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Roger Gault, Marena Gault, Chairs; Kim Hext, Greg Hext, Honorary Chairs.

Mark your calendars for the Dallas Zoo’s major fundraiser on Saturday, November 5, 2022 

There was nothing subtle about the Zoo To Do 2022 Kickoff Party as the cool breezes gave respite from the previous day’s heat and guests gathered at the award-winning Giants of the Savanna, Simmons Safari Base Camp with elephants wandering in the nearby habitat. There were giraffes to feed, African painted dog sightings, lions lounging and a host of ambassador animals to welcome the crowd. The scene was perfectly set for Zoo To Do 2022 chairs Marena and Roger Gault to announce this year’s theme, Wild and Wonderful.
        
Gregg Hudson, President and CEO of the Dallas Zoo, welcomed everyone and turned the microphone over to Rhealyn Carter, Vice President of Advancement, who recognized the board and encouraged everyone to go to the website at www.dallaszoo.com/zootodo to learn about how they can participate in the upcoming Zoo To Do fundraiser happening on Saturday, November 5, 2022.
        
The Dallas Zoo’s largest fundraiser, Zoo To Do will open to approximately 700 guests as they begin the evening near the Giants of the Savanna habitat with cocktails and small bites from a selection of Dallas’ standout restaurants, while enjoying animal encounters and browsing the Big Board and silent auction items. The strolling dinner and dessert then continue in the Wilds of Africa Plaza, featuring additional specialty dishes from outstanding guest chefs. Following dinner, guests can bid on Zoo experiences, travel, and more in the live auction. Partygoers will then dance the night away to music by Manhattan.
        
Marena and Roger thanked the Zoo family of committee members and donors and reiterated their appreciation for everyone’s support of the Dallas Zoo’s mission of Engaging People & Saving Wildlife. She announced Honorary Chairs Kim and Greg Hext, Robyn and Chris Chauvin are Host Committee Chairs, Sherwood Wagner is VIP Chair, Advisory Committee are Diane Brierley, Cindy Gummer and Kim Hext; Underwriting Committee are Alex Arellano (Chair), Jake Bender, Diane Brierley, Ryan Gummer, Gail Plummer, Steven Roth; Big Board Chair is Cindy Gummer; Silent Auction Committee are Robyn Chauvin (Co-chair), Chuck Steelman (Co-chair), Gabi Herrick, Kyleb Howell, William LeMasters, Niko Padilla, Jack Salisbury, Fabiola Sierra; Raffle Committee are Courtney and Andrew Nall (Chairs), Nick Adamson, Brandi and Rick Ellis, Christina Morris; Wine Guys are father/son teams Greg Hext and Preston Hext along with Michael Meadows and Matthew Meadows; Honorary Chef is Dan Landsberg and Chef Wrangler is Brett Krafft.
        
Zoo To Do is a major source of funding for the nonprofit Dallas Zoo. Proceeds from the event help support the Zoo’s dedication to providing the best animal care, delivering unique education offerings, and strengthening its wildlife conservation efforts. Sponsorship levels range from $7,500 to $50,000 and underwriting levels range from $7,500 to $100,000. Individual tickets are $750 each and VIP tickets are $1,500 each.
        
For more information, visit the website at www.dallaszoo.com/zootodo, contact Marissa Porter, Events Coordinator at events@dallaszoo.com or call 469-554-7522.

About the Dallas Zoo: The Dallas Zoo is dedicated to Creating a Better World for Animals. Named one of the nation’s Top 10 Zoos by USA Today, it is the largest zoological experience in Texas. The zoo has been accredited continuously by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums since 1985, and features a 106-acre park, more than 2,000 animals, and an education department that offers programs for all ages. The zoo is located at 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway (I-35 at Marsalis) and is open seven days a week (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. currently), 364 days a year. For more information, visit DallasZoo.com or call 469.554.7500.

 *Photos by Danny Campbell. 

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Lisa Laughlin, 2021-2022 President, Women’s Council; Claire Catrino, Chair, Mad Hatter’s Tea

Celebrating its 34th Year benefiting the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and A Woman’s Garden

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Dallas welcomed 530 guests, more guests than ever before in its 34-year history and earned a record net of just under $270,000, with more donations coming in every day.
       

Claire Catrino, Mad Hatter’s Tea chair and Lisa Loy Laughlin, president of the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden were joined by honorary chair Laurie Sands Harrison, dedicated volunteers, supporters, sponsors and underwriters on a lovely, breezy spring day at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
         
People from all over the southwest make plans to attend Mad Hatter’s Tea every year and jump on those reservations the minute the opportunity goes online.  It’s the perfect time for friends to have a fun day together surrounded by the beautiful and glorious blooms at the nationally renowned Dallas Arboretum and the event’s beneficiary, A Woman’s Garden.         

Always a fun and entertaining event, the variety of hats and stylish fashions, sophisticated, crazy and just fun were everywhere.

Calvert Collins, emcee, welcomed everyone and introduced Laurie, who said she was honored to have been honorary chair this year and reminded everyone that her mother, the late Caroline Rose Hunt, one of Dallas’ icons, loved the Dallas Arboretum. Her hat showed a very touching tribute.

Claire took the stage and as she so gracefully held onto her hat in the breezes, thanked major sponsors, including Dr. Linda Burk, Robin Carreker, Cortez Resources, D&M Leasing, Laurie Sands Harrison, Penny Reid and The Rosewood Corporation.
        
Claire also announced something entirely new for this year, the Inaugural Innovators in Design Awards recognizing new and established female artists in the Dallas community: Cindy Avroch, Diana Brosseau, Lori Cusick, Barbara Durham, Kallie Hauschild, Sharon Lee and Addison Sloane, whose fabulous artworks, created just for this event, were open for bidding in the silent auction.
        
