Dallas CASA Honors Beverly Levy for 20 Years of Service!

Dallas CASA honored Executive Director and President Beverly Levy for her 20 years of service to abused and neglected children with a surprise luncheon on Jan. 18. Government officials and dignitaries, local corporate, foundation and organization leaders, CASA volunteer advocates, CASA Board of Directors and staff, friends and family gathered at The Rees-Jones Training Center to celebrate Levy’s unparalleled leadership and dedicated commitment to changing the lives of abused and neglected children in our community.

Dallas CASA staff—Tara Rao, Cindy Warner, Lynn Brooks, Beverly Levy, Ben Wilkins, Sharon Balaban, Mary Timmons

A passionate advocate for the right of all children to be safe, Levy has worked tirelessly and courageously on behalf of justice for children. Levy’s dedication and vision have developed Dallas CASA, the third oldest of nearly 1,000 CASA agencies in the nation, into a model program for others and a critical part of the child welfare system in Dallas.

“Beverly has built Dallas CASA into one of the best agencies of its kind in the United States, not only improving the lives of thousands of children, but also improving the lives of the volunteers, employees and directors who serve alongside her at Dallas CASA,” said Mark Berg, Chairman of the Dallas CASA Board of Directors.

Since her arrival at Dallas CASA twenty years ago, the agency has grown under Levy’s leadership from a staff of seven with 90 volunteer advocates serving 250 abused and neglected children in Dallas County, to a staff of 50 with 646 advocates serving 1,753 children in 2012. To make that possible, Levy has worked tirelessly to spread awareness about the issues facing child victims, enlisted community support and funding from a variety of generous individuals, corporations and foundations and overseen the launch of numerous special events to raise additional funds.

National CASA CEO Michael Piraino, Beverly Levy, Dallas County Commissioner Mike Cantrell, Dallas County staff Traci Enna

During her tenure at CASA, Levy has implemented a variety of collaborative strategies that have contributed to making the community a better and safer place for children to live.  Among her other accomplishments, Levy facilitates the monthly judges update luncheon, gathering those involved in the juvenile court process to collaboratively effect change and help provide more positive outcomes for abused children. In 2011, Levy was named as the National CASA Outstanding CASA Program Director of the Year, and last year, Levy received the women’s Advocacy Award for Nonprofit Executives from Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.

With an eye to the future, Levy and the CASA Board of Directors, are working to engage greater support from major donors, corporations and foundations to help expand Dallas CASA service to abused children in Dallas County, striving for a day when every abused and neglected child in foster care has a powerful voice in the court and the community.

White Rock Local Market Adds Second Location

White Rock Local Market (WRLM) expands to a second location and will open first and third Saturdays of the month at Lakeside Baptist Church on Garland Road. In its fifth year, the popular farmers market also operates on the second and fourth Saturdays at The Green Spot on North Buckner Boulevard.   The first market of the season kicks-off Saturday, March 2 at Lakeside Baptist Church with Food Truck Day and live music. On March 9th, live music and chef demos will be featured at The Green Spot. A vibrant celebration of community and neighborhood, WRLM strengthens the local food economy and creates awareness of the social, environmental, and health benefits of eating local foods. Artisans, farmers and ranchers are located within 150 miles. WRLM incubates and cultivates small businesses, several which have moved on to have storefronts.   “In the four years since we began, our customer base has significantly grown and we have increased the number of vendors, so partnering with another location became a realistic goal,” says Sarah Perry, Director of WRLM. “The market allows the community access to local healthy foods while increasing production and revenue for small farms and vendors.”

In addition to the market, WRLM provides Love Your Farmer volunteer days, cooking demos, Sprouting Healthy Kids - a hands-on gardening and nutrition after school program, continues the SNAP/Lone Star food stamp program and offers gardening, cooking, sustainability and nutrition workshops.   White Rock Local Market is a 501 (c)(3) tax exempt organization sustained by contributions and memberships. Individual memberships for 2013, from Seeds ($25) to Beyond Organic ($1,000) and everywhere in between are on-sale now at www.whiterocklocalmarket.com. Membership benefits vary.   White Rock Local Market is open from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. from March 2 – December 8. The first and third Saturdays of the month markets will be located at Lakeside Baptist Church, 9051 Garland Road. Markets on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays at the Green Spot are located at 702 North Buckner Boulevard. For more information, event calendar, vendor listings and memberships go to www.whiterocklocalmarket.com.

