Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Marija Hoppe, Gift Bag chair; Allison Brodnax, chair, Mad Hatter's Luncheon; Tara Terry, Gift Bag chair.

Special values for underwriters at certain levels guarantee VIP swag
benefiting the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and A Woman’s Garden

 

Allison Brodnax, chair of the 36th Annual Mad Hatter’s Luncheon, and Gift Bag chairs Tara Terry and Marija Hoppe, are delighted to announce Eataly as the Official Gift Bag Sponsor, guaranteeing special gifts for everyone who attends.  All luncheon guests will receive a gift bag valued at $50 containing goodies from Eataly. Table hosts and underwriters at the $1,000 level and up will receive gift bags valued at $125.”

“In the three years that Eataly has been here in Dallas at NorthPark Center, we have made sure to give back to the community by participating in some of the most important philanthropic events for the city. We are now thrilled to support the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden with the 2024 Mad Hatter’s Luncheon,” said Robert Domian, Director of Store Operations at Eataly Dallas.

Slated for Thursday, April 18, 2024 at the Dallas Arboretum with Barbara Bigham as honorary chair and Karen Sargent as Women’s Council president, this fabulous party has been an ongoing fundraising event sponsored by the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Monies raised assist with the development, growth and maintenance of A Woman’s Garden, a major garden at the Dallas Arboretum. 
        
Guests travel from all over the United States, planning their trips to Dallas not only to take part in the Mad Hatter’s Luncheon, taking the theme as inspiration for their sophisticated, glamorous, and delightfully lavish hats, but to view the glorious springtime azalea displays and flowers that grace the Dallas Arboretum.

        
The morning will begin with a Welcome Reception, a stroll in the gardens and a Silent Auction while the discerning hat judges take note of the Grecian-influenced interpretations of this year’s theme Gardens of Greece, including these hat categories: My Big Fat Greek Wedding, Olympic Games, Greek Mythology, Greek Life (sorority), Best Botanical Using Fresh Flowers and Greek Goddesses (group of 3 or more).  Inside Rosine Hall, Hat Contest winners will be announced, which will be followed by the fashion show and then a delicious three-course luncheon.
        
Last year, just over 650 people attended the Mad Hatter’s Luncheon in a party spread over Rosine Hall and A Tasteful Place. This year, the cap on attendance is 500, as it will take place only in Rosine Hall. So, do not delay securing tables, underwriting and sponsorships now.
        
Sponsorships begin at $2,500. Patron Tickets start at $500. Visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/tua/  or scan the QR code below to purchase sponsorships or tickets. Individuals who purchase a patron level ticket and up will be invited to a patron party at the Harlan Crow Library. Visit the website for more information www.wcdabg.org    

About the Women’s Council: Celebrating its 42nd Anniversary in 2024.
Since 1982 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 600 members of the Women’s Council make 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 27th Anniversary in 2024.
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 is 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.     

About Mad Hatter’s: Celebrating its 36th Anniversary in 2024.
In 1989, Carole Ann Brown chaired the first Mad Hatter's Tea to bring awareness to the Women's Council and the Dallas Arboretum. The tea was held in the Camp House garden for 100 ladies and raised $10,000. Over the years, Mad Hatter’s has been chaired by many notable Dallas ladies such as Linda Ivy, Barbara Bigham, Connie Carreker, Barbara Daseke and Patti Flowers. Honorary Chairs have included some of the most philanthropic names in Dallas history such as Annette Simmons, Gene Jones, Caroline Rose Hunt, Tincy Miller, Sally Hoglund, Dee Wyly, Margaret Crow, Nancy Rogers, Amy Warren, Patty Dedman Nail, Sherwood Wagner, Laurie Sands Harrison and Kim Hext.

Finally, it would not be a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party without the hats. The creativity at Mad Hatter’s over the years has been impressive. Ladies have been inspired to create millinery creations based on Royal Ascot, Run for the Roses, April in Paris, Steel Magnolias, Under the Tuscan Sun and even Garden by the Sea. We have seen the Golden Age of Hollywood, have come Out of Africa into the Garden, enjoyed a Wonderland of Fashion while having Tea with Alice and Majestic Mad Hatter’s –A Celebration of English Elegance.   

Photo by Thomas Garza

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Madeline Kiseling; Jim Trester, Holly Trester, Honorary Chairs; Ginny Kiseling

Presenting Sponsor Ryan | Honorary Chairs Holly and Jim Trester

The 2023 Folds of Honor North Texas Annual Gala presented by Ryan welcomed over 1,700 supporters as they filled the playing field of the AT&T Stadium. It was an evening of patriotic inspiration fueled by personal testimonies and stirring presentations from veterans, scholarship recipients and singing of the Folds of Honor Anthem.  
        

The annual gala brings together military families, veterans, scholarship recipients and members of the North Texas community in an event of celebration which includes dinner, a live auction, raffle, live entertainment, fellowship and a custom cowboy hat steaming station in partnership with American Hat Company for donors who funded a full Folds of Honor Scholarship ($5,000). The scholarship donors had the choice of choosing a custom hat by American Hat Company or a pair of cowboy boots in partnership with Petite Paloma.
        