Calvert invited each hat judge to join her on stage and announced the winners:

1. Best Use of Botanical Components: "Bluebonnets."  Judge: Mary Brinegar, Dallas Arboretum CEO. Winners: It’s a Tie: Marena Gault and Elizabeth Smith.

2. Most True to Theme: "Flying Horse." Judge: Kim Noltemy, Ross Perot President and CEO, Dallas Symphony Association. She had to leave early, so emcee, Calvert Collins, presented that award. Winner: Prashe Shah

 3. Best Big Over the Top Texas Hat: "Everything is Bigger in Texas!" Judge: Barbara Bigham, Philanthropist. Winner: Dr. Linda Burk

 4. Best Fascinator: "Uptown Girl." Judge: Vanessa Logan, Executive Director, Texas Ballet Theater. Winner: Venise Stuart

 5. Best Group Hats: "Dallas Dynasty." Judge: Amy Hofland, Executive Director, Crow Museum of Asian Art. Winner: “Debbie at Table 50” which is Debbie McKeever and her group.

 6. People’s Choice Award: "Deep in the Hat of Texas." Judge: Chosen by the people. Awarded by Lisa Loy Laughlin, President, Women’s Council, and Claire Catrino, Chair, Mad Hatter’s Tea. Winner: Robert Wilson

7. Best in Show: "Don’t Mess with Dallas." Judge: Tanya Taylor, Featured Celebrity Designer. Winners: It’s a Tie: Sharla Bush and Terry Irby.

           
After announcements, there was an elegant and lovely luncheon and a European-style fashion show highlighting styles of the spring season featuring designs by Tanya Taylor, renowned fashion designer who jetted-in especially for this event and more, presented by TOOTSIES and produced by Jan Strimple Productions.
          
Mad Hatter’s Tea benefits the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and A Woman’s Garden, which is the only garden in the nation conceived, constructed and maintained by the funding efforts of women. The Women’s Council’s 40th Anniversary will be celebrated in the Fall of 2022.   
        
Media sponsors are PaperCity, People Newspapers, My Sweet Charity.
        
Check the website at www.wcdabg.org for details, photos and news about the Women’s Council.

 (Photos by Danny Campbell, Thomas Garza, Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio)

ABOUT THE WOMEN’S COUNCIL:  Since 1986 the major goal of the Women’s Council has been the design, construction, funding and endowment of A Woman’s Garden, the only public garden in the United States conceived by women, funded by the efforts of women and dedicated to the spirit of women. The support of over 500 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 25th Anniversary in Fall of 2022: 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. 

ENDOWMENT TRUST HISTORY: In May 1995 the Women’s Council broke ground on Phase I of A Woman’s Garden. On October 4, 1997, Phase I of A Woman’s Garden opened to the public. Just three years later in 2000, the Women’s Council met its obligation to fund the $1.5 million endowment trust to support the ongoing maintenance of Phase I. In August 2021 the Women’s Council met its obligation four years ahead of schedule to complete the funding of the $1.6 million endowment trust to support the ongoing maintenance of A Woman's Garden.

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Featured photo from 2021 Auxiliary Mother’s Day Pop Up Flower Shop: Auxiliary Members: Victoria Scoggins, Bernadette Rodriguez, Lynn Joliet, Lauren Gillette, President; Kimberly Gilbert, Ann Alford

Sold Out! Auxiliary of Nexus Mother’s May Brunch 2022

Celebrating 51 Years of Changing Lives

 Auxiliary of Nexus Recovery Center president, Lauren Gillette, along with Louise Hallam Collins, event chair, and honorary chairs, Laura Jeffers and Harriet Jeffers, have exciting news. The Inaugural Mother’s May Brunch happening this Saturday at the Dallas Country Club is sold out!

“We’re delighted that the brunch has sold out and thank our many underwriters, sponsors and supporters for continuing their involvement and commitment to the Auxiliary and Nexus Recovery Center,” Lauren said. She encourages those who are unable to attend the brunch to show their support by visiting the website and donating online at www.nexusrecovery.org/auxiliary

The event will celebrate mothers, grandmothers and all the women in our lives. Proceeds support the mission of Nexus Recovery Center and ensure that mothers with substance use disorder can receive needed services to rebuild their lives and heal alongside their families.

Sponsors include: Bank of Texas, Ben E. Keith Foundation, Valerie Bracchi, Kimber and James Clonts, DuraServ, Shelly Emmanuel, Kristy and Raymond Faus, Harriet Jeffers and Laura Jeffers, Charles R. Lee and Family, Lone Star Monarchs, Billy Murray, Katherine Phillips, Rebecca Royall, Laura G. Sahliyeh, Trudy Steen, Texas Opioid Plaintiff Steering Committee, Carolyn Waghorne, and Kim Wyly & Susan Shannon.
        

“Nexus Recovery Center is incredibly thankful to our powerful and impactful Auxiliary as they continue to advocate for our clients as they pursue their recovery journey,” said Heather Ormand, CEO of Nexus Recovery Center. “An essential part of the recovery journey is feeling supported and championed by those around you. The Auxiliary plays this key role in the support of so many courageous women in our community.”
          

Since 1971, Nexus Recovery Center has walked alongside thousands of women and their children on the path to recovery from substance use disorders. Nexus’ mission is to serve as a community of hope and sobriety for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Nexus treats the whole woman by offering an array of comprehensive services, including specialized substance use disorder treatment services, as well as therapeutic treatment and care for their accompanying children in order to restore health and encourage resilience, regardless of a woman’s ability to pay. Accredited by the Joint Commission since 2006, it is the only treatment center in North Texas that accepts women in the late stages of pregnancy and also allows children to accompany their mothers into treatment. This year, the Dallas-based nonprofit celebrates 51 years of changing lives.        

