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Victor Rivas Rivers, featured speaker; Tiffany Beaudine, President and CEO, Rainbow Days, Inc.; Tiffany and Matthew McLeod, Luncheon Chairs.

Bringing Hope to Dallas Youth

 

Rainbow Days marked a triumphant milestone at its 28th Annual Pot of Gold Luncheon, where more than 450 guests gathered at the Westin Galleria Dallas to support children and youth facing adversity. The luncheon exceeded expectations, raising over $272,000 to fund essential programs and services, thanks to generous supporters and community partners in the Dallas area and beyond.

 

The afternoon began with the highly anticipated annual performance by Rainbow Days program participants, where they sang and danced to Reach by S Club 7. Their animated performance captured the hearts of attendees and highlighted the organization’s mission to uplift and empower young lives. The performance set the stage for a celebration of resilience, hope, and community support.


The luncheon was highlighted by a powerful keynote address from actor and author Victor Rivas Rivers, whose riveting personal story underscored the urgent need for collective action. His words were a profound call to build strong, compassionate support systems for the most vulnerable among us—the children and youth who are facing hardship, trauma, and adversity.

 

Victor is a veteran star of more than two dozen films, most known for The Distinguished Gentleman, Mask of Zorro, The Hulk and more. Born in Santi Spiritus, Cuba, Victor immigrated to the United Sates at the age of two. After growing up in an abusive household where he endured years of punishing beatings and torture at the hands of his father, he took legal action against him at age 15 and entered the foster care system. With the help of his community, he turned his life around from hard gang member to earning a senior class football scholarship. Upon graduation he was drafted to play for the Miami Dolphins and then pursued acting.

 

Victor's impactful story of overcoming adversity with the help of his community emphasized the idea that it really does take a village of people coming together to raise even just one child. Rivers’ journey from childhood adversity to personal triumph left a deep, almost palpable impression on the audience, stressing the importance of caring individuals and support systems in changing the course of a young person’s life.

 

Tiffany Beaudine, CEO of Rainbow Days, spoke at the 2025 Pot of Gold Luncheon, sharing powerful insights about the organization’s mission and the urgent challenges facing children in our community.


She energized the crowd with inspiring updates on Rainbow Days’ recent achievements, including the introduction of new initiatives such as the Classroom Connection Curriculum, the Strengthening Families Program, and the Youth Substance Use Prevention Community Coalition. Tiffany also shared a touching story about three sisters who have been supported by Rainbow Days over the past eight years. Their individual journeys of success touched the heart of each audience member and highlighted the profound and lasting impact of the organization’s programs.

 

The 2025 Pot of Gold Luncheon was made complete with a heartfelt invocation by Father Michael Forge from Prince of Peace Catholic Church.

 

This year’s event was made possible through the hard work, time and resources of the 2025 Pot of Gold Luncheon Committee members. Event leadership included Luncheon Chairs Mathew and Tiffany MacLeod and Silent Auction Co-Chairs Leticia Espinoza and Jill Sabeh.

 

Rainbow Days would also like to recognize the many sponsors, donors and volunteers who helped make the 2025 Pot of Gold Luncheon a success. Featured here are sponsor levels “Silver” and above:

 

 

  • Title: Nancy Ann & Ray L. Hunt
  • Platinum Sponsors: Miramar Equity Partners and Darla and Mark Whitaker
  • Gold Sponsors: Citi, B-Still Ministries, Fortium Partners, Francisco Ramos & Irma Hinojosa, Jill & Dale Hurd, Lacy & David Lange, Thompson Coburn LLP and Vaquero Private Wealth.
  • Silver Sponsors: Tiffany & Terry Beaudine, Jennifer & Jody Bishop, Bragalone Olejko Saad PC, The Live Like Knox Foundation, Mary Jo & James McKellar, National Life Group, Sky Island Capital, Telisa Schelin & Rebecca Massiatte, Tiffany & Matthew MacLeod, and Vaquero Private Wealth.
  • Media Sponsor: Good Life Family Magazine

 

The Pot of Gold Luncheon spotlighted the real challenges facing children and youth in the Dallas area while celebrating the strength and impact of a community united in purpose. Rainbow Days invites the public to learn more about its impact through its 2025 Impact video available on its website, www.RainbowDays.org .

 

ABOUT RAINBOW DAYS: Rainbow Days is a Dallas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Founded in 1982, Rainbow Days has a mission to help children and youth in adversity build coping skills and resilience to create positive futures. Through support groups, substance abuse prevention programs, supportive services and tangible items, Rainbow Days makes a positive impact in the lives of meaningful connections with more than 20,000 at-risk children and youth in the Dallas area annually. Rainbow Days expands its impact through international training services, which trains other nonprofit staff, teachers and counselors in its award-winning CBSG® Program.  Visit the website at www.rainbowdays.org

 

Photos by Thomas Garza and Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

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PL_Students from the MAPS Environmental Architectu HPSP MAPS students

Highland Park High School’s MAPS Class Constructs A Playhouse Highlighting Architecture and Preservation Park Cities In Support of Dallas CASA’s 30th Anniversary Parade of Playhouses Exhibition

The exhibit runs through June 29th at NorthPark Center

 


Named one of the Top 100 Significant Homes in Highland Park and University Park by Preservation Park Cities, the home of Sherry Tucker Cox and her husband, Martin Cox was the model for the design of the playhouse built by Highland Park High School’s MAPS class in support of the Dallas CASA’s 30th Anniversary Parade of Playhouses exhibit now at NorthPark Center through June29th.  MAPS is the Moody Advanced Professional Studies program at Highland Park High School.