The money raised provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces and now, the Folds of Honor mission has expanded to incorporate America’s first responders, including police, fire-fighters, EMTs and paramedics.
        

Entering the playing field, guests walked through the Folds of Honor Memorial sponsored by Higginbotham, which was flanked with flags above and 13 footprints and plaques representing 13 servicemembers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and their families are now benefitting from a scholarship through the Folds of Honor.
        

VIPs were feted in an early reception in their honor at the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders locker room, while Honorary Chairs Holly and Jim Trester and their family greeted guests, sponsors, underwriters and supporters as they browsed the silent auction, bought tickets in support of the raffle and enjoyed cocktails.
        

Just before dinner, the crowd stood for the singing of the National Anthem by Kia Dawn of Party Machine. Meredith Land, Master of Ceremonies, explained the meaning of the POW/MIA Table, which was a place setting for one so that tonight, as everyone celebrated and honored our nation’s heroes, guests were asked to take the time to reflect on why that small, lone table is there and raise a glass for the ones that have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom.
        

She recognized scholarship recipients as they stood, as well as veterans and those now serving in active duty as the crowd applauded in collective gratitude for their service. She also thanked sponsors, including Ryan as Commander in Chief sponsor; Trudy and Robert Wright, General Sponsors; The Stephenson Foundation, Patriot Mobile as Colonel Sponsors, and Major Sponsors Lydia and Bill Addy on behalf of the Addy Foundation, Aero, Aethon Energy, The Buster Family and Higginbotham Insurance and Financial Services. 
        

Taking the stage, Sarah Duncan, Folds of Honor Senior Director of Impact and also the daughter of a fallen hero and a scholarship recipient, along with Meredith Connally, Folds of Honor Regional Impact Officer; Mary Scott, Folds of Honor Regional Impact Officer and Mike Beltz, North Texas Board Chair, invited the honorary chairs to the stage and presented them with World War II handmade bomber jackets, expressing heartfelt thanks for their hard work and support of Folds of Honor and this very special event.
        

Folds of Honor founder, Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, a PGA Professional and F-16 fighter pilot in the Air Force Reserves, who has served three tours of duty in Iraq, revealed his inspiring story: As he was returning home from his second tour of duty on a domestic flight, he became painfully aware as the passengers deplaned of the reality families face when a loved one in uniform is fallen or disabled. The airline pilot announced they were carrying the remains of a fallen soldier, asking passengers to respectfully remain seated while the casket deboarded. He watched as the family of the deceased walked somberly alongside the flag-covered casket. Among them was the young son of the fallen Corporal. Seeing the other side of the war through the eyes of this fallen soldier’s child was life-altering. He decided he had to do something to pay tribute to American service members and their families. He founded Folds of Honor in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) organization that provides educational scholarships to the families of military men and women who have fallen or been disabled while on active duty in the United States armed forces and now, have expanded to incorporate America’s first responders, including police, fire-fighters, EMTs and paramedics. The motto says it best: Honor Their Sacrifice. Educate Their Legacy. This year because of the support of generous patriots and Folds of Honor supporters, the organization was able to expand its mission to honor the sacrifices of families of first responders, as well.
        

Since that time Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 51,000 educational scholarships totaling roughly $240 million in financial assistance. For the 2023-2024 school year, Folds of Honor has awarded 1,131 scholarships in the state of Texas alone, totaling more than $5,282,825 in financial assistance for our deserving recipient families. The Gala Host Committee are Cindy and Fred Balda, LeeAnn and Josh Campbell, Kristen and Nick Cassavechia, Krystle and Chad Craycraft, Annie and Travis Jones, Richelle and Justin Kerber, Meredith and Daniel Rath, Karen and Rick Schornack, Brittany and Aaron Sizemore and Ashley and Lance Whitworth.
        

A real treat was when acclaimed country singer James Colton sang the Folds of Honor Anthem, produced by Toby Keith. A spirited live auction followed which featured items including a stay in beautiful mountain homes, a once-in-a-lifetime elk hunt, a Montana excursion, Operation Overlord with Lt. Col. Dan Rooney honoring the 80th Anniversary of the allied invasion of Normandy and more.
        

Honorary speakers Colleen Katzenberger and her son, Everett Katzenberger spoke and shared their heartfelt and moving story beginning with Colleen meeting her late husband, Army Staff Sergeant Jeremy Katzenberger and married when she was only 19. After she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, they expanded their family. Even though SSG Katzenberger was deployed in October 2010, the Army allowed him to return home for the birth of their son, Everett. Only a few months later in 2011, Colleen and Everett lost Jeremy.  In 2016 both Colleen and Everett became Folds of Honor Scholarship Recipients. She graduated with a Master of Education degree from Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri and currently works as a high school teacher. Everett continues to excel in many areas and enjoys science, Boy Scouts and golf. She expressed how grateful she is for the support of Folds of Honor and the blessings that have happened in their lives, much due to the involvement of Folds of Honor.
        