Dallas Children's Advocacy Center to Unveil New Facility

Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC) will host a Grand Opening Ceremony on January 31, 2013 at its new facility at 5351 Samuell Blvd. There will be a formal ribbon cutting ceremony and photo opportunity for media with elected officials and lead donors at 10:00 am. The ceremony will include remarks from Mary Blake and Chuck Meadows, Capital Campaign Chairs; Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones, Rees-Jones Foundation; Steve Martin, DCAC Chairman of the Board; and Mr. Lynn M. Davis, DCAC President and CEO. There will be a performance by Classical Center Children’s Choir, directed by Tammy Gallagher and a blessing by Rev. Aaron White from First Unitarian Church of Dallas.

Tours of the new facility will start at 11:15 am and continue throughout the day until 3:30 pm. The tours will include information about the services offered at DCAC and will give attendees an opportunity to hear from DCAC staff, Child Protective Services, the Child Abuse Unit of the Dallas Police Department, and the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. Food generously donated by Central Market, La Madeline, Starbucks, Good 2 Go Tacos, Taco Diner, Sprinkles, Society Bakery, Tiff’s Treats, Jason’s Deli, and Whole Foods will be served throughout the tours.

17th Annual Spirit of Contact Luncheon

Join Contact Crisis Center for their 17th Annual Spirit of CONTACT Luncheon to be held on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas Landmark Ballroom. The event will honor 2013 Spirit of CONTACT award recipient, Dr. Kenneth Cooper and honorary chairs, Gail and Gerald Turner. The luncheon theme will be From Breaking Point to Turning Point: Listening with the Heart with keynote speaker, Former First Lady, Mrs. Laura Bush.

For Sponsorship Information, please contact Alexandra Sizemore at asizemore@contactcrisisline.org or call (972) 233-0866 ext. 315.  Click here for ticket information.

The 4th and Goal Gala

The Board of Advisors of the Darrell K Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer's Disease announce the inaugural fundraising event for the DKR Fund

Ben Willie Darrell

present

The 4th & Goal Gala

Honoring

The Man, The Coach, The Legend

DKR Fund Board of Advisor member Willie Nelson will perform at the 4th & Goal Gala, Wednesday, March 27, 2013, ACL - Moody Theater.

About Ben Willie Darrell - The 4th & Goal Gala:

B W D - 4th & Goal Gala proceeds will provide grant funding to medical schools and research organizations in Texas and their global partners in pursuit of treatment and a cure for Alzheimer's disease. Additional information and sponsorship opportunities will be announced.

The Darrell K Royal Research Fund for Alzheimer's Disease is a designated/fiscal sponsorship fund of the Dallas Foundation, a 501c3 public charity.

For tickets and Event Underwriting opportunities, please download and print the following RSVP form or follow this link to direct credit card transaction and purchase through the Dallas Foundation.

Men Standing for Life Breakfast

The sanctity of life is not just a woman's issue. Men are needed to stand and be leaders for life in our community. Join Council for Life at their 5th Annual Men Standing for Life Breakfast.  Dr. Jim Denison with Denison Forum on Truth and Culture is the Speaker. Register for the breakfast here.

"All You Need is Love" Dinner

Thursday, February 7, 2013
Doors open at 6:30pm. Dinner at 7:30pm.
Central 214 at Hotel Palomar Dallas  

Central 214's Chef Graham Dodds and guest Chef Chad Houser (Café Momentum) will be cooking up some love for the Promise of Peace Community Garden at this special five-course dinner with wine. Guests will also enjoy live music by Bob and Sally Ackerman and a raffle for a variety of luxury prizes.

All proceeds will go to the Promise of Peace Garden in East Dallas, supporting the summer kids' camps and the building of a new garden at CC Young Retirement Center on Earth Day 2013, in collaboration with Kimpton's Hotel Palomar Dallas and Central 214.

Price is $85 per person. Purchase tickets here: http://promiseofpeaceus.eventbrite.com/#

"Kissed By An Angel" Event

The “Kissed by an Angel” Girls’ Night Out event, benefiting the Clayton Dabney Foundation for Kids with Cancer, will be held on April 18th from 7:00-10:00pm.  

Created in memory of Clayton Dabney, a Dallas child who lost his battle with cancer in 1995, the Clayton Dabney Foundation helps grant anonymous gifts, last wishes, and financial assistance to families facing the last stages of terminal childhood cancer. 

Since its inception, the Foundation has served over 1,550 families throughout the United States and has distributed over $3 million in gifts, last wishes and financialassistance. More than 350 of those case requests have been fulfilled in the Houston area since 2001, and more than $525,000 in financial assistance has been distributed to families in the Greater Houston area.

Event co-chairs pictured below: Trish Alessio and Margot McCann 

Other committee members include Charlotte Anderson, Wendy Poston, Capa
Mooty, Jennifer Clark, Niven Morgan, Lisa Combs, Karen Clarke, Michelle
Johnson and Paula North.

Benefit Concert with Kelly Clarkson

Pop superstar Kelly Clarkson will give her first hometown concert in more than a year, performing at a very special show to benefit the Opportunity Education Foundation at the Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie, on March 1.

A Grammy-winning, multiplatinum singer and songwriter whose biggest hits are all bold anthems of empowerment, Clarkson is a natural supporter of Opportunity Education Foundation, which brings quality education to less advantaged children so they can improve their standard of living and work towards a brighter future. Since 2005, the Omaha-based Opportunity Education Foundation has supplied everything it takes, from learning materials and curricula to televisions and teachers' guides, to provide primary-school educations for some 500,000 kids in 11 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

The foundation now plans to expand its mission to high-school education—and to bring its programs home to needy communities in the United States. As part of this wider mission, it’s developing the Opportunity Tablet, a low-cost tablet computer loaded with powerful digital lesson plans that can be given free of charge to hundreds of thousands of disadvantaged kids.

Proceeds from the "Benefit Concert with Kelly Clarkson for Opportunity Education" will be contributed to the Opportunity Education College Fund and used to benefit the philanthropic missions of Opportunity Education College Fund and Opportunity Education Foundation. Tickets available here: http://verizontheatre.com/events/eventdetail.php?id=39313

Saint Valentine's Day Luncheon and Fashion Show

Make plans now for The Saint Valentine's Day Luncheon & Fashion Show, benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This fabulous luncheon is one of the leading fund-raising events for the North Texas Chapter and one of the top fund-raising galas for the Society nationwide. The annual event draws an audience of more than 800 social and civic leaders in the North Texas region. This year, LLS hopes to raise more than $400,000 toward blood cancer research.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center

9:45 am Champagne Reception

10:30 am Fashion Show Featuring the Spring 2012 Collection by Monique Lhuillier

12:00 Noon Awards Presentation & Lunch

Reception at Stanley Korshak immediately following the luncheon

Spirit of Tom Landry Character Award: Joshua Cobler

Lynda Adleta Heart of Gold Award: Crawford Brock

Luncheon Chairs: Angela Choquette, Maggie Kipp & Paige Slates

Honorary Chairs: Myrna and Bob Schlegel

Click here to purchase your tickets to this lovely event!

Brainiac Bowl 2013: Passport to Discovery

Tickets are now available for the 5th annual Brainiac Bowl to benefit Sci-Tech Discovery Center that will be held at Starbase Aviation in Addison on Saturday, February 23rd from 6:30 - 10:00 pm.  Brainiac Bowl is a casual, lively evening with 400 guests enjoying a themed buffet dinner, cocktails, live music, silent and live auction, and the main event - a trivia competition among tables for the coveted title of Brainiac Bowl Champions. The friendly rivalry consists of two rounds of lightening-quick play answering multiple-choice questions ranging from novice to expert in a variety of topics.

This year's theme Passport to Discovery, aptly set in a private jet hangar, will celebrate travel around the world. Each table is a team, and the team will decide on which destination to represent and coordinate "uniforms" or attire accordingly, along with a catchy team name. Brainiac Bowl does sell out every year, so gather your team of braniacs and secure your table now! Click here for more information and pictures from last year's event.

Leukemia Texas and World Wide Motion Pictures Corporation Collaborate to Battle Childhood Cancers

World Wide Motion Pictures Corporation (World Wide) has formed a collaboration with Leukemia Texas in an effort to fight pediatric cancers through the release of the award-winning film, Ways To Live Forever (www.waystoliveforevermovie.com), opening 2013 in North America. Based on the acclaimed British children's novel by Sally Nicholls, this heartfelt film tells the inspiring story of an ambitious 12-year-old boy named Sam in his battlewith leukemia. The film revolves around Sam and his best friend Felix, also a cancer patient, as they strive to achieve all their dreams and discover newways to appreciate family, friends, and all the oddities of life.

