Members of the Plano Symphony Performed Live!

Maria Vallejo, Plano Symphony, spoke on Healing Notes

                
Celebrating 35 years!  AWARE held its November education meeting and luncheon at Touchmark at Emerald Lake and featured Maria Vallejo from the Plano Symphony speaking on Healing Notes, the benefits of music therapy and a live performance by members of Simon Sez Brass, who often perform with the Plano Symphony and other groups around North Texas.  
          
AWARE is a nonprofit organization that empowers North Texans to rise above the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, together.
          
Karen Koop, president, welcomed the crowd and encouraged everyone to join the group as a Friend of AWARE or give membership as a holiday gift. She announced the AWARE Affair 2025 gala will happen on Friday, April 4, 2025 at Gilley’s in downtown Dallas. Chaired by David McDavid Jr., the event will honor Venise Stuart with the Founder’s Spirit Award and Karisti Julia with the Amy Osler Spirit of Education Leadership Award.  It will be a boot scootin’ event again this year with a live and silent auction, buffet seated dinner and dancing to the tunes of the fabulous Breckenridge Band.  Karisti is also chair of today’s event at Touchmark.
          
Wesley Helms, executive director of Touchmark at Emerald Lake, spoke about the new happenings at the venue, additional facilities are in the works, and all of the available amenities and activities in the Touchmark community.
          
Erin Dougherty from the Center for Vital Longevity, gave updates followed by Audette Rackley from the Center for Brain Health, who gave everyone a copy of their new booklet, a Guide to Proactive Steps, a resource for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias, funded by a grant from AWARE.
          
After the invocation by Mari Epperson, Karisti reminded everyone that there will be a Holiday Party in December and the next Friends meeting will be in March 2025 at the Center for Brain Health.
          
She introduced Maria Vallejo from the Plano Symphony who spoke about “Healing Notes” and the powerful impact of music therapy and live musical performances for those in senior living communities.  She said they take part in the rhythm part of the performances with interactive concerts. One of their partners is Simon Sez Brass, who perform outreach concerts, and featured a very entertaining mini-concert of musical numbers from a trove of favorites from the past.
          
It was a wonderful luncheon as everyone sang, clapped their hands and participated in the musical show while enjoying a sumptuous luncheon.
          
To know more about AWARE, the upcoming Spring 2025 gala, join the Friends group, visit the website at www.awaredallas.org

AWARE Affair Boots, Buckles and Brain Health presented by Anne Davidson, happens on Friday night, April 4, 2025 at Gilley's Dallas. AWARE returns to Gilley’s for a boots, buckles and brain health evening with supporters coming together for a night fighting Alzheimer’s and supporting care partners. Guests will enjoy a delicious seated buffet dinner, dancing to The Breckenridge Band, lots of fun brain health activities, silent and live auction, and a meaningful evening with friends and family while raising money for AWARE.

David McDavid Jr., is chair. Karen Koop is president, AWARE. 

Underwriting and Sponsorships: Underwriting tickets begin at $1,200 for two tickets and other benefits. Underwriting levels go up to $25,000. Exclusive Naming opportunities start at $5,000 up to $25,000. The $50,000 Trailblazer Presenting Sponsor is sold.

AWARE Affair 2025 Website Link: https://www.awaredallas.org/aware-affair/   
More gala details coming soon!

About AWARE:
AWARE is a nonprofit organization that empowers North Texans to rise above the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, together. Since AWARE’s founding in 1989 by a group of volunteers, the Dallas-based organization has invested more than $14 million in local providers, researchers and innovators fighting for our loved ones and a cure. Every dollar that AWARE grants stays in North Texas to benefit the local community.

AWARE also invites North Texans to join Friends of AWARE —a community of individuals, caregivers and professionals with a vested interest in supporting the best care in our region today and hope for a cure tomorrow. Individuals navigating the challenges of these diseases—including patients, caregivers and professionals—connect, learn and advocate for solutions in North Texas. 

The community can support AWARE’s mission by joining Friends of AWARE, attending its annual signature fundraiser, AWARE Affair, or donating. Join Friends of AWARE at www.awaredallas.org.