To learn more about the Auxiliary of Nexus, their special events, membership and how you can become involved, visit www.nexusrecovery.org/auxiliary


About the Auxiliary of Nexus:

The Auxiliary of Nexus supports women and their children who are on their recovery journey with Nexus Recovery Center. Our membership is a force for good in our community.

The mission of the Auxiliary of Nexus is to support and promote the interests of Nexus Recovery Center. Members of the Auxiliary make our community a better place by putting in countless volunteer hours each year, planning, and implementing special events to raise money for Nexus. The Auxiliary carries out its mission using the following methods:

– By building a strong and active membership
– By stimulating public awareness
– By helping in the financial support of Nexus’ services and projects.

Learn more by visiting the website at https://nexusrecovery.org/auxiliary/

About Nexus Recovery Center:

Founded in 1971 and based in Dallas, Texas, Nexus Recovery Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that treats the whole woman by offering an array of comprehensive services, including specialized substance use disorder treatment services, as well as therapeutic treatment and care for their accompanying children in order to restore health and encourage resilience - regardless of a woman’s ability to pay. Accredited by the Joint Commission since 2006, it is the only treatment center in North Texas that accepts women in the late stages of pregnancy and also allows children to accompany their mothers into treatment. Serving solely women on their journey to recovery, Nexus’ mission is to serve as a community of hope and sobriety for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Nexus achieves its mission through the help of a dedicated board, volunteers, staff, partners, and donors. Together, Nexus Recovery Center changes families’ lives, whatever their income, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. For more information, visit www.nexusrecovery.org .

 

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Allison Brodnax, Tea Chair; Donna Arp Weitzman, President, KidneyTexas,Inc.; Dr. Carla Russo, Fashion Show and Luncheon Co-Chair; Jeanne Lewis, Honorary Chair. Not shown: George Lewis, also an Honorary Chair. Regina Bruce, Fashion Show and Luncheon Co-Chair.

Celebrating its 23rd Year!

KidneyTexas, Inc. Spring Tea Reveals Honorary Chairs, Theme and More About The Runway Report 2022 Luncheon and Fashion Show On Wings of Hope and Transformation


 Donna Arp Weitzman, president of KidneyTexas, Inc. and Membership Tea chair, Allison Brodnax, hosted the KidneyTexas, Inc. Spring Tea at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, which was full of surprise announcements.
        

Surrounded by views through the tall glass of the Meyerson's lobby, the vista of downtown Dallas and the beautiful spring weather combined into a delightful vision as members and supporters joined in the lovely setting. Guests were greeted with passed hors d’oeuvres especially curated for an afternoon tea, along with delicious sweets, which graced a presentation full of delicacies.
        

Donna began announcements by welcoming members and supporters, encouraging everyone to bring friends in to join this dynamic group, including gentlemen! Men may join The Men of KidneyTexas, Inc. via the website at www.kidneytexas.org
        

Dr. Carla Russo, Luncheon and Fashion Show chair with Regina Bruce, congratulated the organization on having raised over $4.3 million since its inception 23 years ago and said she wanted to ramp up participation even more by bringing in new members via the committee and friends.
        

Literally raising the curtain, she revealed the Luncheon and Fashion Show logo, a beautiful butterfly with wings filled with a colorful collage of design inspired by different fabrics, in salute to the fashion show element of the event. The butterfly’s center is a light green ribbon, which is the color in support of kidney disease research, transplants, treatments and those who suffer from kidney disease.  The theme is On Wings of Hope and Transformation, which is illustrated in the logo by butterflies soaring off into the sky.
        

After a rousing round of applause, Dr. Carla introduced her dear friend Jeanne Lewis, as honorary chair with her husband, George. She also introduced committee chairs who were in attendance today: Underwriting In-Kind Donations Chair, Carol Welwood. Live and Silent Auction Co-Chair, Elizabeth Smith.  
        

Slated for Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the event will feature a formal floor level fashion presentation, with fashions from long term partner TOOTSIES, joined this year by Betty Reiter, Nardos Design, and others to be announced, produced by Jan Strimple Productions, and is always a fabulous event that includes delightful and fun surprises. The event also includes live and silent auctions and is topped off with a delicious luncheon. Scott Murray is returning as emcee.
        

Beneficiaries are Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, Camp Reynal, Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Southwest Transplant Alliance, Texas Health Resources Foundation. Check the website for updates, tickets, underwriting and sponsorships at www.kidneytexas.org

        

Membership in KidneyTexas, Inc. is available through the website and has many benefits including exclusive events at private homes, membership teas, participation in holiday events for children affected by kidney disease and more.
        

Since 1999, the dedicated volunteers of KidneyTexas, Inc. have worked in tandem with generous underwriters to raise over $4.3 million for local efforts to improve the ability to diagnose and manage kidney disease. 

        

Each fall KidneyTexas, Inc. hosts its Luncheon and Fashion Show in an effort to raise money for local 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. The community’s support is crucial to the success of our mission. Learn more at www.kidneytexas.org

 

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.

 *Photos by Dana Driensky

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Allison Brodnax, Tea Chair; Donna Arp Weitzman, President, KidneyTexas,Inc.; Dr. Carla Russo, Fashion Show and Luncheon Co-Chair; Jeanne Lewis, Honorary Chair. Not shown: George Lewis, also an Honorary Chair. Regina Bruce, Fashion Show and Luncheon Co-Chair

Celebrating its 23rd Year!

KidneyTexas, Inc. Spring Tea Reveals Honorary Chairs, Theme and More About The Runway Report 2022 Luncheon and Fashion Show On Wings of Hope and Transformation


 Donna Arp Weitzman, president of KidneyTexas, Inc. and Membership Tea chair, Allison Brodnax, hosted the KidneyTexas, Inc. Spring Tea at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, which was full of surprise announcements.
        