        
Polly McKeithen, MAPS Professional Engagement Administrator, Moody Innovation Institute, Highland Park ISD said, “This is the 4th year that HPHS MAPS Environmental Architecture class has built a playhouse for Dallas CASA. We have again partnered with Preservation Park Cities for this project and our builder for the second year in a row is David Espedal of Espedal Design + Construct.
        
“We are proud to support Dallas CASA and its mission and appreciate the learning opportunities this project allows. Students designed the house after the Cox home, a Streamline Moderne home in Highland Park that Preservation Park Cities has named as one of the Top 100 most architecturally significant. The students incorporated design elements in the playhouse to support the 2025 International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Heat Action Day, including the awning, the Dutch door and operable windows for air circulation and cooling and the grocery store front that would sell fluids and vitamin-packed foods that would support rehydration.”
        
Sherry and Martin agree saying, “We’re preservationists at heart and are honored to be a part of the HPHS MAPS program and highlight our home’s unique architecture and preservation, along with Preservation Park Ciites.”
        
For more information about Dallas CASA, visit: https://www.dallascasa.org/dallas-casa-events/parade-of-playhouses/

More about American Red Cross’ Heat Action Day:

https://www.redcross.org/red-cross-youth/resources/activity-guides/heat-action-day.html#:~:text=Heat%20Action%20Day%20(HAD)%202025,Red%20Crescent%20Societies%20(IFRC).

More about the home in D Home magazine’s 2024 article here:
https://www.dmagazine.com/publications/d-home/2024/fall/designer-avery-cox-gives-her-childhood-home-a-refresh/

Dallas CASA: Dallas CASA celebrates the 30th anniversary of Parade of Playhouses presenting imaginative children’s playhouses to help child victims of abuse or neglect on June 13-29 at NorthPark Center. For this annual, fun-filled community event, generous architects, builders, organizations corporations and individuals design, build and donate extraordinary children’s playhouses to raise funds so that Dallas CASA can provide more volunteer advocates to protect children, restore their childhoods and help them reach their full potential. During the 17-day event, raffle tickets for the opportunity to win a playhouse are sold and all proceeds from underwriting and raffle ticket sales benefit the children served by Dallas CASA. https://www.dallascasa.org


Preservation Park Cities Mission:
PPC mission is to preserve and promote the history, architecture, aesthetics, and cultural traditions of the Park Cities. Proceeds of the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon, Historic Home Tour and the Classic and Antique Car Show will be used to preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PPC archives at the University Park Library, fund landmarking initiatives, award scholarships to Highland Park High School graduating seniors planning to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School. Membership in PPC is open to the community. For more information visit www.preservationparkcities.org

 

 

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Nikki Beneke, Dixey Arterburn, Joanie Stephens

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Selected to Receive a League of American Orchestra’s Gold Award of Excellence for the DSOL’s 2024 Savor the Symphony

Dixey Arterburn, 2024-2025 president of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, is honored to announce the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League is selected to receive a League of American Orchestra’s Gold Award of Excellence for the DSOL’s 2024 Savor the Symphony fundraiser, chaired by Nikki Beneke and Joanie Stephens. Nancy Labadie was 2023-2024 president. The Gold Award of Excellence recognizes best-in-class programs or initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras.
        

“We’re honored and thrilled to be named a Gold Award of Excellence recipient,” Dixey said. “Our Savor the Symphony is an important fundraiser that brings together supporters in a lovely setting celebrating everything food and wine, plus offering guests an overview of the League and our commitment to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.”
        

Nikki said, "We are so excited to receive the LAO Gold Award of Excellence. In 2024, we reimagined Savor the Symphony with new branding and a new program and reached a larger corporate and individual donor audience. Updating the event allowed us to incorporate the Magic of Music through our incredible magician and illusionist and performances by alumni involved in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra's education and outreach programs. The performances showcased how music changes lives for children in our community. Savor the Symphony is a unique event that focuses on a first-class evening where patrons enjoy gourmet offerings paired with lovely wines, a live and silent auction, and featured performances.”

Proceeds from the event benefit the Dallas Symphony Association and its education and outreach programs including:

• Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians and the Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series impact over 20,000 students and are vital as they open doors to a brighter future and more opportunities.

• MyDSO Concerts are specially designed for children and adults on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and caregivers.         

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League's (DSOL's) mission is to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Community Outreach and Education Programs opening doors to a brighter future for the children in our community. The programs include: Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians, Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, DSO on the Go (Community Concerts and Performances), and My DSO Concerts for children and adults on the autism spectrum. The DSOL has raised over $22 million to support these programs. 
Learn more at www.dallassymphonyleague.com/Savor-the-Symphony.

The League of American Orchestras:
The League of American Orchestras (LAO) champions the vitality of music and the orchestral experience, supports the orchestra community, and leads change boldly. The only national organization dedicated to orchestras and their communities, the League supports the field through advocacy, research, convenings, leadership development, artistic programs, and grants. Founded in 1942 and chartered by Congress in 1962, the League includes nearly 25,000 musicians, conductors, orchestra staff, board members, volunteers, and business partners working within our membership of 1,600 world-renowned orchestras, community groups, summer festivals, student and youth ensembles, conservatories and libraries, businesses serving orchestras, and individuals who love symphonic music. 

Gold Award Description:
The Gold Award of Excellence recognizes best-in-class programs or initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras. Each winner receives a crystal award at a special reception and makes a PowerPoint presentation to fellow volunteers during the conference. The LAO 2025 National Conference is June 11-13 in Salt Lake City, Utah and will be hosted by the Utah Symphony & Utah Opera.  https://americanorchestras.org/gold-award-of-excellence/

Photo by Danny Campbell

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Preservation Park Cities (PPC) board member Christina Dandar, city council member Melissa Reiman, PPC board member Larry Good, Mayor Tommy Stewart, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Aldredge, PPC board member and former council member Taylor Armstrong, council member Phillip Philbin, council member Bob Myers, former mayor Roy Coffee Jr., PPC board member and former Mayor Robert Clark, PPC President Alisa Sell, PPC board member Polly McKeithen. Photo by Rob Wythe.

