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Yellow And Black Tie Gala Results In a Record Breaking Fundraiser For Behavioral Health At Methodist Richardson Medical Center

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The annual Yellow and Black Tie Gala was a magical experience for Methodist Richardson Medical Center at the Renaissance Dallas. In addition to having a magician to entertain the sold-out crowd on Saturday, November 9, a record-breaking half million dollars was provided for the Center’s Behavioral Health program. Here’s a report from the field:

North Texans really know how to celebrate a good cause.  Nearly 700 guests came seeking a good time, and that’s exactly what they received at the Yellow and Black Tie Gala on Saturday, November 9, at the Renaissance Dallas Richardson Hotel!  With Honorary Co-Chairs, Levi and Loretta Davis at the helm this year, it was a record-breaking soiree in many ways – a sold-out crowd and a very successful fundraising night, with nearly a half million dollars raised for the Behavioral Health program at Methodist Richardson Medical Center. Once again, Skiles Group had provided its support as the Platinum Sponsor to ensure a successful event.

Levi and Loretta Davis*
Mikito Kiname*

The evening started with a cocktail reception, where guests such as Mikito Kiname of Fujitsu participated in a roaming magic show. Magician Diamond Jim Tyler kept the crowd enthralled with his magic tricks, while guests got into the action with the “Heads or Tails” game for a luxury Inspirato vacation. The guests were in awe of the decor as they entered the ballroom for the banquet and evening program.  During the evening program, guests got into bidding wars for one-of-a kind auction items such as an exclusive dinner for eight with celebrity chef Blythe Beck, an original Shemara Couture design, a private tour of the Arkenstone Gallery and a one-in-a-million quartz mine adventure, and an Unleash the “Fury” Sherman Tank experience!

Max and Judy Martin*
Stephen Mansfield*

Guests, including Judy and Max Martin and Dr. Stephen Mansfield, were riveted by the Call for Compassion video, which told the story of a grateful patient, Ashtyn Branum, and her road to recovery from years of substance abuse. The Branum family was in attendance to celebrate Ashtyn’s recovery.

The Methodist Richardson Medical Center is endeavoring to create a Chemical Dependency Partial Hospitalization Program, and the MRMC Foundation is seeking $2.3 million for this creation.  Approximately 30 percent of individuals that have been admitted to the Emergency Room at MRMC this past year reported unhealthy drug or alcohol use. This program will provide critical support for patients dealing with substance abuse. While many facilities are closing down their behavioral health programs due to lack of funding, Methodist Richardson is at the forefront of fighting this disease and saving lives.

Sam and Lisa Bibawi, Ken Hutchenrider and Richard Ramey*

The Foundation bestowed the Legacy Award to longtime supporters Dr. Sam and Lisa Bibawi. Dr. Bibawi is the medical director of the Methodist Richardson Cancer Center and is an ardent supporter of the Foundation. The award was presented by Methodist Richardson Medical Center President Ken Hutchenrider and Methodist Richardson Medical Center Foundation’s Board Chair Richard Ramey.  The night ended with a bang-up casino after-party, where guests partied the night away until midnight!

* Photo credit: Stacey Brooks

The post Yellow And Black Tie Gala Results In a Record Breaking Fundraiser For Behavioral Health At Methodist Richardson Medical Center appeared first on My Sweet Charity.


2020 Junior Symphony Ball Will Be High And Dry For Area High Schoolers And Partying At Gilley’s

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It may appear that Cattle Baron’s has returned to Gilley’s on Saturday, February 1, when the place fills up with a couple of thousand in western wear, but look again. The crowd will be way younger, and there will be no adult beverages being served up.

The event will be the 2020 Junior Symphony Ball co-chaired by George Austin of Jesuit, Nancy Dedman of The Hockaday School, Elena Dewar of The Hockaday School, Angelo Drossos of Greenhill, Josie Goosh of Highland Park High School, Claire Groves of Episcopal School of Dallas, Patrick Kelley of Episcopal School of Dallas, Alex Loftus of St. Mark’s School of Texas, Brooke Murray of Ursuline and Doak Walker of Highland Park High School.

From the left: (front row) Brooke Murray, Elena Dewar, Claire Groves, Nancy Dedman and Josie Gooch; (back row) George Austin, Angelo Drossos, Alex Loftus, Patrick Kelley and Doak Walker*

The area high schools that are getting together for the fundraiser include Alcuin School, Bishop Lynch, Booker T. Washington, Cambridge, Cistercian, Dallas International School, Episcopal School of Dallas, Greenhill, Highland Park, Hillcrest, The Hockaday School, Jesuit, John Paul II, Lake Highlands, Parish Episcopal, Prince of Peace Christian, Shelton, St. Mark’s School of Texas, Ursuline Academy and Woodrow Wilson.

Like the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation ball on Saturday, February 8, this one also benefits the DSOL. But unlike the very white-tie-and-tails gala at the Meyerson, this one is strictly cowboy formal — Texas tuxes for boys and dresses and boots for girls. In addition to gaming tables and snacks, Dexter will be the featured entertainer on stage.

History note: The Junior Symphony Ball is “the longest running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL), supporting DSOL outreach programs such as the Young Strings program and the Young Musicians program.” For those oldtimers who recall the early days of the Junior Symphony Ball, it was an event for which the young guests worked on their dance steps with Dick Chaplin and Miss [Louise] Finley before the big night.

Tickets are available here!

Be forewarned that the doors open at 7:30 p.m. with no admittance after 9 p.m., and a student ID or driver’s license is required for admission. Since there’s gonna be quite a crowd, why not take advantage of one of the area’s ride-sharing services? Also, no alcohol will be allowed on the premises or on the breath. They’ll have a breathalyzer just in case.

Follow the jump to check out who’s on the steering committee.

* Photo credit: James French

Mary Kate Addison, Kerrm Ahsan, Ally Aikman, Jordan Aikman, Mary Grace Altizer, Michael Anderson, Paige Anderson, Zachary Anderson, Alexandra Armer, Burke Arthur, Owen Aston, George Austin, Luke Austin, Wyatt Awtrey, Michael Bagley, Anna Baranski, Jacqueline Barnett, Jack Barton, Lily Baughman, Ramsey Beard, Sydney Bebell, John Beecherl, Philip Beecherl, Hadley Beeson, Ava Berger, Blake Bevans, Bailey Bevans, Sophie Biediger, Gabe Bines, William Blair, Catherine Blaylock, Allison Bleakney, Benjamin Blumenfeld, George Bollman, Graham Bowers, Josh Bowers, Tess Bowers, Cash Bowling, Margaret Bracken, Jackson Breard, Riley Breaux, Parker Brennan, Katie Brodsky, Charlotte Brown, Isabella Bruce, Preston Bulban, Aurore Burgaud, Claire Cahoon, John Callis, Fletcher Calvert, Riley Calvert, Colin Campbell, Emily Caplan, Riley Carter, Campbell Castleman, Will Chance, Ross Chazanow, Caitlin Chiu, Ava Christensen, Callaway Clark, Christian Clark, Kate Clark, James Click, Caroline Cohen, Charlie Cohen, Grayson Coke, Camp Collins, Caroline Collins, Isabella Collins, Jake Connelly, Christopher Cook, Ellis Copley, Amelia Cox, Billy Craft, Ben Croasdale, Trevor Crosnoe, Sarah Crow, Zain Dabbous, Lincoln Dales, Ryan Daniel, Sydney Daniels, Ella Daugherty, Matthew Davis, Morgan Day, Elle de la Garza, Nancy Dedman, Daniele DeMesy, Alyssa Dendle, Elena Dewar, Mason DeYoung, Jade Donahue, Julia Donovan, Dylan Dropkin, Angelo Drossos, Nate Dufilho, Gray Dufilho, Emilye Dullye, Caden Dundon, Dax Dundon, Rylie Dupuis, Ethan Edmundson, Lily Edwards, Arden Eiland, Buck Elliott, Drake Elliott, Taylor Elliott, Charlotte Esping, Ellie Estes, Katherine Grace Estess, Riley Fainter, Ella Fathi, Ellie Feldman, Ava Finn, Kyle Fisher, Maddie Fisher, William Fitzpatrick, Kate Flanagan, Ford Frazar, Luke Gambrell, Sarah Rose Gambrell, Emily Garberding, Preston Gerst, Sydney Ghorayeb, Celese Gierhart, Sabrina Gies, Brendan Goldaber, Owen Goldberg, Paco Gomez-Quinonez, Josie Gooch, Sydney Goodiel, Hayden Goodiel, Noah Gould, Camille Greening, Reese Greenlee, Jake Griffin, Satori Griffith, Elle Grinnell, Gracie Griswold, Claire Groves, Ava Haberer, Kate Haiman, Meredith Hallam, Henry Hallam, Gaston Hallam, Elizabeth Hammett, Katherine Hancock, Grace Handler, Jenna Hansen, Hilary Hansford, Zain Haq, Campbell Harris, Alexandra Hart, Annie Heldman, Lucas Henry, Lola Heyde, Julia Hicks, Aidan Hieber, Matthew Ho, Henry Hobson, Reid Hocker, Rance Holman, Lily Grace Hoodis, Sloane Hope, Taylor Hopkin, Elizabeth Housson, Catherine Housson, Mark Huber, Claudia Hurst, Morgan Hurst, Henry Isom, Lily Jackson, Rhodes Jackson, Luke Jacobs, Lola Jahant, Kirin Jayaseelan, Ashley Jaynes, Baron Johnson, Price Johnson, Ty Johnson, Will Jones, Amanda Jordan, Grace Judin, Julia Katzman, Patrick Kelley, Kaitlin Kelly, Lili Kelly, Sarah Beth Kelton, Margaret Kemp, Mary Warriner Kemp, Mac Kemp, Alex Kidd, Charlie King, Lizzie Kirgis, Wesley Kirtland, Juliet Kirtland, Avery Kisner, Benton Koch, Nicholas Koch, Kylie Koeijmans, Blayn Kraft, Andrew Laczkowski, Grace Lamont, Lauren Leath, Audrey Leigh, Sarah Leonard, Jake Lewis, Emily Lichty, Sophia Lindley, Mason Link, Meg Lochausen, Aubry Loewen, Alex Loftus, Jack Loftus, Sam Long, David Long, Thomas Loose, Noah Love, Kemper Lowry, Will Mallick, Megan Manning, Jackson Marburger, Audrey Martin, Sarah Martin, Emerson Mason, Lily McArdle, David McBee III, Luke McCabe, Ian McCarthy, Ryan McCord, Maura McDowell, Esme McGaughy, Mary Frances McGaughy, Evan McGowan, Max McGuire, Sophie McGuire, Shea McKenzie, Mac McKenzie, Katherine McMahon, Emory Meler, Ben Meyer, Margot Meyer, Abby Meyers, Ryan Michlewicz, Erika Michlewicz, Grace Middendorf, Genevieve Minnis, Sofia Molina, Blake Molthan, Luke Mooty, Val Mooty, Sarah Morrow, Rachel Morrow, Kate Morsbach, Preston Morway, Elizabeth Moss, Crawford Mulligan, Madison Muncy, Brooke Murray, Arrington Nelson, Ava Nelson, Finley Nelson, Day Nettle, Lillian Nettle, Grace Newhouse, Brooke Norman, Oliver Nunez, Peter Orsak, Kate Owen, Reese Owen, Max Palys, Jacob Payne, Will Pechersky, Abbie Penn, Olivia Peracchi, Lauren Pettle, Andrew Pfaff, Lydia Pigott, Peyton Plumlee, Jose’ Portela III, Eddie Raj, Mina Raj, Mary Margaret Ramey, Kathan Ramnath, Truett Ramsey, Katie Reynolds, Jack Rich, Margaret Rickman, Cecilia Riley, Lucy Roberts, Anna Robinowitz, Jake Robinowitz, Kai Robinson, Will Rocchio, John Rochon, Mac Rodvold, Elizabeth Roosevelt, Charlie Rose, Jack Rose, Anne Rubi, Dylan Rubin, William Rudnicki, Adam Russell, Austin Russell, Evan Russell, Daniel Sanchez, Kathryn Sands, Courtenay Sands, Caroline Sasso, Georgia Sasso, Case Savage, Hannah Scheel, Anna Schindel, Sarah Schmit, Sasha Schwimmer, Jack Scott, Paxton Scott, Lilly Sealy, Mary Margaret Sell, Robert Sell, Garrett Seymour, Christian Shadle, Emma Sibley, Harrison Siegel, Sophia Sinacola, Caroline Singleton, Carlie Small, Ben Smith, Hadley Smith, Sarah Smith, Caroline Smith, Sophie Smythe, Emma Sochia, Piper Soetenga, Dabney Spraker, Annie Stockard, Sam Suarez, Kathryn Sullivan, KK Swango, Abbey Swartzwelder, Emma Sweeney, Caroline Syler, Luke Szczepanski, Lydia Szuwalski, Caroline Teegarden, Kate Thomason, Ava Thompson, Elizabeth Thompson, Aaron Thorne, Payton Thurman, Lauren Tollison, Jack Trahan, CeCe Tribolet, Jeanne Tulimieri, Libby Tulimieri, Samantha Ungerman, Avery Vafa, Michael Vanesko, Luke Voorheis, Gardiner Vose, Caroline Wagner, Kaitlin Wagner, Knox Wagoner, Beck Wagoner, Annie Walker, Doak Walker, Sarah Walls, Elizabeth Walsh, Allie Warnecke, Andrew Washburne, Margo Washburne, Drew Wasserman, Lauren Watkins, Clay Watson, Henry Watson, Reid Weinberger, Colton Wheatley, Kelley Wheeler, Julia White, Emma Whitley, Lea Whitley, Austin Williams, Paige Williams, Cristianna Williamson, Owen Williamson, Abigail Willingham, Kate Wills, Meg Wilson, Madeline Winterle, Hollis Wood, Brandes Woodall, Claire Wooley, Elizabeth Woodley, River Woods, Emily Yancey, Eric Yoo, Jason Yoo, Brooke Youngblood, Sophia Yung, Avery Zulick and Kate Zweig.

The post 2020 Junior Symphony Ball Will Be High And Dry For Area High Schoolers And Partying At Gilley’s appeared first on My Sweet Charity.

MySweetCharity Photo Gallery Alert: 2020 Crystal Charity Ball

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Lara and Bob Tafel
Morgan and Keana Meyer and Sarah Jackson and Keenan Williams
Gracie Hunt, Tavia and Clark Hunt and Blair Raylee

The 2020 Crystal Charity Ball’s South American Mosaic transported 1,635 black tie supporters of Dallas County charities down south of the equator on Saturday, December 7. From the moment guests walked along the entry hallway of the Hilton Anatole, the three models costumed like a jaguar, butterfly and colorful bird on platforms in a lush jungle setting literally had even the most worldly types stopped in their stilettos and velvet evening slippers.

Polo players and Lexus LC
Tango dancers

Once inside the Chantilly reception lobby and ballroom, the flavor continued with everything from polo players and tango dancers to a menu boasting South American cuisine.

Margaret Hancock
Louise Griffeth
Janie Condon
Charles and Pat McEvoy, Mogan Malone and Marianne and Kory Lynn

An interesting plus to the evening was the attire by some of the guests like Margaret Hancock in a Patti Flowers hand-painted gown reflecting the aurora australis, Louise Griffeth in Carolina Herrera and Janie Condon in Alice and Olivia in electric bright Rio Carnival shades and 2019 CCB Chair Pat McEvoy in an Oscar de la Renta instead of the Louis Vuitton gown she picked up in Paris.

While the post is being finished up, check out the more than 130 pix at MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

The post MySweetCharity Photo Gallery Alert: 2020 Crystal Charity Ball appeared first on My Sweet Charity.

2019 Crystal Charity Ball’s South American Mosaic Tangoed Its Way For A Record Breaker

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At first, the South America Mosaic theme had some guests scratching their extension-layered locks about how to dress for the 2019 Crystal Charity Ball on Saturday, December 7, at the Hilton Anatole. Others got right to it, however, deciding to “just go bright” — or to search for a creative designer.

Lexus LC500 and polo players
Plaza Del Mercado

In the end everything came together beautifully beneath the huge South American-themed panels by event producer Tom Addis that adorned the reception area and the Chantilly Ballroom. How appropriate it was, for example, to have life-size photos of the Pampas polo players placed just behind the sleek white 2020 Lexus LC500 with a trunk-full of polo mallets that was being raffled off!

Dean Fearing and Wanda Gierhart Fearing
Peter and Amy Hegi
Jason and Laura Downing
Debbie and Nickey Oates
Gracie Hunt, Tavia and Clark Hunt and Blair Raylee

As they arrived for the year’s most eagerly anticipated event through the Hilton’s entryway, the 1,635 black-tie types were greeted by the sound of birds chirping and live models made up to look for all the world like real live South American critters. Among them were a jaguar, a colorful parrot and a Marpesia marcella butterfly, each perched atop a raised platform.

Chase and Bela Cooley and Christina and Sal Jafar
Megan and Damon Williamson
Dennis and Laura Moon
Jan and Fred Hegi
John and Barbara Stuart and Delilah and Sam Boyd

The whole night could have stopped right there, when even hotel guests in shorts and T-shirts crowded in taking selfies with the human “wildlife.” At the head of the entry was a lush green garden, complete with a fountain tailor-made for photos. But Jan Strimple’s collection of exotic creatures, it seemed, was the No. 1 attraction for the photo-taking set.

Pity those who’d arrived from the hotel rooms above, or via other entryways. They soon found themselves going against the grain, like salmon straining upstream for a gander at all the excitement.

Gloria Eulich and Mark Varel
Bruce Dietz and Gail Fischer
Louise Griffeth

Other buzz of the young evening came from Gloria Eulich and Mark Varel, who said they were looking forward to their wedding in a couple of weeks… Newlyweds Wanda Gierhart Fearing and Dean Fearing were making their first official black-tie outing since tying the knot last summer… On the other hand, newly divorced Gail Fischer announced with a big smile: “I’m never getting married again!”… Only a few hours earlier, Louise Griffith reported, she’d been ringing the bell for the Salvation Army. Then she changed into a Carolina Herrera gown for the ball.

Peggy and Dan Meyer
Tucker and Rich Enthoven
Steve Solomon and Claire and Dwight Emanuelson

She wasn’t the only one! Also clad in Herrera were Kristina Whitcomb, Claire Emanuelson, Peggy Meyer, Cynthia Mitchell, Gracie Hunt, and Tucker Enthoven, next year’s CCB chair. 2019 Chair Pat McEvoy, meantime, was wearing a last-minute Oscar de la Renta in place of the  Louis Vuitton that husband Charles McEvoy bought for her last year on a trip to Paris. Meantime, Patti Flowers and Michael Faircloth were locked in a tight race to be named the most popular dress designer at the ball from Dallas.

Kristina Whitcomb, Kim Quinn, Pat McEvoy, Shelle Sills, Jennifer Dix and Anne Besser
Margaret Hancock
Hunt Biggers, Ciara Cooley and Lisa and Clay Cooley

Patti’s creations were donned by the likes of Kim Quinn, Anne Besser, Lisa Cooley, Robin Carreker, Linda Evans, Diane Frank, Susie Gekiere, Jennifer Gunin, Alison Malone, Beth Thoele and Margaret Hancock. (Margaret’s frock, by the way, was hand-painted silk organza, with a creative theme adapted from a photo Patti took on a trip to see the Northern Lights.)

Tiffany and Paul Divis
Suzy Gekiere, Christy Berry and Ola Fojtasek
Kenny and Lisa Troutt and Anita and Truman

Michael, however, was not to be denied his share of the fashionable action, with Sue Ann Scala, Stephanie Scala, Tiffany Divis, Carrie Levering, Lauryn Gayle White, Elsa Norwood and Elizabeth Webb in his designs. Lisa Troutt even wore the creation that Michael had designed for the 2019 Sweetheart Ball that she chaired earlier in the year.

Greg and Kim Hext
Malcolm and Vinnie Reuben
Piper and Mike Wyatt
Amy McEvoy, Charles McEvoy, Marianne Lynn and Sunie Solomon
Don and Robyn Conlon
Pam and Vin Perella
Olivia Kearney and Marjon Henderson

Those rounding out the designer scene included Jennifer Dix in Reem Acra (her gown was emerald green, with South American palm leaves embroidered into the fabric); Kim Hext in Solace London; Susan Farris in Monique Lhuillier; Bela Cooley, Ciara Cooley and Candace Winslow in Marchesa; Sunie Solomon in Dennis Basso; Francie Moody-Dahlberg in Roberto Cavalli; Robyn Conlon in Jenny Peckham; Vinnie Reuben in J. Mendel; Piper Wyatt and Wanda Gierhart Fearing in Valentino; Pam Perella in Zac Posen; Marjon Henderson in Aidan Mattox and Olivia Kearney in Mackenzie Brittingham.

In the accessory category, Leiber once again was a handy choice to stow away lipsticks; Jimmy Choo, Louboutin and Manolo tied in the foot race; and Bachendorf’s Eiseman and Sue Gragg were the top gems.

But the hands-down best accessories of the night were the ladies’ dates, who held their own when it came to attire, and then some. Among them were Richard Dix, in a green velvet tuxedo jacket from Edward Baumann Clothier; Tom Mitchell, Steve Solomon and David Condon in Armani; Greg Hext in Burberry; John Farris in Southwick; Dwight Emanuelson in Hadleigh; Vin Perella in Tom Ford; and Mike Wyatt in “a classic navy blue tuxedo topped with a red plaid bowtie.”

Tango dancers
Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse
Michael and Amy Meadows
Michaela and Trey Dyer
Tom and Cynthia Mitchell
Francie Moody Dahlberg and Kevin Dahlberg

In keeping with the South American theme, guests were greeted by tango dancers on the ballroom floor, as violinists atop tall platforms provided the beat for the dancers’ expert moves. Later, a big band-style ensemble played dinner music (“The Look of Love,” “At Last”) before giving way to a very loud disco/soul group that had everyone — including Annette Simmons and Jerry Fronterhouse, Amy and Michael Meadows, Francie and Kevin Dahlberg, Wanda and Dean and Cynthia and Tom — up and showing off their moves. Alas, the musical group was so loud, one fellow said he was going to go home to find out if he could still hear.

Crystal Charity Ball chairman’s table
Jerry and Kelli Ford
Richard and Missy Fisher
Peter Kedwell and Margot McKinney
Luanne McWhorter and Gayle Porter
Lana and Jovan Todorovich and Rich and Mimi Sterling

Dinner was a feast for most, like Kelli and Jerry Ford, Missy and Richard Fisher, Anita and Truman Arnold, Lana and Todorovich, Mimi and Rich Sterling, Tim Adair, Michael Flores with Douglas Carney, Luanne and Aaron McWhorter and Aussies Margot McKinney and Peter Kedwell. On the menu were a first course of coriander crusted king scallop with corn and wild mushroom relish and roasted corn jus; an entrée of cotija crusted seared beef tenderloin with aji creamy demi, onion chorizo stack, asparagus, charred carrots, cipolini onion and blistered tomatoes; and a delicious dessert of South American coffee chocolate delight. All was complemented with Beringer Private Reserve Chardonnay and Ehlers Cabernet Sauvignon.

However, a handful of tables near the dance floor went dry. It seems that the wine service didn’t quite make it there. Instead, guests were left to depend on their water glasses, which eventually went empty and stayed that way — along with their glassware cousins — until the entrée plates finally were cleared away. Upon seeing the table drought, a senior server came to the rescue with bottles in hand.

But who really cared about a late sip? The reality of the night was a record-breaking raise of $6.8M+ resulting from a year’s work to benefit Child and Family Guidance Center, Community Partners of Dallas, Cristo Rey Dallas College Prep, For the Nations Refugee Outreach, Interfaith Family Services, Jubilee Park and Community Center, Los Barrios Unidos Community Clinic, Mercy Street, Promise House and Readers 2 Leaders.

For more than 130 looks at the evening, check MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

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JUST IN: The Dallas Opera’s 2020-2021 Season Revealed With The Addition Of A World Premiere And Viva Diva!

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The Dallas Opera’s 2020-2021 season was just announced in the Winspear’s conference room with all types of news. To kick off the announcement, TDO Kern Wildenthal General Director/CEO Ian Derrer announced the following “Embrace The Passion!” season operas:

  • “The Marriage of Figaro” – Friday, October 9; Sunday, October 11 (m); Wednesday, October 14; Saturday, October 17; Friday, October 23 and Sunday, October 15 (m)
  • “Lohengrin”* – Friday, October 30; Sunday, November 1 (m); Wednesday, November 4 and Saturday, November 7
  • “The Diving Bell And The Butterfly” (A Dallas Opera World Premiere) – Friday, March 5; Sunday, March 7 (m); Wednesday, March 10 and Saturday, March 13
  • “Orfeo ed Euridce” – Friday, April 9; Sunday, April 11 (m); Wednesday, April 14 and Saturday, April 17
  • “Tosca” – Friday, April 16; Sunday, April 18 (m); Wednesday, April 21; Saturday, April 24; Friday, April 30 and Sunday, May 2 (m)

    Bela and Chase Cooley (File photo)

The two “special events’ for the season include two biggies — one familiar and one brand new, both being co-chaired by Bela and Chase Cooley.

The familiar one will be the black tie “First Night” that will take place on the first night of the operatic season (aka Friday, October 9) at the Winspear with a pre-performance seated dinner, the production and an after-party with the cast of “The Marriage of Figaro.”

The new event is “Viva Diva!” on Friday, November 6, with Grammy Award-winning soprano Joyce DiDonato onstage with The Mrs. Eugene McDermott Music Director Emmanuel Villaume conducting The Dallas Opera Orchestra. The program will include Jake Heggie‘s song cycle, “Camille Claude/: Into the Fire” (composed for the artist), “The Death of Cleopatra” by Berlioz, and two works by Beethoven, just in time for the composer’s 250th Birthday celebration!

Ian Derrer, Joby Talbot and Gene Scheer
Leonard Foglia

One of the highlights of the day’s presentation was the presence of “The Diving Bell And The Butterfly” lead team of British composer Joby Talbot, librettist Gene Scheer and director Leonard Foglia. Based on the best-selling book about the late Jean-Dominique Bauby, it was an undertaking that was deeply personal for Gene, who had spent much time getting to know Bauby’s wife and children.

Joby, whose “Everest” premiered at the Winspear in 2015, described returning to the Winspear for the world premiere of “The Diving Bell and The Butterfly”: “I couldn’t be happier about returning to my operatic ‘home’ of Dallas for my new collaboration with Gene Scheer.”

And speaking of “Everest,” the trio departed the press conference midway to catch a plane back to Austin for the opening night of “Everest” at the Austin Opera.

Other season highlights include the following:

  • The 2021 Robert E. And Jean Ann Titus Art Song Recital on Sunday, January 31, at Moody Performance Hall
  • The Hart Institute For Women Conductors Shows on Friday, February 19, at the Winspear Opera House
  • The Dallas Opera National Vocal Competition, with the finals being held on Saturday, May 1
  • The 2020/2021 Family Performance Series at the Winspear – “Doctor Miracle” on Saturday, October 24, and Saturday, March 6; and “Jack and the Beanstalk” on Saturday, October 10, and Saturday, March 27, 2021.
* Evening performances will begin at 7 p.m.

The post JUST IN: The Dallas Opera’s 2020-2021 Season Revealed With The Addition Of A World Premiere And Viva Diva! appeared first on My Sweet Charity.

Dallas CASA’s Young Professionals Partied It Up For The 5th Annual CASABlanca

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While more than 2,000 Junior Symphony Ball guests were in jeans and boots raising funds for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s programs at Gilley’s on Saturday, February 1, the Dallas CASA Young Professionals were all gussied up over at The Hall on Dragon to play games and dance the night away for Dallas CASA. Here’s a report from the field:

More than 400 of Dallas’ most glittering young people gathered at The Hall on Dragon Saturday, February 1, for Dallas CASA’s 5th annual CASAblanca. The evening featured casino games, a live band and a room full of guests committed to fighting child abuse. Hosted by Dallas CASA’s Young Professionals group, CASAblanca raises funds to support child victims of abuse and neglect living in foster care because it’s not safe at home.

Bela and Chase Cooley*
Corey Holmes and Elise Nichols**
Tommy and Megan Sterquell**

The black tie event was chaired by Bela Cooley, Elise Nichols and Megan Sterquell and presented by The Hiduke Foundation. Men wore tuxedos with everything from cowboy boots to velvet slippers, while the women sparkled in sequins, long dangly earrings and jumpsuits. The young crowd gathered around blackjack and craps tables, enjoying spending their pseudo money to earn chances at prizes.

CASAblanca dancing**

A silent auction featured a basketball signed by Luka Doncic and a signed Dirk Nowitzki jersey, both donated by longtime Dallas CASA supporter The Dallas Mavericks Foundation. There were also local staycations, a lake weekend, three pieces of artwork, air pods and a yellow gold necklace with diamond pave pendant donated by Susan Saffron Jewelry Boutique.

The evening’s entertainment, The Special Edition Band, hit all the right notes playing standards such as “Unforgettable,” “The Best Thing,” “Respect” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Passed appetizers included spring rolls, parmesan meatballs, fried macaroni and cheese balls and crab rangoon. Chefs created fresh chicken fried rice with shiitake mushrooms and baby boy choy served in take-out containers. The evening ended with take-home chicken in honey biscuits.

Scott Buchanan and Kay and Bob Schleckser***
Jonathan and Christine Bassham**
Allie and Kenneth Wherry**
Kelsey Higginbotham, Linda Swartz, Stephanie Rios and Kathleen LaValle***

Dallas CASA Board members in attendance included Board Chair Bob Schleckser and his wife Kay Schleckser, Jonathan Bassham and his wife Christine Bassham, Beth Cholerton and her husband Ed Cholerton, Janice Davis and husband Richard Davis, Cynthia Pladziewicz, Linda Swartz with her entire family and Kenneth Wherry and his wife Allie Wherry.

Dallas CASA Young Professionals is an auxiliary support group of Dallas CASA open to young people between the ages of 21 and 40. The group raises critical funds for and awareness about Dallas CASA, which recruits, trains and supervises community volunteers to serve as advocates for children.

* Photo credit: Andy Williams 
** Photo credit: James Coreas 
*** Photo credit: Rosanne Lewis

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JUST IN: 2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala Co-Chairs, Honorary Co-Chairs And Details Revealed

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Spring has hardly had time to spring, and music lovers are already plunging ahead. Word has it that the 2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala will take place on Saturday, September 12, at the Meyerson benefiting the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.

Paul von Wupperfeld and Andy Smith (File photo)
Mary and Rich Templeton*

And what a Texas Instruments night it will be! In addition to TI Foundation Executive Director Andy Smith and SMU Planning Operations Director Paul von Wupperfeld co-chairing the night of cocktailing, dining, music and after-partying, the honorary co-chairs will be Mary and TI CEO Rich Templeton.

According to DSO President/CEO Kim Noltemy, “Texas Instruments and the Texas Instruments Foundation have played a part in the Dallas Symphony’s success for decades. The founders of TI instilled a dedication to corporate responsibility and philanthropy that has defined generations of the company’s giving and volunteerism in our city. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Texas Instruments Classical Series, we are thankful for TI’s leadership and vision for how companies can help build stronger communities, which is the model for corporate support here in Dallas.”

Fabio Luisi**

Being part of the fundraising for the first time will be DSO Music Director Fabio Luisi, who will be on the conductor platform for the night.

For an encore performance, Capital One will once again return to serve as the Gala Concert Sponsor.

Capital One Financial Services President/Dallas Symphony Association Chair Sanjiv Yajnik explained, “Capital One is committed to investing in the communities where we live and work, and the arts represent a critical piece of our city’s thriving culture. From the established Young Strings program to the newly-launched Southern Dallas Residency, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s education and neighborhood programs are fostering a love for music in our communities, and nurturing leaders of tomorrow with the skills, tools and resources they need for a vibrant future.”

Tickets and sponsorships for the entire night are available by contacting Tab Boyles at 214.871.4045.

Expect more details about the night to come in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, start shopping for that killer outfit that will be at the opening event for 2020’s fall black-tie fundraising.

* Photo provided by Dallas Symphony Association 
** Photo credit: Barbara Luisi Photography

The post JUST IN: 2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala Co-Chairs, Honorary Co-Chairs And Details Revealed appeared first on My Sweet Charity.

A Gentle Reminder: MySweetCharity Calendar Needs You

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MySweetCharity*

While it may seem ages away, fall fundraising is underway. Folks are queuing up sponsors, patron party locations and even new fundraising events.

Created back in January 2013, the MSC Calendar’s sole purpose was to help get the word out and let others know that North Texas nonprofits are staking their territory for a certain date. The hope was to prevent fundraising collisions.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t always worked. Want proof? How about Saturday, February 29, (aka the worst tsunami of February North Texas fundraising) or Saturday, April 27 (wine lovers vs. art lovers)? In fact, the entire month of April is enough to implant wrinkles on the most filler-enhanced middle-ager.

The basic listings are still absolutely free. Don’t you love that four-letter word! But, of course, there are upgrades. After all these years, they’re only $25 per upgrade, but don’t tell the MSC accountant.

So, if you have an event that’s not listed on the MSC Calendar, here’s the form to submit the information.

* Photo credit: Skeeter Hagler

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MySweetCharity Photo Gallery Alert: 2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball

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Savannah Troutt and Maddie Esping
Sara TaCito and Georgia Hallam

While all the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Balls have been brilliantly fun fundraisers for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the 2020 ball had just a whiff of change and more fun on Saturday, February 8, at the Meyerson. Perhaps it was the change of plans having the debs gather their white gowns and head backstage immediately after the group photo. Even that was a little different. In addition to the very proper portrait shot of the debs, the Gittings’ team let them take a debs-having-fun photo.

2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball Debutantes

Regardless nary a deb missed her legendary Texas Dip and all of the Honor Guard escorts were front and center to assist the debs to their feet to the delight of their family and friends.

For a check of the debs being presented and the fun of the night, check out the MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

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Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Debs (Texas) Dipped And Danced The Night Away

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Like the swallows returning to Mission San Juan Capistrano, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Gala debutantes in their billowing white gowns were presented on stage at the Morton Meyerson before family and friends on Saturday, February 8. While the Gittings portraits were lined up at the lobby entrance, the Renaissance Foyer and the upper level Loge Terrace were filled with beautifully decorated tables for the seated supper that would follow the presentation. The scene was set for the 32 debs and their Honor Guard escorts to rule the night.

2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Gala Debutantes

Following the group photos of the debs and the Honor Guard, the girls in white gowns headed to the Meyerson’s backstage area and the guests made for the lower level lobby for a reception. There, 2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra Presentation Chair Melissa Lewis was checking her cellphone on the whereabouts of her husband, Buddy Lewis. It seems that he had left his credentials somewhere. Melissa mentioned that they should just forget the search for the document, laughing that she “had pull to get him in.”

Melissa Lewis and the 2020 Honor Guard

Barry Hancock had the coolest accessory of the night. After a snow-skiing snafu resulted in a collision, damaging his ACL, Barry had a cup-holder attached to his left crutch. When a photo was required, wife Margaret Hancock in her Patti Flowers 2019 Crystal Charity Ball gown quickly stepped in, enabing Barry to set his crutches aside.

Stan and Sara Lee Gardner and Barry and Margaret Hancock
Elizabeth and Eric Gambrell
Lisa and Kenny Troutt

The looks of the night were fashionably formal for the most part, with Deb mother Elizabeth Gambrell in blue and white Herrera, for example. (Husband Eric Gambrell was resplendent in red sash and white tie; cracked Eric: “Just call me Mr. Ambassador.”) Lisa Troutt was in an emerald gown by Stanley Korshak’s Mackenzie Brittingham.

But there were a few oops, too, like the gal in a size-too-small red jumpsuit. Then there was the young lady in a short white dress with black fringe hem and partial sleeves that would have been right at home in a 1920s speakeasy.

Jason Downing was a man caught between two daughters. Daughter Caroline Downing had already bowed in 2018 and was president-elect for the Symphony Assembly. On hand for the night was daughter Katherine Downing, whose future includes a bow on the Meyerson stage next year. When asked whether his white tie and tails could be recycled for Katherine’s debut, he got a resounding no-vote from wife Laura Downing. When he suggested that the girls’ white deb gowns might also be drafted into wedding duties when the time came, he was vetoed once again.

Mike and Sharon McCullough
Laura and Jason Downing and Katherine Downing

Mike McCullough with wife Sharon McCullough was receiving congratulations on receiving the Vance Miller Award at the Gentleman’s Evening at the Dallas Country Club on the previous Thursday night. Mike admitted surprise at the unexpected honor.

Sara TaCito and Georgia Hallam
Avery LeVoyer
Ellie King
Grace Crenshaw
Kate Jones and Wade Jones
Savannah Troutt and Maddie Esping
Natalie Ward and Shelby Nelson
Kathleen Gamso and Kendell Sigel

Meanwhile, the debs were backstage in their final stages of preparation for the presentation. While some rehearsed their Texas dips with event producer Jan Strimple, others chowed down on cheese and fruit and water or just chilled with pals and papas like Eric Gambrell, Wade Jones and Marc Sigel. 2019 deb Kathleen Gamso was backstage too, helping to coordinate things. When one person complimented her on her 2019 bow, Kathleen thanked the person, proudly adding that she was the first special-needs deb.

Then, just as the Meyerson chimes sounded, everyone took their places, both in the symphony hall and behind the curtain. Kristi Hoyl was attending her first DSOL Deb Presentation and was warned that it was not going to be a sedate night of controlled applause and stiff upper lips. She seemed surprised but prepared as guests took their seats and waited for the program to get under way.

Kristi Hoyl
Kim Brannon
John Gilmore and Linda Burk

For the most part, though, the presentation came off without a hitch. Kim Brannon, president of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, kicked things off before bringing on Melissa. Also recognized were Honorary Chairs Dr. Linda Burk and Dr. John Gilmore, the various Presentation Ball committee chairs and then the venerable Stan Gardner, who would serve once again as announcer. As each of the 32 debs (Emily Baschab, Audrey Berner, Isabella Cox, Grace Crenshaw, Gracie Davis, Maddy Duvall, Maddie Esping, Eleanor Gambrell, Georgia Hallam, Hunter Hart, Kate Jones, Izzy Keene, Ellie King, Katie Kottwitz, Mary Kumpf, Avery LeVoyer, Catherine Magee, Audrey Magnuson, Allie McWhorter, Shelby Nelson, Grace Olson, Annalea Pedigo, Beth Ryan, Kendell Sigel, Margaret Smith, Campbell Swango, Sara TaCcito, Julia Tribolet, Savannah Troutt, Natalie Ward, Brynn Weakley and Genny Wood) was called to the stage in turn by Stan, there were only  a few rafter-raising whoops and screams for particular debs and bows that amazed all.

Annalea Pedigo
Catherine Magee and Kevin Magee
Hunter Hart
Gracie Davis
Beth Ryan and Brint Ryan
Allie McWhorter and Alex McCullough
Campbell Swango and Max Swango
Julia Tribolet and Pat Tribolet

 

Genny Wood and David Wood
Marc Sigel and Kendell Sigel

When everyone repaired to the dinner-and-dancing area, they saw the tables laid out for a repast that would include green salad, grilled beef filet and either a lemon curd tart or a Mexican chocolate torte. First, though, there was the Grand Waltz to take care of. Before the presentation had begun, Marc Sigel admitted that he hadn’t been a dancer at his wedding, and that he wasn’t expecting much to come of the post-presentation dad-deb first dance of the night. But lo and behold, when the Taylor Pace Orchestra struck up the first notes of “Moon River,” Marc and daughter Kendell Sigel were front and center on the dance floor, looking quite at home.

For loads of more looks of the night, check out MySweetCharity Photo Gallery.