Surrounded by views through the tall glass of the Meyerson's lobby, the vista of downtown Dallas and the beautiful spring weather combined into a delightful vision as members and supporters joined in the lovely setting. Guests were greeted with passed hors d’oeuvres especially curated for an afternoon tea, along with delicious sweets, which graced a presentation full of delicacies.
        

Donna began announcements by welcoming members and supporters, encouraging everyone to bring friends in to join this dynamic group, including gentlemen! Men may join The Men of KidneyTexas, Inc. via the website at www.kidneytexas.org
        

Dr. Carla Russo, Luncheon and Fashion Show chair with Regina Bruce, congratulated the organization on having raised over $4.3 million since its inception 23 years ago and said she wanted to ramp up participation even more by bringing in new members via the committee and friends.
        

Literally raising the curtain, she revealed the Luncheon and Fashion Show logo, a beautiful butterfly with wings filled with a colorful collage of design inspired by different fabrics, in salute to the fashion show element of the event. The butterfly’s center is a light green ribbon, which is the color in support of kidney disease research, transplants, treatments and those who suffer from kidney disease.  The theme is On Wings of Hope and Transformation, which is illustrated in the logo by butterflies soaring off into the sky.
        

After a rousing round of applause, Dr. Carla introduced her dear friend Jeanne Lewis, as honorary chair with her husband, George. She also introduced committee chairs who were in attendance today: Underwriting In-Kind Donations Chair, Carol Welwood. Live and Silent Auction Co-Chair, Elizabeth Smith.  
        

Slated for Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the event will feature a formal floor level fashion presentation, with fashions from long term partner TOOTSIES, joined this year by Betty Reiter, Nardos Design, and others to be announced, produced by Jan Strimple Productions, and is always a fabulous event that includes delightful and fun surprises. The event also includes live and silent auctions and is topped off with a delicious luncheon. Scott Murray is returning as emcee.
        

Beneficiaries are Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, Camp Reynal, Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Southwest Transplant Alliance, Texas Health Resources Foundation. Check the website for updates, tickets, underwriting and sponsorships at www.kidneytexas.org

        

Membership in KidneyTexas, Inc. is available through the website and has many benefits including exclusive events at private homes, membership teas, participation in holiday events for children affected by kidney disease and more.
        

Since 1999, the dedicated volunteers of KidneyTexas, Inc. have worked in tandem with generous underwriters to raise over $4.3 million for local efforts to improve the ability to diagnose and manage kidney disease. 

        

Each fall KidneyTexas, Inc. hosts its Luncheon and Fashion Show in an effort to raise money for local 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. The community’s support is crucial to the success of our mission. Learn more at www.kidneytexas.org

 

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.

 *Photos by Dana Driensky

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Louise Hallam Collins, Chair; Oliver Collins

Celebrating 51 Years of Changing Lives

 

Lauren Gillette, president of the Auxiliary of Nexus, is delighted to announce Louise Hallam Collins as chair of the Mother’s May Brunch 2022 and Laura Jeffers and her mother, Harriet Jeffers, as honorary chairs.
        

Happening on Saturday, May 21st at the Dallas Country Club, this delightful brunch celebrates mothers, grandmothers and all the women in our lives. Proceeds will support the mission of Nexus Recovery Center and ensure that mothers with substance use disorder can receive needed services to rebuild their lives and heal alongside their families.
           

Last year, the Auxiliary sponsored a Mother’s Day Pop-Up Flower Shop at Nexus Recovery Center, which was a wonderful success. This is the first Auxiliary brunch since 2019. In 2020 and 2021, COVID mandated the cancellation of their annual luncheon.
        

This year’s event will feature a live and silent auction and featured speakers, Nexus client Jade Rose and her eight-year-old son.  For 32-year-old Jade Rose, a mother of three, the decision to regain her sanity after a lifetime of losing it due to substance abuse disorder, is an exercise in forgiveness, gratitude, healing, dogged determination, and flat-out intestinal fortitude. She’s on the mountaintop now, but admits the climb was brutal because of her IV meth-plagued journey. Her son said, “"I love Nexus. This place made me feel better. I was bad when I got here, and I didn't like my mommy because she was on drugs but now my mommy is happy and loves us so much and she works so hard for us. You can get your kids back too you just have to do good like my mommy." Their compelling story will warm the hearts of everyone attending. The Nexus campus children will be highlighted in a musical performance accompanied with music by a student string quartet.
        

“Nexus Recovery Center is incredibly thankful to our powerful and impactful Auxiliary as they continue to advocate for our clients as they pursue their recovery journey,” said Heather Ormand, CEO of Nexus Recovery Center. “An essential part of the recovery journey is feeling supported and championed by those around you. The Auxiliary plays this key role in the support of so many courageous women in our community.”
          

Since 1971, Nexus Recovery Center has walked alongside thousands of women and their children on the path to recovery from substance use disorders. Nexus’ mission is to serve as a community of hope and sobriety for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Nexus treats the whole woman by offering an array of comprehensive services, including specialized substance use disorder treatment services, as well as therapeutic treatment and care for their accompanying children in order to restore health and encourage resilience, regardless of a woman’s ability to pay.  Accredited by the Joint Commission since 2006, it is the only treatment center in North Texas that accepts women in the late stages of pregnancy and also allows children to accompany their mothers into treatment. This year, the Dallas-based nonprofit celebrates 51 years of changing lives.
        

The community is invited to join in this new signature event for the Auxiliary in support of Nexus’ mission. Tickets are $200 each. Sponsorship levels begin at $2,500 up to $25,000 and are available via the website at https://nexusrecovery.org/mothers-may-brunch/. Email Development@nexusrecovery.org or call 214-321-0156 x 2146 for more information.


