continue to escalate.
Jewel Charity Ball*
“Though the needs have changed during our 65 years, the heart of Jewel Charity remains devoted to the children who are patients at Cook Children’s. Jewel Charity remains true to its original purpose, now with over 625 members, and has raised over $75 million dollars since the first Ball to ensure that all children at Cook Children’s are provided the health care they need and deserve.
“The work of Jewel Charity is not possible without the support of the community. We ask that you consider supporting Jewel Charity Inc. and the work that we do to provide for the most vulnerable patients and families at Cook Children’s.
When the late author Thomas Wolfe wrote, “You can’t go home again,” he underestimated 2022 Cattle Baron’s Ball Co-Chairs Nancy Gopez and Kris Johnson.
Lasso A Cure – Ranch, Rubies And Ropers*
What has been one of the worst-kept secrets around — where the 2022 fundraiser for the American Cancer Society of North Texas research will take place — is finally out in the open.
The first hint of the location was the Easter egg stashed in the 2022 CBB logo and theme — “Lasso A Cure – Ranches, Rubies And Ropers.”
The word “ranches” was a dead giveaway that the committee of 100 volunteers was heading for acreage to host thousands of the buckeroos and babes.
So, what ranch has been the site of the CBB nine times? JR’s old stomping grounds — Southfork, of course. While the drive to the ranch is familiar, each one of the past nine events has had a different look, flavor and entertainer. Why, the very first one was back in 1981 when Johnny Cash was on the Main Stage. Since then The Oak Ridge Boys (1985), Brooks and Dunn (2006), Brad Paisley and Big and Rich (2007), Sugarland and Pat Green (2008), Alan Jackson and Jack Ingram (2010), Darius Rucker and Dierks Bentley (2011), Blake Shelton (2012) and Rascal Flatts (2013) have performed there to fill the coffers.
2022 Cattle Baron’s Ball committee*
Stay tuned for more developments… like the entertainers and other surprises the baronesses have in store.
Carol Huckin, Elsa Norwood and Finley Konrade*Leslie and Hawkins Golden*
So, it’s no surprise that Equest’s 2022 Gala Co-Chairs Carol and Bill Huckin, Finley and Eric Konrade and Elsa Norwood and Honorary Co-Chairs Leslie and Hawkins Golden decided that North Texas’ renowned equine therapy program’s fundraiser should have the theme “Blue Ribbon Ball — Celebrating 41 Years of Victory Rides.”
According to Equest CEO Lili Kellogg, “This year’s gala theme is inspired by Equest’s clients’ ‘Blue Ribbon’ success and accomplishments in and out of the arena. We hope the community will join us for what promises to be a spectacular evening that raises important funds in support of our critical therapeutic programs and all of our client’s ‘Blue Ribbon’ moments.”
“Blue Ribbon Ball – Celebrating 41 Years of Victory Rides”*
The event will no doubt be a welcome relief after a spring workout of stilettos and suits. For this occasion, the attire will be strictly adorable sandals and sundresses and boots and jeans. You’ll definitely want to look your best for the photo ops with the Equest mini-ambassadors.
And thanks to the cocktail reception, seated dinner, entertainment and live and silent auctions taking place in Equest’s open-air Al Hill Jr. Arena, it won’t matter if the sun is in overdrive or if showers are in the forecast for the fundraiser on Saturday, June 4.
Details are to be revealed in the weeks ahead on who the 2022 Citation Award recipient will be, as well as the keynote speaker.
While sponsorships and table reservations won’t be available until early next year, it’s never too early to start putting a group together for a “blue ribbon” night.