A call for donations in the Give from the Heart segment raised just over $1,236,131.00, bringing the total amount raised from the gala to $3,192,201.  Then the crowd danced the night away to the tunes of Party Machine, celebrating a truly fabulous gala.
        

Donation dollars: 90 cents of every dollar donated goes directly back to programs. Folds of Honor has a four-star rating on Charity Navigator and a platinum level rating on Guidestar, the highest possible ratings for both organizations.
        

For more information visit the website at www.northtexas.foldsofhonor.org or  contact Sarah Duncan, Folds of Honor Senior Director of Impact, at sduncan@foldsofhonor.org; Meredith Connally, Folds of Honor Regional Impact Officer at mconnally@foldsofhonor.org or Mary Scott, Folds of Honor Regional Impact Officer at mscott@foldsofhonor.org

Photos by Thomas Garza, Lisa Means and Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
St. Andrew Prom Closet Online registration opens Jan. 22 for shoppers and volunteers!

Now collecting donations of dresses, jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps

St. Andrew Methodist Church announces its 15th Annual Prom Closet will be held Feb. 20 – 22, 24 and Feb. 26 – March 2, 2024, in Smith Worship Center, at St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., Plano. High school girls from ANYWHERE in need of a prom dress are invited to come select a dress and accessories - all at no cost. Appointments are required to improve the overall shopping experience and minimize wait times for the shoppers. Online registration opens Jan. 22. Each shopper must be present to select her own dress and accessories and may have one guest, age 16 or older. A personal shopper volunteer assists each shopper throughout the process. There are 35 shopping slots per each 1.5-hour time frame.

Prom Closet, a service of the St. Andrew Methodist Women, provides prom attire to approximately 1,000 high school girls each year. When it first began in 2009, 35 girls from local high schools received dresses and accessories. In 2023, 1,060 girls received dresses and accessories. Over the years, Prom Closet has welcomed girls from across Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma as well as exchange students from Germany, Poland, Switzerland, and Thailand. Approximately 500 volunteers come together each year to help make prom dreams come true.

“This year Prom Closet will celebrate its 15th anniversary of making prom dreams come true,” said Devra Helffrich, a founder of the Prom Closet, which was created to provide a unique shopping experience for young ladies who because of finances would be unable to attend prom. “Not only is the need great, but the impact the dress makes on the girl and her family is immeasurable. Each volunteer strives to provide an uplifting experience for the young ladies letting them know they are loved, and they are beautiful. There are countless beautiful and emotional stories of girls and their families who have received prom dresses and accessories.”

The Prom Closet is accepting donations of dresses (sizes 0-30), jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps. All donations may be dropped off at St. Andrew, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., just inside the church’s north entry doors on a designated dress rack, Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. - noon. For the north entrance, look for the covered walkway and sign on the building.  A link on Amazon is available for anyone that would like to help by purchasing items, which will be shipped directly to the church. To review items available for purchase, go to this link: Prom Closet Wish List

“We are so grateful for the support and donations from the community as well as our wonderful volunteers – all of whom make Prom Closet possible,” added Helffrich. “We collect dresses, shoes, jewelry, wraps, handbags, and other accessories year ’round and encourage the community to bring in items to support this important effort.”

To register for a 1.5-hour time slot and to volunteer, visitstandrewmethodist.org/promcloset.

For questions and more information email promcloset@standrewmethodist.org, or call 469-385-1810 for more information.

“What I love most about St. Andrew’s annual Prom Closet is the absolute joy that it brings to the lives of so many,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor, St. Andrew. “This program is about so much more than just providing dresses or accessories. For many, it’s about hope and discovering there are people who care. The St. Andrew Women work on this program year ’round because they know its impact. If you are looking for an incredible and uplifting volunteer experience, join us for our 15th anniversary year! Prom Closet has grown to be an extraordinary outreach to girls throughout the metroplex and beyond.”

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is it?

St. Andrew Prom Closet, run by the Women of St. Andrew, is celebrating its 15th year! Prom Closet provides donated dresses, sizes 0-30, as well as accessories such as jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps to high school girls for prom– all at NO COST. Organizers estimate more than 4,000 dresses will be available when Prom Closet opens Feb. 20.

Requirements for shoppers: each girl must sign up online for an appointment at www.standrewmethodist.org/promcloset (beginning Jan. 22); each girl must be present to shop for her own dress; and each girl is allowed to bring ONE guest, age 16 or older with them. A personal shopper volunteer assists each girl throughout the process, and there are 35 shopping slots per each 1.5-hour time frame.

When and where is it?

Feb. 20 – 22, 24 and Feb. 26 – March 2, 2024

Smith Worship Center, St. Andrew Methodist Church, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., Plano 75093

Who is this for?

This is open to any high school girl from ANYWHERE. If you live outside the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you can still come! Over the years, Prom Closet has welcomed girls from across Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma as well as exchange students from Germany, Poland, Switzerland, and Thailand. Girls must sign up for an appointment time online.