Celebrate by supporting Preservation Park Cities with Shopping, Participate in the Historic Home Tour, Visiting Iconic Historic Plaques, Read About the Top 100 Homes of the Park Cities and More!


May is National Preservation Month!  Celebrate by supporting Preservation Park Cities (PPC) and learn more about these dynamic neighborhoods, Highland Park and University Park, that make up this unique community.
        

Here are some ways to join in the celebration:

May 1: Shopping at Veronica Beard in Highland Park Village:  The celebrations kicked off with Shopping, Sips and Support Preservation Park Cities! Veronica Beard in Highland Park Village hosted a fabulous evening with a give-back on purchases to help celebrate our mission of preserving local history and architecture. 15% of purchases are donated back to PPC.

        
May 9: Historic Home Tour:  Be sure to kick off Mother’s Day with the Historic Home Tour on Friday, May 9th from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. Presented by Benchmark Bank and Trust, this annual Historic Home Tour offers an exquisite look into some of the most beautiful residential architecture, interior design and landscapes in the Park Cities.
        
Happening in person, these homes showcase different architectural styles with rich history and wonderful examples of how architecturally significant homes can be renovated to fit the needs of today. 2025 Home Tour co-chairs are Cory Bowen and Krista Porteous. Preservation Park Cities 2024-2025 president is Alisa Sell
        
The homes on tour are 4036 McFarlin Boulevard. Sponsored by Bean Co. Homes.

4301 Windsor Parkway. Sponsored by Meredith Ferrell Group.

4302 Overhill Drive. Sponsored by Evan Beale MD.       


Tickets are sold online only. No tickets sold at the door. $35.00 per person in advance and $45 day-of tour, if there are any left. Limited number available online only: https://preservationparkcities.org/hometour 

        
For more information contact hometour@preservationparkcities.org

        
Proceeds from the Historic Home Tour benefit Preservation Park Cities whose mission is to preserve and promote the history, architecture, aesthetics and cultural traditions of the Park Cities.
        
We invite you to join us to celebrate these homes and homeowners in the name of historic preservation as we generate awareness of the role history and preservation play in enhancing the quality of life for everyone who lives and works in the Park Cities communities.

Iconic Historical Plaques:

         Preservation Park Cities is placing large permanent plaques celebrating the history and significance of certain locations in several different areas around the Park Cities.  As of today, five of the plaques are placed. The remaining three plaques (Snider Plaza, SMU and HPHS) will be placed later this year. 
         The plaques are located at:

  • City Hall – 3800 University Blvd.
  • Churches at Pardoe Park – 3821 University Blvd.
  • Volk Estates at Byrd Park – 6700 Turtle Creek Blvd.
  • Caruth Park – 7801 Hillcrest Avenue
  • Moody Family YMCA -6000 Preston Road
  • Snider Plaza – to be installed in Fall 2025 – 6601 Snider Plaza
  • SMU Dallas Hall – to be installed later 2025 - 3225 University Blvd
  • Highland Park High School –to be installed later 2025 - 4220 Emerson Avenue

        
There is a ninth plaque located at Centennial Park (formerly Goar Park) at Vassar and Turtle Creek Blvd. (3806 University Boulevard) which was presented to the City of University Park by Preservation Park Cities as part of the City of University Park’s 100th Anniversary Centennial Celebrations Closing Ceremony in December 2024.

 Celebrate Homes of the Park Cities 100 Years Old!

 As everyone drives around the Park Cities, they will soon notice commemorative signs placed in the yards of some homes that are 100 years old or more. This effort headed by Joan Clark and Kathy Myers, Preservation Park Cities board members, is all about recognizing historic homes listed in PPC’s The Houses of the Park Cities: An Architectural Guide to the Historic Houses of Highland Park and University Park Texas by R. Lawrence “Larry” Good.
        
About the book: The quality of the residential architecture from the first three-fourths of the twentieth century that is found in the Park Cities has few peers across the entire United States.
        
The period of Highland Park’s development, as well as the early years of University Park, coincided with the peak of the Garden Suburb movement in the US. Contemporary planned communities such as Beverly Hills, River Oaks (Houston), Lake Forest (Chicago), Roland Park (Baltimore) and Shaker Heights (Cleveland) boast many examples of fine residential architecture, but none surpassing, on the whole, that of the Park Cities.
        
And the work of the Park Cities’ leading architects, (Hal Thomson, Anton Korn, Fooshee & Cheek, and Charles Dilbeck) might be considered equal to that of the most revered country house architects practicing nationally at that time (Harrie T. Lindeberg, Bertram Goodhue, Charles Platt and Carrere & Hastings).
        
Following an introductory essay, the Guide divides the Park Cities into four geographic areas which serve as chapters of the book. There are three chapters covering the Town of Highland Park, while the City of University Park has a chapter to itself.
        
Each of these sections has a brief history of the physical planning and development of the Town and the City, followed by coverage of a similar number of houses, (170 in all), which are located on maps to facilitate easy touring. There are color photographs and a capsule description of each of the featured properties.  The book is available for purchase on Amazon.com and at Interabang Books in Dallas.

 

Oral Histories and Videos:
        
Visit the website at www.preservationparkcities.org to discover even more about what the Park Cities is all about.
        
Here are two highlights:
        
University Park Centennial: This video series celebrates the 100th anniversary of University Park, a city known for its exceptional services, strong sense of community, and beautiful surroundings. Featuring Roy Coffee, former UP Mayor, Liz Farley, UP Councilwoman and Mayor Pro Tem, and Muriel McCarthy, on UP Historic Home Architects.
        

