Armstrong Elementary sets new Guinness World Record

The Guinness Book of World Records may want to consider opening up an office in Dallas. Last week Tango Tab organized an effort and set a new record for the most sandwiches made simultaneously and today, Armstrong Elementary school in Highland Park ISD welcomed Guinness World Records adjudicator Sara Wilcox to witness history being made, as they broke the world record for "Most People Wearing Cat in the Hat" hats.

Guinness World Records adjudicator
Sara Wilcox

The existing "hats" record was 281 and was set by New York City schoolchildren at an event organized by Random House Children's Books and the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation at New York Public Library Feb. 4, 2013. Armstrong set out to double that record with more than 700 hats ready for 583 students, 68 staff members and a crowd of parent volunteers.

The Cat in the Hat, along with his friends Thing One and Thing Two, mixed it up during the celebration, thanks to the Dallas Children's Theatre. "This is fun because it gives students a unique way to express their joy of reading," Armstrong Dads Club President Mario Santander said.

Principal Dr. Skip Moran said that sharing the excitement with students and parents has been half the fun. "Our greatest goal for our students is to develop a love of reading as a lifetime skill, and our partnership with parents in supporting students' learning is a key to their world class achievement," he said. "Thanks to the support of our Dads Club, Dr. Seuss Week is a fun way to celebrate reading at Armstrong Elementary."

Congrats to the Armstrong Eagles!!

O-Venture gets a Leg Up from Spanx

Spanx® founder Sara Blakely recently named Janie Cooke and Caroline Nix, founders of Dallas-based O-Venture, among the newest Leg Up® winners.

“Everybody needs a leg up when starting a business,” said Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx. “Mine came when Oprah named SPANX a ‘Favorite Thing’.” Since the “Oprah-moment” that catapulted Spanx from a small start-up to a household name, Blakely has been on a mission to pay her success forward and empower women to reach their full potential.

O-Venture offers leather key chain accessories designed for women, by women. These oversized bangles lessen women’s unnecessary baggage—literally—with a hands-free design that can be worn over the arm and easily found in a cluttered purse. The founders, Janie Cooke and Caroline Nix, both mothers and friends, were looking for a way to use their creativity to help other women. They aimed to make life easier while staying stylish and developed this oversized key ring to help women simplify, stay organized and keep their hands free for what’s most important. “For every woman who’s spent hours of her life rummaging for keys, this key ring is the answer,” Blakely said. “The Big O is a fun, stylish solve that offers women the often needed extra hand, literally!”

The Leg Up program was created to offer women entrepreneurs and their businesses a chance to be promoted to millions of Spanx fans via the catalog, website and social media channels, including The Rear View blog. Amidst a growing number of applicants, this company was selected for their fun, stylish products and bright ideas. Cooke and Nix join the rankings of 20 female entrepreneurs to benefit from the program since its start in 2010.

To learn more or purchase your own Big O Key Ring, visit https://www.o-venture.com.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat with Dallas United Crew

(Press Release) Looking for an exciting activity that gets you fit and into nature while on the waters of gorgeous White Rock Lake? Then sign up now for the rowing and dragon boating classes offered this spring by Dallas United Crew (DUC), Dallas’ largest youth oar and paddle sport organization in North Texas that offers comprehensive programs for all ages. Beginner and intermediate classes for adults and youth begin as early as March 4 and are offered at various times throughout the spring season. Online registration is available at dallasunitedcrew.org. Ideal for people of all athletic backgrounds and ages, adult rowing uses eight-man sweep boats instructed by DUC coaches who teach basic rowing technique and boat handling and safety while conducting effective physical and mental workouts.

Founded in Southern China centuries ago, dragon boating consists of 20 paddlers in a 46-foot-long boat with a steers person, moving to the beat of a drummer and paddling to cross the finish faster than their competition. No experience is required; however, boats will be organized based on skill level. Experienced rowers are welcome. “We find that once people try rowing, they’re hooked. Dallas United Crew is ideal for people of all athletic backgrounds and ages. Not only is it a lot of fun, but rowing is a full-body, low-impact workout that is a terrific way to get or stay in shape,” said Jonathan Stevens, the DUC program director and former SMU crew coach and college athlete. “Best of all, you’re out on White Rock Lake, one of the most beautiful spots in Dallas.”

Little Day Dresses take a modern approach to classic styles for today's women

Little Day dresses walked the runway at The Pin Show on Feb. 22, 2014
photo c/o Sterling Steves

Little Day Dresses wants women to shuck their sweats and lose their yoga pants in favor of her stylish, well-made, comfy dresses that are cut and sewn right here in Texas. Designer Kristen DeRocha has always had an eye for style and talent with thread and needle. When sporting her own designs, she is often stopped and asked, "Where'd you get that great dress?" It was a question that led to the birth of Little Day.  DeRocha says, "LDD is for your 'little day' - your everyday. Your wedding is your big day. All of the other days are your 'little days.' It's also a play on the Little Black Dress." Since launching in October 2013, DeRocha and her business partner, Austin-based Vesta Garcia, have sold hundreds of dresses online.

Peekabo dress in Scarlett

"The dresses are inspired by vintage styles, but completed by conveniences to make the wearer's life easier including pockets, easy care fabric and cuts that are flattering in the right spots and forgiving in others," says DeRocha. As a busy mother of two, who plays bass with the local band, Lovie, DeRocha has designed the kind of dress she that fits her busy life: something versatile, chic and comfy.