AWARE is a component fund of The Dallas Foundation, a 501c3 publicly supported charity.

Together with compassion and dedication we can make a difference. Join AWARE now and join the fight.   www.AWAREDallas.org   Instagram: @awaredallas

Facebook: @awaredallas
                                                 

Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

Bryan’s House benefited from a spooktacular Halloween celebration sponsored by Dallas-based Lone Star Monarchs with fanciful decorations, treats, Target Gift Cards and more, which brought smiles all around.
        
Regina Bruce, Lone Star Monarch’s co-founder, said, “Lone Star Monarchs was thrilled to come together as volunteers to help create a frightfully delightful Halloween Party for Bryan’s House in support of children with special needs, along with their dedicated teachers and staff.  It was a truly spooktacular and fun-filled day for everyone.”
        
Bryan’s House Interim CEO, Lee Prater said, “We are immensely thankful for the Lone Star Monarchs, who helped us have a wonderful Halloween celebration! These ladies gave our kiddos and staff such a fun and memorable day, complete with pumpkins, goodie bags, and more treats than we could ever have asked for! An incredible group making an incredible impact! Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
        
Also joining in the celebration were Cathy Amos, Anna Berman, Lauran Grant, Karen Lukin, Jeanne Lewis, Kunthear Mam-Douglas, Diane Moten, Dr. Laura Sanders, Elizabeth Smith and Rosangela Zurawel.
        
Lone Star Monarchs is a 501c3 Texas nonprofit. Its mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit, as together, members build an effective network of individuals and organizations to support a broad spectrum of charitable organizations in Dallas and throughout Texas.  LSM’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable to connect people and enrich lives.  www.lonestarmonarchs.org
        
Bryan’s House mission is to provide children with special needs and their families with trusted case management, educational, therapeutic and medically-supported care. We accomplish our mission through two umbrella programs:

Direct Onsite Programs: Integrates on-site nursing with high-quality education, therapy and developmental care geared to each child’s needs.

Offsite Programs: Provides individualized strategic intervention and planning designed to promote increased knowledge, skills and behaviors that will enable families with children with special needs to manage emergencies, sustain basic needs, achieve their goals and expand their opportunities for long-term success. www.bryanshouse.org

Photos by Danny Campbell

In Support of Friends of Katy Trail and White Rock Lake Conservancy

Mean Mug Brewing and Angelica’s Creations, Sponsors  | Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 Bring the family and pets and join Mean Mug Brewing and Angelica’s Creations as they sponsor the first ever Grinchmas Market at Katy Trail Station on Saturday, December 14^th from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. benefiting Friends of Katy Trail and White Rock Lake Conservancy. The exact address is 4825 Cole Avenue, 75205. The event is free and open to the public.
        

Browse through a variety of vendors offering unique gifts, delicious treats, and more. Get into the holiday spirit with music, fun activities, and maybe even a visit from the Grinch himself!
        

Take pictures with Santa in a rustic backdrop scene and make a free holiday craft. Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity to shop local and support small businesses and help raise money to host free outdoor movie nights for the Katy Trail community. The first 25 will receive a free Grinchmas shopping bag with goodies. Mark your calendars and come celebrate the season with us at Katy Trail Station.     
        

For more information visit EventBrite (URL: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-grinchmas-market-at-katy-trail-station-tickets-1087091242169?aff=oddtdtcreator) or on Instagram @meanmugbrewingllc

Partners:

Angelica's Creations (custom apparel, tumblers, embroidery and more) donating custom Grinchmas bags with goodies (while supplies last).

Crafting With Intent (arts and crafts parties) donating free arts and crafts supplies for holiday craft projects.

Mean Mug Brewing (coffee, lemonade, hot chocolate, and treats) donating decorations and yard games.

Tails and Trails (K-9 outdoor adventure gear) donating free disposable water bowls and hydration station setup for pets.

The Social Mug (candid photography) donating mini candid photo with Santa sessions and backdrop setup.