What is the history of Prom Closet? How did it begin?

Prom Closet first began in 2009 when the Women of St. Andrew in Plano were searching for an idea for their yearly mission project. The daughter of one of the group’s leaders worked for a local school district. She had noticed a huge need for girls to acquire prom attire so they could attend their senior proms. The idea of providing a unique shopping experience for young ladies who because of finances would be unable to attend prom was presented to the group, and all agreed to move forward with Prom Closet. The program, which remains a service of the Women of St. Andrew, also depends on many additional volunteers from the community. Each year, approximately 500 volunteers assist with Prom Closet serving in a variety of areas. Prom Closet organizers and volunteers confirm that not only is the need great, but the impact the dress makes on the girl and her family is immeasurable.

How does it work?

The room is set up like a boutique. Each girl checks in for her appointment and is greeted by a personal shopper who helps her find dress racks with her size. Once she has selected her dress, she may try it on in one of 20 dressing rooms. Then she visits the boutique to look for jewelry, shoes, a handbag, and a wrap.

Where are the items from?

Community and church members, businesses, organizations, and local groups donate dresses, shoes, wraps, jewelry, handbags, and other accessories for this annual event. Some dresses have never been worn.

How many have you served?

The first year, Prom Closet provided 35 dresses to local high school girls. In 2023, 1,060 girls from 290 schools and 103 school districts received dresses and accessories, all donated by community members, local groups, corporations, and businesses.

Can people donate dresses and accessories?

Prom Closet is accepting donations of dresses (sizes 0-30), jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps. All donations may be dropped off at St. Andrew, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., just inside the church’s north entry doors on a designated dress rack. Drop-off hours are Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. - noon. For the north entrance, park in the large north parking lot off Mira Vista and look for the covered walkway and sign on the building. A link on Amazon (www.standrewmethodist.org/promcloset) is available for anyone that would like to help by purchasing items, which are shipped directly to the church.

Are volunteers needed?

Yes. Prom Closet relies on volunteers for various roles of all levels of physical capability, including check-in desk and check-out desk, personal shoppers, dressing room assistants, and set-up and tear-down crew members. Volunteers for the shopping days must be adults. All adult volunteers must complete a background check. Sign up online to volunteer beginning Jan. 22. Upon registration you will receive an email within 24-48 hours asking you to complete the background check.

What if people have questions?

Call the Prom Closet informational hotline at 469-385-1810, or email promcloset@standrewmethodist.org. 

What are some stories of people you have helped?

- A Prom Closet recipient contacted St. Andrew because she wanted to donate her dresses back to the Prom Closet. Because of Prom Closet she was able to attend her Homeschool Prom twice during some of the family’s hardest financial and personal years. The family was struggling with money and the death of her father. “I didn’t want to go out shopping and see dresses I couldn’t afford, but when I came to Prom Closet, everyone was so welcoming and wanted me to be filled with joy. They provided everything I needed including shoes and jewelry. I learned that there are people out there who watch out for others facing difficult times. It’s important for us all to give back when we can do so.

- While volunteering as a personal shopper for the first time, Cid Smith quickly discovered that what mattered the most were the genuine compliments she provided when a young woman looked beautiful in a dress. “They would stand a little straighter and smile a little brighter.” She assisted exchange students from Germany and Poland. As she shared stories from her travels and volunteer work abroad, they found comfort in talking about their homes. Their smiles when they each found “the one” dress made her smile as well. As with many volunteer opportunities, she felt like she got even more out of the experience than the girls!

- The Waco Children’s Home made three separate trips to bring girls to the Prom Closet because the van could not hold everyone that wanted to come at one time. Every girl found a dress!

- Prom Closet has served: girls whose current residence was at the Samaritan Inn; a group of six foster teens brought in by a social worker; and three vans of Roosevelt High School girls, brought in by ROTC instructors, who needed gowns for the school’s Military Ball. The Prom Closet made a difference, lifting financial burdens, giving hope, and making dreams a reality.

- One year a young lady, who later attended University of Texas on scholarship, needed a dress for prom. A church member who was mentoring her told her about the Prom Closet. As it turned out, the young lady had been mentoring a special needs freshman boy at school and was able to take him to the prom since she found a dress.

- A family shared they had been fretting over how they were going to afford everything for their daughter to attend her prom. They were watching the news and learned about Prom Closet. The mother and daughter jumped in the car as soon as they saw the news story. The father called them and provided directions so they could make it in time. The daughter found a dress and accessories, and both mother and daughter were so appreciative and thankful.

- Another favorite story is about a young woman who had been nominated for prom queen but could not afford a dress to attend. She found the perfect dress at Prom Closet and had a night she will always treasure.