Little Day Dresses can be paired with heels for a night on the town, with ballet flats for a day at the office, layered with a scarf and cardigan for a trip to the playground and with chunky boots in for a rock show in Deep Ellum.

It's no secret that my favorite designer is Lela Rose because of her modern take on 1950s silhouettes. I asked DeRocha what is it about this era that she's drawn to as a designer? "I feel a strong trend in the market towards things that are beautiful and feminine. The pendulum has swung in feminism back to a point in our culture where we are taking charge of and owning the things that make us women, including beauty and clothing," she states.

Annual UCR Retail as Art Competition Inspires Student’s International Photography Career

Annual UCR Retail as Art Competition Inspires Student’s International Photography Career 
Photography competition helps hone high school photographer’s talent behind the lens
by Silver Hogue

When 17-year-old Abby Chang entered her first student photography contest on a whim in 2012, she never thought that two years later she would be shooting natural disaster footage as a field photographer for an international aid organization. Chang, currently a junior at The Einstein School of Plano, first entered the 2012 UCR Retail as Art photography competition, which awards thousands of dollars in scholarships each year to area high school students, at the behest of her North Dallas High School art teacher Brian McClure. “I didn’t realize there was an actual career aspect to photography until after I explored it in depth. Before I had just thought it was a hobby. [The contest] definitely opened me up to other opportunities in photography. I was able to find out that photography is a career path that a lot of people pursue and it made me realize it’s an option for me as well.”

Chang initially began taking pictures on her cell phone while commuting to and from school in South Korea. “I was a dormitory student and didn’t really see my parents until the weekend,” said Chang. “I had a lot of time to myself and being a foreigner and not really having a lot of people to connect with, I started to take a lot of pictures on my phone. That’s what started it.” McClure said Chang’s cultural background and experiences make her photography work stand apart from the average student. Under McClure’s guidance, Chang won third place in the 2012 Retail as Art competition and went on to win second place the following year. She said the experience gave her the confidence to explore photography as a career.

Let the bidding begin! Art From the Heart kicks off with a Preview Party

Last Thursday,  Jones Walker Home provided Dallas Challenge the opportunity to preview art that will be up for bid at the 5th Annual ART FROM THE HEART Celebrity Art Auction & Benefit, a fundraising event featuring the artwork of celebrities and professional artists. This chic affair will be held at Seven for Parties in the Dallas Design District on Friday, April 25, 2014 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Attendees to the Preview Party were able to not only be the first to view select pieces, but kick off the bidding and set the tone for this year’s auction frenzy! Co-chairs LeeAnne Locken and Lindsay Lee McCain played host to a crowd that included fashion designer Elizabeth Anyaa, Britt Harless of Bohem Unique Gems, Janet Fresquez, Shane Walker, Hamilton Sneed, fashion designer Charles Smith II, and blogger Tiffany Hendra.

Mad Hatter Shane Walker becomes the Masquerade Man

DIFFA/Dallas recently unveiled plans for the House of DIFFA 2014, the organization’s annual gala and largest fund raising event. Inspired by the legendary Carnival of Venice, House of DIFFA 2014’s theme is a black tie Masquerade ball. Patrons are encouraged to wear traditional Venetian masks. The best mask will be judged for originality, quality and design, and awarded during the course of the evening.  DIFFA's annual gala is always one of the most stylish and exciting annual charity events in Dallas and this year's soiree will take place at 6:00pm on Saturday, March 29th at the Omni Dallas Hotel and promises to be filled with the hottest fashions and attendees. Simona Beal will serve as this year’s honorary chair for House of DIFFA 2014. This year's Event Chairman is longtime DIFFA/Dallas board member Jim DiMarino.

Shane Walker

Floral designer Shane Walker is the genius behind many of the elaborate and over the top chapeau's at the annual Mad Hatter's Tea at the Dallas Arboretum, so it's no surprise that Walker has been inundated with calls to create masks for this event.

"I can give you a few hints about the people behind the mask and what they are wearing," says Walker. "There will be a mask that is made from sculpted black leather and encrusted with gold metal findings, chains and bling. Move over Ga Ga!

I also have a guy that is pretty over the top and his personality always shines just like his mask! His mask will be all silver and black and heavy on the Austrian Crystals. He also ordered a solid rhinestone bow tie to compliment the jeweled masterpiece!

 Oh, and let's not forget about the two guys from Florida arriving in for DIFFA. They will be sporting matching mask made of sculpted black leather and embellished with gold spikes of different sizes! Spikes don't always go on shoe's! I will be designing a mask to replicate a black raven! It will literally look as if he could take off in flight at any moment."

Any thoughts I had about buying a mask at Party City long since flew out the window...

Flip Flop Fashions from Katydid Collections

So many of the designers I work with are high brow and high-priced that it's always nice to get a box from the mail from Katy Messersmith at Katydid Collections.  Based in Dallas, Katydid Collections makes fun, everyday wear. Hers are the kind of shoes and tees that I wear in my daily life to work from home, run errands and hit the lacrosse fields to watch a game. Katydid's latest offerings include fun flip flop designs for college fans. Available for $24.95 in a variety of schools. Shop the collection online.