Oral Histories of the Park Cities:

        
This video project interviews long-standing and influential members of the community highlighting how the history, architecture, people have shaped this unique place we call home.

Overview:

 

•  The purpose of the annual Historic Home Tour is to showcase architecturally and historically significant homes of the Park Cities and illustrate how these homes have been restored or remodeled to serve the lifestyle needs of families today.

 

•  The Historic Home Tour, Distinguished Speaker Luncheon and the Park Cities Car Show are the organization’s only fundraisers each year. The proceeds are allocated to help further our mission to celebrate and promote the preservation of Park Cities architecture, history, aesthetics, and cultural traditions.

 

•  The organization landmarks architecturally and historically significant homes in the Park Cities, some of which are on the Historic Home Tour.

 

•  Members of the organization enjoy historic and preservation oriented educational programs.

Preservation Park Cities Mission:
PPC mission is to preserve and promote the history, architecture, aesthetics, and cultural traditions of the Park Cities. Proceeds of the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon, Historic Home Tour and the Classic and Antique Car Show will be used to preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PPC archives at the University Park Library, fund landmarking initiatives, award scholarships to Highland Park High School graduating seniors planning to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School. Membership in PPC is open to the community. For more information visit www.preservationparkcities.org

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4036 McFarlin

 

Make this Historic Home Tour part of a fun Mother’s Day weekend! Preservation Park Cities is excited to present its annual Historic Home Tour presented by Benchmark Bank to be held on Friday, May 9, 2025.

This annual Historic Home Tour offers an exquisite look into some of the most beautiful residential architecture, interior design and landscapes in the Park Cities. This event celebrates homes that have been preserved or remodeled while maintaining the beautiful aesthetic of the Highland Park and University Park neighborhoods. 

From small cottages to larger estates, the home tour is a small window into the past, a celebration of those who share the community’s values, and a wonderful treat for those who appreciate historic architecture.

This year's Tour offers an intimate look into three unique Park Cities residences. From enduring Tudor masterpieces to the allure of traditional architecture, witness the meticulous efforts of these homeowners in preserving and updating these neighborhood treasures. In walking through these homes, you will be impressed with how each owner has seamlessly blended original charm with modern elements for today’s lifestyles while maintaining architectural integrity.

Proceeds from the Historic Home Tour benefit Preservation Park Cities whose mission is to preserve and promote the history, architecture, aesthetics and cultural traditions of the Park Cities.

We invite you to join us to celebrate these homes and homeowners in the name of historic preservation as we generate awareness of the role history and preservation play in enhancing the quality of life for everyone who lives and works in the Park Cities communities.

Presenting Sponsor: Benchmark Bank & Title

Who:            2025 Home Tour Co-Chairs: Cory Bowen and Krista Porteous
                      Preservation Park Cities 2024-2025 President: Alisa Sell         

 

What:      Preservation Park Cities Historic Home Tour

Happening in person, these homes showcase different architectural styles with rich history and wonderful examples of how architecturally significant homes can be renovated to fit the needs of today.

The homes on tour are listed here with each home’s sponsor:

4036 McFarlin Boulevard. Sponsor: Bean Co. Homes

4301 Windsor Parkway. Sponsor: Meredith Ferrell Group

4302 Overhill Drive. Sponsor: Evan Beale MD

When:     Friday, May 9, 2025 from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm

Cost:       Tickets are sold online only. No tickets sold at the door. $35.00 per person in advance and $45 day-of tour, if there are any left. Limited number available online only: https://preservationparkcities.org/hometour  

For more information contact: hometour@preservationparkcities.org


Home Tour Sponsors:

Home Tour Presenting Sponsor: Benchmark Bank & Title

Regional Magazine Sponsor: D Home
Community Magazine Sponsor:  The Good Life Park Cities
Underwriters Party Sponsor:
M. M. Moore

Homes on the Tour:
The descriptions of the homes are by Joan Clark and are also online on the Preservation Park Cities website here: https://preservationparkcities.org/homes-on-tour .  


4036 McFarlin sponsored by Bean Co. Homes

 

Step Inside a Stunning Spanish Revival Treasure

This beautifully reimagined 1920s Spanish Revival home is a standout on this year’s Home Tour—and a rare chance to step inside a piece of architectural history. With its iconic Ludowici red tile roof and original cast stone entry surround, the home is a striking example of early 20th-century design thoughtfully preserved for modern living.

When the current owners purchased the home in 2020, it had never been updated—making it a rare blank slate. Recognizing the potential in its original layout and gracious proportions, they partnered with noted architect William Briggs and builders Ben Coats and Brad Bean to breathe new life into the property. Their renovation honors the home’s heritage while creating warm, livable spaces for a modern blended family.

 

 


 4301 Windsor Parkway sponsored by Meredith Ferrell Group

 

A Fresh Take on a Classic Colonial Revival

Originally built in the 1940s, this University Park Colonial Revival has been lovingly transformed by current owners Sterling and Rob Evans into a modern family home that honors its classic roots. Drawn to the home’s potential and generous footprint, the Evans purchased the property in 2022 and embarked on a thoughtful two-year renovation with architect Harris Briggs and contractor Carolyn Isler.


From the charming herringbone brick walkway and columned entry to the distinctive red shingle roof and dormer windows, the exterior sets a timeless tone. Inside, the traditional central hall floorplan has been reimagined for contemporary living while maintaining the home’s character and elegance.


Graceful architectural features—like newly added Roman arches and a functional bar and wine area—enhance the flow of the main floor, while a complete reconfiguration of living and dining spaces adds both personality and practicality. The upstairs bedrooms and third-floor retreat offer space for the entire family, including hidden playrooms, private workspaces, and cozy gathering areas.