 

St. Andrew PROM CLOSET 

Website and Registration: www.standrewmethodist.org/promcloset

Hotline: 469-385-1810

Email: promcloset@standrewmethodist.org

Instagram: promclosetstandrew

Twitter: @promclosetStA

Facebook: Prom Closet: St. Andrew

LinkedIn: Prom Closet: St. Andrew 

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing. Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Photo by JENNY WATTS PHOTOGRAPHY 2024 Co-Chairs

General Admission tickets for the 66th Annual Junior Symphony Ball (JSB)  - "Purpose with a Party" are SOLD OUT and several hundred names are on the wait list. The Steering Committee consists of over 800 students and there are just a few of those tickets still available on the website starting at $395. Visit  https://www.dallassymphonyleague.com/Junior-Symphony-Ball-Steering-Committee

Over 2,500 high school students from 35 schools are expected to attend the event set for Saturday, January 27th at Gilley’s from 7:30 – 10:30 pm. The JSB is a “Purpose with a Party” fundraising event where high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors come together and celebrate with an evening filled with live music, dancing, professionally staffed gaming tables, raffles, prizes and refreshments. Chris Ferrara and The Common Good will headline the JSB when the band takes over the iconic Gilley's Dallas for the night of music and dancing.

The night will begin with DJSC, the exclusive DJ for The Dallas Cowboys. DJSC, also known as 13LACKBEARD, has also opened for Snoop Dog, Chris Stapleton, and Taylor Swift, to name a few. He has a bigger than life personality and is known by fans as the “ultimate hype machine”.  “The fans love him –he hits every major genre-and the feel-good energy at his shows is awesome to experience.”

JSB headliner, Chris Ferrara is one of the hottest acts in Nashville and is the headliner at Nashville Barstool almost every Friday and Saturday night. His combination of city boy swagger and country boy soul with be just the right mix for an energetic and exciting night for these Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors!

JSB is in its 66th year and is the longest running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL), supporting DSO outreach programs such as the Young Strings program and the Young Musicians program. It was founded with the concept of “student-led, parent-guided” leadership. While JSB has evolved in scope and participation size, it has always been a high school student fundraising event for the DSO hosted by area 10th-12th grade high school students and their parents. JSB has grown over the decades from just a handful of participating schools to over 35 at the 2023 event which raised a record amount of $415,000.

The 2024 Co-Chairs represents schools across Dallas: Cara Lichty, Episcopal School of Dallas; James Sutherland, St. Mark's School of Texas; Kate Fagan, The Hockaday School; Cash Nix, Highland Park High School; Ela Austin, Ursuline Academy; Ashton Krug, Jesuit College Prep of Dallas; Adelaide Boisture, Parish Episcopal School; Baker Trent, Bishop Lynch High School; Caroline Woram, Highland Park High School.

Their supportive and proud moms are: Suzanne Austin, Jenny Lichty, Ashley Boisture, Jonika Nix, Dana Woram, Holly Krug, Lauren Sutherland, Aimee Fagan, and Katy Trent. 

Follow JSB on Social Media

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JSBdallas/
Instagram @jsbdallas

 

Photo by Jenny Watts Photography

 

Key to photo:

Front row: Adelaide Boisture, Parish Episcopal School; Kate Fagan, The Hockaday School; Ela Austin, Ursuline Academy; Cara Lichty, Episcopal School of Dallas; Caroline Woram, Highland Park High School.

Back Row: James Sutherland, St. Mark's School of Texas; Ashton Krug, Jesuit College Prep of Dallas; Cash Nix, Highland Park High School; Baker Trent, Bishop Lynch High School.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

The Junior League of Dallas will offer the Dallas community a chance to connect with various non-profit agencies the Junior League of Dallas supports at the annual Community Volunteer Fair Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at NorthPark Center, located at 8687 North Central Expressway. Attendees will be able to learn about volunteer opportunities during the Community Volunteer Fair, which is free and open to the public. 

The Junior League of Dallas cultivates women leaders who collectively address the critical needs of the community. Founded in 1922, JLD is one of the largest Junior Leagues in the world, as well as the largest and oldest training organization for women in Dallas. Active members range in age from 22 to 49 with approximately 85% percent of women employed outside of the home. The JLD provides leadership opportunities to nearly 4,000 women each year through more than 17,000 cumulative hours of experiential and formal training. Uniquely member-run, JLD provides approximately 100,000 hours in volunteer service and more than $1 million in funding to area nonprofits each year. For more information, please visit www.jldallas.org or Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. 

NorthPark Center is the preeminent shopping center in the Southwest and one of the finest finest shopping experiences in the world with more than 200 stores and restaurants, including more than 75 market exclusives. Anchored by Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Dillard’s, and Eataly, NorthPark offers an unparalleled collection of luxury boutiques set amid internationally acclaimed 20th and 21st century art, award-winning architecture, and extraordinary landscaping—as well as a 1.4-acre garden, CenterPark, and a state-of-the-art movie theatre, AMC NorthPark 15. NorthPark consistently ranks as one of the top five performing shopping centers in the United States and is North Texas’ number one visitor destination. NorthPark is conveniently located 7 miles from downtown Dallas and 35 miles from Fort Worth. northparkcenter.com, 214.363.7441, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, TX, 75225. 