About the Honorary Chairs: Laura Jeffers and her mother, Harriet Jeffers:
 Laura Jeffers was born in Dallas and graduated from Texas Christian University with a B.S. in Radio, Television, and Film. She is active in the Dallas community devoting her time to support various organizations including The Magdalen House, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Patriot Paws, and Canine Companions. She is also a member of the Dallas Foundation and Women’s Philanthropy Institute and sits on the board of directors at Towns of Highland Park HOA and EBC Farms Rescue. She previously taught second and third grade at White Rock North Private School and served on the board of the Dallas Black Dance Theater. She is an alumna of Leadership Women of Texas.
        

“I am inspired by the amazing people at Nexus and their dedication to women and children who have been the recipients of their generosity,” says Laura. “I am currently in recovery and cannot imagine being a mother with nowhere to go. I also have the great privilege of having a mother who has been unrelenting and unconditional in her love for me. Co-chairing this Mothers May Brunch with my mother – my hero – is as special as it gets.”
        

Harriet Hines Jeffers was born in Dallas and graduated from SMU in 1966 with a degree in Education. She taught in DISD and private schools, including Dean Memorial for 16 years.  She attended Scottish Rite and earned her Certificate in Learning Disabilities.   She also created the Dyslexia Program at Ennis ISD.  Harriet and her husband, Buddy Jeffers, co-created Superior Livestock Auction, a company that forever changed the face of the marketing of cattle in the United States and is now the largest livestock auction in North America. She is presently involved in the Dallas Foundation and Women’s Philanthropy Institute. Harriet’s desire to help children and support programs which do so drew her to Nexus and the core values they represent. Her love for her own daughters (both in recovery) has ignited her passion to be a part of this wonderful nonprofit organization.
 
About the Brunch Chair, Louise Hallam Collins:
 Brunch chair Louise Hallam Collins earned her BA from North Texas University in 2003 in Art, and an Associates Degree from The Dallas Art Institute in 1997.  She started working part-time at Ben E. Keith in the summers of 1991-1994, and full-time June of 1998. Once full-time, she started as a pull up assistant in the Off-Premise market and worked her way up to Sales Position and then, Business Analyst. Later, she moved over to On-Premise and continued the same process to Sales. She then was welcomed to the Marketing Department as the LBGTQIA, and Asian Marketing Manager assisting public relations through community service, sponsorship and public awareness. She worked in that capacity until 2007, when she took time off to raise her son Oliver, 14. Recently returning in a part-time capacity to the Marketing Department, she continues acts of service in the community through sponsorships and board memberships for non-profits. 

COVID-19 Precautions: Nexus is committed to hosting a safe, in-person event and following all CDC guidelines. All guests will be required to wear a mask, regardless of vaccine status, and temperature checks are required before entering the venue. If you are not feeling well, we encourage you to stay home. Please click here to view the current CDC guidelines regarding gatherings.

About the Auxiliary of Nexus Recovery Center:

The Auxiliary of Nexus supports women and their children who are on their recovery journey with Nexus Recovery Center. Our membership is a force for good in our community.

The mission of the Auxiliary of Nexus is to support and promote the interests of Nexus Recovery Center. Members of the Auxiliary make our community a better place by putting in countless volunteer hours each year, planning, and implementing special events to raise money for Nexus. This mission is accomplished using the following methods:

– By building a strong and active membership
– By stimulating public awareness
– By helping in the financial support of Nexus’ services and projects.

Learn more by visiting the website at https://nexusrecovery.org/auxiliary/

About Nexus Recovery Center

Founded in 1971 and based in Dallas, Texas, Nexus Recovery Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit agency that treats the whole woman by offering an array of comprehensive services, including specialized substance use disorder treatment services, as well as therapeutic treatment and care for their accompanying children in order to restore health and encourage resilience - regardless of a woman’s ability to pay. Accredited by the Joint Commission since 2006, it is the only treatment center in North Texas that accepts women in the late stages of pregnancy and also allows children to accompany their mothers into treatment. Serving solely women on their journey to recovery, Nexus’ mission is to serve as a community of hope and sobriety for all women and their families who strive to live healthy, resilient lives. Nexus achieves its mission through the help of a dedicated board, volunteers, staff, partners, and donors. Together, Nexus Recovery Center changes families’ lives, whatever their income, gender, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. For more information, visit www.nexusrecovery.org 

*Courtesy photos. 

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Caylin Moore

Rainbow Days will host its 25th annual Pot of Gold Luncheon at the Omni Dallas Hotel Dallas Ballroom on Friday, April 29, 2022. This year’s luncheon, which is presented by Title Sponsors Nancy Ann and Ray L. Hunt, will also celebrate Rainbow Days’ 40th anniversary since its founding in 1982 in Dallas. 

Rainbow Days is thrilled to announce the 2022 Pot of Gold Luncheon Keynote Speaker is Caylin Moore. A celebrated author and sought-after inspirational speaker, Caylin will invigorate audiences with wisdom from his journey of overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles to striving to leave the world better than he found it. His against-all-odds journey from the cruel poverty of a gang-ridden Los Angeles community to becoming a Rhodes Scholar is detailed in his acclaimed book, A Dream Too Big: The Story of an Improbable Journey from Compton to Oxford. His work has been featured by Good Morning America, Sirius XM Radio, ABC News, NBC LA, Home and Family, Hallmark Channel, and The 700 Club amongst other media outlets. His book was named a Good Morning America Anchor’s Favorite Books of 2019, was an Amazon Bestseller in Sociology of Urban Areas and came out in paperback in June 2020. 

Rainbow Days is honored to have Jennifer Bishop and Marisa O’Sullivan as the 2022 Pot of Gold Luncheon Chairs. In addition to serving as a member of Rainbow Days’ Executive Board of Directors, Jennifer works as vice president and associate general counsel at Cinemark and is a resident of The Colony. Marisa is a partner at Carrington Coleman and lives in Dallas.

This year’s event leadership also includes 2022 Pot of Gold Auction Chairs Melissa Griffith and Tiffany Westerman. Both Melissa and Tiffany are residents of Dallas and have previously been involved with Rainbow Days as volunteers.