Vendors (as of November 20, 2024):

Angelica's Creations (custom apparel, tumblers, embroidery and more)

Backyard Barbeque (smoke and grill)

By Kina Malia (Art)

Crystal's Luscious Pastries!

Fifteen 34 Bookshop

Lil Bits of Mona (String art)

Lis' Fleurs (floristry and more)

Mari's elotes y mas (street corn and more)

Mean Mug Brewing (coffee, lemonade, hot chocolate, and treats)

Queen M Jewelry

Squeezed Pink Lemonade

Tails and Trails (K-9 outdoor adventure gear)

Te Pica Candy (dulces enchilados)

Torres Croc Charms

Two Diamond Fit (comfortable and stylish activewear apparel for hiking, running, cycling, yoga)

Public Contact for Questions: Benjamin Durichek. Email coffee@meanmugbrewing.com or call 903-930-0505.

About Mean Mug Brewing:
Mean Mug Brewing is a mobile coffee and lemonade business dedicated to providing high-quality beverages to our community through a convenient and accessible mobile service.

We love creating meaningful connections and building relationships by serving a truly enjoyable coffee experience with every cup. Our mobile coffee service company specializes in espresso and cold brew inspired coffees, hot chocolate, lemonade and treats. Contact us for catering options. We are centrally located in Grand Prairie, TX 75052 serving areas throughout north Texas. Visit our website at www.meanmugbrewing.com for menu options, catering information and locations. Phone: 903-930-0505.  Email: coffee@meanmugbrewing.com   Follow us on FB and IG @meanmugbrewingllc

 About Angelica’s Creations:

Introducing Angelica's Creations. Launched in 2016, Angelica's Creations is a small business that I proudly turned into my full-time profession diving headfirst into entrepreneurship while balancing life as a stay-at-home mom to my two daughters at the time. With a natural flair for crafting and DIY projects, I was always the creative one in my family. What began with party decorations, t-shirts, and similar items, but over the years, my work has evolved to include unique embroidery and custom creations that hold special meaning.

Despite the uncertainties that come with starting a business, I persevered. As the years passed, I built a loyal customer base, invested in advanced machinery, and my passion for what I do flourished. Fast forward to 2024, I’m still dedicated and continue to run my business full-time and have also taken on the role as an event coordinator and have hosted various events and vendor markets while also embracing life as a stay-at-home mom to three daughters. I cherish the relationships I've formed with my customers and take pride in crafting meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces. Based in the Arlington area, I am thrilled to offer shipping services worldwide.

A bit about myself: I’m Angelica Cantu a 27year old, happily married to my high school sweetheart for the past ten years. He is my greatest supporter, and together we navigate the beautiful journey of parenthood, and entrepreneurship. In the near future, I envision myself owning my very own storefront, welcoming even more clientele, and expanding my reach. With this goal in mind, I’m excited to continue growing Angelica’s Creations and building lasting relationships with my community.

It's not too late to join us on November 14 for an immersive botanical experience with renowned landscape designer and author Stefani Bittner. Guests will explore the powerful benefits of herbal teas and personalized aroma selections, designing bespoke take-home sachets.  

Stefani’s San Francisco Bay area-based firm, Homestead Design Collective, is known for creating beautiful gardens of seasonal splendor across public, commercial and residential spaces. The Women's Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is honored to present this intimate setting at Gardenuity in conjunction with Stefani’s presentation for A Writer’s Garden at The Dallas Arboretum. Tea, morning nibbles, and materials will be provided during the workshop.

We’ve also included a link here to secure one of our last remaining seats for A Writer’s Garden main event on Wednesday, November 13th. https://e.givesmart.com/events/ynj/

WHAT: A Fragrant Flower Garden Workshop

WHEN: Thursday, November 14th

10 A.M. to noon

WHERE: Gardenuity

2222 Vantage Street, Dallas, TX 75207

 Tickets are $60, and space is limited to 50 attendees.  Purchase workshop tickets here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/ynj/page/workshop/

Chairs: Colby Baer and Katie Kennemer

Questions: womenscouncilevent@gmail.com 

Sponsored by: Katherine Phillips

*****A Writer's Garden Auction Packages are now posted on The Women's Council website. Visit wcdabg.org to see what you'll be able to bid on during next week's event!*****