Council for Life
Pin on Pinterest

DALLAS, TX - Dallas-based nonprofit Council for Life is honored to announce that two-time Super Bowl Champion placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, Harrison Butker, will speak at CFL’s 2024 Men’s Breakfast.

All men are invited on Monday, March 4, from 7-9 AM for a hearty breakfast, camaraderie and a powerful discussion with Harrison and his business partner, Austin Wright. The event will take place at the Dallas Country Club.

Harrison delivered the winning field goal for the Chiefs in the 2023 Super Bowl and garnered much attention when he boldly wore a pro-life tie at the championship ceremony at the White House.

“I want to give the most vulnerable, the unborn, a voice at a place where every effort has been made to allow and normalize the tragic termination of their lives,” Harrison said. “As a father who has experienced three miscarriages, my wife and I understand the hardships that come with losing a child. Every life is precious and should be valued whether outside or inside the womb.”

Council for Life hosts an event for men each year that focuses on educating and empowering men about life-affirming choices.

To purchase tables and tickets, visit: councilforlife.org/mensbreakfast

 

About Council for Life

Council for Life (CFL) exists to empower women, men and youth to make life-affirming choices. Motivated by Christ-like love and responsive compassion, CFL is committed to raising awareness of the complex issues that surround unplanned pregnancies and to providing financial support to agencies that share their mission. Since 2001, Council for Life has raised more than $12 million to fund 70 agencies in the Dallas/Fort Worth area with life-affirming missions relating to the complex issues surrounding unplanned pregnancies. Learn more at councilforlife.org.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Kevin Berthia and Kevin Briggs Photo credit: Fotolanthropy

Kevin Berthia, suicide prevention advocate and suicide attempt survivor, and Kevin Briggs, California Highway Patrolman and author of Guardian of the Golden Gate: Protecting the Line Between Hope and Despair, will be the featured speakers for Grant Halliburton Foundation’s Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the Omni Dallas Hotel.

 

The Beacon of Hope Luncheon supports Grant Halliburton Foundation’s work to provide education, resources and support for children, teen and young adult mental health. Sponsorships start at $600, and individual tickets will be available in February 2024. To learn more and to purchase tickets, visit GrantHalliburton.org/boh.

 

The 2023 Beacon of Hope Presenting Sponsor is Emily Lewis. Natalie Hatchett and Courtney Hubbard are luncheon co-chairs; Chris and Brent Bolding are vice co-chairs, and founding luncheon chair is Barb Farmer.

 

“We invite you to join us for a conversation with these two ‘Kevins’ who speak very candidly and openly about how they met on the Golden Gate Bridge when one tried to take his life,” said Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation. “Their message of hope and healing is powerful, and we hope that it will inspire you to open up to others struggling with thoughts of suicide.”

 

In 2005, Kevin Berthia, a young father battling depression, met California Highway Patrolman Kevin Briggs during a very public suicide attempt. Berthia was facing substantial medical debt and went to the Golden Gate Bridge with the intention to jump. There he met Sergeant Briggs, now deemed the “Guardian of the Golden Gate” due to his efforts that have prevented more than 200 suicides from the bridge. During their encounter, Briggs listened to Berthia for 92 minutes as he stood 220 feet above the waters of the San Francisco Bay. Ultimately, Berthia made the decision to come back over the rail, choosing hope and life. This moment was captured by a nearby photographer and the resulting image has been shared globally via news outlets and social media platforms.

 

After reconnecting at an event eight years later, Briggs and Berthia are now close friends and sought-after speakers who bring a message of hope and healing to the conversation about suicide prevention and recovery. Their inspirational true story will be profiled in 92 Minutes, a feature documentary in production by Dallas-based film nonprofit Fotolanthropy, whose films have been featured on Netflix and beyond.

 

Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among Texas youth ages 10-24 (CDC). The Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon aims to bring focus to the vital work needed to educate the North Texas community on adolescent mental health and suicide prevention. Through its work in North Texas schools and communities, Grant Halliburton Foundation aims to change this reality as it works to promote awareness and understanding of teen and young adult mental health and to prevent suicide.

 

In the last 17 years, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to nearly 325,000 students, educators, parents and professionals, thanks to funds raised from the Beacon of Hope Luncheon.

 

ABOUT GRANT HALLIBURTON FOUNDATION

Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 325,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

Kathy Beazley
Pin on Pinterest
Photo credit Peterson Management Group

Dive into a sea of delicious options this Lenten season with Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar! From Ash Wednesday on February 14 to Easter Sunday on March 31 at any of the locations in locations in Dallas, Richardson, Lewisville, and Frisco, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks have got a lineup of mouthwatering specials that will make your Lent experience a flavorful one.

For those looking to reel in the Lenten season with a special Friday lunch or dinner, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks have you covered with a limited-time price on their Grilled Tilapia Plate. Available for an incredible price of $8.99 on Fridays from February 16 through March 29, this mouthwatering dish features two filets of grilled tilapia served with rice and a vegetable medley. It's a perfect way to add a touch of variety to your Lenten menu.