The 2022 Pot of Gold Luncheon festivities will begin at 11 a.m. with silent auction bidding, and the luncheon program will begin promptly at noon. This year’s goal is to raise $300,000 for Rainbow Days to continue providing critical services benefiting thousands of at-risk and homeless children and youth across the Dallas area each year. Table sponsorships start at $2,000 and individual tickets for the luncheon are $200 per person, both of which are available to purchase online at www.RainbowDays.org/POG2022 or by phone at (214) 217-3833. 

The Pot of Gold Luncheon benefits Rainbow Days through sponsorships, individual seats, auction bidding and donations. The annual luncheon is a cheerful and celebratory event that features an inspiring keynote speaker, special performances from the Rainbow Days children and moving program testimonials for an anticipated 500 guests in attendance. The Pot of Gold festivities also include a silent auction, which will open online on April 20. 

Last June, the 2021 Pot of Gold Luncheon, which featured keynote speaker Josh Shipp and was hosted at the Omni Dallas Hotel as well as via livestream, helped raise more than $232,000 for Rainbow Days.

ABOUT RAINBOW DAYS: The 25th annual Pot of Gold Luncheon will benefit Rainbow Days, 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, life enrichment programs and critical needs services, Rainbow Days makes meaningful connections with at-risk and homeless children and youth and has positively impacted more than 241,000 kids in the Dallas area to date. For more information, please visit www.RainbowDays.org or call (214) 887-0726.

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Sabrina Chavolla, Cynde Seskes, Jo Alch, Executive Director, Pajamas for Seniors; Dr. Carla Russo and Regina Bruce, founders, Lone Star Monarchs; Matt Alch.

Lone Star Monarchs and Rustic Cuff present Pajamas for Seniors Over $100,000 in Donations of New Pajamas in Support of its Upcoming Easter Event 2022

 It was a beautiful day at the warehouse as Dallas-based Lone Star Monarchs, in collaboration with Jill Donovan, founder of Rustic Cuff, presented Jo Alch, founder of Pajamas for Seniors, with over $101,500+ in donations of cash and new adult pajamas in support of its upcoming Easter Event 2022 benefiting low-income seniors living in nursing homes and assisted living.          

That total included Lone Star Monarchs’ founders Regina Bruce and Dr. Carla Russo presenting a donation of a $5,000 check plus $2,500+ worth of new pajamas, and $94,000+ worth of new pajamas donated by Rustic Cuff.        

Lone Star Monarchs’ volunteers Kimberly Elliott and Jason Spangler drove a moving truck to Rustic Cuff’s location in Tulsa, OK where boxes of pajamas were loaded. They were brought back to Dallas to sort and prepare to surprise Jo Alch and her team with this huge windfall, along with other special surprises, to help these seniors as part of Pajamas for Seniors upcoming Easter plans.          

During the formal presentation, Carla and Regina, along with a team of other Lone Star Monarchs’ volunteers, which included Kimberly Elliott, Jacqueline Griffin, Jeanne Lewis, Kunthear Mam-Douglas, Cynthia Seskes and Cindi Tesseneer, presented the donations to Pajamas for Seniors. In addition, Regina presented Jo with a book Jill Donovan authored entitled “The Kindness Effect,” which Jill personally autographed to Jo.         

As the boxes and boxes of pajamas were loaded into the moving truck, the afternoon concluded with warm hugs and other expressions of gratitude and thanks for the blessings and abundant gifts brought forth by so many generous and kind-hearted people who had come together in support of these low income seniors, who have given so much to the community.          

To learn more about the Lone Star Monarchs, visit the website at www.LoneStarMonarchs.org and Pajamas for Seniors at www.pajamasforseniors.org 

Lone Star Monarchs Mission:
To inspire and nurture the human spirit, as together, we build an effective network of individuals and organizations to support a broad spectrum of charitable organizations in Dallas and throughout Texas.  Lone Star Monarchs’ purpose is exclusively educational and charitable to connect people and enrich lives. Lone Star Monarchs is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
www.LoneStarMonarchs.org   FB @LoneStarMonarchs IG @lonestarmonarchs/

Pajamas for Seniors Mission:
We believe that ALL seniors deserve to be loved and recognized as valuable contributors to our society. They have helped raise us. They have been our teachers, our neighbors and our cherished family members. Our mission at Pajamas for Seniors is to return that love and kindness one pajama at a time. We are a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving DFW. With your support, we can make a difference! www.pajamasforseniors.org
FB @pajamasforseniors  IG @pajamasforseniorsdfw

About Rustic Cuff:
        
What feels like the end is often the beginning. Jill Donovan’s need for a creative outlet and her lifelong obsession with cuff bracelets turned into more than she ever dreamed. An opportunity landed her on the Oprah show where her practice of regifting was challenged by etiquette experts. Jill turned tragedy into triumph and taught herself to make cuffs to gift instead.  Jill gave them to friends, family, and some celebrities.
        
In March 2015, a Rustic Cuff bracelet that Jill had given to Gayle King was worn by Oprah herself on the cover of her O, The Oprah Magazine®. A regift from Gayle to Oprah? In November 2016, the Rustic Cuff Dallas 1/2” Metallic Stingray was named as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2016. For Jill, these are both the best full-circle moments!
        
