Proceeds will light the paths of aspiring local musicians through
DSO’s outreach and educational programs.

Guests stepped into the world of fashion and philanthropy with the 10th Annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show, hosted by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) at the majestic Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center on October 12.

The event was a scene of style and community spirit. The morning kicked off with a Champagne reception, a silent auction, and an exciting raffle. But that was just the beginning. The real crescendo awaited the attendees as they indulged in a fashion presentation and a luncheon live auction.

Jada Mowles and Laura Price, the dynamic duo of luncheon chairs, curated a memorable fashion experience for all.

Karen Cox and her daughter, Isabella Cox, were the Honorary Chairs of the event. They have long been devoted supporters of the Dallas Symphony. Karen is a former Fashion Notes Chair and served as Presentation Ball Chair earlier this year. Isabella was a DSOL Debutante in 2020 and now a member of the DSOL Assembly.

Musical magic was woven into the day's tapestry by the DSO Concert Truck, a traveling stage in an 18-ft box truck featuring pianists, and the melodious strains of Young Strings musician Jacqui Torres playing her cello. She later graced the runway as a model and shared her experiences with the Young Strings program, a beneficiary of the event's proceeds. Young violinist Alan Milan was tapped to accompany the models during their runway presentation.

DSOL President Nancy Labadie emphasized the event's significance and impact.

“We are fortunate to have Jacqui Torres with us. We wanted you to have a firsthand experience with where your support lands after you leave here today,” said Labadie “What we are involved in changes lives and betters our community.”

The runway came alive when symphony patron families modeled fashions from LoveShackFancy and Dondolo, along with the dazzling accessories by Milliard Diamond Concierge and chic boots by Petite Paloma. Meredith Land, the popluar NBC 5 news anchor, served as Emcee.

The fashion show was a joy to behold, thanks to the artistry of Robyn Chauvin Productions. It was not a surprise that the children were the stars of the show. Many wore matching mother and daughter dresses. Ellie and Lucy Price, daughters of event chair Laura Price, have modeled in the show for the two preceding years. With confidence, they walked the runway, stopped at the end to turn back to back, and gave their biggest smiles while melting the hearts of the audience.

The highlight of the day was when Catalina Gonzalez, the founder of Dondolo, received the prestigious Fashion Notes Designer Award. Dondolo is not just a brand; it's a movement, creating beautiful, heirloom-quality clothing that empowers local women and mothers in Colombia, helping them provide for their families. Dondolo's commitment to supporting women and children in Dallas is truly heartwarming.

The DSOL collaborated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to fulfill the fashion wish of two critically ill children who not only modeled in the show but will also get a chance to visit with Catalina Gonzalez and explore her design studio in weeks to come.

The luncheon was attended by a vibrant and influential crowd including Kate Boatright, Sharon Lee Clark, Kameron Westcott, Samantha Wortley, Olivia Barder, Mandy Coulter, Kristin Cordiak, Bronwyn Cordiak, Kim Noltemy, Therese Rourk, Donna Arp Weitzman, and Marena Gault.

The event was made possible with the generous support of sponsors including Social Bird (Cotes de Provence Rosé), the official wine sponsor, and PaperCity, the exclusive digital and print luxury lifestyle media sponsor.

But beyond the glamour and fashion, this event played a significant role in advancing the DSOL's mission of spreading the love of music and arts education to countless young people in the Dallas community. The funds raised will light the paths of aspiring local musicians through outreach and educational programs offered by the DSO.

In a world where fashion meets heart, the 10th Annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show hit all the right notes, harmonizing style with a beautiful melody of philanthropy.

Photos by Domus Aurea Portraits

The Greater East Dallas Chamber’s 19^th Annual Economic Summit Presented by CC Young was held October 17th at the Lakewood Country Club. Combining the East Dallas community’s dedication to education, growth, the work force and development, this year’s Economic Summit centered around the theme “Building a Better East Dallas”. It was a sold out event for the third year in a row.

The 2023 Economic Summit was chaired by Chamber board member René Barrera. 

“The Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce was once again pleased to bring quality speakers and programs to the community and this year’s line-up was no exception,” said Barrera. 

As part of the Economic Summit, the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce officially released the much anticipated 2023 Economic Report. This publication included an exclusive economic analysis specific to the East Dallas community. Each guest received a copy of the publication and a digital version of the 2023 Economic Report can be found the chamber’s website.

Featured speakers were Councilmembers Paula Blackmon, Kathy Stewart, Jesse Moreno and Paul Ridley and The Dallas Morning News real estate editor Steve Brown. The keynote panel of speakers included Bryan Trubey from Overland Partners, and Darren James and Brian Luallen from Fair Park First. 