Aw Shucks and Big Shucks have a variety of options to choose from throughout Lent. Whether you're a fan of shrimp, crawfish, crab legs, salmon, catfish, or oysters, Shucks has got you covered, prepared your favorite way—boiled, grilled, or fried.

If you're in the mood for something lighter, dive into one of the tantalizing soups. Maria's Clam Chowder, a New England-style chowder topped with bacon and parsley, or Caldo de Mariscos, a fish and head-on shrimp concoction with vegetables in a spicy broth, will warm you from the inside out. Served with cilantro, onion, lime, rice, and bread, it's a satisfying option for those looking to stay on the lighter side of Lent.

And for those who prefer their seafood between slices of bread, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks offer the ultimate fried catfish, shrimp, or oyster po' boys. It's a taste of the South that will have you coming back for more.

This Lent, make a splash with Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. Your taste buds will be thanking you, and you'll be counting down the days until next year's Lenten dining. Get ready for a seafood celebration that's simply shell-tastic!

Celebrating 40 years, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar have been the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and some tasty crawfish when in season. With its eclectic seafood shack atmosphere, guests are guaranteed to have the best shuckin’ time. A division of Peterson Management Group, a family-owned and operated restaurant management company, there are five locations in North Texas. For more information on Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, visit awshucksdallas.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and promotions. #shucksdallas

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP

Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 12 restaurants located across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, two guys with larger-than-life personalities, it all started in 1983 with eclectic seafood shack restaurants, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. They are the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and some tasty crawfish when in season. In addition to Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, Peterson Management Group opened Blue Goose Cantina in 1984, where fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary drinks, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere and a kick-ass attitude come together. The restaurant chain has repeatedly been voted the best in North Texas for its winning combination of food, fun, and signature margaritas. Today, Nick Peterson, son of Bob, leads the family business, serving as its CEO.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

North Texas Non-Profit Responds to Growing Need for Life-saving Recovery Services

After 36 years of supporting women struggling with alcoholism and their families, The Magdalen House is thrilled to open the doors to their Men’s Program facility in Dallas. This beloved North Texas nonprofit has extended its commitment to helping the alcoholic community by including men. It will offer high-quality services mirroring those of its established women’s program, utilizing the principles of 12 Step recovery—all at no charge.

The men’s program will begin at 2100 Caddo Street in Dallas and has accommodations for First Step, the organization’s two-week, residential program for an alcoholic man who wants to stop drinking but cannot as well as meeting space for Next Step, their three-phase non-residential program that provides structure and education to sustain and grow in their recovery. The house can accommodate up to 12 men with rolling admissions for their First Step program.

Lisa Kroencke, CEO of The Magdalen House, highlights the prevalence of alcohol use disorder, sharing that one in seven men, compared to one in 11 women, grapple with this issue. Illustrating the significance of this statistic, she notes that, based on the 2022 population of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, approximately 405,000 men in D/FW are confronting alcohol-related challenges. Kroencke emphasizes that the growing needs of the community and the escalating demand for life-saving services have prompted the organization to extend its support to men. By offering comprehensive, free services and a continuum of care for individuals dealing with alcoholism, she underscores the importance of taking a holistic approach to address the needs of both men and women.

The Magdalen House is committed to help individuals achieve long-term, sustainable recovery through the following spiritually based, comprehensive programs:

  • First Step program: A two-week, residential program for an individual with alcoholism who wants to stop drinking but cannot. They are provided with the education and resources to achieve sobriety and build a foundation of recovery.
  • Next Step program: A three-phase, nonresidential program for an individual with alcoholism at any stage of recovery. They are provided with structure and education to sustain recovery while growing in knowledge of 12-Step spiritual principles.
  • Community: Solution-focused classes, meetings, and workshops are provided for women and men with alcoholism at every stage of recovery, 365 days a year. We also have dedicated volunteers who provide Family Support to families and loved ones of alcoholics.
  • Resources and Education: Community partnerships help us connect alcoholic women, men, and their families to resources that include sober living, counseling, and health. At the same time, education initiatives allow us to reach and serve more individuals with alcoholism.

If you’re an alcoholic who can’t stop drinking or a concerned loved one of an alcoholic, the first step in recovery is education and access to resources. In D/FW, The Magdalen House provides residential recovery, detox, group meetings, structured programs, family support groups, and tools designed to help individuals grow and sustain recovery. For more information please visit, www.magdalenhouse.org.

About The Magdalen House

The Magdalen House is a nonprofit organization n helping individuals with alcoholism achieve sobriety and sustain recovery using 12-Step spiritual principles. Founded in Dallas in 1987, The Magdalen House remains the only agency in the Dallas-Fort Worth area to offer comprehensive recovery services – without insurance or state funding – 100% free of charge. For more information visit, www.magdalenhouse.org.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Karisti Julia, event chair; Dr. Paul. K. Chafetz, featured speaker; Karen Koop, president, AWARE

Karen Koop, president of AWARE, welcomed members and their guests to the Membership Meeting at Salum restaurant which featured Paul K. Chafetz, Ph.D. speaking on Handling Difficult Relationships.
       