With layered textures, natural light, and a serene palette carried throughout, this home is a standout example of how classic architecture can be refreshed for modern family life.

 


 4302 Overhill Drive sponsored by Evan Beale MD


A Whimsical Tudor by Fooshee and Cheek

Designed in 1928 by renowned architectural duo Fooshee and Cheek, this English Arts & Crafts Tudor is a rare Highland Park treasure. Built for Newton Flippen—brother of Highland Park developer Edgar Flippen—the home sits on a prime lot along Overhill Drive and remains remarkably intact after nearly a century.

 

The architecture is rich with storybook charm: a gabled entrance, original timbering and plaster, and a front façade that beautifully blends masonry and fieldstone. Inside, the original floor plan still stands, and handcrafted details—from Gothic arches to stained glass windows—reflect the artisanal care of a bygone era.

 

The current owners, the Goodwin family, have embraced and preserved the home’s historic character while showcasing an eclectic blend of artwork, family heirlooms, and antiques. From the barrel-vaulted loggia and intimate library to the serene upstairs bedrooms and expansive backyard that slopes down to Turtle Creek, the home offers a glimpse into the elegance and craftsmanship of 1920s Dallas.

 


Overview:

 

•  The purpose of the annual Historic Home Tour is to showcase architecturally and historically significant homes of the Park Cities and illustrate how these homes have been restored or remodeled to serve the lifestyle needs of families today.

 

•  The Historic Home Tour, Distinguished Speaker Luncheon and the Park Cities Car Show are the organization’s only fundraisers each year. The proceeds are allocated to help further our mission to celebrate and promote the preservation of Park Cities architecture, history, aesthetics, and cultural traditions.

 

•  The organization landmarks architecturally and historically significant homes in the Park Cities, some of which are on the Historic Home Tour.

 

•  Members of the organization enjoy historic and preservation oriented educational programs.

Preservation Park Cities Mission:
PPC mission is to preserve and promote the history, architecture, aesthetics, and cultural traditions of the Park Cities. Proceeds of the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon, Historic Home Tour and the Classic and Antique Car Show will be used to preserve and maintain the Park Cities House at Dallas Heritage Village, support the new PPC archives at the University Park Library, fund landmarking initiatives, award scholarships to Highland Park High School graduating seniors planning to study architecture or history and fund the Distinguished Chair for History at Highland Park High School. Membership in PPC is open to the community. For more information visit www.preservationparkcities.org

  

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Allison Brodnax, Luncheon Chair; Mari Epperson, President, KidneyTexas, Inc., Sharon Ballew, Announcement Party Chair.

A most fashionable soirée was chaired by Sharon Ballew and hosted by Allison Brodnax, Luncheon Chair of the KidneyTexas, Inc. Runway Report 2025 Luncheon and Fashion Show, in her lovely Preston Hollow home featuring announcements for the Friday, September 26, 2025 luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton Dallas.  
        
The buzz was all about the exciting news, logo and theme reveal as Mari Epperson, President of KidneyTexas, Inc., welcomed guests saying the nonprofit is celebrating its 26th year.  She welcomed Presenting Sponsors Anne and William Seanor and announced Donna and Herb Weitzman as Honorary Chairs. Anne is a steadfast board member and supporter of KidneyTexas. She and William are also loyal supporters of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and Texas Health Resources. Donna has been dedicated to the fight against kidney disease for many years. She was president of KidneyTexas, Inc. in 2022 and just last year, she received the Sue Goodnight Award for her extraordinary service and commitment to the organization.
        
After a lively round of applause and congratulations, Allison gave special thanks to Sharon for chairing this evening’s event and thanked Preston Hollow Catering for underwriting the delicious food, which included a sumptuous charcuterie spread, hot hors d’oeuvres, mini sandwiches and gourmet bites.
        
Sharing the scoop on the upcoming luncheon and fashion show, Allison said that the morning will begin with a champagne reception followed by an always entertaining fashion show produced by Robyn Chauvin featuring the latest styles by NorthPark Center, followed by a delicious luncheon prepared by the executive chef at The Ritz-Carlton Dallas.
        
Literally flipping the cover off the huge original artwork, the fashionable French-inspired logo created by the talented Beth Dunham was revealed.
        
Allison said, “This year’s theme is The French Connection. We will be celebrating the life-saving collaboration between French and American doctors in the fight against kidney disease. This collaboration traces back to visionaries like Dr. Jean Hamburger of France, whose early work laid the foundation for kidney transplantation, and Dr. Willem Kolff, whose dialysis innovations transformed treatment options worldwide. Today, research teams from institutions like INSERM in France and the National Institutes of Health in the US continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.”
        
Anticipating a sell-out, Allison encouraged everyone to claim their tables, buy their tickets, underwriting and sponsorships for the event now, since over 100 tickets have already been sold. Capacity is 400.
        
Parting favors were delicious macarons packaged with a QR code to buy tickets. Everyone was also encouraged to contact Reservation Chair, Briana Pearson, with any questions.
        
With heartfelt gratitude, Allison thanked her host committee of over 100 members strong and everyone who attended this evening’s event saying, “Thanks to you, we are going to be able to improve the lives of children and adults living with kidney disease in North Texas” and emphasized that all funds raised stay in North Texas and benefit Texas Health Resources Foundation, Children's Medical Center Foundation, Baylor Scott and White Dallas Foundation, Camp Reynal and Southwest Transplant Alliance.

        
Sponsorships are $5,000 and up. Individual Patron Level Tickets are $1,000 and $500. Purchase here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/G4L/ 
        
Visit the website at  http://www.kidneytexas.org, email info@kidneytexas.org or call 214-891-0896.