The Economic Summit’s program included an informative panel discussion with the four Dallas City Council members, all of whom represent East Dallas districts. A range of topics were covered including Police department challenges with recruiting and retaining officers, improvements to streamlining the City Permitting department for building and sign permits, and highlights of the 2024 bond program. The stark reminder of the looming underfunded police/fire pension liabilities was enlightening. It was announced that the city has recently appointed a council committee, aiming to address this issue by the fall of 2024.

Steve Brown shared the latest in area real estate news with his entertaining sense of humor. 

“Dallas-Fort Worth has the top real estate market in the country”, says Brown. “And so far, higher interest rates aren't slowing things down. It's the thousands of people moving to North Texas each year that keep the property market here moving.” 

During the second half of the Summit, improvements at Fair Park were discussed at length. The panelists represented are spearheading the efforts to restore, revitalize and renew one of Dallas' most treasured and historic landmarks. The work to be done is broad in scope, and will amplify the overall experience for those visiting not only Fair Park, but the surrounding area as well. Overland Partners and Fair Park First have the inspiring vision, focus and expertise to secure Fair Park's standing as a year-round destination point for Dallasites, and those visiting our city.

Sponsors for the event included: CC Young – Presenting Sponsor; Comerica Bank and Oncor – Gold Sponsors; Veritex Community Bank – Silver Sponsor; Frost Bank and Atmos Energy – Bronze Sponsors; Advocate Media – Media Sponsor. 

Table hosts included BackMenders Chiropractic With Care, Bishop Lynch High School, Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty, Business Solutions Technology, Campagna & Associates Realtors, Community Impact Newspaper, Ebby Halliday - Little White House, Forge and Link Financial Group LLC, Independence Title, Jesse's AC & Appliance Repair, Juliette Fowler Communities, Lynda Piepgras-Realtor, Overland Partners and White Rock Lake Foundation.  

About the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce

The purpose of the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce is to promote the cultural, educational and industrial interests of the East Dallas Area so that its businesses, neighborhoods and citizens shall prosper. 

The multifaceted approach of the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce provides benefits to our members in a variety of different arenas. We offer a number of forums for the promotion of all of our member businesses. We are also proud to provide our members with relevant information regarding the East Dallas community, as well as insight into local, state and national government issues. The events that provide a conduit for these benefits, and others, include our monthly luncheons that highlight a variety of topics addressed by featured keynote speakers. We also present an annual Economic Summit - essentially a "state of the union" with respect to the Dallas Economy. Member businesses and guests are encouraged to gather and exchange information through our numerous networking events, especially our Business After Hours excursions, which are hosted by a spotlighted member business. Sponsorship opportunities abound for these events, as well as for many of our other Chamber gatherings. For more information, please contact the Chamber directly.

For more information about GEDCC, visit http://eastdallaschamber.com or contact 214-649-1773

or president@eastdallaschamber.com 

GEDCC Blog / News:   http://www.eastdallaschamber.com/chamber-blog 

Find the Greater East Dallas Chamber of Commerce on Social Media:

Facebook - GEDCC: https://www.facebook.com/GEDallasChamber/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GEDallasChamber; @GEDallasChamber

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastdallaschamber/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/27217958/

Photos by Carol Hensley

Dondolo founder Catalina Gonzalez will receive the Fashion Notes Designer award at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s 10th Annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show on October 12.

Dondolo is a luxury lifestyle brand that provides children and women with beautiful, heirloom-quality clothing that is manufactured in Colombia and made by local women and mothers, helping them earn the funds they need to raise their children. In Dallas, Dondolo proudly supports local non-profit organizations that help women and children.

Catalina loves knowing that when a customer buys from them, she is truly helping to make a difference in these families' lives. The word “Dondolo” means “to swing,” and she believes that the love one gives is returned to them.

Catalina has always had a passion for giving back to the community. When she started Dondolo, she wanted to bring awareness and help people in underserved areas, especially to children, mothers, and their communities. The brand idea came after she had her first child, Santiago. In becoming a parent, her heart grew in a way that she never thought possible, and she wanted to share that love with not only her family but with those in need. Catalina’s dream for the brand from the beginning was always in “Giving Back,” both by supporting her native country and the local community of Dallas.

The Fashion Notes Designer Award will be presented at the luncheon on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Jada Mowles and Laura Price are the event chairs for the luncheon. Nancy Labadie is the DSOL President.

The Honorary Chairs for the event are Karen Cox and her daughter, Isabella Cox, longtime supporters of the Dallas Symphony. Karen is a former Fashion Notes Chair, and Isabella was a Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Debutante in 2020.

The morning will begin at 10:30 with a fashion show followed by lunch and a raffle. Fall fashions from LoveShackFancy, Dondolo, accessories by Milliard Diamond Concierge and boots by Petite Paloma will be featured. The fashion show will be produced by Robyn Chauvin Productions. Social Bird (Cotes de Provence Rosé) is the official wine sponsor. PaperCity is the exclusive digital and print luxury lifestyle media sponsor.

