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Kevin Berthia, Courtney Hubbard, Natalie Hatchett,

Grant Halliburton Foundation held its 15th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon at the Omni Dallas Hotel on April 19where nearly 700 people attended to raise funds for the nonprofit. The event raised more than $350,000—a record for the nonprofit organization.

During the reception, guests enjoyed the champagne wall and mental wellness activities. While DJ Lucy Wrubel played entertaining tunes, guests wrote and drew on the Hope wall, bid on a raffle packages, and made connections at the Beacon Brews Coffee House.

The luncheon kicked off with the L.D. Bell High School (Hurst) Bell Tones and Decibelles singing “You Will be Found” from the Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen.

Jenny Anchondo, host and producer of CW33’s “Inside DFW,” welcomed everyone. Rev. Katie Newsome, executive director and lead pastor of Union Coffee, gave the invocation. Guests ate lunch and visited at their tables.

Anchondo introduced The Beacon Award honoree through a video. This year’s honoree was Eric Nadel, Voice of the Texas Rangers, who was open about his struggles with depression and mental health issues during last year’s baseball season. Nadel spoke openly about his struggles and came back the last couple of months of the season—just in time to commentate the Rangers winning the World Series.

Next, attendees watched a video about Grant Halliburton Foundation and its work. Foundation President Kevin Hall spoke next. “We envision a world where suicide is no longer a leading cause of death for young people and where everyone affected by mental illness has the support and resources they need.” He discussed all the services that the Foundation provides in English and Spanish.

The 2024 luncheon co-chairs, Natalie Hatchett and Courtney Hubbard, thanked sponsors including presenting sponsor Emily Lewis, Vice Chairs Chris and Brent Bolding, Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer and the others for their support.

A video told of Hatchett and Hubbard’s close friendship spanning three decades with all of life’s milestones. Hatchett shared openly about her son Preston having mental health issues and depression. He died by suicide at age 20 in 2021. After the video and many tears from them and the audience, the co-chairs asked for people to support Grant Halliburton Foundation by giving hope. Many people were moved to give generously.

Katie Norris, producer and founder of nonprofit Fotolanthropy, introduced the featured speakers 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. Fotolanthropy is creating 92 Minutes, a feature documentary, on their powerful story. She showed a short clip of the film, and then the Kevins spoke about the day they met in 2005 on the Golden Gate Bridge when Berthia was about to take his life.

Though both came from different neighborhoods, they both had trying circumstances, suicides, mental illness and depression as a common bond. When Berthia was on the Golden Gate Bridge to end his life, he said, “This voice distracted me. His voice was of hope, peace, compassion. It’s the first time I talked about me, the real me.” That day marked Berthia’s 11th suicide attempt. With Briggs asking him questions about his life, after 92 minutes, Berthia chose to come back over the rail. This moment was captured by a photographer resulting in an image shared globally. Fast forward to 2013, Berthia attempted suicide 22 times.

In 2013, Briggs won an award for his service as a California Highway Patrol, and he asked Berthia’s mom if Kevin would present this award. Berthia reluctantly agreed to do it and to tell his story, which he had not done. Berthia said, “A woman came up to me afterwards and said she hadn’t slept in five years and told me my story gave her hope. She said, ‘I now know how Jacob (her son) felt, and I can sleep tonight.” This moment was a pivotal one for Berthia.

Since 2013, Briggs and Berthia have shared their story connection, hope and listening to encourage people to live life to the fullest.  

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.In the last 18 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. To learn more, visit GrantHalliburton.org/boh.

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.

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Officials from Texas Woman’s University (TWU), the City of Denton and the Bezos Academy broke ground April 25 on a $6 million tuition-free preschool that will benefit TWU’s student-parents and Denton families.

Bezos Academy Denton will be built on university-owned land at 1820 Frame St., just north of University Drive and east of North Bell Avenue. Leaders from Texas Woman’s, the City of Denton and Bezos Academy offered brief remarks.

“This partnership will have a transformational impact for families in and around Texas Woman’s who struggle with childcare costs,” TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten said. “Texas Woman’s, the Bezos Academy and the city of Denton are committed to providing greater childcare access and developing lifelong learners for members of the Denton community.”

“Right now, about one in five college students in America is a parent, and half of them have children under five,” added Mike George, Bezos Academy president. “Bringing tuition-free, full-day preschools to colleges and universities is a win-win for these parents and their kids. Thanks to Texas Woman’s University for helping us make sure that more children can get access to the great start that Bezos Academy preschools provide.”

The preschool will feature six classrooms with capacity for 120 students between the ages of 3 and 5 years old. Twenty percent of seats will be reserved for children within the TWU community, with the other 80% serving Denton families. The preschool will offer full-day, year-round programming. The City of Denton became a partner in the construction project after approving $1.5 million toward the cost of constructing the facility.

“The groundbreaking of our Bezos Academy represents a significant investment in delivering childcare solutions for working families,” Denton Mayor Gerard Hudspeth said. “There is a collective commitment to fostering early childhood development by removing financial barriers, which has a positive impact on our residents for generations to come.”

The preschool is scheduled to be completed in 2025. Once the school opening date is set, more information and an application for the lottery-based selection process will be posted at www.bezosacademy.org.

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Photo courtesy of Karlo Ramos

Celebrating Hispanic heritage and tradition, the Dallas Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta – presented by the Oak Cliff Coalition for the Arts (OCCA) – will get underway Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood. Billed as the biggest and longest running parade in North Texas, the mile-long procession will take place on historic Jefferson Boulevard, a vibrant hub for Hispanic communities and businesses. The event will culminate with a merienda (afternoon party) featuring a Cultural Expressions performance by Ida y Vuelta Flamenco from 1-3 p.m. at the Texas Theatre, sponsored by David Reyna Law Firm and The Office of Arts and Culture Community Arts Pop Up Cultural Center. Free and open to the public, the annual celebration is sponsored by the Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District.

The SuVida Healthcare welcome ceremony will commence at 9 a.m., hosted by the Oak Cliff Cultural Center, located at 223 W. Jefferson Blvd. Parade goers can enjoy deejay music as honorary marshals are pinned. OCCA will also present the 2024 Cinco de Mayo Poet who will debut a new poem.

At 10 a.m. the WellMed Parade Step Off Confetti Shoot will kick off at the corner of 300 W. Jefferson Blvd. and 300 S. Madison Ave. as OCCA, community partners and sponsors initiate the long-anticipated Cinco de Mayo Parade. Dozens of colorful floats, decorated vehicles and marching bands will showcase their pride and joy down Jefferson Boulevard while reveling the rich cultural tapestry of Hispanic culture in Dallas.

The Carter Bloodcare Parade Review Stand will feature bilingual emcees announcing the parade entries as judges tally their votes for the “Best of Parade” awards. In addition, artist Jesus Alba will be on hand for remarks celebrating his newest “Dando Esperanza” mural at 12:30 p.m.

Promising boundless fun for all ages, the Fiesta will feature deejay music, exhibitors, food trucks, and local shopping and dining at more than 200 storefronts (including ice cream, candy, fresh fruit delights, bridal and quince shops, Latin cuisine eateries, murals, cultural centers and landmarks). Vendors/exhibitors will be set up in the 400 and 500 blocks of W. Jefferson Blvd. from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Media partners are NBC 5 and Telemundo 39.

For more information, go to oakcliffart.org.

About Oak Cliff Coalition for the Arts
The Oak Cliff Coalition for the Arts was founded in 1995 to promote the arts and education through unique cultural programs in a bilingual format. OCCA is a non-profit federal tax-exempt 501 (c) 3 organization.

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Celebrate Mom at DFW’s top seafood destination this Mother’s Day. On Sunday, May 12, Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill in Plano is hosting a luxe three-course prix fixe menu that includes an array of choices with an optional wine pairing.

 

Appetizer, choice of

  • Smoked salmon dip
  • Tuna nachos
  • Cocktail shrimp

 

Entrée, choice of

  • Seared scallop with mixed berry gastrique
  • Horseradish potato-crusted halibut with mustard cream
  • Broiled lobster tail with saffron beurre blanc
  • Blackened snapper topped with shrimp garlic butter
  • Sauteed flounder with crab carrot butter and arugula pesto
  • Lobster Thermidor

 

Sides

  • Rainbow carrots with dill
  • Mushroom medley and cipollini onions
  • Truffle whipped potatoes

 

Dessert, choice of

  • Key lime pie
  • Chocolate cappuccino cheesecake
  • Carrot cake with cream cheese frosting

 

 

The dinner is $80 per person plus $40 for an optional wine pairing and is available for dine-in and to-go. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Visit seabreezefish.com/reservations to secure seats.