Mission Statement: The purpose of KidneyTexas, Inc. is to provide funding to improve the methods of treatment, the search for a cure and prevention of kidney disease and other kindred or contributory diseases; and to develop more adequate provision for the care of persons suffering from such diseases.

 

Statistics: Debilitating kidney diseases impacts approximately 35.5 million people in the United States today. Groups at high risk include African Americans, Hispanics, senior citizens and people with diabetes. In Texas as of 2023, there are over 50,000 people on dialysis and 8,294 people on a transplant list. There were 2,394 kidney transplants in Texas in 2022.

 

History: Since 1999, the dedicated volunteers of KidneyTexas, Inc. have worked in tandem with our generous underwriters to raise $5 million for local efforts to improve the ability to diagnose and manage kidney disease. 

 

Each fall KidneyTexas, Inc. hosts its Luncheon & Fashion Show in an effort to raise money for designated beneficiaries and awareness for a disease that affects millions of people each year. The success of this event depends heavily upon the contributions and dedication of our Dallas business and community leaders. Your support is crucial to the success of our mission.

 Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

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Deborah Stanford, Sharon Ballew, Dr. Ann Stuart, JD Trueblood.

Turtle Creek Association Announces the Azalea Luncheon at the Joule Hotel Presented by WRMC

Join us on Wednesday, April 2, 2025

 

JD Trueblood, President and CEO, Turtle Creek Association announces Mary Brinegar, Honorary Chair and Sharon Ballew as chair of the Azalea luncheon happening on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at the Joule Hotel. Deborah Stanford and Ann Stuart PhD are Honorary Chairs Emeriti. WRMC is Presenting Sponsor.
        
Everyone is invited to join us as funds are raised to preserve, protect and celebrate a Dallas Jewel. The morning begins with a champagne reception followed by the delicious three-course luncheon and fashion presentations by Betty Reiter and Pockets.

Ticket prices vary. There are a limited number of regular tickets priced at $275. Patron Level tickets begin at $500. Table Sponsorships begin at $5,000. Other sponsorship opportunities are available, please contact the TCA for additional information. Tickets can be purchased online at www.Turtlecreekassociation.org Contact Sharon Ballew, Vice President of Development for more information at (214) 526-2800.

Additional sponsors as of February 10, 2025 include Betty Reiter, Women’s Fashion Presentation; Pockets, Men’s Fashion Presentation; Elyce and David Walthall, Patron Event Hosts; Sue Krider, Champagne Reception; Belmont Village, Print; Sharon and Wayne Smith, Valet; Home Health Companions, Favors; Castle Group, Photos; Mari Epperson, Décor Coordinator; Carole Ann Brown, Kathy Cothrum, Mari Epperson, Advisors.

Turtle Creek Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  TCA’s core mission is to serve as the foremost guardian, advocate, and leader dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing the Turtle Creek corridor.

Furthermore, the Turtle Creek Association takes on a range of vital responsibilities.  This includes orchestrating seasonal color transformations along the creek, managing irrigation and watering systems, overseeing litter and trash removal from the creek, and upkeeping 25 beautifully landscaped medians. We play a crucial role in sustaining 2,600 trees that offer a haven for wildlife, and we’re instrumental in providing essential amenities such as drinking fountains, trash receptacles, and benches throughout the parks. Remarkably, all of these efforts are achieved through the generosity of our donors.

         For more information and to join our cause, please visit our website at www.turtlecreekassociation.org. Your support fuels our commitment to preserving the urban sanctuary that is Turtle Creek.  

 Party pics by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio.

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David McDavid Jr., Gala Chair; Karen Koop, President, AWARE

Celebrating 35 Years Fighting Alzheimer’s, Supporting Care Partners

 The kick-off for the AWARE Affair Boots, Buckles and Brain Health 2025 gala was graciously hosted by Gail Plummer and John Cattaneo at their home where guests enjoyed bites and cocktails in celebration of AWARE’s 35th anniversary.  AWARE is a nonprofit organization that empowers North Texans to rise above the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, together.

 Karen Koop, AWARE’s president, welcomed the crowd with gala chair David McDavid Jr. and recognized Greg Osler, whose late wife, Amy Osler, is the namesake of the Amy Osler Spirit of Education Leadership Award. Karen also invited everyone attending to join Friends of AWARE, as the membership drive is ongoing and she said the benefits included receptions in private homes, educational luncheon meetings, special event invitations, the opportunity to become familiar with AWARE’s Grant Recipients and more.       

David encouraged everyone to mark their calendars for the gala happening on Friday, April 4, 2025 as it 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.       

Trailblazer Presenting Sponsor is Anne Davidson. Honorary chairs are Bo and Jeff Parker. Honorary chairs emeriti are Sally and Forrest Hoglund, Lee Roy and Biddie Jordan, Venise and Larry Stuart, Todd Terry and Amy Terry Kriegel honoring the legacy of their mother, Ellen Terry.       

Venise Stuart will receive the Founder’s Spirit Award and Karisti Julia will receive Amy Osler Spirit of Education Leadership Award.           

Tickets and sponsorships will be published soon. Check the website for updates at www.awaredallas.org        

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 making a donation. Join Friends of AWARE at www.awaredallas.org. Together with compassion and dedication we can make a difference. Instagram: @awaredallas   Facebook: @awaredallas


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

 

AWARE Dallas 2024-2025 Grant Recipients

Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation:   Support toward the salary of a Care and Support Specialist at the Baylor Scott and White Memory Center.  The Specialist guides patients and families with education, training, support groups, elder law, financial planning, and a 24/7 helpline.

Bishop Arts Theater Center:   Support for the continuation and expansion of the Creative Aging Program.  The program incorporates stories, music, visual arts, and dance to improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias living in predominantly low-income memory care facilities.