Ways To Live Forever will be released by World Wide in select theaters throughout the US, a portion of ticket sales going to Leukemia Texas, along with othercancer-related groups and organizations striving to bring awareness to both the movie and its message. In addition, publisher Scholastic has plans for a re-issue of the best-selling novel (on which the film is based) both in paperback and as an eBook in anticipation of the film’s U.S. theatrical release. The eBook will include a number of enhancements, including links to related movie clips and other bonus features.

Founded in 1970, Leukemia Texas, the only organization of its kind in the state of Texas, is dedicated to fighting the life-threatening blood cancer of leukemia through the funding of leukemia research and patient aid, where 100% of thefunds raised in Texas, stay in Texas. To learn more, visit www.LeukemiaTexas.org or call 214-265-7393.

Founded in 1977, World Wide Motion Pictures Corporation (www.wwmpc.com) is a diversified company with shareholders throughout the world, primarily involved in the development, financing, production and distribution of feature films, documentaries, short subjects, industrials and television productions. World Wide’s industry executives and board members have produced, distributed and consulted on a wide variety of film and television projects, earning Academy awards, Emmy awards, and prizes from international film festivals.

Council for Life Membership Drive

With the beginning of a new year full of possibilities, Council for Life has kicked off its 2013 Membership Drive, and they invite you to join in their effort.

Founded in 2001, Council for Life has over 875 members who dedicate their time to raising money and public awareness to encourage our culture to make decisions that support life.  The organization focuses on four platforms: Abstinence, unplanned pregnancy, abortion recovery and adoption.  Council for Life is motivated by Christ-like love and responsive compassion, and it empower women, men and youth to make life-affirming choices.

Membership dues are used exclusively for educational events and operating expenses.  The Council has donated $3.97 million to over 30 life-affirming non-profit agencies that share their mission. These organizations provide healthcare, counseling and many other resources to support men, women, youth and the unborn child.

Click here for more information. Join by January 31 to be included in the 2013 Membership Directory.

Living for Zachary HeartBeats Gala

Living for Zachary HeartBeats Gala — Unforgettable

Saturday, February 16, 2013

6 pm-Midnight

5 pm VIP Reception

Omni Dallas Convention Center Hotel

Dallas Ballroom

$175 for individual ticket

This black tie event is the annual fundraiser benefiting Living for Zachary. More than 1,000 guests are expected to attend the fourth annual occasion. The event will have a live and silent auction and raffle with 40 fabulous raffle prizes including a Mercedes-Benz lease, a Vespa, a Harley Davidson, a vacation to Cabo San Lucas, Florida, the Bahamas, extravagant diamond jewelry, a Dallas Cowboys Suite and $1000 gift cards. Guests can also enjoy cocktails, fine dining, and dancing to the tunes of Downtown Fever. For more information and to purchase event and/or raffle tickets, visit www.living4zachary.org. All proceeds from this annual fundraiser and raffle will benefit Living for Zachary.

NORTH TEXAS FOOD BANK ANNOUNCES ‘14TH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS’ FUNDRAISING EVENT PRESENTED BY KROGER

The North Texas Food Bank’s 14th annual “Empty Bowls” luncheon will be held at the elegant Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center. Guests will enjoy soups, breads and desserts provided by Kroger and several local restaurants and go home with a hand crafted bowl created by an area artisan.

Ticket prices are as follows:

• $35 in advance or $45 at the door.
• A limited number of VIP tickets are available for $100 and will allow guests early entry art 10:30 a.m. 
• “No bowl” tickets are available for $25.

Young Strings of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will provide entertainment in the beautiful atrium during the luncheon. Make sure to bring your coworkers, clients and friends out for a great lunch and to help provide food to those that are struggling with hunger! Purchase a table or sponsorship. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Food Bank that provides 130,000 meals a day through a network of 340 Member Agencies

DETAILS:

WHEN:

Friday, March 1, 2013
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
2301 Flora St.
Dallas, TX 75201 (Click here for parking map)
Parking: Garage parking is available – price depends on specific garage. Valet parking is available for $25.

INFORMATION:
Tickets can be purchased here online and at the door. Go to https://web.ntfb.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=377 for more information.

Little Volunteers Needed

Join Wee Volunteer at the Dallas Furniture Bank this Thursday for a fun family-friendly volunteer project! Dallas Furniture Bank provides furniture that meets basic living needs of individuals and families transitioning from homelessness or to others in need.