ABOUT THE WOMEN’S COUNCIL: Celebrating its 42nd Anniversary.
Since 1982 the major goal of the Women’s Council has been the design, construction, funding and endowment of A Woman’s Garden, a principal garden at the Dallas Arboretum. A Woman’s Garden is the only public garden in the United States conceived by women, funded by the efforts of women and dedicated to the spirit of women. Celebrating its 42nd year, the support of over 600 members of the Women’s Council makes possible the continued expansion and development of A Woman’s Garden. The Women’s Council is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  www.wcdabg.org

ABOUT A WOMAN’S GARDEN: Celebrating its 27^th Anniversary.
A Woman’s Garden is the only public garden in the nation conceived, constructed and maintained by the funding efforts of women. Ablaze with color in every season, A Woman’s Garden sits majestically as a living testament to the passion and vision of the Women’s Council founders and the boundless energy and devotion of its members whose commitment to creating a garden dedicated to the universal spirit of women across generations is realized in its inspired design. Our beautiful garden celebrates the power, creativity, resourcefulness, passion and unwavering commitment of the women who came before us and those entrusted with its care now, and into the future.

The check was presented as part of CAPTRUST Community Foundation’s Fifth Annual Giving Day

 The CAPTRUST Community Foundation (CCF) Dallas locations (Sherry Lane and Dallas Parkway) gifted $10,000 to Scottish Rite for Children as part of CCF’s $10,000 donations to 75 charities across the country, totaling $750,000, as part of the nonprofit’s fifth annual Giving Day.

CAPTRUST Dallas representatives John Pickett, Barry Beal, Tom Gile, Kelly Pattillo and Travis Whitten. joined together for the check presentation along with Robert L. “Bob” Walker, President & CEO, Scottish Rite for Children, Mark Riordan and Stephanie Brigger, also of Scottish Rite.

John Pickett, Senior Vice President, CAPTRUST Dallas said, “CCF’s Giving Day is our way of giving a face to our mission to enrich the lives of children in the communities we serve.  We are proud to partner with Scottish Rite for Children to help its young patients receive the very best care with orthopedic conditions and learning disorders.” In addition to the $10,000, CAPTRUST Dallas donated LEGOs, puzzles and 50 backpacks filled with crayons, coloring books and other art supplies. 
    

The CCF is CAPTRUST’s 501(c)(3) foundation, with the mission of enriching the lives of children in the local communities that CAPTRUST serves. For this campaign, CAPTRUST offices identified local organizations representing causes that both benefit children and are important to the respective community.
    

Founded in 2007, the foundation has awarded over $6.25 million in grants to charitable organizations across the country that help children. The CCF’s main source of fundraising is through voluntary employee payroll deductions that are matched by CAPTRUST.

About the CAPTRUST Community Foundation
The CAPTRUST Community Foundation was organized in 2007 to provide CAPTRUST employees with opportunities to participate as a group in community outreach efforts. The foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charity and is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. If you would like to donate or learn more about the CAPTRUST Community Foundation, please call 855.649.0943.

About CAPTRUST
CAPTRUST was founded in 1997 as an independent registered investment advisor. The firm provides investment management, financial planning, estate planning, and tax advisory and compliance services for individuals and families. The firm also offers a comprehensive suite of services for ultra-high-net-worth individuals to simplify their financial lives, mitigate risk, and perpetuate their legacies. For retirement plan sponsors, endowments, foundations, and religious entities, CAPTRUST offers investment advisory services, fiduciary support, plan design, provider analysis and fee benchmarking, and employee advice programs.

About Scottish Rite for Children
Scottish Rite for Children is a world-renowned leader in the treatment of orthopedic conditions, such as scoliosis, clubfoot, hand differences, hip disorders, sports injuries and fractures, as well as certain related arthritic and neurological disorders and learning disorders, such as dyslexia. Visit www.scottishriteforchildren.org  to learn more.

Photo credit: Scottish Rite for Children