Karen called the meeting to order and recognized the board and committee members. Organizational updates were announced, including Carol Stabler, who gave an update on the directory; Emily Collins, Treasurer; Ann McKinley, Membership; Dr. Cindy Marshall, Medical Minute; and Marilyn Morgan and Debbie Rampey, Friday Friends. Stacey Angel gave a heartfelt and moving tribute to the late Kay Hammond, who joined AWARE in 1990, and in passing years, served as luncheon chair and president. She was an integral part of AWARE and will be truly missed.
       

After the meal’s blessing by Rev. Nicole Bates and a most delicious luncheon, meeting chair Karisti Julia introduced Dr. Chafetz. He gave insight and sometimes humorous anecdotes about dealing with difficult relationships, including older parents who may be going through stages of dementia or anyone who is choosing to be difficult. He encouraged everyone by saying life is stages of transitions and choices. Focus on what is truly necessary. He said boundaries are very important and to avoid confrontation with unreasonable people. He stayed to sign copies of his book, Loving Hard To Love Parents.
       

AWARE is dedicated to fighting Alzheimer's disease by providing funding and support to programs, projects, and research provided by nonprofit organizations that actively help individuals affected by Alzheimer's in Dallas and the greater North Texas area. AWARE is a component fund of The Dallas Foundation, a 501(c)3 publicly supported charity.
       

Together with compassion and dedication we can make a difference. Join AWARE now and join the fight against Alzheimer’s.  www.AWAREDallas.org 

AWARE Dallas 2023-2024 Grant Recipients

Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation:  Salary support for the Baylor AT&T Memory Center to provide a trained care-navigation specialist on site at the Center.  At the point of care, patients and families are provided with disease education, caregiver training and support groups, elder law and financial planning, and a 24/7 helpline.

Bishop Arts Theatre Center:  Support for a program offering senior/elder adults customized theatre workshops and performances to enhance their social, emotional, and physical memory abilities.

Center For BrainHealth at The University Of Texas At Dallas:  Support for the creation of a BrainHealth Help Line to offer guidance to caregivers and those with Alzheimer's who are seeking information and tools to help them move out of a place of distress.

For Love And Art:  Support to increase staff needed to coordinate volunteers, and assist with growth for a program bringing an interactive art experience to people with cognitive impairment and limited mobility living in long-term care facilities.

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

Juliette Fowler Communities:   Support the organization's campus-wide dementia care initiatives including I'm Still Here, Dementia Friendly Dallas, music therapy, and Caregiver support programs.

Plano Symphony Orchestra:   Support for Healing Notes, a free music therapy-influenced concert designed as an interactive musical experience for seniors. The program focuses on low-income individuals living in memory care facilities and dealing with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 

Stomping Ground Theater And Training Center:   Support for Improv for Caregivers, a fun and interactive program for family and professional caregivers that uses improvisational comedy techniques to teach effective communication skills that are specific to the needs of persons with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Texas Winds Musical Outreach:   Support for the Concerts for Seniors program providing interactive concerts in 86 nursing homes and adult day care facilities bringing joy, relief from isolation, and peace to individuals affected by memory loss, and providing new communication skills to their caregivers.

The Senior Source:   Support for the Senior Companion Program matching trained volunteers with low-income individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their families needing in-home assistance with meals, errands, and light housekeeping, providing caregivers with respite and/or time to work outside the home. 

The University Of Texas At Dallas Center For Vital Longevity:   Support for testing the theory that Alzheimer’s disease is caused in part by a severe decline in the brain's energy system by examining neurometabolites using MRI scanning on one of seven such advanced MRI scanners in the country. Study located in the lab of Dr. K. Kennedy.

The University Of Texas At Dallas Center For Vital Longevity:   Support for acquisition of a mobile Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy ( fNIRS) system with physiological measures to assess brain-physiology in broad range of adults, and to train scientists in its use and allowing a broader range of access to study participants. . Study located in the lab of Dr. Chandramallika Basak.

Westminster Presbyterian Church:   Support to expand the number of days offered by the Caregivers Day Out program and allow more individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias to participate and provide greater respite for their caregivers.

Wilshire Baptist Church:   Support for the Friday Friends Program providing stimulating activities for participants living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias and respite for their caregivers. 

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

AWARE is a component fund of The Dallas Foundation, a 501(c)3 publicly supported charity.

AWARE Mission: AWARE is dedicated to fighting Alzheimer's disease by providing funding and support to programs, projects, and research provided by nonprofit organizations that actively help individuals affected by Alzheimer's in Dallas and the greater North Texas area.

AWARE is a component fund of The Dallas Foundation, a 501(c)3 publicly supported charity.  In partnership with the Foundation, AWARE conducts an annual grant review process by which grant applicants are carefully and thoughtfully vetted to ensure that grant dollars are awarded to organizations that provide outstanding services to Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers, and to those research institutions that are at the forefront of medical research in the treatment, prevention, and cure of Alzheimer’s disease. 

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

Facebook: @awaredallas

Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio