Society Digital Magazine November 2024 by People Newspapers

Violet Wick, Mandi Bonilla, and Scarlet Wick

HOW MANY MORE PARTIES CAN WE PUT IN ONE ISSUE?

Working on our first Society Digital Magazine (which published in May) confirmed what the People Newspapers team already knew: Charitable tea, luncheon, and gala attendees have busy calendars in the spring. Our second issue proves those schedules remain just as full, if not more so, in the fall.

I’d like to thank our sales team and advertisers for making this editorial product possible and the public relations professionals who sent us the photographs and information presented here.

In this issue, we’ve included a few events that date back to May but didn’t occur or get submitted in time for the first issue, plus plenty more that happened this fall.

We wanted to get this issue to you before the season that brings Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s, and other holidays begins monopolizing everyone’s attention.

Consequently, these pages are missing many late fall parties and a huge December ball.

Still, I can’t remember when we’ve published so many events at one time and hope you will enjoy reading about the fun times you and your neighbors have had while supporting wonderful causes.

For additional coverage of the charitable social scene, check out our website, weekly Eat Play Give e-newsletter, and the monthy print editions of Park Cities People and Preston HollowPeople

Thank you for reading.

People Newspapers

Publisher Patricia Martin

EDITORIAL

Editor

William Taylor

Art & Production Director

Melanie Thornton

Managing Editors

Sarah Hodges | Claudia Carson-Habeeb

Sports Editor

Todd Jorgenson

Digital & Production Assistant

Emma Saldivar

ADVERTISING

Senior Account Executives

Kim Hurmis | Tana Hunter

Account Executive

Quita Johnson

Client Relations & Marketing Coordinator

Lauren Ruminer

Obituary & Wedding Announcements

Shiela Camay

OPERATIONS

Distribution Manager

Mike Reinboldt

Intern Colton Stroud

Veronica Beard in HP Village Hosts Partners Card Seller Soiree

Every year the Partners Card shopping extravagan za fundraiser brings huge returns for the Family Place – $22 million since 1993 – and plenty of bargains and fun for volunteers, card purchasers, and retailers.

The 2023 haul of more than $1.37 million from Family Place’s largest fundraiser equated to 18,275 nights of shelter and safety for survivors of domestic violence.

Partners Card co-chairs Elizabeth Ward Creel and Tiffany Moon, along with honorary chair Nancy Bierman, The Family Place CEO Tiffa ny Tate, and board chairman Harold Ginsburg kicked off card selling season during the 2024 Seller Soiree.

The Sept. 25 affair at Veronica Beard in Highland Park Village drew some 40 volunteers, sponsors, sellers, and retailers, who enjoyed spicy margaritas and light bites while mingling and browsing timeless fashion staples.

Top sellers Paula Davis, Debbie Snell, and Cass and Sara Robinson picked up essentials to begin sell ing the $75 cards that provided discounts during the extravaganza (Oct. 25 through Nov. 3). Bank of Texas served as presenting sponsor for the 16th year.

– Compiled by William Taylor

WILLIAM TAYLOR

JONNY NGO

Nancy Bierman, Elizabeth Ward Creel, and Tiffany Moon Cass and Sara Robinson

Samantha Wortley and Lola Thomas

Kayla Borders and Marlene Diaz

Mary Catherine Benavides, Holly Krug, and Lindsay Jacaman

‘Best Dressed’ Wear Oscar de la Renta at Downtown Neiman Marcus

FOR

Fashion and philanthropy blended with orchids during the 50th annual Crystal Charity Ball Fashion Show and Luncheon, held Sept. 12 at Neiman Marcus’ historic flagship store in Downtown Dallas.

Oscar de la Renta’s co-creative directors Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia showcased their most recent collection as the Crystal Charity Ball celebrated Dallas’ “Ten Best Dressed” honorees: Monica Eastin, Tracey Kozmetsky, Meredith Land, Tracy Lange, Anne McPherson, Wendy Messmann, Lisa Rocchio, Kim Quinn, Katherine Wyker, and Sunie

The 2024 Hall of Fame Award went to Lisa Cooley. Neiman Marcus president Ryan Ross welcomed the honorees, who were dressed in Oscar de la Renta with jewelry from David Webb. Charlotte Jones read their introductions. This was the 49th year for the luxury retailer to host the event and the sixth featuring Oscar de la Renta.

The brand’s Pre-Spring 2025 collection explores the organic, unrestrained existence and inherent refinement of nature — a concept evoked by Garcia’s watercolor orchid paintings.

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TAMYTHA CAMERON

NEIMAN MARCUS

Compiled by William Taylor

Gracie Hunt and Tavia Hunt

Lisa and Clay Cooley

Nancy Rogers and Tina Leung

Fernando Garcia, Jodi Kahn, Ryan Ross, and Laura Kim

KidneyTexas Fashion Show Marks 25 Years of Giving With Style

GARZA AND ROB WYTHE/WYTHE PORTRAIT STUDIO

Barbara Bigham, who served as the first president of KidneyTexas, Inc. all those years ago, had a question of sorts at The Runway Report 2024 Luncheon and Fashion Show.

She rhetorically exclaimed, “Has it already been 25 years?”

Claire Catrino and Kaleta Blaffer Johnson chaired the Sept. 24 event at the Brook Hollow Golf Club with Lau ryn Gayle White as honorary chair, brating 25 Years of Giving With Style the theme, and Sam and Helga Feldman Foundation/David and Natalie Taylor as presenting sponsor.

Honorees included Donna Arp Weitzman, the Sue Goodnight Award; Bigham, the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Raymond Quigley, the Everson Walls Legacy Award; and Emilynn Wilson and her late husband, Claude, the 25th Anniversary Award.

The Runway Report, presented by Jan Strimple Productions for the final time, featured the latest in fall fashions from sponsors Betty Reit er, TOOTSIES, St. John and NAR DOS, styled with fine jewelry from Bachendorf’s. Robyn Chauvin Pro ductions takes over next year.

–

THOMAS

Compiled by William Taylor

Cile McCormick and Suzette Derrick

Lynn Dealey and Vicki Howland

Niki Turner and Sarah Bowlby

Cindy Pierce and Shane Martin

Kaleta Blaffer Johnson, Monica Cooley, Claire Catrino, Emilynn Wilson, and Barbara Bigham

Sara Woodall, Meredith Connally, and Fallon Hennessy

Donna Arp Weitzman, Scott Murray, Natalie Taylor, Everson Walls (back), Lauryn Gayle White (front), and Dr. Raymond Quigley

Patty Jo Turner, Pat Denechaud, Judy Abington, and Melissa Renee

Nardos Imam and Emily Ash

Turtle Creek Association Celebrates Fifth Annual Gala

ROB

WYTHE/WYTHE PORTRAIT STUDIO

Elegance, excitement, and entertainment were on the menu on Oct. 18 at the Turtle Creek Association’s fifth annual Gala Celebrating Turtle Creek at Virgin Hotels Dallas.

Guests enjoyed a champagne reception, a three-course seated dinner — which included a chocolate and caramel Turtle Pie for dessert — and live and silent auctions.

Gala Presenting Sponsor Teresa Byrd received the TCA President’s Award for her unwavering support for the Turtle Creek Association. Founders Judith Lifson and Jane Manning were also recognized for their vision and dedication to the association, along with Kyle Crews, who received the TCA Founder’s Award for his enduring contributions.

After dinner and announcements, guests stood in applause as a surprise flash mob of Dallas Mavericks performers took to the dance floor. The party continued with dancing to Emerald City’s Limelight Band.

Gala chair was Sharon Ballew. Elyce and David Walthall were honorary chairs for both the Gala and Tour of Homes.

– Compiled by Sarah Hodges

Kevin Coates, Savannah Gilbert, Leo Amaya, Tasha Davis, and Brittney Burditt

Sharon and Wayne Smith

Tim Ford and Noora Bass

Jennifer Henley and Kristin Munson

Dr. Pedro and Ani Nosnik with Leslie Fornino and Michael Simon

Sharon Ballew, J.D. Trueblood, and Deborah Stanford

Elyce, David, and Christopher Walthall

Jen Miller, Tara Harper-Rahr, and Chuck Steelman

Mari Epperson and Karisti Julia

Richard Babb, Teresa Byrd, and Brian Roughton

Dallas All Star Chef Classic Bolsters Dallas 24 Hour Club’s Mission

Dallas 24 Hour Club’s 11th annual Dallas All Star Chef Classic drew 500-plus attendees for an evening that highlighted how addiction impacts families and raised funds to help those struggling with homelessness and addiction.

Ashlee, Chris, and TJ Kleinert chaired the Oct. 20 affair at the Empire Room, where 25 esteemed chefs showcased their culinary talents. Beth and David Dike and Taylor Marr served as honorary chairs with Kim Canteenwalla and Cole Canteenwalla as honorary chef chairs.

Terry Kranz, founder of the Dallas All Star Chef Classic, received the David Elliott “Service to Others” Award: The Spark That Lit the Fire.

“If I can help even one mother sleep with peace, knowing their child is safe and sober, then I have truly honored my own mother,” Kranz said.

Event proceeds support the Dallas 24 Hour Club’s mission to provide safe, sober transitional living for homeless men and women seeking a fresh start away from alcohol and drugs.

DYLAN HOLLINGSWORTH

– Compiled by William Taylor

The 24 Hour Club Board Members

The 24 Hour Club Founder Lee Tillman

Joe Pitch, Maureen Jamieson-Quilling, Thomas Ricks, and Richard Fleming

TJ and Ashlee Klienert with Delaney Crampton, and Sharon Young

Kevin Riley, Louise Hallam, Wes Chambers, with Holly and Jenny Murdoch, and Mark Fallis

Marsha Williamson and Tim Grigsby

Stacey and Tim Leonhard

The 24 Hour Club Staff

Canines, Cats & Cabernet Raises Record-Breaking Funds

Operation Kindness held its 32nd annual fundraising event, Canines, Cats, & Cabernet, Nov. 2, raising more than $900,000 for the organization. More than 500 guests filled the Sheraton Dallas’ downtown ballroom for an evening of dining, drinks, dancing, and live animal adoptions.

The event was led by a host committee made up of community leaders Miles Blanton, Curt Boisfontaine, Nancy Cozzie, Catherine Griﬃn, Joni McCoy, Elbert Choi, and Kate Malone.

Canines, Cats and Cabernet 2024 honorary chair Jan Rees-Jones represented the Rees-Jones Foundation as the 2024 recipient of the Operation Kindness Impact Award, presented by Operation Kindness CEO Ed Jamison.

Following dinner, guests were swept off their feet for dancing and music by the Emerald City Band. In the pet adoption lounge, nine Operation Kindness dogs and cats were adopted into loving homes.

– Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb

Sage Society Dinner Raises Funds to Support Older Adults

The Senior Source raised more than $235,000 to support services for Dallas older adults on Oct. 23 at the 25th annual Charles C. Sprague Sage Society Dinner at the Dallas Country Club.

Ken Hersh, president and CEO of the George W. Bush Presidential Center and a board member of the Texas Rangers Baseball Club, was the event’s featured speaker.

Dinner co-chairs Beth and Chuck Thoele announced a surprise $15,000 matching gift challenge for the evening before Hersh shared insights from his book, The Fastest Tortoise: Winning in Industries I Knew Nothing About, and added $5,000 to the Thoeles’ matching gift.

Funds raised from the Sage Society Dinner will support The Senior Source’s programs for older adults and caregivers in Dallas, including financial assistance, scam prevention, employment services, and support for family caregivers. – Compiled by Sarah

CHRISTINA BOWMAN

Hodges

Pat Staudt, Stacey Malcolmson, Ken Hersh, and Den Bishop

Diane and John Scovell

Lisa Ballew and Ann Lewis

Hemang and Sejal Desai

Nickey and Debbie Oates

FRANCES PENA AND CLAUDIA CARSON-HABEEB

Tony Haynes, Chris Bishop, and Chad Tidwell

Mary Ann Brown

Kristin Priest and adoption lounge puppy

Trevor and Jan Rees-Jones with Ed Jamison

Curt and Tanya Boisfontaine with Natalie Warrick, Leigh Rindt, and JP Rindt

Beth and Chuck Thoele

The #1 residential real estate team at the #1 firm in Dallas.

Celebrity Chefs Cook Up Delights for DIFFA Dallas’ Burgers + Burgundy

DANNY CAMPBELL

DIFFA Dallas kicked off its fundrais ing season Oct. 10 with the 15th annual Burgers + Burgundy, a culinary extrav aganza presented by MICHELIN™

Star chef John Tesar, of the Knife Restaurant Group, at The Village Dallas.

Rhiannon Bolen, Brandon Bell, and Jonathan Flores co-chaired the event, which also featured these chefs: Andrew Cardillo, Sheraton Hotel; Aubrey Murphy, SER Steak +Spirits; Eduardo Osorio, Meridian at The Village; Jacob Williamson, The Saint; Jessi ca Cortes, Hamburger Mary’s; Jon Stevens, Stock and Barrel; Jose Quezada, Delucca Gaucho Pizza & Wine; Roman Murphy, Perch Bistro and Bar; and Ryan Carbery, NIKKI Greek Bistro.

The chefs paired their unique slider creations with selected wines.

While enjoying them, guests shopped Dallas merchants on the lawn, listened to music from DJ Shane Allen, and bought raffle tickets from drag queens Leche Diamond, Ramaya Lord, Symphony McKnight Capri, and Penelope Dever eaux. –

Compiled by William Taylor

Michael Buss, LeeAnne Locken, and Ken Weber

Brandon Bell, Rhiannon Bolen, and Jonathan Flores

Amy Johnson and Monica Allen

Brendan Auguem, Weston Balskus, Robert Wiley, and Aaron Sherk

Rafael Hernandez and Oscar Gutierrez Troy Gardner

House of DIFFA Chair Jacob Samson and Payton Martin

Korey Willams Anderson and Chris Anderson

Colin Anderson and Joe Pacetti

Retina Foundation Raises $1M-Plus at Visionary Luncheon

KRISTINA BOWMAN

The Retina Foundation of the Southwest beat its fundraising goal for the 2024 Visionary Luncheon with donors pledging more than $1 million, an amount that could grow to $1.3 million or more with matching gifts.

Presenting sponsors Jennifer and Bill Voss also served as chairs for the May 15 event at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas. There, patrons focused on the foundation’s mission to save vision with hope backed by science.

Lyda Hill, founder of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, presented the 2024 Hunt Family Visionary Award to Communities Foundation of Texas’ W.W. Caruth Jr. Fund. Wayne White, president and CEO at Communities Foundation of Texas, accepted the Hunt Family Visionary Award.

Attendees also heard from sisters Jeanne Klein and Diane Boddy, who are participating in a first-ofits-kind sibling study for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) to determine why Jeanne presents with AMD while Diane doesn’t.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Junior League Names Philanthropist Peggy Sewell as 2025 Sustainer of the Year

CELESTE CASS

The Junior League of Dallas (JLD) has selected longtime league supporter and community leader Peggy Sewell as the 2025 Sustainer of the Year.

JLD will celebrate Sewell, who has volunteered with and provided leadership for a variety of nonprofits, during the annual Milestones Luncheon next spring.

“No one captures the ideals we strive to achieve as a sustainer more than Peggy,” said JLD Sustainer Debbie Oates during a Sept. 17 Reveal Party at SMU’s Meadows Museum, where league members and guests enjoyed refreshments from Salum Restaurant as they mingled and enjoyed the art on exhibit.

Oates and Lauren Combest cochair the 2025 Milestones Luncheon, which will feature celebrated author, entrepreneur, and Dallas-based foodie Alex Snodgrass as keynote speaker.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Bill and Jennifer Voss with Danielle Bilibio, and Dr. Mark Pennesi

Dr. Karl Csaky, Diane Boddy, Jeanne Klein, and Laurie Dotter

Nathan and Barbara Crow

Brad and Elaine Wolken

Lynn Fisher and Amy Johnson

Lauren Combest, Debbie Oates, Peggy Sewell, Tandra Allen, and Sally Dutter

Jacquelin Sewell, Nancy Gopez, and Josie Sewell

Ellen Bryant, Jenna Berg, Brandi Garrett, and Allison Gaughan

Josie and Carl Sewell III

William Atkinson and Jaquelin Sewell Atkinson

Rusty Duvall and Elaine Agather

Candace Winslow and Katie German

Elite Designers Turn Out for Kips

Bay President’s Dinner Dallas

A day before the opening of the 2024 Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas, industry elites honored celebrated designer and long-time Kips Bay supporter Chad Dorsey and raised funds for charities in North Texas and New York.

Attendees of the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club’s annual President’s Dinner, held Oct. 23 at the Mansion on Turtle Creek, helped raise $400,000-plus for afterschool programs serving more than 10,000 youths at nine locations throughout the Bronx.

The dinner and the show house also benefited Dallas nonprofits Crystal Charity Ball and Dwell with Dignity.

Jan Showers, Shelby Wagner, and Claire Emanuelson chaired the blacktie event with Tucker Enthoven, Kelli Ford, Jean Liu, and Doniphan Moore as

On Oct. 24, the club celebrated the official opening of the Dallas show house, a leading design event and fundraiser held this year at 2999 Turtle Creek Blvd.

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Compiled by William Taylor

Michael McDonald and Traci Connell

2024 Designers

Tiffany and Darren Woodson Todd & Ceron Fiscus

Victoria Sass and Laura Lee Falconer Kim and Bruce Scodro

Noel Pittman, Javier Burkle, and Jacquelin Sewell

Claire Emanuelson, Chad Dorsey, Jan Showers, and Shelby Wagner

Laura Pierson, Amanda Darnell, Claire Ratliff, and Michelle Nussbaumer

Shelby Wagner, Grant McFarlain, Niven Morgan, and Justin Moon

Micheal Krause, Morgan McCleskey, Jennings Ross, Alex Kincaid, and Javier Burkle

Laurie and David Pemberton

Richardo Barroso and Christopher William Daniel Quintero and Nazira Handal

Mary Yitterberg and Caroline Coulson

Superstar Pianist Lang Lang Headlines Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala

KRISTINA BOWMAN AND SYLVIA ELZAFON

More than 420 classical music connoisseurs and influential guests gathered Sept. 18 at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center for an evening of dinner, drinks, a live auction, con cert, and afterparty.

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s 2024 Symphony Gala featured world-renowned guest artist Lang Lang on piano alongside the DSO conducted by Louise W. & Ed mund J. Kahn Music Director Fabio Luisi in a sold-out concert sponsored by Capital One.

The gala, one of DSO’s largest annual fund raisers, supports education and community out reach initiatives, including Young Strings and Young Musicians – programs that touch the lives of more than 243,000 North Texas residents annually, including more than 30,000 children.

Laura Harris-Means and Patrick Means served as gala chairs with Cassandra and Avery Johnson as honorary chairs.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Todd Clendening, Sherwood Wagner with Marena and Roger Gault

Barbara Durham, Michelle Miller Burns, Steven Durham, and Bob Sypult

Patrons at the After Party Lang Lang takes a selfie with Fabio Luisi and Yulia Levin

Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger

Costumed Dancer and Patron at the After Party

After Party dancing John and Rachel Koryl

Avery and Cassandra Johnson

Charles and Cindy Feld

Jon Adams and Terry D. Loftis

Laura Harris-Means and Patrick Means

Preservation Park Cities Distinguished Speakers Talk About Living With Art

Preservation Park Cities hosts a Distinguished Speakers Luncheon each year to generate awareness about the role history and preservation play in enhancing the lives of Highland Park and University Park residents.

This year the luncheon – chaired by Lindsey Doramus and Cate Ford and presented by Highland Park Village and D Home magazine – focused on art. Jenny and Richard Mullen were honorary chairs.

Speaking on Oct. 21 at the Dallas Country Club, panelists explored the practical matters of acquiring and owning art and the bigger question of how a relationship with art might evolve and deepen over time.

Phillips regional director Joyce Goss moderated the Living With Art discussion with panelists Thomas Feulmer, curator, The Warehouse Dallas; Robyn Siegel, adviser, CCS Fine Art; and Ashley Avrea Cathey, founder and principal, Avrea and Company.

– Compiled by William Taylor

ROB WYTHE/WYTHE PORTRAIT STUDIO

Jenny Mullen, Richard Mullen, Honorary Chairs

Cory Bowen and Krista Porteous Lesley and Burton Rhodes

Sara Lee Gardner and Lucinda Buford

Sara Fay

Polly and Dan McKeithen with Callie Windle

Christine Dandar

Lindsey Doramus, Alisa Sell, and Cate Ford Ashley Avrea, Thomas Feulmer, Robyn Siegel, and Joyce Goss

Drew Steffen, Kate Kutilek, Victoria Snee, and James Roussel

dmagazine.com/newgift

2024 Cattle Baron’s Ball a Boot-Scootin’ Success

The Cattle Baron’s Ball galloped into its second half century by raising $7,122,663 during a record-breaking evening at Southfork Ranch on Sept. 28.

Attendees celebrated “new horizons” for the American Cancer Society’s largest single-night fundraiser, which started in 1974 as a Texas barbecue and has become Dallas’ biggest and best party of the year.

On this year’s menu was a cornucopia of food and head-spinning variety of activities, including silent and live auctions, casino games, and a sports lounge. Guests could grab accessories with cowboy flair at the Ball’s new Marketplace, or touch-up their look in Neiman Marcus’ Glam Room.

The evening’s entertainment began with tunes from local talent Straight Tequila Night, which performed on the VIP/Live Auction Stage. “All-American Girl” Carrie Underwood brought guests to their feet as the Ball’s headliner.

There was plenty of cowboy style, but the Ball wasn’t all hat and no cattle. Organizers blew past their $500,000 paddle raise goal, which will fund a grant named in honor of Kace Phillips, who passed away from a form of brain cancer. The funds raised this year bring the total since the ball’s inception to more than $105 million.Co-chairs of this year’s Ball were Marjon Henderson and Lora Farris.

– Compiled by Sarah Hodges

TAMYTHA CAMERON AND CELESTE CASS

Natalie Lesiker, Wendy Messman, Lauren Bellemare, Lisa Shirley

Madeline and Russell Lam

2024 Co-chairs Marjon Henderson and Lora Farris

William Atkinson and Jacqueline Sewell Atkinson

Simone Anderson, Erika Burton and Madison Strode

Carrie Underwood

Lawerence and Katy Bock

Dean and Wanda Fearing & Jeff Netzer and Lynn McBee

Kace Phillips’ family appeared on-stage during the paddle raise Ryan Ross and Robbie Kruithoff Kelly and Sunny Sajnani

Jenna Bush Hager Touts Hope at Austin Street’s Humble Beginning Luncheon

What does hope look like?

How about $1.1 million raised at a luncheon with that theme?

The money will support Austin Street Shelter’s work to help those experiencing homelessness find permanent places to call home.

Michelle Thomas and T. Dupree Scovell co-chaired the Humble Beginnings Luncheon on Oct. 11 at the Hilton Anatole with Elaine Agather serving as honorary chair and NBC 5’s Laura Harris moderating a discussion with Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of NBC’s TODAY with Hoda & Jenna.

Harris and Hager talked about the role of hope in ending homelessness.

More than 800 people attended the event where Austin Street Center honored The Addy Foundation with the Norm Hitzges Distinguished Service Award and Texas Health Resources with the Community Leadership Award.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Barclay Berdan and Daniel Roby

Jenna Bush Hager with former First Lady Laura Bush

Felecia Burns, state Rep. Morgan Meyer, and Lynn McBee

Ashlee and Chris Kleinert

Jennifer Atchison and Laura McWhorter

Gene Jones, Jeanne Johnson Phillips, and former First Lady Laura Bush

Lydia Davis

Michelle Thomas, Ben Leal, and Lydia Addy

Michelle Thomas and T. Dupree Scovell

Odell Bunton Jr.

Laura Harris

Clay and Ramsey Jenkins with Frank Mihalopoulos

The McConaugheys Help Raise Funds, Awareness at NFNL Luncheon

At the annual New Friends New Life luncheon held at the Omni Hotel on Sept. 20, the organization honored Southwest Airlines and the Young Men’s Service League.

JoJo Fleiss and Lisa Rocchio chaired the event which raised $1.1 million while Robin and Norm Bagwell served as honorary co-chairs.

During “A Conversation with Camila and Matthew McConaughey,” moderated by NBC 5’s Meredith Land, topics ranged from their love of Texas to the work of their Just Keep Livin Foundation, support of Uvalde, their New York Times bestselling books, and University of Texas Longhorn football.

Before leaving the stage, the couple offered a surprise $100,000 fundraising gift, resulting in a fast and furious $100,000 match by the audience.

Texas Trailblazer Awards Luncheon Honors Opal Lee

The 2024 Texas Trailblazer Awards Luncheon co-chairs Lauren Black, Nakita Johnson, Clarisa Lindenmeyer, and Lauren McKinnon, alongside honorary chairs Lindsay and George Billingsley welcomed more than 800 attendees to the 28th annual luncheon benefiting The Family Place.

During the Oct. 4 event at the Hilton Anatole Dallas, The Family Place CEO Tiffany Tate announced a new award given to someone who embodies the spirit, heart, and relentless drive of retired CEO Paige Flink. Flink honored Jamie Williams as the first-year recipient of the Paige Flink Icon Award.

The “grandmother of Juneteenth,” Dr. Opal Lee, received the Texas Trailblazer Award, which recognizes exceptional individuals who have achieved remarkable success and opened doors of opportunity for countless others.

“If people can be taught to hate they can be taught to love,” Lee told attendees.

Natalie Nanasi, director of the SMU Judge Elmo B. Hunter Legal Center for Victims of Crimes Against Women and Associate Professor of Law, moderated a conversation with Justin Baldoni, director of the blockbuster movie ItEndsWithUs

TAMYTHA CAMERON, CELESTE CASS AND FRANCESCA NELO

– Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb

TAMYTHA CAMERON AND CELESTE CASS

– Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb

Matthew and Camila McConaughey and Meredith Land

Jeanne Bobbitt, Linda Custard, Caren Klein, Anita Arnold, Lana Andrews, and Aileen Pratt

John Grimes, Bobbie Villareal, Cathy James, Jennifer Gates, and Trina Roffino

Priya Murphy, Lisa Rocchio, Camila McConaughey, Matthew McConaughey, JoJo Fleiss, and Bianca Davis

Luncheon Co-Chairs Lisa Rocchio and JoJo Fleiss

Stacy Grace, Suzette Switzer and Stephanie Bond

Caren Prothro and Jamie Williams

Harold Ginsburg, Bunny Ginsburg and Claire Morris

Paige Flink, Jill Goldberg, Emily Maduro and Margaret Larocca

Venise Stuart and Susan Fisk Moderator Natalie Nanasi and luncheon speaker Justin Baldoni

Sheila Brand and Mandy Hanu

Texas Trailblazer Awards Luncheon co-chairs Nakita Johnson, Lauren Black, Lauren McKinnon and Clarisa Lindenmeyer with Texas Trailblazer Award recipient Dr. Opal Lee

Art for Advocacy Transforms Lives of Children

The 17th annual Art for Advocacy event shattered fundraising records for the fourth consecutive year, raising more than $1,645,000 to benefit the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) and the children and families it serves.

Donated works from 70 artists were featured at the Sept. 14 event’s silent and live auctions, which raised upwards of $295,000. A one-of-a-kind Costa Christ art piece featuring a Studio Zafaria Porsche hood sold at the live auction for $33,000, the highest price of any piece.

Event guests wore special bracelets that lit up to show the impact of statistics shared by DCAC CEO and President Irish Burch, visually illustrating the importance of the organization’s work.

Art for Advocacy celebrates the transformative healing power of art and raises awareness for DCAC. DCAC was one of the first children’s advocacy centers established in Texas and serves 13,000-plus children every year.

Stephanie and John Roberts hosted the event. Courtney Gilbert, Amy Grissen, and Holly Lawrence served as event chairs, with Katy and Kyle Miller serving as honorary chairs. LABORA was the presenting sponsor.

TAMYTHA CAMERON

– Compiled by Colton Stroud

Burch Family

Grace Woodall and Caroline Quinsberry

Andrew and Cheryl Schoellkopf

Ellie Lam and Dr. Sam Lam

Teal Griffeth, Brent Ellis, Melissa Ellis, and Cayley Plutnick

Julie and Steve Rado Aphrodite Paulos, Jackie Christ, Athina Zafaria Christ, and Andrea Nayfa

Shelly Anbouba and Sally Hodge

Courtney Golbert, Holly Lawerence, and Amy Grissen

Terminal’s Pocket Park Makes Picturesque Setting for Thanking Katy Trail Donors

KRISTINA BOWMAN

Walking along the Katy Trail is great, but so is throwing a party.

Friends of the Katy Trail (FKT) celebrated the trail’s financial backers during the Annual Major Donor Party, held May 2 in the Caroline Rose Hunt Garden Pocket Park at the end of The Terminal at Katy Trail.

FKT board president Blake Shipp welcomed honorees and guests to The Terminal, a new mixed-used development along the trail with luxury residential options.

The trail, an abandoned railroad line turned into a greenbelt park, is community-funded by private individual and corporate donations, according to katytraildallas. org. FKT raises money to maintain and improve the trail.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Bob Penn and Joe Goyne

Ann Wood and David Finto

Brandon and Amy Bean with Eric Bing

Laurie Sands Harrison, Chris Denney, and Tiffany Divis

Lizzie Routman and Leslie MacLean

Alden and Janelle Pinnell Blake and Lindsay Shipp

Alan Vorwald and Sarah Ketterer, Bill and Marcia Rafkin, and Andrew and Olivia Rafkin

Dallas Mavericks Honored at Champion of Children Award Dinner

KRISTINA BOWMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Dallas CASA supporters, judges, and board members came together to celebrate the Dallas Mavericks for their impactful work in the community during the Oct. 18 Champion of Children Award Dinner.

Mavericks owner Patrick Dumont and CEO Cynt Marshall accepted the Jan and Judge Barefoot Sanders Champion of Children Award to enthusiastic applause from fans at the Fairmont Hotel Dallas.

The evening featured Sixto Cancel, founder of Think of Us, which is working to transform child welfare and improve outcomes for children and their families. He shared his personal foster care journey and the importance of family connections for foster youth.

Event co-chairs were Janice and Richard Davis, and Nicki and Paul Stafford, with Bob Mong as honorary chair.

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Compiled by Sarah Hodges

Richard and Janice Davis with Nicki and Paul Stafford

Michael and Kathleen M. LaValle, Patrick and Sivan Dumont, and Cynt, Kenneth, Shirley, and Anthony Marshall

Stephanie and David Krahe

Guests at one of presenting sponsor White Rhino Coffee Foundation’s tables as auction bidding begins.

Corey and Priscilla Anthony

Bob Mong and Sixto Cancel

Duncan and Julie McPail

Kevin Smith and Lynn Fisher

Hope Supply Co Raises $200K at 8th Annual Supply Hope! Event

Hope Supply Co’s biggest fundraiser of the year – Supply Hope! – drew board members, volunteers, guests and nonprofit staffers on Oct. 15 to the Harlan Crow Library in Highland Park.

There, among the historic treasures on display, they enjoyed appetizers, drinks, and a silent auction while raising more than $200,000 to help provide diapers, wipes, hygiene essentials, baby food, formula, and winter coats for homeless and at-risk children.

“With no government funding, and a rising birth rate in Texas, Hope Supply Co. plays a central role in caring for thousands of babies by providing critically needed items like diapers and formula,” CEO Barbara Johnson said.

Ann Curry Captivates Audiences at the Texas Women’s Foundation Annual Luncheon

KIM LEESON

The Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) 39th Annual Luncheon held at the Omni Hotel on Nov. 1 featured a conversation with Ann Curry, an Emmy-Award-winning journalist known for her national and international reporting.

Curry was interviewed by Krys Boyd, host and managing editor of Think, a national talk radio program produced by KERA. TXWF board alumna Eﬃe Dennison served as co-chair of the luncheon. As executive vice president for Texas Capital Bank, Dennison leads community development and corporate responsibility.

The luncheon theme was “Catalysts for Change,” recognizing the role the foundation has in creating more equitable communities for Texas women and girls.

About breaking down barriers, Curry reflected that, even at a young age in a competitive, male-dominated industry, she felt sorry for the people who didn’t recognize her worth.

“But they all came around,” she said. “Sometimes people don’t see what you can do.

“I had, honestly, twice as many stories assigned to me; there were all kinds of ways I was supposed to stumble,” she said.

After a time, she said to herself. “‘I will do as much as the men, but I will not do more, unless I want,’” Curry recalled. “And often I did want.”

Addressing groups of young women from surrounding schools in the audience, the journalist said, “It’s diﬃcult to advance without taking risks. If I had not taken risks, you know, I might’ve only been confined to work others thought I could do.”

– Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb

– Compiled by William Taylor Pam Squires, Renda Mathew, Melinda Knowles, and Kim Hext

Steve Rybka, Dr. Kristine Guleserian, and Krista Tankersley

Kristin Simenc, Pam Squires, and Ali Simenc

Angela and Eric Williams

Brandon Kershaw with a wax figure of Winston Churchill

Ann Curry and Krys Boyd

Effie Dennison, Karen Hughes White, Ann Curry and Carrie Freeman Parsons

Lynn McBee and Annika Cail

2024 Miss Texas Annette Addo-Yobo

Karen Hughes White

Glamour Takes Center Stage at Fashion Notes Luncheon and Style Show

Vibrant florals, a gilded gazebo, and dramatic gowns combined to transform the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s 11th Annual Fashion Notes Luncheon and Style Show. Guests at the Birdsong-themed event on Oct. 10 were greeted with flutes of the signature cocktail, Bluebird 76, and sparkling water as they browsed the silent auction and posed for photos in front of a vignette with a blue and white floral backdrop and flooring.

Funds raised through the luncheon benefit the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Education and Outreach initiatives and pave the way for a brighter future for children in the community.

The event was chaired by Madelaine Lam and Whitney Cameron, with Linda L. Burk and her daughters, Jane E. Gilmore and Linda L. Gilmore, as honorary chairs.

At the fashion show’s conclusion, the chairs presented Esé Azénabor Grembowski, who designed a white gown featured on the symphony center’s main staircase, with the Fashion Notes Designer Award.

THOMAS GARZA AND ROB WYTHE/WYTHE PORTRAIT STUDIO

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Sabina Carr, Dr. Linda Burk, Dixey Arterburn, and Michelle Miller Burns

Kathleen Martinez, Kelsi Rondon, and Tiffany Moon

Musician from DSO’s Young Strings

Tosin and Funmi Omotayo

Chloe and Caitlin Wilson

Madelaine and Preston Lam

Nikki Beneke, Barbara Bigham, and Rose Gault

Fashions by Esé Azénabor

Elah and Esé Azénabor Grembowski

LEAP Global Missions Celebrates ‘Journey of Hope’

ROB WYTHE/WYTHE PORTRAIT STUDIO

A sold-out crowd gathered Oct. 3 at the Dallas Country Club for the LEAP Global Missions 2024 Gala to support the nonprofit’s efforts to provide free, specialized medical and surgical services inspired by the love of Christ to people around the world.

LEAP volunteers have performed upwards of 10,000 surgeries on patients from 24 countries since its founding more than 30 years ago.

Former NFL tight end and writer Benjamin Watson was the JourneyofHope-themed event’s featured speaker. He shared how he found faith through compassion and praised LEAP’s mission, saying: “Whatever it is God gives you to do, do your job.”

The nonprofit’s founder, Dr. Craig Hobar, thanked the event chairs and the LEAP Global Missions team and staff for their ongoing commitment to the organization.

Gala chairs were Linsey and Ryan Nixon, Leigh and Russ Johnson, and Adair and Clark Webb.

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Compiled by Sarah Hodges

Leigh and Russ Johnson with Linsey and Ryan Nixon and Adair and Clark Webb

Tracey and Steve Orten with Bryn Freedman

Jason Drew and Mary Ellen Thurman

Dr. Craig and Robin Hobar

Shelly Slater and Benjamin Watson

Kristine Prast with Craig and Julie Beale

Marcus and Ashley Morriss

Amy and Dr. Evan Beale Ben and Jennifer Coats

Akiko and Yuuki Ando

Chi Omega Brings Early Christmas Cheer to Dallas Market Hall

CELESTE CASS AND JONAS RAMOS

Dallas-area Chi Omega Alumnae group raised vital funds for 13 local nonprofit organizations with the 47th Annual Chi Omega Christmas Market (COCM), a shopping experience featuring seasonal gifts suitable for every age and budget.

COCM, chaired this year by Karen Hunt, Debbie Lang, and Nancy Woodall, drew thousands of visitors to its new location, Dallas Market Hall, to shop more than 220 carefully selected merchants from across the country from Sept. 26-28.

This year’s earlier dates allowed shoppers to jumpstart their holiday preparations, offering a diverse array of items — from jewelry and home décor to team spirit gear, holiday decorations, toys, gourmet foods, and original artwork, or ganizers said.

This year’s beneficiaries included Ascend Dallas, Behind Every Door Ministries, Bonton Enterprises, Chil dren’s Craniofacial Association, Family Compass, Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support, Make-A-Wish North Texas, Network of Community Ministries, Swan Strings, Texas Internation al Theatrical Arts Society, The Stew pot, Together We Thrive, and Young Women’s Preparatory Network. Additionally, funds raised will help support collegiate scholarships.

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Taylor

Brittany Glosser, Sally Gardner, and Lauren Spring

Jess Garland Rula Peinado and Kimberly Kelly

Cori Steinmann, Katherine Binns, Anthe Stanley, and Marcia Khalil

Christine B. Andler

Market patrons including University of Arkansas Chi Omega alumnae got to pose with Santa Claus.

John and Nancy Woodall with Kelsey Johnson

Amanda and Debbie Lang

Karen Hunt, Nancy Woodall, and Debbie Lang

Super Bowl-Winning Cowboys QBs Agree: Live Like Luke

COURTESY JAMES SMITH

The late Luke Laufenberg, a determined and resilient student athlete who fought cancer for two years, still draws an impressive crowd. Troy Aikman, Sonny Dykes, Jason Garrett, Cliff Harris, Mark McLemore, Dirk Nowitzki, Roger Staubach, Mark Stepnoski, Mark Turco, Scotty Walden, and Darren Woodson were among those who turned out for the fourth annual Live Like Luke coffee fundraiser.

“As we sipped coffee and shared stories, it felt like Luke was right there with us, his spirit filling the room with warmth and laughter,” Luke’s father, Dallas broadcaster Babe Laufenberg, said. Winston & Strawn LLP sponsored the May 16 event at Al Biernat’s Oak Lawn. Proceeds went to the Luke Laufenberg FIGHT Fund, benefiting student-athletes at University of Texas El Paso.

— Compiled by William Taylor

Sonny Dykes, Darren Woodson, Roger Staubach, Troy Aikman, Cliff Harris, Babe Laufenberg, Scotty Walden, Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Garrett, Mark McLemore, and Mark Stepnoski

Pantry in the Park Sneaker Soiree Benefits Wilkinson Center

Pantry in the Park co-chairs Laura Ailshire and Jenn and OJ DeSouza welcomed more than 250 partygoers Oct. 18 at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for Wilkinson Center’s 2nd annual Pantry in the Park, presented by Celanese. Guests arrived in cocktail attire paired with their favorite sneakers and were greeted by brothers “Johnny Cash” and “Jerry Lee Lewis,” a duo of adorable burros carrying baskets of espresso martinis and Painted Donkey te-

WFAA-TV’s Sydney Persing, the evening’s emcee, welcomed co-chair and board member OJ DeSouza who reminded the crowd that it was a “party with a purpose” benefiting the important programs provided by Wilkinson Center. Executive director Daley Ryan shared how the evening’s proceeds will help to support the organization’s programs, which include Food and Emergency Services, Adult Education, Workforce Development and Employment Services.

Persing selected 11 guests to compete in a game of musical chairs for a prize of a case of Hall Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon valued at $900. The crowd then gathered in front of an illuminated Pantry in the Park as the group competed in nine hard-fought rounds. The remaining two competitors decided to share their winnings.

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Caitlyn Ryan, Wilkinson Center executive director Daley Ryan, Patti Ryan and Michael Ryan

Gerry and Jan Worrall and Carlin and Charles Morris

2024 Pantry in the Park co-chairs Jenn and OJ DeSouza and Laura Ailshire

Kathryn Busch, Jennifer Howell and Lisa Bhattacharya

Kim Griffith, Katie Skipworth and Christine Howitt

Thomas and Brittany Glendenning

WFAA-TV’s Sydney Persing and Richard Solomon

Anne and Paul Corley

Ascend Dallas Launches The Summit Society To Help Women Thrive

Ascend Dallas has launched The Summit Society, a giving circle for individuals who do nate $1,000 or more annually to uplift and empower wom en.

More than 75 North Texas executives stepped up as inau gural members.

Ascend Dallas celebrated on Oct. 17 with a Summit Society Breakfast at the Park City Club.

The event, chaired by Ann Motsenbocker, gathered commu nity leaders to discuss advancing financial and economic opportu nities for women in Texas. Key note speaker Dena Jackson talk ed about progress and challenges for women related to economic equality and establishing wealth.

– Compiled by William Taylor