Arts Spotlight: The hottest live performance happenings for this week

This Week in Dallas Theater
by Jayne Herring

There is so much happening this week in the performing arts scene here that it makes my head spin. Since it grates my nerves when my fellow Dallasites mention that there is nothing to do, I am here to help. Below is my list of suggestions for what live performances you should catch this weekend, depending on your taste or mood. And since you procrastinated, check these links to see if there are any last-minute deals. Let's get cultured, Dallas.

Interested in a Family-Friendly Broadway Classic? Sincerely one of my favorite touring productions to come through Dallas, Godspell at the Winspear Opera House is entertaining from start to finish. The 10-actor and 5-musician cast sings, dances, and acts out parables from The Gospel According to Matthew, using rock, pop, R&B, ragtime, improvisation, and even rap. Funny and truly powerful regardless of your beliefs, the overall message is one of love. And as Joseph Campbell taught, you don't need to believe the stories are true to get the message. Tuesday through Saturday 8pm, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30, and Sunday 7:30pm

Edgy? Do you remember the classic Greek tragedy you studied in high school about the man who is destined to murder his father and marry his mother? (Maybe you don't but have dated someone with the complex named after it.). In Dallas Theater Center's Oedipus El Ray, playwright Luis Alfaro puts a Chicano delinquent into the tragic hero role and sets this story in an L.A. prison yard, staged on a 6 by 8 foot space surrounded on all sides by the audience. (Think being on the set of HBO's Oz.) Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday at 7:30pm, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, and Saturday and Sunday at 2pm in the Wyly's Studio Theater. Directed by DTC treasure Kevin Moriarty; contains adult themes, violence, language, and nudity.

Music's next big thing might just be 13-year old Rhea Raj from Dallas

Could Dallas' Rhea Raj be the next big thing? Sources say this 13 year old is someone to keep an eye on...

Since beginning her performing journey at the age of nine, Raj has released six original singles on iTunes® and has two music videos released worldwide on VEVO® through YouTube.  Raj’s style of music is a blend of pop and dance rock, infused with electronic, synth and dub-step sounds that are fresh and soulful.

Raj is a singer, songwriter, pianist, guitarist who writes, arranges and composes all of her own music. Impressive. She's spent the last 4 years working with famous vocal coach Linda Septien, who's worked with the likes of Jessica Simpson, Beyoncé, Selena Gomez and Demi Lovado.

Her debut album is set to release in March. Learn more at http://www.rhearaj.com.

Meet "The Last Akaway" author Gary Karton

I am always encouraging my son to read. Getting lost in a good book is like transporting yourself to another world, place or time. The experience can be magical and transformative. Not to mention that reading helps expand your vocabulary!  If your kids loved Harry Potter, then chances are they will also fall in love with "The Last Akaway" by Gary Karton.

Published by Brattle Publishing Group of Dallas Texas, “The Last Akaway” is the first in a trilogy by author Karton. “Akaway” recently received a Bronze Award in the Preteen Fiction Fantasy category of the Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards.

In “The Last Akaway”, Brody Boondoggle and his big brother, Jake, see things very differently. Eleven-year-old Brody believes in special powers and spirit animals and all the extraordinary energy in the world that can lead to magical adventures. Twelve-year-old Jake doesn’t. He is sensible and realistic. He likes the certainty of video games, and believes only what he can see. Unfortunately, that doesn’t include the magical Akaway, wounded by the quirky video game creator Uncle Skeeta. The evil gamer sees the Akaway as a major threat to his empire and devises a scheme to destroy the Akaway. But the two brothers, guided by their quirky grandmother, finally agree to work together in a quest to save the last Akaway and preserve the creative powers of children everywhere.

Meet Gary Karton on Saturday, March 1

• Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street. Readings, Q&A and book signings at the Perot will be 9:30 am and 10:30 am as part of their new Saturday Science Bytes series. Admission to Science Bytes is free with regular museum admission. 
• Barnes and Noble, Preston Royal, 5959 Royal Lane, Ste. 616 reading and signing will be at 2:00 pm. Admission is free at the Barnes and Nobles Book Store

This post was brought to you by Brattle Publishing. For more information visit www.brattlepublishingstore.com. While I did receive compensation for authoring this post; product selections, descriptions, and opinions are 100% my own. 

Shop Springs Trends with Oh So Cynthia on March 6

Join lifestyle blogger, Cynthia Smoot of Oh So Cynthia, on March 6 from 6-8pm to shop the latest in Spring fashions from Neiman Marcus Last Call Studio. Cynthia will offer her take on the latest trends for Spring around 6:30pm. Shoppers will enjoy sips and sweets and receive $10 off any 1 item priced $100 or more. There is no cost to attend, but RSVP's are requested. Please email your attendance to rsvpnmlastcall@neimanmarcus.com or call 972-733-0427 by March 4.

Fashion Magic at The Pin Show 2014

Rochelle Rodriguez, c.h.r.o.m.a., Coco Franco  |  photos c/o QC Cong 

The Pin Show has become known for featuring the latest in locally produced, independent fashion on a runway. Originating as a liaison for independent designers to gain access to stylists, artists, retail buyers and the like, this unique Dallas fashion show has gained tremendous momentum and a devoted following and support by those in the Dallas fashion industry.

The Event Nerd provided pre-event fun.
Did they capture my spunky spirit?!

While most designers are Texas based, the most recent Pin Show featured designers from all over Dallas, Houston, Fort Worth, and Louisiana. This year's show included 15 new designers and 8 veteran designers for a total of 24 lines hitting the runway.

Among the stylish scouting for new looks were Gina Ginsburg, Hamilton Sneed, Jackson, Bri Crum, DFW Style Daily's Lisa Petty and Leah Frazier, Steve Kemble, Charles Smith II, LeeAnne Locken and Aftershock London's Imran Sheikh.

Each designer showcased 6 looks on the runway, featuring menswear, women’s Ready-To-Wear, avante-garde, bridal, jewelry, handbags, intimates, full figure and resort wear. Designers for the 2014 show included: c.h.r.o.m.a, Thriii, Kae & Jae, Little Day Dresses, Becky Hollands, Coco franco, Charmaine Marshall, Cykochik, Marek + Richard, Hardly, Alice, megMORGAN, yomono, folksy menswear, Rochelle Rodriguez, Le'Venity, LHP, blokes n divas, Melancholic Design, Tracy Popken, Ann Hoang by Ann Hoang, Gia Rodriguez, This One Woman and Sandbarri.

Veuve Cliquot reminds Dallas to drink more champagne

Last Tuesday night, I was invited to attend a Veuve Cliquot tasting event at Bistro 31 in Highland Park Village. D Magazine said of the event, "the pairings dinner showcased Veuve’s versatility amongst elegance. A favored destination within the Park Cities, Bistro 31 set the perfect scene as Champagne flowed freely. The abundant staff was buttoned-up, and executive chef Eric Brandt was at the top of his game."

My fellow champs lovers included our host for the evening, Bag Snog blogger Tina Craig; the Schlegel sisters: Kim, Kari and Krystal; Sea of Shoes blogger Jane Aldridge; The Fashionistas founder, Heidi Dillon; FD Luxe editor Christina Geyer, Amy Havins, Merritt Beck, and a handful of other media types.

We were treated to Veuve's Yellow Label, La Grande Dame Blanc 2004 and Demi Sec. Each blend was paired with a entree selection created by Bistro 31's chef.  To see pretty pictures and read a more in-depth review of the evening, click over to Wes Wells post on SideDish. Why Dallas for this #VC Tasting? "Because bubbles and Southern hospitality go hand in hand," tweeted Veuve Cliquot at the end of the night.  #LeDuh.

photo: Veuve Cliquot on Twitter

The Great Adventure Hunt tests players brain power to raise funds for ChildCareGroup

(Press Release) The sellout crowd at The 2014 Great Adventure Hunt, benefiting ChildCareGroup, hunted the night away on Saturday, February 8 at the Joule, all in the name of a great cause! Presenting Sponsor Alliance Data, major sponsors Bank of Texas, Brown-Forman, The Joule and 40 team sponsors raised more than $200,000 through The 2014 Great Adventure Hunt to support ChildCareGroup’s early childhood education programs. The raffle and live auction sales raised more than $25,000, thanks in part to co-chair Daryl Johnston and Hunt participant Emmitt Smith, who used their famous teamwork to help encourage generous bidding during the live auction. With big changes to this year's Hunt, including a new location, emcee and puzzle master, attendees enjoyed a fun and fast paced Hunt put on by this year's co-chairs Diane and Daryl Johnston, Amanda and Byron Neuhoff, and Kit and Kemp Sawers.

The puzzle solving was timed, and speed alone broke a three-way tie between the 2014 first, second, and third place winners. The 2014 Overall Champion was the Baker Botts, LLP team, led by Bart and Elizabeth Showalter. Teams won fun prizes for Best Team Name and Last Place. The JPMorgan team, led by Dotti Reeder, ChildCareGroup’s immediate past Board Chair, won the “Whodunnit!” End Clue, which solved the murder mystery of the CLUE-themed evening. Event Details A unique departure from a traditional gala, The Great Adventure Hunt is a fun and clever puzzle-solving hunt.

WFAA throws down a cooking challenge. Tre Wilcox wins it with a TKO.

WFAA's Mike Castelucci gave Top Chef alum Tre Wilcox a challenge: Cook a gourmet meal for 6 people for under $10. The challenge had another dimension to it. Tre had to spend his $10 at the $.99 store.

Did you know that the $.99 store had produce and meats?! I had no idea!

This would be a daunting task for any chef or home cook, but Tre rose to occasion and took this challenge head on. I was one of the invited guests who had a front row seat at Tre's downtown condo for this little experiment.

Click to watch the segment below to see the entree Tre created and our reaction to the details of Tre's limitations:

Nab Celebrity Art at Art From The Heart on April 25

Richard Rawlings art creation

Co-chairs LeeAnne Locken and Lindsay Lee McCain will lead the 5th Annual ART FROM THE HEART Celebrity Art Auction & Benefit benefiting local nonprofit Dallas Challenge on Friday, April 25, 2014 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

This signature fundraising event will feature an array of exciting highlights that include the artwork from local and national celebrities, personalities, athletes and chefs. Willie Robertson from Duck Dynasty, Jane Aldridge from Sea of Shoes, Richard Rawlings from Gas Monkey Garage, the cast of Discovery's Fast 'N Loud, Chynna Phillips, David Feherty and Lisa Loeb are just a few of the celebrities already confirmed to donate pieces to this year's event.

Artwork from select professional and young artists (most from Dallas Challenge youth programs) will also be up for auction. Wearable art in the form of luxury, designer and fashion items from fashion designers Nha Kahn, Abi Ferrin, Charles Smith of SMITH II, and Prashe will add an interesting twist to the auction line-up.

Help break the Guinness World Record for the most number of people making sandwiches simultaneously on February 22

TangoTab, a Dallas-based company that provides deals to diners eating out, and meals to those in need, is celebrating its second anniversary on 2/22 with a good deed unlike any other. TangoTab, joined by LaDainian Tomlinson (LT), Mike Modano and more than 1,000 volunteers, will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most number of people making sandwiches simultaneously on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Anatole Dallas.  During this attempt, tens of thousands of sandwiches will be made and donated to local North Texas non-profits. To break the Guinness World Record for the most number of people making sandwiches simultaneously, more than 1,000 volunteers must be making sandwiches simultaneously. Pictures, video, and officials from Guinness will certify the attempt. Afterward, local organizations including the North Texas Food Bank, Soup Mobile and Metro Relief will distribute the sandwiches to local citizens in need.

To be a part of this record-breaking attempt, volunteers must sign up at www.breaktheworldrecord.com. It is free to attend, and volunteers are simply asked to sign up for the event, and bring with them three loaves of bread, two packs of 16-slice bologna and two packs of 16-slice American cheese (all for under $10). Everyone who is a part of the record-breaking attempt will have their name listed at www.breaktheworldrecord.com. Self-parking at the Hilton Anatole Dallas is complimentary for volunteers for the event.

photo: Wolfhawk46 via Kindspring

DSM's Little Mermaid is No Damsel in Distress

DSM's Little Mermaid is No Damsel in Distress 
by Jayne Herring

The Little Mermaid is in town, although it's a tad different than the 1989 film version or the 2008 Broadway version, and refreshingly so! Disney teams seem to have learned that modern mommies aren't keen on pushing the theme of searching for an enchanted prince who will rescue would-be princesses and make their dreams come true. Even their fairly recent film adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen story has now been modernized even further, presenting instead a young woman who is searching for where she belongs, and a strained father - teenage daughter relationship where both wish for better communication.

Sassy crab Sebastian (my favorite in the film and this stage version, played at DSM by Alan Mingo, Jr.) is still offering guidance, but not so much protection; this lady doesn't need it. Thank goodness! The set, lighting, choreography, and the colorful costumes all work together beautiful to give the effect of being under water, and I was glad to see that flying was introduced to this production after being nixed from the Broadway version in favor of roller-shoes (awkwardly). It all adds the sweetest amount of spectacle without being overwhelming.

Artists Take Over Valley View

As a shopping center, Valley View Center has been on the decline for years.  Now, the aging retail destination is getting a breath of new life as it turns from a shopping mall to a gallery haven, thanks to the Beck Family. With a vision to give back to the art community, Scott Beck opened Gallery At Midtown and Artist Studios inside Valley View Center. Several moths ago Teresa Frosini at CBS interviewed Douglas and KiKi Winters who were the first artists to open their art gallery last year and now are the directors of the project. “This gives artists a starting point and be able to grow their business and move forward.”

Gallery At Midtown showcases art from several artists, others own their own galleries. There are a total of 100 artists, from the emerging to the well known. Steve Tate has shown his art in some of the best galleries in Dallas, now he’s happy to have his own gallery and share his art with others. Buy why did he choose Gallery At Midtown? “At first I think I had some reservations, then I saw the quality of artists that were coming in here and then I thought if you’re a customer you can come here, you can shop, eat then go explore the galleries and see a show right under the same roof. What else could you want? It’s perfect.” Each month Gallery At Midtown and Artist Studios host an art walk where you can meet all the artists.

Conan O'Brien is coming to Dallas March 31-April 3

CONAN is saddling up for a whole week of shows live at the Majestic Theater in Dallas, Texas from March 31st through April 3rd, 2014. Guests and programming highlights will be announced soon. To attend one of CONAN's Dallas shows in person, you can sign up for free tickets at teamcoco.com/DALLAS starting February 18th. To be alerted via e-mail when tickets become available, please subscribe to the Team Coco Newsletter.

North Texans Kaylee Rutland and Brandon Chase advance in Belk's Southern Music Showcase Contest

Kaylee Rutland

This week Belk announced the semi-finalists for the company’s 2014 Southern Musician Showcase. Chosen from more than 2,000 submissions, the 33 semi-finalists will now perform at live auditions in Live Nation venues in Atlanta, Nashville, Austin and New Orleans. Winners of those auditions will move on to a final competition in Charlotte at the end of March.

"We were very pleased with the response we received from musicians from across the country,” says Jon Pollack, Belk's executive vice president of marketing, sales promotion and eCommerce. "We’re looking forward to seeing all the semi-finalists perform. The Showcase is giving Belk the opportunity to highlight musicians from the South or influenced by the South, and to give them the opportunity of a lifetime."

Kaylee Rutland from Dallas made the cut in the Pop Country category. Rutland is an 18-year old contemporary country music singer/songwriter and native Texan. According to her website "her young, soulful sound and sweet, angelic disposition are well-received by audiences of all ages. Kaylee plays keyboard and guitar and has a passion for reaching others with encouraging and uplifting messages through her music and writing style."  Kaylee recorded her first EP in Nashville in September, 2012.

Celebrate President's Day at the Dallas Arboretum

To celebrate President's Day on Monday, February 17, the Dallas Arboretum is planning an all American celebration themed "America the Beautiful." Admission is $5 at the gate, and active and retired military get in complimentary with identification. The discount applies only to those purchasing tickets onsite at the ticket booth. "It's a beautiful day to come to the Dallas Arboretum and to enjoy some all American fun with something for everyone," said Mary Brinegar, president of the Dallas Arboretum. "All children are also encouraged to dress as their favorite president and participate in the costume contest with an all American judge."

Special children's activities include face painting, a petting zoo, Presidential trivia and a tree scavenger hunt. There is also a costume contest for children coming dressed as their favorite president and prizes for the best costumes. The judging begins at 12:00 p.m. at the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage. The celebrity judge is Miss Texas Ivana Hall who was crowned in 2013. A Cedar Hill native, she competed in the 2013 Miss America competition. Miss Hall will also be available for autographs and photo opportunities. Throughout the garden, patriotic music will greet visitors, and when hungry, guests can purchase $1 hot dogs, $1 popcorn and $1 fried cherry pie. Guests can also watch the horticulture staff build the two 13-foot peacock topiaries that will be ready for the opening of the 30th anniversary of Dallas Blooms on February 22.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218.

Catch WFAA's Dale Hansen on ELLEN today

Last Sunday Missouri's All-American defensive end Michael Sam — the SEC's defensive player of the year and expected to be a third to fifth-round pick in the NFL draft — told the world he was gay. A lot of people had a lot to say about that statement and there is rampant speculation about how it will impact his chances in the upcoming NFL draft. WFAA's Dale Hansen threw in his two cents and his comments caused quite a stir. You can watch his segment below:

Southern Living names Most Stylish Southerners. See which Dallasites made the list...

"From forward-thinking shop owners to nationally recognized designers" Southern Living magazine rounded up 75 of the best-dressed entrepreneurs living in the South in this month's issue. So, which Dallas fashion icons made this illustrious list?

#11 Michelle Nussbaumer, Principal Designer and Founder, Ceylon et Cie

Nussbaumer claims, “Southern style is set apart by tradition, elegance, and timelessness. It is reminiscent of English country houses with inherited pieces and of course, great hospitality.”

#49 Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, Editor-at-Large, Southern Living* 

Whitman opines, "Dallas is full of women who love to embrace their own personal style regardless of trends. I love that women here are confident enough to follow their own path and wear what works on them."

Although the title of their article claims that 75 are on this list, only 53 are featured on the website. To see who the other 22 people are I guess you'll have to pick up this month's issue! Click through to the story to see the 53 Stylish Southerners who are profiled.

photos: Southern Living

Chooze Shoes introduces WeeChooze for Babies

In July 2012, OSC Contributor Jayne Herring brought us the story of Dallas designer Sharon Blumberg. Her cleverly named CHOOZE shoe line has the mission of inspiring children to dream big and impact the world in a positive way. An artist, designer, and (most creatively) a mother of three, she designed a line of children’s shoes that embraces the powers of choice and individuality. A fun and colorful (and 100% vegan) pair from her collections will compliment each other but will never match.

"The line is constantly growing and evolving as we have grown tremendously since we launched only two years ago," Blumberg told me. She has recently added a new line of baby shoes, called WEECHOOZE to the collection.  Additionally, they have added many new print combinations and have enhanced the shoes in many ways, including removable, molded, anti-microbial insoles and are now using new materials while remaining true to our vegan roots. "We introduced backpacks this Fall as well," says Blumberg, "but we only did a soft launch with 3 color ways. This summer we will be introducing the full line of CHOOZEPACKS with two-sided backpacks and lunch boxes."

Dallas Chefs Lead Food Tour to Lima, Peru

Chefs Tiffany Derry and Uno Immanivong will lead a foodie tour to delight your sense and taste buds in and around Lima, Peru. Due to immense quality and variety of its food, Lima has been declared the Gastronomic Capital of Latin America. The gastronomic boom Lima is experiencing has led to an explosion of more successful and innovative restaurants than ever before. Now you can join two of Dallas' top chefs on the culinary adventure of a lifetime!

Lima is also where the cocktail, Pisco Sour, originated.  You will not only visit the top restaurants in the city, but also have classes in creating your own Pisco Sour cocktails with the topmost authority on this popular spirit from Johnny Schuler.

Other outings will include a tour f the clonal district of Barranco, a visit to a local market in San Isidro to try different fruits and Peruvian products, dine at Chez Wong (famous for its ceviche experience), take a guided tour of Peru's best museum, the Larco Museum, with artifacts relevant to gastronomy, discover Lima's Chinatown, and so much more!

Oh So Tasty: Lark on the park

interior photo provided by Lark on the park

Todd Johnson at D Magazine started off his review of Lark on the park by saying, "It seems rather small-town to boast about having an “urban experience” at any Dallas restaurant, let alone one perched on the edge of downtown. Certainly, ennui-swathed Manhattan crowds never coo over that heady feeling one gets when cars buzz by a packed street-side patio as glowing skyscrapers set an enchanted backdrop. No, citizens of world-class cities rarely coo." Well, get ready, Todd, because I am about to start coo'ing.

Owner Shannon Wynne has created some of this city's most iconic dining and drinking establishments, like Fast and Cool, Rio Room, 8.0, Flying Saucer, Meddlesome Moth and Flying Fish. His latest creation is Lark on the park, is a gem of an urban bistro that sits on the edge of Klyde Warren Park overlooking Downtown Dallas.  Although their view of the park is marred by the very existence of Savor - at least Savor is made of glass so you can look through it onto the KWP grounds. The view inside is so appealing that looking around is preferable to looking out. The spacious dining room is anchored by multiple gigantic chalkboards covered with illustrations done by local artists. Every three months these works of art are updated with a new group of artists so the look is changing continuously. I asked our waiter if they treated the chalk boards with anything to preserve the art and he said that they hadn't but it was being talked about. Between the fans blowing on them and silly patrons rubbing the works to see if they were really chalk (they ARE!) they are looking at options to keep them crisp and safe for their duration.

Duck Commander partners with Texas Motor Speedway for the Duck Commander 500

Texas Motor Speedway has announced that Duck Commander, owned by the Robertson clan of Duck Dynasty fame, will sponsor the annual spring NASCAR race. The Duck Commander 500 will take place on April 6, 2014, making it the seventh race in NASCAR's 2014 season. The agreement with Duck Commander  is for three years, with a renewal option for three more. The race has had multiple sponsors since it began in 1997, although Samsung was the primary sponsor from 2002 to 2012.  The Robertson family is expected to play a big part in the race festivities, including one member or another serving as grand marshal and honorary starter.

Bring your wallets because the Duck Commander brand also will enjoy a substantial product presence on its race weekend and throughout the year at Texas Motor Speedway. An extensive line of Duck Commander 500 merchandise will be sold at track and in the Speedway World souvenir store year-round in addition to being available through Duck Commander retail partners.

Uncle Si's Tea™ will be introduced and sold at track in single-serve options in both the sweet and unsweetened varieties. Texas Motor Speedway also will look to integrate products such as Duck Commander Family Foods’ BBQ sauce, salsa and beef jerky with the speedway signature concession items.

Tickets for the Duck Commander 500 go on sale on Friday, February 14, although you can get tickets early by purchasing season tickets or becoming a member of the Texas Motor Speedway Fan Club.

photo: Texas Motor Speedway

Amores Model Management hosts a Selfie Contest for aspiring models

Jim Duran, Amores Creative Director & Publicist knows about selfies. He takes them. A lot. 

At last there is an actual reason for endlessly taking shots of yourself stopped at red lights or gazing into your bathroom mirror! Amores Model Management has just launched an Instagram Selfie Contest for the month of February. Each week they will choose a winner to receive a Visa gift card and at the end of the month they will choose one grand prize winner to receive a trip to LA to shoot with photographer Jamie Luca, as well as a two year contract with the agency. All one has to do to enter is tag #AMORESMGMT to their Instagram selfie. There are a few restrictions: Ladies, you have to be 5'8'' to 5'11". Men, you have to be 5'11" to 6'2".  And lastly, you must live in Texas.  So, start puckering up, looking up at the sky or down at the ground, and start snapping!

RIP Taste of Addison. Hello, Fork & Cork!

A few weeks ago, I talked about the rebranding campaign Addison was rolling out. New logo. New tagline. New vision. Apparently, reworking the town's events is also a part of that mix and they are staring with one of their juggernaut signature festivals.

The Taste of Addison is officially no more and in its place will come an-all new culinary event called Fork & Cork. Planned for May 16 and 17 at Addison Circle Park this new festival is "designed for the epicurious in an intimate, two-day event that will bring together celebrated chefs, craft breweries, wineries and spirit makers—tempting palettes with more culinary style".

The press release I received goes on to say that "Fork & Cork attendees can get their hands dirty with interactive cooking classes, dive into delicious bites from some of the best restaurants in the DFW area, and imbibe in divine cocktails, craft beers and wines. Fork & Cork evolved out of the success of Taste Addison and will replace it as the city’s annual signature food event—and take Addison back to its culinary roots.

Pat Green

Featured talent for the first annual Fork & Cork includes internationally acclaimed, James Beard Award winning chef and current judge on ABC’s The Taste, Marcus Samuelsson, and music from Texas legend, Pat Green. The event will feature tasting pavilions paired with artisan experiences and a Grand Tasting Tent. Guests can also channel their inner sommelier or brew master in wine and craft beer seminars.

Friday night features an all-inclusive $65 food and drink ticket with restaurants serving bite-size samples. A portion of the proceeds from Friday night will benefit Café Momentum—a non-profit organization that teaches critical skills that allow youth to apply what they have been taught in re-release programs in a safe, real-world environment of nurturing accountability.

Discover Young (Local) Masters at the DMA

The O’Donnell Foundation announces the sixteenth annual Young Masters Exhibition on view February 8, 2014 through April 27, 2014 at the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) in the Concourse Gallery. The exhibition features selected works created by Advanced Placement® Studio Art, Art History, and Music Theory students from ten Dallas-area high schools participating in the O’Donnell Foundation’s AP Arts Incentive Program. The 2014 Young Masters exhibition will include 60 original pieces selected by a panel of respected judges out of 732 works submitted by AP Fine Arts students for consideration. The exhibition features 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional art created by AP Studio Art students, essays written in response to works in the DMA’s collections by AP Art History students, and four-minute compositions by AP Music Theory students.

Schools represented in the exhibition are Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (BTWHSPVA), Coppell High School, Creekview High School, Lovejoy High School, McKinney Boyd High School, Newman Smith High School, Plano East Senior High School, Plano Senior High School, Plano West Senior High School, and Richardson High School.

Since it’s founding in 1994, more than 14,500 arts and music students have benefited from the O’Donnell Foundation’s AP incentive programs. Last year, graduating seniors earned over $22 million in scholarships. The Young Masters exhibition in the DMA’s Concourse is included in the Museum’s free general admission. For more information, visit www.apstrategiesarts.org or www.DMA.org.

photo: Amy Dwork, "Made to Empower," Creekview High School; Kendall Bradley, "Compliments," Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts; Emily Quintana, "Fan," Plano East Senior High

Dallas Celebrity Spelling Bee raises funds for literacy

On February 26, Reading Partners will host the 2nd annual Dallas Celebrity Spelling Bee. The evening event will feature prominent local Dallas celebrities, including Mayor Mike Rawlings, corporate leaders and community members coming together for a fun night of competition and celebration! During the event, teams of 'spellers' will compete on stage in front of an audience. Each team is made up of a corporate sponsor and a local celebrity. The Bee combines corporate support, community engagement and media attention to fund Reading Partners’ literacy intervention program.

This year's participants are:
Kristi Nelson, Host, NBC
Jenny Grumbles, Co-host of A&E's Storage Wars Texas
Kent Rathbun, Chef and owner of Abacus
Samantha Riddle, Miss Texas International
Ben Scott, ABC's The Bachelorette
Susy Solis, CBS
Christine Allison, Judge, D Magazine
Mike Rawlings, Mayor of Dallas
Garrett Boone, Chairman Emeritus, The Container Store
David Chard, Dean of Education, Southern Methodist University

6:00 pm: Cocktail hour |  7:00 pm: Opening remarks and introductions |  7:00 - 8:30 pm: Spelling Bee
Be sure to stay after the Spelling Bee for celebratory drinks and appetizers!

The Bee will take place at Dallas City Performance Hall at 2520 Flora, Dallas, TX 75201. Tickets are available for $50 for the general public and available at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/dallas-celebrity-spelling-bee-tickets-9516296499

Audition to sing the National Anthem at an upcoming Dallas Stars game

Think you have the chops to sing the National Anthem at an upcoming Dallas Stars hockey game? Then get ready to put your money where your mouth is. Karaoke All-Stars, a non-profit karaoke competition formed by Raise Funds Network and After School All-Stars North Texas, has announced the launch of the online competition to be held over the next four weeks. Enter now for the chance to sing the National Anthem at a Dallas Stars home game, tickets to the game, autographed jerseys, as well as raise money for After-School All-Stars North Texas. Participants can upload karaoke videos to www.karaokeallstars.org and will receive votes through donations contributed to their video. The participant with the highest dollar value of donations received will win the grand prize. Visit the website for contest rules and more details.

North Texan Crystal Stanley Helps Domino's Shine a Spotlight on the Arts

Domino’s Pizza has launched a great new national TV campaign that is centered on their team members and their passion for all things handmade. One of the stars of this campaign is Lewisville's Crystal Stanley, who is a general manager at Domino’s Pizza in Flower Mound. In her commercial (check it out below) Crystal shares her love of painting with watercolors.

“Pizza-making is an art and Domino’s Handmade Pan Pizza is no exception,” said Stanley. “I have a passion for the art of making Handmade Pan Pizza, as well as for painting with watercolors. There are many Domino’s team members like myself who share a passion for all things handmade, and I’m beyond excited that Domino’s is showcasing those talents.”

In honor of all things handmade, Domino’s is offering medium, two-topping Handmade Pan Pizzas for $7.99 each now through March 16. Domino’s Handmade Pan Pizza is made from fresh, never-frozen dough and features a golden, crispy crust with toppings to the edge and two layers of cheese in every bite. To meet and learn more about Domino’s talented pizza makers, visit www.handmadebydominos.com.

 

Unconventional Valentine's Day Gifts

Jewelry, candy, flowers and fancy dinners will be top-sellers over the next 2 weeks as men everywhere scramble to show there partner how much they care. And woe be to the men that don't try! Flowers are nice, but they are dead in 3 days. A great dinner is always appreciated, but I don't like the Pre-Fixe menu that is usually offered on Valentine's. I am a big girl and I can decide for myself what I want to eat. I don't like to be told, thank you very much. I'm certainly not going to argue the merits of a great piece of jewelry, but it's still a little impersonal. Meh. I am all about the experience. You say you love me? Then show me with an encounter that will give me memories that last a lifetime and make me smile every time I think about the experience. Here are a few ideas:

Anyone who's been in love knows the feeling you get when you see your beloved. Your hands start to sweat, your heart races, it's a total adrenaline rush. Recreate that experience at iFLY - an indoor skydiving experience that creates true free fall conditions, just like skydiving, without having to jump out of an airplane. iFLY’s 1400 hp vertical wind tunnel generates a wall-to-wall cushion of air on which you can safely float. There’s no parachute, no jumping, and nothing attaching you to planet Earth. It’s just you and the air, and it’s the most incredible adrenaline rush.