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April 30 Updates On Cancellations, Reschedules And Postponements

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Despite the phase one of the reopening of businesses tomorrow, North Texas nonprofits are still adjusting their May events with cancellations and postponements. Here’s today’s rundown:

Canceled

Rescheduled

  • The Widow’s Journey’s Our Love It Forward Fundraiser And Awareness Event scheduled for Saturday, May 2, at The Highland Hotel is rescheduled for Saturday, May 1, 2021

Postponed To A Date To Be Determined

2019 Sweetheart Ball (File photo)
  • Katy Trail’s Better/Best reception scheduled for Wednesday, May 13
  • Sweetheart Ball scheduled for Saturday, May 16

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May 15 Updates On Reschedules, Postponements And Going Virtual

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With officials handing out mixed signals about the status of the North Texas reopenings, pity the poor nonprofits that are trying to juggle cacti for fundraising activities. The new round of changes involving May, June and even October events include the following:

Rescheduled

Rusty Duvall and Thomas Mullins (File photo)
  • Equest Women’s Auxiliary’s Luncheon and Style Show scheduled for Tuesday, October 8, at Brook Hollow Golf Club is rescheduled for Tuesday, November 3
  • Sweetheart Ball scheduled for Saturday, May 16, at Brook Hollow Golf Club is rescheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2021

Postponement

2018 La Fiesta De Las Seis Banderas Duchesses

Going Virtual

2019 Cotes du Coeur (File photo)

If you’re yearning to get out of your rabbit hole and attend in person, or just want to stay in your jammies sans makeup for a virtual experience, sign up. The North Texas nonprofits are depending on you!

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JUST IN: 2020 Crystal Charity Ball Theme Announced Was A Surprise Delivery

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Since this year is demanding creative types to go into overdrive, the 2020 Crystal Charity Ball committee has been burning up their brain cells to raise funds for Dallas County children. One of the challenges was how to announce the theme for the black-tie ball on Saturday, December 5, at the Hilton Anatole.

Traditionally revealed at a private home in the spring, those plans were victims of the shelter-in-place orders. A new delivery of the news was thought up that would have made the Royals proud.

2020 Crystal Charity Ball theme box
2020 Crystal Charity Ball theme box contents

On Tuesday, 150 regal red boxes wrapped up in Union Jack ribbons and Harrod’s key chains with Buckingham guards were hand-delivered to the top sponsors throughout the area. When opened, the announcement from 2020 CCB Chair/town crier Tucker Enthoven was that the theme would be “Majestic Britannia.”

Underneath the sealed layers of white tissue and crinkle-cut paper were a note that the announcement had been underwritten by Texas Capital Bank and a collection of goodies like a Union Jack, a mini-bottle of Beefeater, Walkers shortbread, Charbonnet and Walle Milk Marc de Champagne truffles and a Big Ben container with English Breakfast tea.

It looks like the the annual fundraiser will going across the ponds for the 2020 beneficiaries ( ).

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Dallas Symphony Orchestra Is Tuning Up For A Couple of Major Fundraisers

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If ever North Texas needed a little music, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra is going to provide it. The staff has been busy charging ahead with plans for the fall and winter with some big fundraising events. And they’ve even tweaked them to be social-distancing friendly.

Andy Smith and Paul Von Wupperfeld (File photo)

First on the calendar will be the annual Dallas Symphony Orchestra Gala on Saturday, September 12, at the Meyerson. It will be Louise W. and Edmund J. Kahn Music Director Fabio Luisi’s first DSO Gala. Instead of shipping in a featured performer, Co-Chairs Andy Tell and Paul Von Wupperfeld have arranged for the DSO musicians to be the centerpiece presenting some of the most famous orchestral music from the world of opera.

Joining Andy and Paul in leading the symphonic fundraiser will be Honorary Co-Chairs Mary and Rich Templeton.

But this year’s Gala is going to be streamlined. The evening will kick off with the performance followed by a seated dinner. That means the cocktail reception will be missing and the after-party will take place at a point later in the season.

Returning for the holidays will be the Second Annual C-Suite Christmas on Wednesday, December 9. It was such a hit last year with area business leaders taking part on stage at the Meyerson with the DSO that Event Chair Amy Carenza has arranged for this year’s crop of executives to include Billingsley Company Founder/Partner Lucy Billingsley, Americas Strategic Holdings LLC Chair Steve Durham, Hall Group Chair/Founder Craig Hall and Roberts Trucking Inc. CEO Quincy Roberts to appear.

Steve will be doing double duty. In addition to his being part of the C-Suite artists, a scholarship for the DSO’s education program will be named in his honor recognizing “his incredible contributions to North Texas.”

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August 7 Updates: Cancellations, Going Virtual, Postponements and Reschedules

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On the boot heels of 2020 Cattle Baron’s Ball’s cancellation, more notices of change of plans are coming in with September appearing to be the hardest hit.

Here’s today’s rundown of developments:

Canceled

Cattle Baron’s Ball Trailblazers (File photo)

Going Virtual

New Friends New Life (File photo)

Postponed To A Date TBD

Rescheduled

First Night (File photo)
  • West Dallas Community School‘s 25th Anniversary Gala scheduled for Thursday, September 10, at The Belo Mansion has been rescheduled for Wednesday, April 21
  • Dallas Opera’s First Night scheduled for Friday, October 9, at the Winspear Opera House has been rescheduled for Friday, March 5
  • Dallas Opera’s Viva Diva! scheduled for Friday, November 6, at the Winspear Opera House has been rescheduled for Monday, May 10

Despite the damage being done to North Texas fundraising by COVID-19, there is good news. From the recent reports of case reductions, it appears that the donning of masks and socially distancing are paying off.

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JUST IN: 2020 Crystal Charity Ball Is Canceled But Fundraising Will Continue For Children’s Charities

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In its 68-year history, Crystal Charity Ball has provided more than $149,387,669 for children’s nonprofits in Dallas County. This past February the committee of 100 committed to raising $7,870,020 for eight beneficiaries (Ability Connection, Catch Up and Read, Center for Vision Health, Children’s Medical Center Foundation, Foundation for Callier Center for Communication Disorders, Healing Hands Ministries, Mommies in Need Inc. and North Texas Food Bank). A month later, COVID-19 invaded North Texas like the rest of the country and life dramatically changed. Nary a nonprofit was left unscathed by the disease.

2020 Crystal Charity Ball committee (File photo)

Today 2020 CCB Chair Tucker Enthoven announced the cancellation of the 2020 black-tie gala scheduled for Saturday, December 5.

As Tucker explained, “After developing and analyzing multiple venue, food, and entertainment options for the Ball, we have concluded that an in-person event is not appropriate this year given our concern for both the health and well-being of our donors and vendors and the economic uncertainty brought on by the pandemic.”

But just because the Ball is canceled doesn’t mean that the CBB-ers are throwing in the towel. During the first week of December, both the luxury Silent Auction and Contribution Ticket drawing will be held online, as will the distribution of the 2020 Children’s Book.

So, while the Ball will not take place, the generosity of the supporters will hopefully achieve this year’s goal. After all, it’s not about a party; it’s about the children of Dallas County.

History note: The only other time that CCB canceled the ball was in 1963 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy that took place just days before.

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JUST IN: 2021 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Deb Announcement Dinner Canceled

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Word just arrived that tomorrow (Wednesday) night’s Dallas Symphony Orchestra League debutante announcement dinner at the Dallas Country Club has been canceled.

2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball Debutantes (File photo)

DSOL Presentation Ball Chair Mari Epperson and DSOL President Anne Ligon have also made a change in the ball itself. Instead of it taking place on the original date of Saturday, February 13, they’ve moved it to Saturday, June 12, at the Morton Meyerson.

The roll out of the 2021 debs will be revealed soon.

Looks like June is gonna be formally busting out all over for fundraising. La Fiesta De Las Banderas’s 2021 black-tie fundraiser is scheduled to take place at the Hilton Anatole the week before on Saturday, June 5.

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JUST IN: DSOL’s 2021 Presentation Ball May Be Canceled But Will Bow Again 2022

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With the arrival of the new year comes news from all types. Unfortunately, the first is a cancellation of an event that raises a heck of a lot of money.

Late last year Dallas Symphony Orchestra League President Anne Ligon and DSOL’s 2021 Presentation Ball Chair Mari Epperson announced that the formal presentation ball at the Meyerson on Saturday, February 13, would be postponed until Saturday, June 12.

It was a hard decision, but they had already soldiered through the year of canceling events leading up to the big fundraiser. They probably realized that the COVID-19 restrictions would still be firmly in place. And besides, the presentation of debutantes in white ball gowns and escorts in white tie and tails wouldn’t quite look right wearing masks… even designer masks.

According to Anne, “The Presentation Ball, which was first held in 1987, is the largest fundraiser for the DSOL, and we look forward to continuing to raise critical funds for essential programs for the DSO [Dallas Symphony Orchestra].”

But over the holidays word was making the rounds that even the June date wasn’t all that viable. An even harder decision was just officially announced that “the 2021 Ball had to be cancelled.”

According to Mari, “The decision was not made lightly.  Initially, the date was changed from the historical February date to June 12, 2021, as we hoped the pandemic would be under control and this memorable event could still be held with a few modifications. The DSO staff, DSO League leadership and the Ball Advisory Committee gathered to assess the situation and we were disappointed to reach this difficult conclusion… feeling that for the health and safety of our Debutantes, the Honor Guard, guests, staff, musicians and numerous vendors, it was best to not proceed with the 2021 Presentation Ball.”

However, there is good news arising from this decision. Mari reported that “all 2021 Debutantes (Nora Arnold, Audrey Hanna, London Boscamp, Abigail Brannon, Eliza Davis, Katherine Edwards, Virginia Fielder, Sophie Hung, Ashley Isenberg, Madigan Jacoby, Jessica Katzman, Claire Koonsman, Brett Landin, Story Langston, McKinley Lawson, Elizabeth Mocek, Kaitlin Murray, Abbey Perry, Rachel Pope, Mary Tarver Reid, Isabella Scott, Abby Stanford, Tory Wicklund, Annie Saustad, Annie Sawers, Ella Varel and Kelsey Wittmann) have been invited to participate in the 2022 Presentation Ball.”

From the left: McKinley Lawson, Tory Wicklund, Claire Koonsman, Abigail Brannon, Kaitlin Murray, Rachel Pope, Nora Arnold, Virginia Fielder, Katherine Edwards, Eliza Davis, Story Langston, Annie Saustad, Sophie Hung, Abbey Perry, Ella Varel, Kelsey Wittmann, Madigan Jacoby, Annie Sawers, London Boscamp and Elizabeth Mocek*

That way the Debs and their families that had already signed up will be able to enjoy the full menu of activities.

Another earlier planned part of the 2021 Ball had been to be the honoring of Ball Founder/First Chair Tincy Miller, First Co-Chair Sharon McCullough and Barbara Averitt, “who have all worked with the Ball from the inception.”

Mari explained, “The vision and hard work of these ladies have made the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Presentation Ball a time-honored tradition that has touched thousands of lives and raised over $12 million for the Dallas Symphony’s Education and Outreach programs. Although the DSOL will not be able to honor these outstanding women on stage this year, we would like to recognize their leadership, vision and love for the arts community in Dallas – especially the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.”

* Photo credit: Gittings

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January 8 Update: Cancellation, Going Virtual and Rescheduled

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There is no reality show that could hold a whisper compared to this past week. From pandemic to politics, the world seemed to be suffering a dizzying migraine. However, the North Texas nonprofits were continuing to amaze even skeptics maneuvering to do the best as it started 2021.

A year ago at this time, the calendars were like a sumptuous buffet of events with high hopes of the fundraising days ahead. But how quickly lipstick was replace by masks and ballrooms filled with hundreds of supporters were replaced by computer monitor/cellphone screen get-togethers.

Here is an update of North Texas events that have adapted to COVID-19 restrictions:

Canceled

2020 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League debs (File photo)

Going Virtual

Tracy Walder*
José Andrés**

Rescheduled

Bryan’s House***
  • Bryan’s House’s Pathways To Inclusion Luncheon originally scheduled at Belo Mansion for Wednesday, April 7, is rescheduled for Wednesday, September 22

Please remember that while these ain’t the good old days, the charitable needs of the good old days have only increased with greater needs among those affected by the past 10 months.

*Provided by National Council of Jewish Women Dallas Section 
** Photo credit: Blair Getz Mezibov 
*** Graphic courtesy of Bryan's House

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JUST IN: Decision Announced About The Dallas Museum’s Art Ball And Art In Bloom Events

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While both the local and national groundhogs decreed this morning that we’re in for six more weeks of winter, the area fundraisers are also making decisions about the future.

This one just arrived from the Dallas Museum of Art’s Eugene McDermott Director Agustin Arteaga, who had to make a very tough call for two of the Museum’s big fundraising events.

Neither the Art Ball nor Art In Bloom will be held this year.

Art Ball (File photo)

Agustin explained, “As you all know, we have been keeping a close watch on the many movements of the pandemic and how it affects our ability to hold our spring fundraising events, Art in Bloom and Art Ball. We’ve also been looking at other area nonprofits and how they are responding to our current situation with high COVID cases and the slow vaccine rollout.

Art In Bloom (File photo)

“With all of this information, we have made the difficult decision to cancel both of these spring fundraising events. Thoughtful consideration of all scenarios was made by the event chairs, Staff and Board leadership, and with the health and safety of patrons and supporters top of mind.  We all want to ensure guest safety and agreed that postponing these events until 2022 is the most prudent and in the best interest of all involved.

“We are deeply indebted to Art in Bloom Chair Sila Grogan and Co-Chair Pat McDonough as well as Art Ball Chair Brian Bolke for their hard work, passion and dedication to both of these fundraisers and look forward to their partnership as we look towards 2022.”

On the other hand, the DMA is open for touring, both in person and virtually. This month alone it will feature three new exhibitions including “Curbed Vanity: A Contemporary Foil by Chris Schanck,” “Devoted: Art and Spirituality in Mexico and New Mexico” and “Frida Kahlo: Five Works.”

The post JUST IN: Decision Announced About The Dallas Museum’s Art Ball And Art In Bloom Events appeared first on My Sweet Charity.

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