Center for Brain Health:  (The University of Texas at Dallas)  Support for printing and distributing 1,000 copies of the Guide to Proactive Steps (GPS), a resource book for people affected by Alzheimer’s, and for developing and launching GPS seminars and one-on-one consultations.

Dallas Symphony Association:   Support for DSO Cares, a series of free, one-hour concerts presented within senior living facilities and hospitals in the greater Dallas community. The program features chamber music performances by select DSO musicians who perform in duets, trios, or quartets for audiences.

For Love and Art:   Support for the continuation of the Celebrating the Art Experience, an hour-long therapeutic visual arts engagement program that is presented by volunteer “Art Angel” docents in memory care facilities throughout the greater North Texas area. Docents showcase art images from partner museums around the world and stimulate conversations with program participants.

Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas:  Support for the Older Adults Program to expand in-home mental health counseling, care management, and daily living support to older adults living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, allowing them to remain living in their own home.

Juliette Fowler Communities:   Support for Fowler’s campus-wide dementia care initiatives which include the Continuation of Cognitive Health, I’m Still Here®, Dementia Friendly Dallas, music therapy, and caregiver support.

NorthPark Presbyterian Church:   Support for Casa de Vida, a program at the church designed to give respite relief to caregivers by providing trained one-on-one care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias.

Plano Symphony Orchestra:   Support for Healing Notes, a program designed to provide free music-therapy concerts by professional musicians to residents with Alzheimer’s and related dementias who live in predominately low-income memory care centers.

The Senior Source:   Support for Senior Companions, a program that matches compassionate and trained older adult volunteers with home-bound older adults living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias to provide respite to family caregivers and help with meals, errands, and light housekeeping.

Stomping Ground Comedy Center:   Support for Improv for Caregivers, a fun and interactive program that uses improvisational comedy techniques to teach effective communication skills that are specific to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

Texas Winds Musical Outreach:   Support for the Concerts for Seniors program, which provides interactive concerts in nursing homes and adult day care facilities bringing joy, relief from isolation, and peace to individuals affected by memory loss.

The University of Texas at Dallas  (Lab of Dr. Chandramallika Basak): Support for the purchase of a portable Near Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) system that will include physiological measures, allowing for neural and physiological data collection from various locations in the brain, add convenience to patients, and allow the expansion of the study of brain aging beyond the laboratory.

The University of Texas at Dallas  (Lab of Dr. Kristen Kennedy):   Support to add measures of newly discovered blood-based markers of neural and glial structural health to the University’s NIH funded longitudinal study.  If these new cellular markers that are readily available from a simple blood draw can be closely linked with how well brain cells are aging or degrading, then powerful, noninvasive biomarkers can be found for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.

Wilshire Baptist Church:   Support for Friday Friends, a program addressing the need to provide respite to those who care for a dementia relative at home, and who have little or no assistance for relieving them of the constant care and supervision of their loved one, while providing a stimulating day of art, music and games for the individual with Alzheimer’s.

Myrna D, Schlegel AWARE Scholarship Fund:  Support for nursing students at Baylor University, Texas Women’s University, and Texas Christian University toward their studies in gerontology, especially in the field of dementia.

Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

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2024 Recipients: Back Row: Charles Lipscomb, DHS board president and his wife, Kelly Lipscomb, luncheon co-chairs; Sarah Hughes and Robert Decherd, Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy award recipients; David Calhoun, Harry W. Bass, Jr. Foundation, Dallas Historical Society Benefactor of the Year; Rolando Blackman, Sports award recipient; Karl Chiao, Executive Director, DHS; Christopher Durovich, Health/Science award recipient; Bianca Davis, New Friends New Life, Volunteer Community Leadership; Dr. Remy Washington, Education award recipient; David Lozano, Creative Arts award recipient. Front Row: Amy Meadows, Downtown Dallas Parks Conservancy award recipient; Richard McKay, Arts Leadership award recipient; Katherine Power, Humanities award recipient; Sam Coats, Jubilee History Maker award recipient; Dr. Deborah Hopes, Remembering Black Dallas award recipient.

2025 Dallas History Makers, Awards for Excellence Nominations are Open!

Deadline is February 28, 2025

 

The Dallas Historical Society is accepting nominations for the 2025 Dallas History Makers Awards for Excellence until February 28, 2025.
        
The Dallas History Makers Awards for Excellence in Community Service was established on behalf of the Trustees of the Dallas Historical Society in 1981. Outstanding individuals and/or organizations are selected for this honor from nominations solicited from the Dallas community.
        
The recipients are chosen for their contribution to the quality of life in Dallas in ten categories – Arts Leadership, Business, Creative Arts, Education, Health/Sciences, Humanities/History, Philanthropy, Sports Leadership, Volunteer Community Leadership or for the prestigious Jubilee History Maker Award.
        
The Dallas History Makers selection process is an editorial statement of the Dallas Historical Society that the designated recipients are deserving of recognition for their generosity of spirit, civic leadership and ability to encourage community-wide participation in a particular phase of the growth of this city.
        
While not a lifetime achievement award, the Dallas History Makers award is bestowed on those who have devoted more than just a few years to our community. Recipients must be willing to accept their awards in person. Voting Trustees of the Dallas Historical Society and elected officials are ineligible for nomination.
        
Nomination forms are here. (https://www.dallashistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-Dallas-History-Makers-Nomination-Form.pdf) 

The Dallas Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of Dallas and Texas history. Offering education programming, lectures, historic city tours, museum exhibitions, and other special events, this organization strives to be the preeminent resource for exploring, and instilling appreciation for the diverse history of Dallas and Texas. We endeavor to encourage historical inquiry and maintain the importance and relevance of history today. Our collection of archival material- including historic photographs, diaries, journals, papers, periodicals, maps, and books- is available to researchers. Formed in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society is the oldest organization in Dallas County committed to preserving the history of the region and presenting it to the public in innovative and informative ways.