 

Recognized as a top destination for seafood by D Magazine, the Dallas Observer, WFAA and The Dallas Morning News, which named it best seafood restaurant in Dallas in the Best in DFW Awards, Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill is located in LakeSide Market near the intersection of Preston Road and Spring Creek Parkway.  Sea Breeze features a full fish market displaying a wide variety of fresh and wild seafood from across the planet, as well as a Chef at Home case featuring prepared foods. 

 

WHAT: Sea Breeze Hosts Prix Fixe Mother’s Day Menu

WHEN: Sunday, May 12

WHERE: Sea Breeze Fish Market & Grill

LakeSide Market

4017 Preston Road, Suite 530

Plano, TX 75093

972-473-CRAB (2722)

 

PRICE: $80 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Optional wine pairings are available for $40 per person.

 

INFO: seabreezefish.com.

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As North Texas temperatures start to climb, the coolest place for fun and recreation is the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center. The acclaimed skate rink has hosted dozens of Olympic medalists and famed figure skaters from across the globe. This summer, skaters of any ability can find fun and festivities while keeping cool. Planned activities include skate camps and lessons, themed skate parties and more.

 

 

 

First, in recognition of Teacher Appreciation Week, Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center is hosting Teacher AppreciSKATEtion week from May 6-10. Educators are invited to the rink for complimentary ice skating with a school ID. Teacher appreciation tickets may be booked onsite.

 

Themed skate nights each month invite skaters of all abilities to come together and enjoy curated playlists, festive photo ops and great giveaways. Each skate night requires $12 admission. Skate rental onsite is an additional $5. Summer skate nights include:

 

  • Saturday May 18, 5-7 p.m.          K-pop Skate Night
  • Saturday, June 22, 5-7 p.m.         Hula Skate
  • Saturday, July 20, 5-7 p.m.          TikTok Skate Night
  • Saturday, Aug. 10, 5-7 p.m.         Go for Gold Skate Night

 

Stretch your summer budget further in June with $5 Fridays. Each Friday during the month of June, enjoy $5 admission and $5 skate rental all day long when purchasing onsite.

 

Those wanting to learn something new during their summer of fun can enjoy skate classes and camps. Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center offers five-week beginner group classes for ages 3 to adult with sessions running all summer. Upcoming sessions include:

 

  • May 20 – June 23        
  • June 24 – July 28     
  • July 29 – Sept. 1

 

Those interested in booking a five-week session should call the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center at 972-392-3361.

 

Newbies who would like to get a taste of skating can book shorter, three-day beginning skate camps. These camps include a combination of instruction and education. The camps are $95 per person and include free admission to the skate center each day of the camp. Camp sessions will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. on the following dates:

  • June 17-19
  • July 22-24

 

To book beginner camps, families should call 972-392-3361.

 

If becoming a future Olympian is your goal, or if you just want to show off in front of your friends, a figure skating camp will be held July 8-10 from 9-11 a.m. each day. This more advanced camp will focus on enhancing jumps and spins, plus off-ice stretching and conditioning. This camp is intended for students in levels Freestyle 1 and up. The figure skating camp is $150 for ages 6-18. Call the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating center at 972-392-3361 to reserve a spot.

 

Throughout the summer, the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center is literally one of the coolest places to be during a hot Texas summer. Rinkside temperatures rarely rise above 70 degrees, providing a refreshing break from a steamy summer day.

 

 

About Galleria Dallas 

Galleria Dallas is an iconic shopping center with a unique collection of more than 200 retailers, restaurants and experiences including Nordstrom, Macy’s, the world’s only GAP, Banana Republic and Old Navy combo anchor, The Westin Galleria Dallas and the signature Galleria Ice Skating Center. Welcoming more than 12 million visitors annually, only Galleria Dallas delivers the consummate Dallas shopping experience. Visit galleriadallas.com for hours and to learn more about the shopping center. Galleria Dallas is managed by Trademark Property Group, Inc.  Galleria Dallas, 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 75240.