In celebration of the tenth annual Fashion Notes, the DSOL is partnering with Make A Wish Foundation to grant the Fashion wish of two critically ill children. These children will model in a professional fashion show and have the opportunity to meet the design award recipient, Catalina Gonzalez, and visit her design studio. 

Through this event, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League strives to raise funds that support the love of music and arts for thousands of young people in the Dallas community. Funds raised help provide quality outreach and educational programs that light the way for talented local musicians. A musical performance by a Young Strings musician will be a highlight of the event.

Sponsorship tables are $15,000, $10,000, $5,000, $3000. Single Tickets are available at $500 (Patron Level) and $300. Tickets are available on the website: www.dallassymphonyleague.com. For further information m.haba@dalsym.com or 214-871-4005.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League invites you to join in the celebration of music and fashion at the 10th annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Jada Mowles and Laura Price are the event chairs for the luncheon. Nancy Labadie is the DSOL President. 

The Honorary Chairs for the event are Karen Cox and her daughter, Isabella Cox, longtime supporters of the Dallas Symphony. Karen is a former Fashion Notes Chair, and Isabella was a Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Debutante in 2020. 

The Fashion Notes Designer Award 2023 will be presented to Catalina Gonzalez of Dondolo, a luxury children and woman lifestyle brand. The talented designer and her beautiful lifestyle brand will be celebrated. 

The morning will begin at 10:30 with a fashion show followed by lunch and a raffle. Fall fashions from LoveShackFancy, Dondolo, accessories by Milliard Diamond Concierge and boots by Petite Paloma will be featured. The fashion show will be produced by Robyn Chauvin Productions. PaperCity is the digital and print luxury lifestyle media sponsor. 

Through this event, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League strives to raise funds that support the love of music and arts for thousands of young people in the Dallas community. Funds raised help provide quality outreach and educational programs that light the way for talented local musicians. A musical performance by a Young Strings musician will be a highlight of the event. 

Sponsorship tables are $15,000, $10,000, $5,000, $3000. Single Tickets are available at $500 (Patron Level) and $300. Tickets are available on the website: www.dallassymphonyleague.com. For further information m.haba@dalsym.com or 214-871-4005.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League's Debutante Casino Party unfolded in all its splendor at the elegant Arlington Hall on a hot July 21st night. The air was abuzz with excitement and anticipation as the guests donned their elegant cocktail dresses, setting the stage for a night to remember.  

The Debs, Honor Guard, and their families were treated to a magical evening filled with delights, beginning with a delightful array of cocktails that set the perfect tone for the festivities ahead. 

The spotlight shifted to the center stage where Presentation Ball Chair Kristin Cordiak introduced the mesmerizing Yutaka Meyers and the Icehouse Band, one of Dallas's most dynamic and electrifying party bands. Founding member Yutaka took a moment to express his heartfelt appreciation for the Dallas Symphony, a stage that had witnessed the band's unforgettable performances time and again. 

With immense pride in his voice, Yutaka shared a touching anecdote about his son, a musician who had honed his skills through the Young Strings program. Thanks to this remarkable initiative, his son had soared to new heights and was now pursuing his musical dreams at the prestigious New York University. Gratitude filled the air as attendees listened to Yutaka's words, fully aware that their contributions to the Presentation Ball had played a pivotal role in shaping these young musicians' futures. 

The Young Strings program, one of the many beneficiaries of the Presentation Ball's proceeds, has seen numerous participants go on to be admitted to renowned and esteemed higher learning institutions. The knowledge that their celebration tonight would nurture the talents of future generations added an extra layer of significance to the event. 

Among the distinguished guests were DSOL President Nancy Labadie, whose passion has been an inspiration to all, and Denton Bricker, the newly appointed Director of DSO Events and Volunteers, a testament to the orchestra's commitment to excellence. 

As the night came to a close, hearts were filled with gratitude and joy, knowing that their celebration tonight had sowed the seeds of artistic brilliance for generations to come. 

The Casino Party reached its end, marking the culmination of a whirlwind summer activities for the Debutantes. The journey had been filled with enriching experiences, from bow boot camps to delightful lunches and captivating social mixers. This is only a prelude to the grand spectacle that awaits them. 

Sponsors include Park Place, Paper City, Ben E. Keith Company, Allie Beth Allman and Associates, Neiman Marcus, James French Photography, Eiseman Jewels, Ice House Band, Bistro 31, the T Shop, Prestonwood Polo Club, Casci Ornamental and Swoozies.

The countdown has begun for the Debutantes' highly anticipated debut at the 38th Annual Presentation Ball, an iconic event set to unfold on February 10, 2024, at the prestigious Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.