Contact for more information: Nora Lenhart at 214-421-4500 ext. 105 or email nora@dallashistory.org 

The Dallas Historical Society: Whether someone is new to Dallas or a native Texan, the Dallas Historical Society offers programs and exhibits that educate and inform visitors about their home city and reveal insights and little-known facts that one might be unable to attain from history books alone, especially with the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the interactive Texas Liberty Forever: The Battle of the Alamo diorama by Thomas Feely.

Ongoing events include Brown Bag Lectures, An Evening With programs, and Pour Yourself Into History happy hours. Join in discovering more about Dallas and take part in one or more of these wonderful programs. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

The Dallas Historical Society Celebrated Its Centennial Year In 2022

 The stories of Dallas are shared each day at the Dallas Historical Society through the three million items that comprise our archives and artifact collections. Established in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the unique heritage of Dallas and Texas to educate and inspire future generations.

 Housed at the Hall of State in Fair Park since 1938, DHS presents these collections through education programs, exhibitions, tours, access to research materials and workshops. 

 Among the three million historical artifacts at DHS are such treasures as Sam Houston’s handwritten account of the Battle of San Jacinto, the only known original Juneteenth document, James Fannin’s watch, and Santa Anna’s spurs. The DHS collection houses over 10,000 bound volumes and receives more than 1,500 research requests annually.

 Each year, the Dallas Historical Society is visited by over 160,000 people and serves more than 20,000 students through guided tours and educational programming at the Hall of State, as well as outreach programs at schools. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org        IG: @dallashistory  FB: @DallasHistoricalSociety      

Photos: 2024 Dallas History Makers Awards of Excellence award recipients and awards: Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio.
All other artwork/photos courtesy Dallas Historical Society. 

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Ernesto Rodriguez III

2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium Features Two Dynamic Speakers

Join us on Saturday, February 22, 2025

Sponsored by the Dallas Historical Society | CPE credit is available for educators

There is a very special treat in store for Dallas Historical Society (DHS) members and all Alamo and history enthusiasts on Saturday, February 22nd at the 2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium sponsored by DHS. The event features two dynamic speakers: Ernesto Rodriguez III, Senior Historian at the Alamo and Sherri Driscoll, who from 2010 to 2024 served as the Director of Education for the Alamo, designing and coordinating programming for students, contributing to their understanding of Texas History.
        
Ernesto is a San Antonio native and has devoted over 25 years to historical research at this incredible site. His deep knowledge and love for the Alamo’s story and Texas history was recognized in 2019 when he was promoted from Associate Curator to Curator. As Curator, Ernesto is dedicated to the scholarly research that underpins both interpretive planning for the Alamo museum and a greater understanding of the Alamo’s archive and artifact collections.
        
This entertaining and informative symposium begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Hall of State in Fair Park at 3939 Grand Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is free. Free continental breakfast. CPE credit is available for educators.  Register now! What a fun Saturday!
        
Plus afterwards, go right next door to the interactive massive diorama of the Alamo, Texas Liberty Forever,  ( https://www.dallashistory.org/exhibitions/ ) and use the iPads to hear the sounds of the battle, see close-up images and hear brief explanations of the different scenes. The app can also be downloaded to your own cell phone to experience this fabulous diorama. 
        
Created by Pennsylvania-based artist Thomas Feely Jr. over 18 years and stretching across 336 square feet, the Texas Liberty Forever! diorama is the largest depiction of its kind and serves as the centerpiece of the Battle of the Alamo Exhibit at the Hall of State. The re-creation of the besieged Alamo compound features over 2,000 hand-painted figures sculpted in 1/32 scale (54 mm).
        
Karl Chiao is the executive director of the Dallas Historical Society and Charles Lipscomb is board chair.
        
The 2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium is funded by a donation from Dallas native Stan Graff with the goal of preserving the history of Texas by bringing educational and informative speakers to the Dallas Historical Society's Hall of State, and to invite participation by the general public in these free events.       
        
For more information, the public can contact David Lee at (214) 421-4500 ext. 104,  email education@dallashistory.org  and visit the website to register at  https://www.dallashistory.org/event/10567/?instance_id=737   

The Dallas Historical Society: Whether someone is new to Dallas or a native Texan, the Dallas Historical Society offers programs and exhibits that educate and inform visitors about their home city and reveal insights and little-known facts that one might be unable to attain from history books alone, especially with the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the interactive Texas Liberty Forever: The Battle of the Alamo diorama by Thomas Feely.

Ongoing events include Brown Bag Lectures, An Evening With programs, and Pour Yourself Into History happy hours. Join in discovering more about Dallas and take part in one or more of these wonderful programs. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

 

The Dallas Historical Society Celebrated Its Centennial Year In 2022 

The stories of Dallas are shared each day at the Dallas Historical Society through the three million items that comprise our archives and artifact collections. Established in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the unique heritage of Dallas and Texas to educate and inspire future generations.

Housed at the Hall of State in Fair Park since 1938, DHS presents these collections through education programs, exhibitions, tours, access to research materials and workshops. 

Among the three million historical artifacts at DHS are such treasures as Sam Houston’s handwritten account of the Battle of San Jacinto, the only known original Juneteenth document, James Fannin’s watch, and Santa Anna’s spurs. The DHS collection houses over 10,000 bound volumes and receives more than 1,500 research requests annually.

Each year, the Dallas Historical Society is visited by over 160,000 people and serves more than 20,000 students through guided tours and educational programming at the Hall of State, as well as outreach programs at schools. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org        IG: @dallashistory  FB: @DallasHistoricalSociety 

 Courtesy photos DHS.