For Social Media:  @GalleriaDallas #GalleriaDallas @galleriadallasiceskating #galleriadallasiceskating

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DALLAS - The Catholic Foundation awarded $1.7 million to 34 Dallas-area Catholic schools and churches, plus community organizations during its 2024 spring grant ceremony on April 18.

Funded by the Foundation’s unrestricted Philanthropy Fund and funds established by individuals and families to carry out their charitable goals, the grants support a diverse mix of projects that include playground and classroom renovations, security enhancements and fencing, sanctuary lighting, baptismal font, work study shuttle bus, plus kitchen, roof and window replacements.

The grants also go toward the Dallas Bishop’s Burse which can be used at the bishop’s discretion to assist local charitable organizations. In addition, today’s grants assist the Foundation’s President’s Discretionary Fund that serves local organizations and projects in need, the Work of Heart Awards that recognize full-time employees at Dallas-area Catholic schools and a designated high school tuition assistance program in which funds go to students whose parents work in some capacity for the Diocese of Dallas.

"The warm and tender hand of Catholic Foundation donors once again embrace the needs of North Texas,” said Matt Kramer, president and CEO of The Catholic Foundation. “With these grants, each of the churches, schools and nonprofits will be better positioned to offer a higher level of care to the individuals and families who rely upon them for support.”

Twice per year, The Catholic Foundation distributes community grants to local Catholic churches and schools and nonprofit organizations. Grant requests are reviewed by the Board of Trustees’ Distribution Committee, followed by documented site visits by Trustees through which the recipients and funding amounts are determined.

The Catholic Foundation has, over time, provided more than $287 million in grants to religious, charitable and educational organizations. In 2023, The Catholic Foundation awarded 2,700 grants totaling more than $20.9 million.

The 2024 spring grant recipients are as follows:

All Saints Catholic Church: Playground renovation

Bishop Dunne Catholic School: Security enhancements

Catholic Charities Dallas - Brady Center: Senior services (Funding from the Louise Buhrer Endowment Fund)

Catholic Housing Initiative - St. Jude Center-Vantage Point: Pavilion

Catholic Pro-Life Community: A/V equipment

Church of the Incarnation: Sanctuary lighting

Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep: Work study shuttle bus (Partial funding from the Joe & Hazel Fechtel Fund)

Diocese of Dallas – Catholic Schools Office: Field trips for schools (Partial funding from the William & Mary Jane Jaspersen Fund)

Divine Mercy of Our Lord Catholic Church: Classroom furniture

Good Shepherd Catholic School: Window replacement (Partial funding from the Mary Anne Woods Fund)

The Highlands School: Window replacement

Holy Trinity Catholic Church: HVAC

Legionaries of Christ: Rectory repairs

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School: Roof replacement (Partial funding from the Thomas W. Weinzapfel Endowment)

Santa Clara of Assisi Catholic Academy: HVAC (Partial funding from the Bernard (Brian) Bradley Endowment Fund)

St. Ann Catholic Parish: Church sound system

St. Gabriel the Archangel Catholic Community: Playground and parking lot

St. Joseph Catholic Church: Parking lot repairs

St. Joseph Catholic School: Classroom renovation

St. Joseph’s Residence: Kitchen and laundry renovation (Partial funding from the Victoria & Leon Gulczynski Memorial Fund)

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish: Baptismal font (Partial funding from the Osborne Family Endowment

St. Paul Catholic Classical School: Security enhancements (Partial funding from the Roper Fund)

St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church: Security fencing (Partial funding from the Thomas John Uhl Fund)

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School: Lower school library renovations

The tuition assistance recipients received funding from either the Louise Buhrer Endowment Fund, Dorothy Irving Memorial Fund or Michele McCusker Memorial Fund and are as follows:

Good Shepherd Catholic School

Holy Family Catholic Academy

Holy Trinity Catholic School

Immaculate Conception Catholic School

Mount St. Michael Catholic School

Santa Clara of Assisi Catholic Academy

St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic School

St. Cecilia Catholic School

St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School

St. Mary of Carmel Catholic School

St. Mary's Catholic School

St. Paul Catholic Classical School

St. Philip & St. Augustine Catholic Academy

###

About the Catholic Foundation

The Catholic Foundation is a trusted giving vehicle for the Catholic community. Chartered in 1955, the Foundation was founded by a group of dedicated Catholic laymen with a vision that extended far beyond the charitable needs of the moment. The Foundation has spent decades building a strong community, helping donors fulfill their charitable goals, and preserving the founders’ vision and philanthropic legacy. Over time, the Foundation has provided more than $287 million in grants to religious, educational and charitable organizations. In 2023, The Catholic Foundation gave $20.9 million through more than 2,700 grants impacting more than 880 organizations. The Foundation houses more than 570 charitable funds and trusts. For additional information about The Catholic Foundation, call 972-661-9792 or visit www.catholicfoundation.com.

Michele Balady Beach
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OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 4/27 1:00-3:00
3970 High Summit Dr. Dallas, TX 75244

Step inside to this gorgeous mid century open concept home complete with several recent updates. Inside you will find ample natural light with an entire wall of floor to ceiling windows that look into the well maintained backyard with mature trees. The formal dining room is open to the living room and kitchen and has a stunning gas fireplace and large skylight. In the family room, you will find a great sized storage closet and an exposed brick wall adding loads of character to the home! The kitchen is the heart of this home with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a large cooktop and double ovens. In 2023, the entire interior of the home was painted, a bathroom with dual sinks and dual shower heads was added, and every window was replaced to energy efficient windows. This home has four spacious bedrooms with the fourth bedroom currently serving as an office. Being 5 minutes to the Galleria and having easy highway access makes this location hard to beat!



Michele Balady Beach
Pin on Pinterest

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY 4/27 1:00-3:00
3970 High Summit Dr. Dallas, TX 75244

Step inside to this gorgeous mid century open concept home complete with several recent updates. Inside you will find ample natural light with an entire wall of floor to ceiling windows that look into the well maintained backyard with mature trees. The formal dining room is open to the living room and kitchen and has a stunning gas fireplace and large skylight. In the family room, you will find a great sized storage closet and an exposed brick wall adding loads of character to the home! The kitchen is the heart of this home with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a large cooktop and double ovens. In 2023, the entire interior of the home was painted, a bathroom with dual sinks and dual shower heads was added, and every window was replaced to energy efficient windows. This home has four spacious bedrooms with the fourth bedroom currently serving as an office. Being 5 minutes to the Galleria and having easy highway access makes this location hard to beat!



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JFS Woman to Woman Luncheon LUNCHEON CO-CHAIRS: Barbara Spigel, Robbie Repp, Fran Toubin, Sam Utay, Susan Kramer.

More than 1,000 guests in bright spring colors and floral attire filled the room at the Fairmont Dallas on April 18 for the Jewish Family Service (JFS) garden party-themed Woman to Woman Luncheon, featuring renowned makeup artist and entrepreneur Bobbi Brownas headliner. Brown shared her mission of empowering women to “feel confident in their skin” and her passion to help them achieve this goal.

Board Chair Eric Goldberg kicked off the luncheon with special thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and the many family and community foundations, corporate and individual donors, and the board and staff.  Cantor Vicky Glikin, Temple Emanu-El, led a powerful invocation emphasizing that the Jewish community is about loving one another “even when we disagree.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Susan Kramer, Bobbie Repp, Barbara Spigel, Fran Toubin, and Sam Utay took the stage, led by Utay, who highlighted their connections to JFS, including utilizing adoption services, serving on the board, accessing resources for an aging loved one, supporting disaster relief efforts, or volunteering in the food pantry. She also recognized those who chaired before including the luncheon’s founding chair, Ethel Zale, and sustaining chair, Linda Garner.

A highlight of Utay’s comments included recognition of the three honorary chairs, Cathy Glick, Julie Liberman, and Beverly Rossel, who as founders of the JFS annual Diaper Shower held each October, have helped bring more than 1.5 million diapers and wipes to families in need over the past 13 years.

“These three powerhouses met while volunteering for a JFS event and were inspired by their shared experience to do more,” said Utay. “As mothers themselves, they knew firsthand the importance of having access to enough diapers to keep your child clean, dry, and healthy.”

JFS CEO Cathy Barker took the stage to share the success of JFS’ recently opened Northpoint Health Center, addressing access to healthcare disparities by providing clients with a medical home.

“Already, our chief medical officer, Dr. Heather Esquivel, is hearing stories of patients who haven’t been treated in 10 years because they either didn’t have access to a practice that would take their Medicaid, they couldn’t afford the time off work or have transportation to get to other available options, or they didn’t have any insurance,” added Barker. “The good news is they are now getting the help they need and are already improving.”

She also shared how JFS has integrated their comprehensive behavioral health services with their medical services – a best practice approach to improving overall health outcomes.

The program then turned to a tete-a-tetes chat between JFS Senior Director of Philanthropy Leah Guskin and Pam Cohen, who shared her story of mental illness and how JFS’s PLAN program impacted her life. Now a peer support specialist for the program, she shared her inspirational journey. Not only has Cohen worked in a variety of positions, she received her master’s in clinical psychology, and “can now see mental illness from both sides of the couch.” In addition, she is an author of a book, titled Bipolar Depression and Me: From Both Sides of the Couch, part memoir and part guide for those currently struggling with their illnesses.

The audience was then directed to a video about the many services and programs of JFS.

Barker then introduced moderator Cynthia Izaguirre, WFAA anchor, for a conversation with makeup artist, entrepreneur and author, Bobbi Brown.

“As founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Bobbi has not only revolutionized the cosmetics industry but has also redefined what it meant to feel confident in one’s own skin,” said Izaguirre. “Since the launch of Bobbi Brown Essentials in 1991, and with the launch of her newest brand, Jones Road Beauty, Bobbi has been on a mission to empower women to embrace their natural beauty. Her philosophy, ‘Women want to look and feel like themselves, only prettier and more confident,’ has resonated with millions around the globe. Her latest campaign, ‘I Am Me,’ which launched today, is a celebration of what she has been preaching for nearly four decades – to know who you are; own it unapologetically and embrace every freckle and fine line.”

 A few highlights from Bobbi’s conversation with Cynthia:

-        Bobbi began by saying that she felt like crying. She had met such wonderful people at the luncheon, and it felt like family, “my family.” She continued, “We were taught to care about people and do things for others – even doing something little makes you feel good.”

-        On her transition to Jones Road: “I sold my company to Estée L Lauder but stayed on as an employee for 22 years. I finally left and launched Jones Road (three years ago) on the day my 25-year non-compete was up – and in the middle of a pandemic. Everyone said not to do it.” Most recently she launched “I Am Me” – a campaign that supports knowing who you are and owning it. “It’s about consciously focusing on what you like about yourself, and embracing what makes you unique. It highlights women from all backgrounds, sharing their individual journeys to finding confidence and true happiness in their lives and in their beauty.”

-        On embracing your true self: “It’s about being confident in your skin, in your body and in your shoes so you can be the best version of yourself.”

-        She credited her grandfather Papa Sam for being her inspiration. “He moved here from Russia when he was a boy. He came without a nickel and worked his way up, eventually becoming one of the biggest car dealers in Chicago.  He wouldn’t believe all that I have gotten to experience.”

-        Keys to success: “Do what’s right for you and think about if this is what you want. Can you do other things? Consider the practical side. Can you pay the bills? Don’t be in a rush, and don’t be afraid.”

-        “I love makeup, but I don’t wear a lot. I love creating it. I love empowering people to feel better. I love the power of makeup.”

-        On grandchildren: “And you think you love your children! I’m the mother of three boys. But I love differently now. I’m so much more present.  I am happy that my family has different religions and political opinions and can all sit together at Thanksgiving … and enjoy one another.”

-        Regarding any regrets in achieving family/career balance: “There’s no such thing as balance. There’s no such thing as perfection.”

-        “I’m real, and I’m me, and I’m comfortable with who I am, and I don’t try to change that. I do want to get stronger and more flexible!  And I hope to be doing another business when I’m in my 80s.”

-        Regarding the beauty industry: “It has changed so drastically. I launched in Neiman Marcus, and I was insecure, not dressed properly, and my hair was not high enough!”

-        Role model: Richard Branson who founded an airline after sitting in coach and recognizing it was not up to par. “He wanted to make things better for people.”

-        One takeaway message for the day – “You’re OK.”

Luncheon attendees included Dawn Aaron, Candy Brown, Wende Burton, Julie Gothard, Dot Haymann, Mary Pat Higgins, Judge Clay Jenkins, Beth Konig, Elaine Pearlman, Peachy Rudberg, Lisa Sadoughi, Jaynie Schultz, Lisa Sherrod, and Donald Zale.

The biennial Woman to Woman luncheon is the largest source of unrestricted funds for JFS, raising over $5 million since its inception in 2004. Visit Jfsdallas.org.

# # # 

Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive health services that address physical, emotional, nutritional, and financial well-being. Their mission is to provide effective and accessible whole-person care that promotes lifelong self-sufficiency and well-being for the Greater Dallas community. JFS Dallas offers programs to the community such as primary medical care, individual age-appropriate counseling and group support, career and financial coaching, a food pantry, support for older adults, and a Clubhouse for adults with mental illness. Since 1950, they have served anyone, regardless of age, race, religion, or ability to pay. The agency’s services impacted over 16,500 lives last year. Jfsdallas.org

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JFS Woman to Woman Luncheon LUNCHEON CO-CHAIRS: Barbara Spigel, Robbie Repp, Fran Toubin, Sam Utay, Susan Kramer.

More than 1,000 guests in bright spring colors and floral attire filled the room at the Fairmont Dallas on April 18 for the Jewish Family Service (JFS) garden party-themed Woman to Woman Luncheon, featuring renowned makeup artist and entrepreneur Bobbi Brownas headliner. Brown shared her mission of empowering women to “feel confident in their skin” and her passion to help them achieve this goal.

Board Chair Eric Goldberg kicked off the luncheon with special thanks to the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and the many family and community foundations, corporate and individual donors, and the board and staff.  Cantor Vicky Glikin, Temple Emanu-El, led a powerful invocation emphasizing that the Jewish community is about loving one another “even when we disagree.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Susan Kramer, Bobbie Repp, Barbara Spigel, Fran Toubin, and Sam Utay took the stage, led by Utay, who highlighted their connections to JFS, including utilizing adoption services, serving on the board, accessing resources for an aging loved one, supporting disaster relief efforts, or volunteering in the food pantry. She also recognized those who chaired before including the luncheon’s founding chair, Ethel Zale, and sustaining chair, Linda Garner.

A highlight of Utay’s comments included recognition of the three honorary chairs, Cathy Glick, Julie Liberman, and Beverly Rossel, who as founders of the JFS annual Diaper Shower held each October, have helped bring more than 1.5 million diapers and wipes to families in need over the past 13 years.

“These three powerhouses met while volunteering for a JFS event and were inspired by their shared experience to do more,” said Utay. “As mothers themselves, they knew firsthand the importance of having access to enough diapers to keep your child clean, dry, and healthy.”

JFS CEO Cathy Barker took the stage to share the success of JFS’ recently opened Northpoint Health Center, addressing access to healthcare disparities by providing clients with a medical home.

“Already, our chief medical officer, Dr. Heather Esquivel, is hearing stories of patients who haven’t been treated in 10 years because they either didn’t have access to a practice that would take their Medicaid, they couldn’t afford the time off work or have transportation to get to other available options, or they didn’t have any insurance,” added Barker. “The good news is they are now getting the help they need and are already improving.”

She also shared how JFS has integrated their comprehensive behavioral health services with their medical services – a best practice approach to improving overall health outcomes.

The program then turned to a tete-a-tetes chat between JFS Senior Director of Philanthropy Leah Guskin and Pam Cohen, who shared her story of mental illness and how JFS’s PLAN program impacted her life. Now a peer support specialist for the program, she shared her inspirational journey. Not only has Cohen worked in a variety of positions, she received her master’s in clinical psychology, and “can now see mental illness from both sides of the couch.” In addition, she is an author of a book, titled Bipolar Depression and Me: From Both Sides of the Couch, part memoir and part guide for those currently struggling with their illnesses.

The audience was then directed to a video about the many services and programs of JFS.

Barker then introduced moderator Cynthia Izaguirre, WFAA anchor, for a conversation with makeup artist, entrepreneur and author, Bobbi Brown.

“As founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Bobbi has not only revolutionized the cosmetics industry but has also redefined what it meant to feel confident in one’s own skin,” said Izaguirre. “Since the launch of Bobbi Brown Essentials in 1991, and with the launch of her newest brand, Jones Road Beauty, Bobbi has been on a mission to empower women to embrace their natural beauty. Her philosophy, ‘Women want to look and feel like themselves, only prettier and more confident,’ has resonated with millions around the globe. Her latest campaign, ‘I Am Me,’ which launched today, is a celebration of what she has been preaching for nearly four decades – to know who you are; own it unapologetically and embrace every freckle and fine line.”

 A few highlights from Bobbi’s conversation with Cynthia:

-        Bobbi began by saying that she felt like crying. She had met such wonderful people at the luncheon, and it felt like family, “my family.” She continued, “We were taught to care about people and do things for others – even doing something little makes you feel good.”

-        On her transition to Jones Road: “I sold my company to Estée L Lauder but stayed on as an employee for 22 years. I finally left and launched Jones Road (three years ago) on the day my 25-year non-compete was up – and in the middle of a pandemic. Everyone said not to do it.” Most recently she launched “I Am Me” – a campaign that supports knowing who you are and owning it. “It’s about consciously focusing on what you like about yourself, and embracing what makes you unique. It highlights women from all backgrounds, sharing their individual journeys to finding confidence and true happiness in their lives and in their beauty.”

-        On embracing your true self: “It’s about being confident in your skin, in your body and in your shoes so you can be the best version of yourself.”

-        She credited her grandfather Papa Sam for being her inspiration. “He moved here from Russia when he was a boy. He came without a nickel and worked his way up, eventually becoming one of the biggest car dealers in Chicago.  He wouldn’t believe all that I have gotten to experience.”

-        Keys to success: “Do what’s right for you and think about if this is what you want. Can you do other things? Consider the practical side. Can you pay the bills? Don’t be in a rush, and don’t be afraid.”

-        “I love makeup, but I don’t wear a lot. I love creating it. I love empowering people to feel better. I love the power of makeup.”

-        On grandchildren: “And you think you love your children! I’m the mother of three boys. But I love differently now. I’m so much more present.  I am happy that my family has different religions and political opinions and can all sit together at Thanksgiving … and enjoy one another.”

-        Regarding any regrets in achieving family/career balance: “There’s no such thing as balance. There’s no such thing as perfection.”

-        “I’m real, and I’m me, and I’m comfortable with who I am, and I don’t try to change that. I do want to get stronger and more flexible!  And I hope to be doing another business when I’m in my 80s.”

-        Regarding the beauty industry: “It has changed so drastically. I launched in Neiman Marcus, and I was insecure, not dressed properly, and my hair was not high enough!”

-        Role model: Richard Branson who founded an airline after sitting in coach and recognizing it was not up to par. “He wanted to make things better for people.”

-        One takeaway message for the day – “You’re OK.”

Luncheon attendees included Dawn Aaron, Candy Brown, Wende Burton, Julie Gothard, Dot Haymann, Mary Pat Higgins, Judge Clay Jenkins, Beth Konig, Elaine Pearlman, Peachy Rudberg, Lisa Sadoughi, Jaynie Schultz, Lisa Sherrod, and Donald Zale.

The biennial Woman to Woman luncheon is the largest source of unrestricted funds for JFS, raising over $5 million since its inception in 2004. Visit Jfsdallas.org.

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Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas is a nonprofit organization providing comprehensive health services that address physical, emotional, nutritional, and financial well-being. Their mission is to provide effective and accessible whole-person care that promotes lifelong self-sufficiency and well-being for the Greater Dallas community. JFS Dallas offers programs to the community such as primary medical care, individual age-appropriate counseling and group support, career and financial coaching, a food pantry, support for older adults, and a Clubhouse for adults with mental illness. Since 1950, they have served anyone, regardless of age, race, religion, or ability to pay. The agency’s services impacted over 16,500 lives last year. Jfsdallas.org