Wee Volunteers will gather on Thursday, January 24th from 4:00-5:00pm to tour the warehouse and learn about the Dallas Furniture Bank and then make 'cakes' out of towels, wash cloths and sheet sets! Please bring new towels, wash cloths and/or sheet sets to donate. The 'cakes' will be used as centerpieces at DFB's annual CHAIRity FRIENDraiser on February 20th and then given to families transitioning from homeless shelters.

This project is FREE to participate and appropriate for children ages 4 and up. Space is limited to 15 volunteers.

RSVP to michellechase@weevolunteer.org

Krewe de Roux 12th Annual Boudin Ball

The Krewe de Roux Annual Boudin Ball brings the tradition and revelry of Louisiana Mardi Gras to the Dallas area. Along with Krewe members, their guests, friends and associates, over 400 people will gather for "Carnival at the Courthouse" - a formal night of great food, an open bar, music, dancing and fun!

The Krewe de Roux presents its 2013 Royal Court on Saturday night, January 26, 2013 at its 12th annual Boudin Ball at The Old Red Courthouse in Downtown Dallas, TX. Proceeds benefit the North Texas Food Bank.

Masquerade Costumes & Masks invited. Cocktail Attire. Black Tie Optional.

Tickets: $75 per person includes complimentary drinks, heavy hors d'eourves and live music from the David Whiteman Experience. Tickets only available at www.krewederoux.com.  Must be 21 years or older to attend the Ball.

1.) What are some of the important details on your latest project? 

I've actually just finished chairing the 2012 Crystal Charity Ball. We had a wonderfully successful year as we were able to raise over 5.2 million dollars to fulfill our commitment to our 7 beneficiary agencies and our Horizon project. The Ball, which was held in December, is a thank you to our generous donors. It was a beautiful Parisian themed event and everyone seemed to have had a wonderful time.

2.) With 2013 finally arriving what are some of your plans for the new year to do in Dallas?

One of the things I'm definitely looking forward to doing is visiting the new Perot Museum of Nature and Science. I hear that it is extraordinary. In 2011, it was selected as The Crystal Charity Ball  Horizon Project and I'm eager to see the gallery that was funded by Crystal Charity Ball also.

3.) How do you spend your free time when you are not working for a Dallas project? 

I have a 17 year old son and a 15 year old daughter and they have always kept me very busy with activities involving their schools!

4.) With you being part of the most inspirational woman here in Dallas, who is it that inspires you to do bigger and better things?  

Ruth Altshuler is a woman who is a tremendous inspiration to me . She has lived a life of great service and philanthropy and she has given back so much to this community and of  course she does it all with such grace.

5.) What is your favorite quote? 

From those to whom much is given, much is expected.

Rio Comes to Southlake to help Kids!!

Kids Matter International will once again, for the 7^th time, hold their annual Black Tie Gala at the Southlake Hilton February 22 at 6:30 p.m. Each year KMI holds it’s annual banquet to raise funds in support of their global charities, which include the “Around The Block” program that clothes needy children here in North Texas.

The 2013 KMI Gala, Chaired by Becky Cole, will be an exciting affair in the styling’s and tastes of Rio de Janeiro. This year’s event features the rhythms of the Spazmatics, live and silent auctions and a cocktail reception and full casino presented by the Patron Spirits Company. Other sponsors include Texas Nissan, The Southlake Hilton and Pieter Andries Creators of Fine Jewelry.

Tickets are $3,000 for a table of 10 if purchased before the 31^st of December 2012 and $3,500 if purchased in 2013. Individual tickets can be purchased for $350. Additionally, discounted room rates are available from the Southlake Hilton. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kidsmatterinternational.com or by phone @ 817-488-7679.

Kids Matter International is a Texas based 501 (c) 3 Not-For-Profit supporting children in crisis here in Texas and around the world.

Operation Kindness Reports Record-High Adoption Numbers in 2012

We are so thrilled to share the exciting news that in 2012 more animals were adopted from Operation Kindness than ever before! Founded in 1976, Operation Kindness is North Texas' oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter.  Operation Kindness provides a healthy living environment for homeless cats and dogs until they find responsible, loving homes for those animals in their care. 

You can read more about this wonderful organization and support their mission by visiting their website here. 

Congratulations Operation Kindess on a successful 2012! 

Save the Date: The Legacy of Love Benefit & Fashion Show

www.childrensauxiliary.org 

JLCC Bingo 4 Benefits

Tickets are still available for this fabulous 'girl's day out' with Junior League of Collin County. Grab your girlfriends, mothers and daughters for an afternoon of prizes and fun. BINGO!

Tickets available at www.bingo4benefits.org

Taylor's Gift Featured in People Magazine

Locally based organization Taylor's Gift was recently featured in People Magazine's "Heroes Among Us" article. Taylor's Gift founders Todd and Tara Storch are seen with heart recipient Patricia Navarino-Winters. What an honor for the Foundation to be featured in this major publication.

Taylor’s Gift Foundation is dedicated to a life changing mission to increase organ donation to regift life, renew health and restore families. By focusing on increasing certified organ donations in the United States and worldwide, the foundation has become a positive force in changing the conversation about organ donation: Outlive Yourself.

Taylor’s Gift Foundation was founded in April 2010 following the unexpected death of 13-year-old Taylor Storch. During the past two years, Taylor’s parents and foundation founders Todd and Tara Storch have appeared on numerous national programs including “Good Morning America,” “World News Now with Diane Sawyer,” “Today” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” enlightening audiences on the power to outlive yourself. Taylor's Gift continues to inspire millions.

Register to become an organ donor and help us help those touched by organ donation. Learn more at www.TaylorsGift.org

Sci-Tech Unveils Two New Exhibits This Month

Sci-Tech Discovery Center introduces NEW mind-stretching fun with the opening of two new exhibits later this month!

Bodies in Balance includes 24 interactive stations that explore your body’s maze of complex systems that work hard to stay in balance to keep you healthy.

Putting DNA to Work, is an engaging interactive exhibit developed by the National Academy of Sciences’ Marian Koshland Science Museum. Visitors can investigate how inherited and infectious diseases are identified, examine DNA sequences, and see how that knowledge can be used to unlock the secrets hidden in our genes.

Sci-Tech is currently closed while they prepare for the new exhibits. Both exhibits open on Saturday, January 26, 2013. Visit www.mindstretchingfun.org for information on programs and events at Sci-Tech.

OMEGA + North Texas Food Bank's Food 4 Kids

Swiss watchmaker OMEGA celebrated its first Dallas boutique and partnership with the North Texas Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids program with a cocktail party and dinner. The luxury brand hosted a party at the new boutique in NorthPark Center where socialites like Katherine Perot Reeves, Eric  Reeves, Kim and Justin Whitman, Danya Anderson, Kary Brittingham, Joyce Goss, Natalie and Wilson Chu, Elizabeth Showers, Merry and Brady Wyatt, Meg and Doug Florence and Meg and Patrick McGonigle mingled with OMEGA President Stephen Urquhart. OMEGA then hosted a private dinner for the NTFB and their supporters at Kent Rathbun’s Abacus.

The NorthPark Center store, the first OMEGA boutique in North Texas, is one of four OMEGA boutiques opening in the United States in 2013. OMEGA operates 27 boutiques in the U.S.

The North Texas Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids program provides food for underprivileged elementary school children across the Dallas area. NTFB’s President Jan Pruitt was also in attendance.

North Texas Food Bank President, Jan Pruitt and OMEGA president, Stephen Urquhart cut the ribbon on OMEGA’s first Dallas boutique

Eric Reeves and Katherine Perot Reeves

Kim and Justin Whitman

Merry and Brady Wyatt

 Elizabeth Showers and President of OMEGA, Stephen Urquhart

Kary Brittingham and Monica Hunt

About Omega

Omega, the prestigious Swiss brand and member of Swatch Group Ltd., the world’s leading watch manufacturer, was founded in 1848. For more than 160 years the brand has been synonymous with excellence, innovation and precision, making it the only watch brand to be associated with the conquest of space, and the brand that since 1969 has produced the “Moonwatch” – the first watch worn on the Moon.

Faithful to its original pioneering spirit, Omega continues to make technical and watchmaking history with innovation in areas as diverse as sports timing, precision technology, and design – innovations that led to the conquest of ocean depths and space. Most recently Omega became a partner and a technical advisor of Solar Impulse, a project to circumnavigate the Earth with a solar-powered airplane.

The brand is also a major supporter of sports. OMEGA has served as the Official Timekeeper for 25 Olympic Games and will continue that role during the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games and Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic Games. OMEGA is also proud of its brand ambassador program, which has partnered with world-class athletes and celebrities such as Michael Phelps, Nicole Kidman, Cindy Crawford, Daniel Craig and Greg Norman.

Since its creation Omega’s history has been dedicated to innovation, record precision, audacious design, pioneering spirit and a tradition of excellence in watchmaking. This tradition was further demonstrated in 1999 with the launch of the revolutionary Co-Axial movement, developed with the noted British watchmaker George Daniels and constituting one of the 20th century’s major innovations in watchmaking excellence. 

For more information:  www.omegawatches.com

Charlotte Jones Anderson To Lead NCAA Final Four Events in 2014

What an exciting couple of months it has been for our dear friend Charlotte Jones Anderson. Last month, we reported that Charlotte was appointed as Chairwoman of the Board for the NFL Foundation. Anderson also serves as Chair of The Salvation Army's National Advisory Board.

It was announced yesterday that Charlotte Jones Anderson has another new title. She has been elected Chair of the North Texas Local Organizing Committee (LOC), the group responsible for hosting the 2014 NCAA Men’s Final Four Championship at Cowboys Stadium from April 6-8, 2014. 

"Charlotte is a natural to lead this effort," said Rick Baker, President & CEO of the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic. "Five years ago she led the bid process to bring this event to Cowboys Stadium."

In addition to the tournament, the NCAA will host an event similar to the NFL Experience, providing interactive areas for children, live concerts and other entertainment.

The LOC’s Board of Directors includes Anderson; Baker; George Bayoud, President of Bayoud & Company, Inc.; Rolando Blackman, former Dallas Mavericks great; Bob Bowlsby, Commissioner of the Big 12 Conference; Jay Burress, President/CEO of the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau; Hinojosa; Philip Jones, CEO of the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau; Nancy Lieberman, member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; Gina Puente, CEO and Co-Founder of Puente Enterprises, Inc.; Terdema Ussery, President and CEO of the Dallas Mavericks; John Stankey, Senior Vice President, AT&T; Kathy Saunders, VP and General Manager of KDFW FOX 4; Alan White, Chairman and CEO of PlainsCapital Bank; Frank Windegger, former TCU Athletic Director.

Prior to the 2014 Final Four, Cowboys Stadium will also host the 2013 NCAA Men’s Basketball South Regional during the “Sweet 16” on March 29 and the “Elite 8” on March 31. Tickets to the regional matchups are now on sale through Ticketmaster online at ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 745-3000. For more information on Cowboys Stadium and the NCAA tournament visit www.stadium.dallascowboys.com

Flywheel Sports Rides Into Plano

Flywheel Sports, the indoor cycling sensation, continues its expansion with the official opening of its second Texas location in Plano on Sunday, January 20, 2013.

Flywheel is inviting YOU, our lucky RSVP Calendar readers, for complimentary rides this Thursday, January 17 through Saturday, January 19. Just sign up for your free class at http://flywhl.me/plano 

Co-founders, Ruth Zukerman and Jay Galluzzo have tapped some of the region’s best talent to help spread their passion for fun, empowering, authentic fitness across the state and the nation.  “We are thrilled to share the Flywheel experience with Plano residents,” says Zukerman. “We love providing a boutique fitness experience where riders can reach personal goals and see visible results with inspiring instructors and electrifying music.”

Flywheel indoor cycling classes challenge both athletes and novices alike to transform their bodies while having fun in a state-of-the-art facility. Riders are able to track their performance and participate in friendly competition with the help of Flywheel’s proprietary on-bike and in-studio technology. As with all Flywheel locations, the Plano studio features unprecedented amenities including stadium seating, custom-made indoor cycling bikes, curated playlists by an in-house DJ, and complimentary towels and indoor cycling shoes for riders.

The Plano studio marks Flywheel Sports’ 18th nationwide location, and will offer early morning, afternoon and evening classes to accommodate any and every schedule. For more information visit the Flywheel Sports website at www.flywheelsports.com/texas

Royal Dinner Party

Yvonne Crum, the Gala Committee Chair and Martha Wyly Miller Honorary Chair of the 7th annual Fresh Face of Fashion 2013 presented by Modern Luxury Dallas, Stanley Korshak and Park Place Porsche, invite you to be part of our fundraising effort by purchasing raffle tickets for $50 each or 3 for $100 . Each of the Fresh Faces of Fashion have been challenged to see who can sell the most raffle tickets (hope you will help them!).

Your Royal Dinner Party package for 10 people with Darren McGrady, The Royal Chef includes:

• A FOUR course dinner based on dishes served at Buckingham Palace including food and wine pairing. 
• 2 Return Airfare Tickets from Dallas to London – Main Cabin.
• Autographed copies of “Eating Royally” Darren’s Top Selling Cookbook for each guest.
• Butler service to prepare your table, greet and serve your guests.
• Chef McGrady will join you after the meal to share royal stories.

For more information, you can check out the Royal Chef website here. To purchase tickets, please visit  www.sccenter.org

Drawing is to be held on 5/22/13 at the ‘Fresh Faces of Fashion 2013 Fashion Show,' (need not be present to win). 

Dallas Symphony Orchestra Vivaldi Patron Circle Young Professionals Celebrate 4th Annual Mid-Winter’s Evening

DSO’s Young Professionals Group hosts evening at Stay ZaZa Art House and Gallery

Stay ZaZa Art House and Social Gallery was the place to be for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s (DSO) Vivaldi Patron Circle 4th Annual Mid-Winter’s Evening on January 9, 2013. Guests braved rain and wintry skies to enjoy a warm evening of fun, food, and conversation featuring Dallas Symphony guest virtuoso Nicola Benedetti.

Joining the festivities were Vivaldi Honorary Chairs Kimberly and Justin Whitman; Myrna and Robert Schlegel; Haylee Dallas; Lloyd and Amanda Ward; Jose Reyes; Sal Jafar; Amy Espinosa; Clayton Floyd; and 60 other DSO supporters of Dallas’ fashionable fete set.

Against Stay ZaZa Art House and Social Gallery’s hip décor of working traffic signals, antique electric signs and wall-hung vinyl records and classic album covers, Nick Weege, DSO’s Senior Manager of Donor Advancement, introduced the evening’s entertainment, a moderated discussion with 25-year-old Scottish superstar violinist Nicola Benedetti. Aldert Vermeulen, the Dallas Symphony’s Director of Artistic Planning, quizzed the poised and beautiful soloist about her musical career; why she loves to perform beloved violin concertos; the importance of classical music in today’s society; and her thrill and honor of being appointed a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2013 New Year Honors.

Following the lively discussion, Vivaldi Honorary Chairs Kimberly and Justin Whitman were introduced and prizes were given away to guests, including a special evening at Hotel ZaZa; a CD copy of Benedetti’s new album, Silver Violin (Decca Classics), to be released February 19; and one pair of tickets to Benedetti Plays Tchaikovsky with the DSO.

Guests also received a small gift from CultureMap, the official media sponsor of the Vivaldi Patron Circle’s Mid-Winter’s Evening.

About the DSO Vivaldi Patron Circle

A network of exciting and arts-minded young professionals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, Vivaldi Patrons enjoy a variety of unique opportunities and private events throughout the year; pre and post-concert happy hours; and special opportunities to engage with Dallas Symphony Orchestra musicians, guest artists, and artistic leaders.

Taylor Boyd, Myrna Schlegel, Bob Schlegel, and Phyllis Cole

Kandace Shepard and Amy Espinosa

Cat Simmonds with Nicola Benedetti

 Kimberly Whitman, Nicole Benedetti and Justin Whitman 

8th Annual Life Lessons Luncheon

The 8th Annual Life Lessons Luncheon to benefit The Elisa Project will take place on Tuesday, January 22, 2013, at 11:30 am, at The Omni Hotel Dallas. Chaired by Ellen Cook and Jackie Moore, this much-anticipated event helps to raise awareness about the problem of eating disorders and provides funds to support the programs and services provided by The Elisa Project, which has touch the lives of more than 40,000 people in 2012.

This year’s event features writer, activist and philanthropist Katherine Schwarzenegger. In her best-selling book, Rock What You’ve Got: Secrets to Loving Your Inner and Outer Beauty from Someone Who’s Been There, Katherine candidly articulates the struggle for young women to develop positive body image in a culture that places so much emphasis on appearance. As the keynote speaker, Katherine will share with us her personal experiences as well as discuss body image, women’s issues, and youth activism.

Katherine is the Global Youth Ambassador for the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty which works create a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety. She has been awarded Seventeen Magazine’s Body Peace award and the Girl Scouts of America appointed her as the youngest member of their Blue Ribbon Commission on Healthy Media for Youth.

Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available and range from $2,500 to $25,000. Regular tables may be purchased for $1,500 and individuals tickets for $150.

For more information or questions, please contact The Elisa Project at 214.369.5222 or tep@theelisaproject.org