Today, Jill’s inspiration comes from being mom to Ireland and August, AKA Peanut. She attributes the brand’s success to her amazingly loyal friends from all across the country. Known for her big heart and generous spirit, Jill strives to inspire these traits in others and loves hearing new stories from women who are moved to gift the cuff off of their own wrists. For Jill, it’s not about the bracelet, but the connection that is made between two people, often strangers, in that moment. Spontaneous moments. Full of hope and love, tears and laughter. The birth of Rustic Cuff may have stemmed from regifting gone wrong. But the ripple effect is regifting gone right.  https://www.rusticcuff.com/pages/the-story-of-rustic-cuff

Photos by Danny Campbell

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Jimmy Johnson

The Largest Roofing, Solar, and Storm Restoration Conference in America presents Keynote Speakers Former Head Coach and Hall of Famer Jimmy Johnson, Former NFL Player Herschel Walker, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Jordan Belfort “Wolf of Wall Streeet,” Ryan Stewman, and Richard Rawlings “Gas Monkey”

 

Storm Ventures Group (SVG) hosts the “Win The Storm Conference” (WTS) beginning Monday, February 14-16 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center with over 7,000+ WTS attendees, a full Tradeshow Expo Floor with 300+ leading industry vendors.  Many WTS attendees are Dallas or Texas-based business owners.  WTS is the leading conference and tradeshow expo for general contracting, roofing and restoration companies and solar companies looking to gain advanced training, technology, and tactics to scale their businesses and help property owners recover after large storms and catastrophic events.

Keynote speakers include Jimmy Johnson, Herschel Walker, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Jordan Belfort “Wolf of Wall Street,” and Richard Rawlings “Gas Monkey.” 

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14 (DAY ONE) – Kicks off with an emotional performance by local Dallas celebrity Breez Carver, age 13, with over 20M views on Facebook, and millions more on YouTube, Instagram. Carver is a dancer who competed on Season 16 of America's Got Talent. Breez is now 13 years old. She started dancing when she was 5 years old.

The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders will follow her in an unforgettable opening performance to AC/DC Thunderstruck and open for SVG Founder & CEO, Anthony Delmedico. 

Anthony will open WTS with a speech relating the “Greatest Trade in NFL History” to business leaders and their teams.  He will be followed by Herschel Walker and Jimmy Johnson who will continue this “Winning and Mindset” theme on their main stage speaking performance, and openly discuss the greatest trade in NFL History, how it affected them, and how it can relate to business leaders today.  This is one of the first times these two have taken the stage together since parting ways in 1990.

From Anthony Delmedico:

“Herschel Walker was one of the key trades Jimmy Johnson made to winning multiple Super Bowls.  This was the biggest trade in NFL history, as it involved 18 players or picks. At the time, Herschel was considered one of the greatest players of all time, earning the Heisman Trophy in 1982. He began his NFL Career with the Dallas Cowboys in 1986. 

“In 1989, at the peak of Walker's NFL career, the Cowboys sent Herschel Walker to the Vikings for five players and six draft picks.  Those picks turned into players such as Emmitt Smith, Russell Maryland, Kevin Smith, and Darren Woodson. And one that built the Cowboys' dynasty of the 90s!   

“The team went on to dominate the NFL for the better part of the decade. The Cowboys won Super Bowls in 1993, 1994 and 1996. Jimmy was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. In my opinion, it is one of the greatest trades in NFL history!”

The 5th Annual Industry Awards Night, will be held on Monday, February 14 from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. at The House of Blues, located at 2200 North Lamar Street in Dallas.  Categories include “Most Influential,” “Top Growth,” “Hurricane Hero,” “Elite Contractor Awards,” “Female Entrepreneur of the Year,” “Million Dollar Producers,” “Entrepreneur of the Year,” and many other awards.  Jordan Belfort “Wolf of Wall Street” and Richard Rawlings “Gas Monkey” will be Celebrity Hosts at this event as they present awards to local Dallas-based business owners.   SVG will be hosting a Black-Tie event at Industry Award Night with many Dallas business owners to raise money and awareness for storm victims, including homeless families and children without families, due to a record year of devastating storms that killed hundreds and left thousands homeless, including young children.  100% of the monies raised during the auction will be donated to USDR (United Survivors Disaster Relief).

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 (DAY TWO):  Keynote speaker Jordan Belfort (aka Wolf of Wall Street) takes the Main Stage to share his comeback story.  Other speakers include Dallas-based TV celebrity Richard Rawlings “Gas Monkey.” Richard is dropping his fully restored big block 1969 Mustang Mach 1 on the WTS Tradeshow Expo Floor.  Local Dallas entrepreneur and author “Hardcore Closer” Ryan Stewman; Dallas-based entrepreneur and author, Steven Rozenberg, founder of the fastest growing property management company in the State of Texas, are speaking as well.  The afternoon session of speakers will be joined by Kirt Linington, CEO of Dallas-based Linear Roofing, one of the fastest growing roofing companies in America.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 (DAY THREE):  Features a highly contentious live main stage debate between policyholder attorney John Houghtaling and Dallas-based carrier attorney Steve Badger. These two adversaries cover some of the most controversial legal and carrier issues in the $100B+ Property Casualty Claims Industry to include: Systematic practice of short pay, slow pay, and denials by insurance carriers and their adjusters,

fraudulent 3rd party engineering companies used by carriers to deny claims, unconstitutional UPPA laws, tortious interference by carriers and their many agents who threaten to introduce other contractors to your projects if you do not accept their price, short pay games by carriers who make it near impossible to start or complete some necessary roofing or restoration projects after large storms and catastrophic events, systematic price fixing by insurance carriers, systematic practice of short pay, slow pay, and no pay by insurance carriers.

SVG is launching their newest product at WTS, SVG U Virtual Reality (VR) 3.0. These custom VR Goggles allow companies in any industry to train their employees in a variety of real-life instructional scenarios in a 360-degree virtual reality environment. SVG VR 3.0 helps entrepreneurs across all industries instruct their teams in an interactive, hands-on learning environment. 

General admission tickets start at $500. VIP Registration is $2,900 and includes premier seating, lunch and photo opportunity with keynote speakers, panelists and mainstage speakers, industry awards night access at House of Blues. Military veterans are free with advance registration. One day passes are available for $250 to all local business owners and entrepreneurs, regardless of industry. Register at www.WinTheStorm.com or call 330-57-STORM to RSVP or for more information. 

“So many amazing speakers, breakout sessions and keynotes this year! This conference is going to top the charts! We are excited to bring former head coach and Hall of Famer Jimmy Johnson and Herschel Walker on stage to discuss the Greatest Trade in NFL History, how it changed the NFL, and how it can be applied to Winning in Business.  We will also be showcasing our newest Storm and Solar (Virtual Reality) VR Training Goggles.  We can now train employees, salespeople, and crews with our VR goggles on a variety of field operations including selling, inspecting properties, building roofs, safety, and more. This saves time, money, reduces liability, and allows them to train anywhere, anytime. It is revolutionizing the way the entire construction, roofing, and building industry trains. This new 360 VR app technology can be utilized for any company, in any industry,” says Anthony Delmedico, CEO and founder, Storm Ventures Group; creator of SVG University and SVG U (VR); producer of the annual Win The Storm Conference and Tradeshow Expo, author of the Win The Game book, host of the Contractor Rescue reality show. 

The three-day event includes networking, keynote speakers, expert presentations and panels with live Q&A, over 75 industry-specific breakout sessions, nightly networking receptions, Industry Awards night, motivational and team building exercises, as well as a tradeshow floor full of the industry’s leading vendors and suppliers.    

Breakout session topics include courses on Entrepreneurship, Scaling and Selling Your Business, Building Teams and Company Culture, Estimating, Supplementing, Production Management, Safety, Storm Mapping and Prediction, Managing Large Loss Claims, Drone Training, SVG Virtual Reality (VR) Training, Marketing, Sales, Apps, Technology, Cybersecurity, Software, Business Operations, Accounts Receivable, and many more.   

Event activities include the Roofer Bowl Party on Sunday, February 13 sponsored by SRS, which will feature a Super Bowl half-time show performance by the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and singing performance by Bella Mia Delmedico.  This is an optional day to come by and pre-register to skip the long lines on Monday morning. 

About Storm Ventures Group 

Storm Ventures Group [SVG] is the premier catastrophic management consulting and joint venture firm. SVG is a global leader in training construction industry professionals how to help property owners recover quickly after catastrophic storm events. The SVG team brings over 25 years of experience in commercial and residential construction, insurance restoration, and best practices in construction management to the rapidly growing insurance restoration industry. SVG products include SVG University (SVG U), a virtual online training platform for general contractors, roofing, construction and restoration professionals. SVG U includes a full course library of hands-on, engaging, industry-specific training videos with courses, chapters, and testing to help contractors scale. SVG U launched the SVG U Virtual Reality (VR) goggles to provide a 360-degree virtual reality virtual reality training environment. Regardless of weather conditions such as rain or cold, new hires can train 24/7 indoors in a real-life virtual platform with a laser pointer and a set of goggles. The SVG annual Win The Storm Conference & Trade Show Expo attracts, trains and mobilizes construction and restoration companies throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and Australia to successfully manage catastrophic storm events, build sales teams, rebuild communities and streamline operations to scale. For more information call 330-57-STORM or visit us online at www.StormVenturesGroup.com. To RSVP for the annual Win The Storm Conference & Trade Show Expo, please visit www.WinTheStorm.com.    

 

Courtesy photos.  

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Piper Meyer, event organizer and president of the Schimelpfenig Middle School National Junior Honor Society.

Piper Meyer, President of the Schimelpfenig Middle School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, brought in over 250 student volunteers to assemble 100 Buddy Bags

Piper Meyer, an 8th grade student and president of the Schimelpfenig Middle School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, had a very special mission, one that is very real and close to her heart. Her sister, Lucy Meyer, is a Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer Warrior (child with cancer) and was a recipient of a WOKC Buddy Bag, which Piper knew first-hand had benefitted her sister while she was in the hospital undergoing treatments and tests. Piper invited her fellow students and volunteers to join her in assembling 100 Buddy Bags for distribution to WOKC Warriors. About 250 students joined in shifts at the school and within just a few hours, had completed assembling 100 Buddy Bags.
        

Piper gave thanks to everyone for giving up hours on a Saturday to accomplish this goal. She especially thanked Shelby Rose, the middle school’s National Junior Honor Society advisor and Kristen Kinnard, school principal.
          

Buddy Bags are a core component of WOKC’s mission to work relentlessly for a day when cancer is no longer a threat to any child. They are designed to ease the transition from home/pediatrician's office to hospital for both the child and parents.  A Buddy Bag is given to each child admitted to the hospital (Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Medical City Children's Hospital and Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth) with a cancer diagnosis to cover their family needs for that first shocking and stressful week at the hospital.  
        

Buddy Bags are sturdy rolling suitcases filled with over 30 items, including basic toiletries, electronics, coloring books, games/toys, food vouchers, pillows, blankets, chargers, and other comfort items. All items in the Buddy Bag are the result of a thoughtful collaboration by parents of kids with cancer who know better than anyone which items might be needed at that time of crisis. Parents have called the Buddy Bags "medicine for the soul."
        

In addition to the Buddy Bag Program, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer sponsors other programs:
* The Warrior Family Program involves numerous fun events throughout each year, including professional and semi-professional sporting events, picnics, fishing tournaments, holiday parties, a summer camp in Maine, and more.

* The Research Program: In its 40-year history, WOKC has provided $7 million in seed money for its novel research projects, which have received $22 million in additional grant money over these past 40 years. Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer has maintained focus on childhood cancer research by funding projects to increase survival rate, provide better treatment, and help doctors understand better this vicious disease.
        

Aashik Khakoo is CEO of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. Cindy Brinker Simmons is founder of WOKC.        

To learn more about Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer and how you can become involved, visit the website at www.wokc.org. Facebook  @WipeOutKidsCancer  and Instagram @wokc

*Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio