ChildCareGroup Raises $320,000 at Annual Great Adventure Hunt

photos provided by ChildCareGroup


ChildCareGroup hosted its sixth annual Great Adventure Hunt on Jan. 23, 2016. The fun and clever puzzle hunt at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science raised $320,000 to support CCG’s early childhood education programs. Established in 1901, ChildCareGroup provides safe, nurturing care and education to Dallas’ most vulnerable children and holistic support services to their low-income parents. ChildCareGroup is the Dallas area’s leading resource in early care and education, helping to lift two generations of families out of poverty through high-quality early childhood programs for children and parents. Following a cocktail hour and dinner, over 300 guests competed on teams of six to solve mind-bending puzzles throughout the museum’s 11 exhibit halls. The puzzles are designed by Tom Shroder, award-winning journalist and former editor of The Washington Post Magazine and author of “Acid Test: LSD Ecstasy and the Power to Heal.” Shroder is known for his creation, along with humorists Dave Barry and Gene Weingarten, of the Herald Hunt in Miami and the Post Hunt in Washington. “ChildCareGroup provides or manages early care and education for more than 14,000 Dallas-area children every day,” said Tori Mannes, ChildCareGroup CEO. “The Great Adventure Hunt is an exciting and engaging way for corporations and individuals to support our high-quality programs that support the community’s most vulnerable children and provide holistic services to parents.” Christy and Robby Berry, Tessa and Bob Mosteller, and Barb and Mike Tonti co-chaired the 2016 Great Adventure Hunt. Amy Vanderoef, TV and radio personality best known from her role as a host on WFAA’s Good Morning Texas, served as the emcee. As a single mother, Vanderoef’s passion for early childhood care and education made her the perfect match to lead guests throughout the evening. For more information about ChildCareGroup, visit www.childcaregroup.org.

Top 10 Most Read Posts of 2015

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. This blog is my love letter to the city of Dallas. I LOVE shining a spotlight on the people, places, events and businesses that make it a great place to live, work and raise a family. Because I write about the many faces of Dallas, I'm always curious what people are drawn to. I thought it would be fun to look back at the traffic and see what my most read posts of 2015 were to give me a direction for how to proceed as we enter 2016. Reality TV and celebrity coverage led the pack, which is not that surprising considering that stories about national topics tend to lead to clicks from around the world and not just my usual Dallas-based readers.

So, what topics had readers talking this year?

Top 10 Most Read Posts of 2015

#10: Oh So Artsy: Jackson Pollock: Blind Spots opens at the DMA on November 20
Personally, I am shocked that this post made the top ten. According to the Dallas Museum of Art, Pollock is "the greatest painter this country has ever produced". According to me, his work is complete crap. My philosophy on art is that anything I could create myself - is not art. But, clearly Pollock has his supporters because critics have hailed his work as “sensational," "exhilarating," "genius," “revelatory,” and “revolutionary”.  Is it interest in Pollock's work that led to the large number of clicks on this post or the fact that it was published the same day as my post announcing Bravo's Real Housewives of Dallas? Hmmm. One can only wonder.

#9: Andy Cohen reveals how Ladies of Dallas became Real Housewives of Dallas
In March 2015 Bravo announced that Ladies of Dallas was in the works, which would be a spin-off of their highly successful Ladies of London series. 8 months later, they shocked the world when it was announced that what was in the can would NOW be released as the newest city in the Real Housewives franchise. But why? And how in the world...? On Bravo's Daily Dish web series, Andy Cohen 'splained all...

Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational Smashes Fundraising Goal Bringingin $1.2 Million

T

I feel lucky to call Pat Smith a friend. I am even luckier that earlier this year, she hired me to join her team and my agency now handles social media marketing for Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities. Working for Pat is what I would imagine it's like to work with Oprah. You hold hands and pray before you begin business meetings, you hug and say "I love you" - a lot, you leave every encounter with them inspired and motivated and there are lots of teary moments when you witness the impact their work has on our community. It's a pretty sweet gig. The culmination of all these efforts roll into their annual fundraiser, held every May. This was my first year to work on the Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational weekend, presented by SoftLayer, which commenced on Friday, May 8th, with a celebrity reception, red carpet entry, dinner and live auction party at the Omni Hotel Dallas and continued on Saturday, May 9th, with 18-hole charity golf tournament at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney. This year's event chairs were Sarah and Jud Chapin and honorary chairs were Matrice and Ron Kirk. This event is work - a whole lotta work and I have to say, I have the easiest job out of everyone. I get to hang out with the celebrities, capture the fun moments and push them out through their social channels. Sometimes I have to pinch myself that people pay me to do this...

AIDS Services of Dallas Throws a Sweet Bollywood Bash

Guests descended upon the Frontiers of Flight Museum on Saturday, March 28 for the 10th Annual No Tie Dinner & Dessert Party, presented by the Purple Foundation. This year, the “Meet Me Under the Yum Yum Tree” theme lent the bash an exotic, Bollywood flair in fashion, music, cocktails to raise funds for AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD). Close to 2,000 guests indulged in a vast array of delectable desserts from 20 of the city’s finest establishments including Bread Winners Cafe, Celebrity Café & Bakery, and Komali, among others. The event was led by an all-star committee including Co-Chairs David Nelson and Dennis Kershner, Honorary Chairs Jody and Sterling O’Donnell, and Media Ambassador Amy Vanderoef. Joe Pacetti received the Sheila Dolezal Humanitarian Award for his volunteerism and unbounded support throughout the years. Other notable sociables included ASD President and CEO Don Maison, Tricia Sims and beau Richard Burcham, Don Neubauer, Patricia Deason, Todd Whitley, Prashi Shah, LeeAnne Locken, Marie Reyes, Tiffany Hendra, Cary Deuber, Stephanie Hollman, Brandi Redmond and many others.

  

Oh So Charitable: LLS Introduces Nine Man and Woman of the Year Candidates for 2015

LLS North Texas Man and Woman of the Year 2015 candidates

Nine North Texas Man and Woman of the Year (MWOY) candidates officially launched their 2015 campaigns at a kickoff celebration Thursday night at the Renaissance Hotel near downtown Dallas. The candidates are the first business leaders in North Texas to participate in this new fundraising campaign to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). They will compete against each other in a 10-week fundraising blitz and at the end the male and female candidates that raise the most money will be named the North Texas Man and the Woman of the Year.

~ SEE PHOTO GALLERY BELOW ~

Many of the candidates were joined by their fundraising campaign managers and teams at the kickoff. This campaign is expected to generate more than $250,000 for LLS in its first year. Former Good Morning Texas co-host Amy Vanderoef served as the Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening. This year’s fundraising is in honor of two patient heroes, the 2015 Boy and Girl of the Year: Bennett Williams and Julia Brown. The campaign will conclude with the Grand Finale Gala on May 30th at the Westin Galleria Dallas. "What happens between the kickoff and grand finale is the heart of the race," says Patricia Thomson, Executive Director of the North Texas Chapter. "Throughout the 10 weeks, each candidate will host events and motivate their networks to raise money for blood cancer research. The man and woman who raise the most money will be named as the local Man and Woman of the Year and go on to compete for national honors."

Jane McGarry to replace Amy Vanderoef on Good Morning Texas

Hello GMT viewers! You will be seeing a lot more of Jane McGarry starting March 9th. Photo from Facebook.

I was devastated yesterday when Amy Vanderoef announced she was leaving her long-time post on WFAA's Good Morning Texas. I have gotten to know and love Amy over the past several years and she is every bit as charming as delightful in person as she is on TV. I say that because not everyone is... She has an amazing energy and casual report that makes her very approachable and puts guests at ease. Who on earth could replace her talent?! But today, the sun has come out again! Replacing Amy on the show will be the amazing Jane McGarry! McGarry will join Mike Castellucci and Carrie McClure as co-hosts of WFAA’s “Good Morning Texas” on Monday, March 9. McGarry has worked with the station’s daytime program since 2013, periodically presenting segments, including her “Texas Legends” stories. “I am excited to return to daily local television,” said McGarry, who has worked in the DFW market since the early eighties. “I am grateful for this opportunity to do what I love.” McGarry brings an insightful and in-depth interviewing style to morning television with prominent guests joining her on the set.

Beverly Drive Magazine toasts Shay Geyer

In case you hadn't heard, GrandLuxe magazine recently revamped, rebranded and has been reborn as Beverly Drive Magazine. This glossy monthly has a sleek Town & Country feel and the readers I've spoken to seem pretty pleased with the changes. This month's issue features IBB Design Fine Furniture owner, interior designer, philanthropist and dance mom Shay Geyer on the cover. I attended a happy hour last Thursday to toast the cover gal at IBB Design in Frisco.  Spotted in the crowd were Angela Choquette, Jayne Herring, Rick Fresquez, Cathy Vieth, Kelly Rose, Mary Ellen Hess, WFAA's Good Morning Texas co-host Amy Vanderoef, Karen Lukin and jewelry designer Shona Gilbert.  Shay's darling daughters stole the show by entertaining everyone with their dance moves and charming personalities. Be sure to pick up a copy and check out this fun new addition to the print landscape. Here are some scenes from the event:

Amy Vanderoef and Shay Geyer (photo: Shay Geyer)

Scenes from Stiletto Strut 2013

Star Children’s Charity partnered with Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities to host the 5th annual Stiletto Strut at Neiman Marcus Willow Bend on May 10, 2013. Stylish strutters such as Norma Johnson, Crystal Herrera, Daniel Lewis, Maggie Kipp, Shay Geyer, Angie Strange, Dawn Mellon, Jennifer Cloutier and Cindy Davis from Big Rich Texas kicked off the morning by joining hostess Pat Smith in Neiman's Shoe Department for a champagne reception & Shoe Auction. We then "strutted" up the escalator to the second floor for a private brunch & fashion show.  Proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, who provides more than 4,800 area children and teenagers a safe place to learn and grow during the vulnerable hours between school and home.  To learn more about Star Children's Charity, visit http://www.starchildrens.com.

Pat Smith and Cynthia Smoot (dress: Lela Rose)

The Elisa Project gets a heaping dose of ESTEEM

Rudy Gatlin worked the crowd, while Miss Texas USA Ali Nugent was the epitome of style and grace
Photos courtesy of Joseph Brewster Photography and Design

The 3d annual ESTEEM Fashion Show held at at Saks Fifth Avenue this past Saturday was a celebration of positive body image and self-esteem. Local Dallas celebrities joined girls and women, boys and men, of all ages and sizes, to embrace healthy, balanced lifestyles and self-acceptance to raise funds for The Elisa Project. By helping to increase awareness about eating disorders and the importance of positive body image, ESTEEM encourages people to love themselves while striving to be healthy.

Become a muse for Ashard Richley and view her Pre-Fall Collection 2012

I met designer Ashley Burghardt earlier this year at the Gossip Bar when I was attending an event for the Fresh Faces of Fashion. She was there with PR pro, Alison Volk and as we chatted over cocktails, I couldn't help but notice the cute clutches she and Ali were both carrying (their evil plan to get media attention totally worked). Ashley showed me how the clutch (called The Riley) had two separate pockets and was created to hold an iPad in one pocket and all your lady-stuff in the other. Being a girly-girl who hates big, bulky briefcase bags and a marketer who works in social media and needs to have online access at all times - I was SOLD! I now own The Riley in white and cobalt and get comments and compliments on them every time I carry the clutch.

When I found out that Burghardt had also recently appeared on the new Lifetime show, 24 Hour Catwalk (and won!) I knew she was someone I had to get to know better. I profiled her earlier this year in a Dallas Dweller feature and always enjoy running into her at events and parties.

Imagine my SHOCK when she told me that she had named a piece in her upcoming Ashard Richley Pre-Fall Collection after me. WOW! I don't think I've ever been more flattered. All pieces are for sale on her website and there are only 50 pieces per item available so ORDER NOW!!

The Cynthia:  The sophisticated neckline and neutral color give a classy appearance while maintaining visual interest with the subtle pop of color and exaggerated flow of the sleeves.  This product is made from the finest cotton lace and designed, cut and sewn in Dallas making this product 100% American made. Available in cream for $250.

When I asked why she named this particular piece of the Collection after me Burghardt said, "You scream class with flair to me. That's why I named the super chic cotton lace poncho dress after you. The dress has a classic feel with the lace and fit yet it's bold and beautiful…Just like you !"

The Amy:  Named for vivacious morning talk-show host, Amy Vanderoef, this high-low dress creates a trendy, chic look without loosing the undeniable comfort of a jersey cotton ensemble. Ideal for a variety of occasions. This product is cotton jersey and comes in cream or plum for $185.

Burghardt says of this design, "Amy Vanderoef  is always wearing fun dresses on Good Morning Texas and has such a playful personality. That's why I named the Amy dress after her. It's fun and flirty and can be worn for so many things."

The Lisa: Named for my good friend Lisa Petty, editor of DFW Style Daily, this trouser features a classic 50's high-waisted cut with a 70's style wide leg- fashion for the bold. The combination of vibrant color and sleek silhouette will leave you anything but unnoticed. This product is 100% silk and comes in celedon or cobalt for $280. If you'd prefer, take one home in a cream lace for $250.

"Lisa Petty is tall, slender, and such a chic dresser. I love a wide leg on a tall woman, so the Lisa pant in the vintage cotton lace and silk was a no-brainer," claims Berghadrt.

The Priya:  Cut outs are all the rage and this blouse is inspired by the adorable and always chic, Priya Rathod, Contributor for DFW Style Daily. The high-low Priya top takes this trend to a new level of sophistication. This product is 100% silk with 100% cotton lace.  Available in a floral print, coral or cream for $140.

 "Priya Rathod has a vibrant personality and always wears great color," says Burghardt, "When she was interviewing me, we kept talking about how much we love flowy high/low tops. That's when I knew I had to name the Priya top after her. It's colorful and flowy!"

There are several new handbags in the new line that are sure to be seen about town this Fall. Who doesn't love a great clutch and these are affordable, trendy and come in a variety of color combinations:

Busta ($200)

Futo ($175)

I know. You're thinking, "How completely awesome would it be to have a designer name a piece after ME!?" Well, get ready kid. Dreams can come true.  Ashard Richley is holding a "Leave Your Stitch" contest and the winner will tour of the Ashard Richley studio, get a VIP night on the town with the designer herself and name a piece in an upcoming collection after you.  Good luck!

Dress for Success: Light the Runway 2012

Dress for Success launched Light the Runway, their first annual Father/Daughter runway show at Tootsies last Thursday.  Good Morning Texas host Amy Vanderoef introduced the show along with Dress for Success' local celebrity Ambassador, Courtney Kerr of Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas.

The celebrities that lent their talents on the runway included Gary Jackson & Alexia Figgous, Ricardo & Alissa Ortiz, Mike Degani & Sharon Blumberg, Leonard & Alsion Volk, Benny & Brianna Black, Rick & Rachel Fresquez, Vaughn, Gigi & Jade Miller, Brian & Bryn Neufeld, Freddy, Sofia & McKenzie Vaca, Daniel, Candice, Caydence & Caylee Hernandez, Mike Leatherwood & Jamie Lain Siegel, John Conte & Brianna Beasley, Stephen & Kelly Giles, James, Katy & Sara Ryan, Joe, Sara & Katherine Ho, Dean & Kennedy Ann Niewouny, Elgrie & Klarc, Joy Vida Hurd, Mitch Carr & Rose, Willow Skidmore, and Gene & Abi Ferrin.

Katy Messersmith, Kristen Fagelman and Courtney Kerr

Rick Fresquez, Rich Emberlin, guest, Amy Vanderoef and Alison Volk

Samantha Crum givers her Mama, Bri, some love

My favorite runway participants were the Daddy's with their little girls. 
Pictured here are Daniel Hernandez, FC Dallas Soccer Captain, with his two girls and former Dallas Cowboy, Ryan Neufeld with his daughter, Bryn.

Kristen Fagelman models a maxi dress from Katydid Collection | Rich Emberlin and LeeAnne Locken

Dress for Success beneficiaries, staff and supporters!

Dress for Success Dallas is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Dress for Success Dallas provides each woman in their program with one suit when she has a job interview.  When she successfully lands a job, she returns to Dress for Success Dallas for a second suit and up to a week’s worth of business appropriate separates. She also receives an invitation to join the Professional Women’s Group (PWG), our employment retention service. To learn more about this organization, or how to donate, visit their website.

Photos courtesy of Shana Anderson. Click here to see a gallery of photographs from this event.

Amir Omar chosen as One Man Dallas 2012

Richardson City Councilman and Methodist Richardson Cancer Center volunteer Amir Omar was named 2012 One Man Dallas on Thursday, May 10, 2012.  Out of 21 semifinalists, Omar was voted the man who best represents Dallas-Fort Worth from the perspective of community involvement as well as overall personality, intelligence and fitness. 

Emcee Amy Vanderoef introduced each of the 21 nominees and gave them one last moment in the spotlight before naming the winner. Each had to answer a question live onstage that had been written by another nominee.  Questions like, "How would you describe a sunset to a blind man?" and "Who do you feel (besides yourself) should win this event and why?"

Omar, who works for Verizon Wireless and has served on the Richardson City Council since 2009, was nominated for One Man Dallas because of his service to Methodist Richardson Cancer Center, where he has contributed more than 800 hours of volunteer work and serves on their Foundation Board. His work there includes chairing the Wildride! Wildrun! Against Cancer for the second year in a row following a record-breaking fundraising year in 2011.

As One Man Dallas winner, Omar’s charity received $2,500 from Whole Foods Market Dallas and he received a $2,500 Stanley Korshak gift card.  The One Man Project, which was initiated with One Man Minneapolis in 2009 and One Man Chicago in 2010, puts the spotlight on men doing charitable work in their communities and highlights the efforts of each man’s affiliated charity. Because women volunteer at a rate five times that of men, the project’s mission is to encourage other men to volunteer their time, energy and resources.

2012 One Man Dallas nominees

The One Man Dallas winner after being judged on four criteria: interviews with community leader judges, scores from each finalist’s community service project, personality at three community happy hours, and online voting results.

Four of the One Man Dallas finalists also received special recognition at the event. Edgar Sotelo, nominated by the Magdaleno Leadership Institute, received the most online votes.  Ryan Harms with Back on My Feet, Tim Halperin with Susan G. Komen For the Cure, and Sam Mulroy with DFW Rescue Men created and executed outstanding community service projects.

The One Man Project, which was initiated with One Man Minneapolis in 2009 and One Man Chicago in 2010, puts the spotlight on men doing charitable work in their communities and highlights the efforts of each man’s affiliated charity. Because women volunteer at a rate five times that of men, the project’s mission is to encourage other men to volunteer their time, energy and resources. 

Dress 4 Yellow 2012

Cynthia with Lance Armstrong

I followed a yellow brick road carpet into the beautiful historic Adolphus Hotel on Thursday, April 5, 2012 for the highly anticipated Dress 4 Yellow event held to raise funds for LIVESTRONG and Cook Children’s Cancer Center through a high-profile fashion show, luncheon and silent auction.

"Dress 4 Yellow is designed to inspire and empower those affected by cancer,” Lance Armstrong said. “Through dollars raised, we will increase awareness, provide critical navigation services, fund research and survivorship programs and work to end the stigma of cancer around the globe.”

The Adolphus Hotel provided a baroque and luxurious environment for this lavish event. Gene Jones, Tre Wilcox, Tiffany Derry, New York Times best-selling author Sandra Brown, Amy Vanderoef and her Congressman-hopeful hubby Grant Stinchfield, Pat Smith, Courtney Kerr, Matt Nordgren and Heidi Dillon started the day with a champagne reception in the historic French Room (my favorite spot ever and the best place in Dallas to go for a romantic evening)

(top left) Pat Smith and Tre Wilcox  (top right) Shelley O'Neal, Heidi Dillon and Gina Ginsburg 
(bottom) Judge Diane Haddock, Bobbie Marshall, Nancy Brown and Sandra Brown

We moved down to the Century Room where LIVESTRONG founder and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, along with Co-Chairs Jennifer Applbaum and Lee Nagel,  kicked off the runway show featuring designs by more than 20 of the world’s top designers. Each designer produced a custom-made yellow piece or select a yellow design from archived collections.

 Click here to see many more photos on Facebook

 Dallas fashion designers Shirin Askari, Nha Khanh, Lela Rose, Abi Ferrin and handbag designer Laura Ginsburg were represented. Other designers included Donna Karan, Isaac Mizrahi, Carmen Marc Valvo, Catherine Malandrino, Thakoon, Christian Siriano, Zang Toi, Cole Haan, Nike, Oakley, Ruffian, Sachin + Babi, Elie Tahari, David Meister, Rachel Roy, Chadwick Bell and more. Runway designs were beautifully styled with Kendra Scott Jewelry.

Dress 4 Yellow designs by Lela Rose, Nha Khanh, Abi Ferrin and Shirin Askari

The show was masterfully produced by Bret McKinney, who has been part of the Stanley Korshak team since 2000, and has been the driving force behind the store’s fantastic visual displays, as well as the producer of Texas Ballet Theater, DIFFA/Dallas and Fresh Faces of Fashion. 

Immediately following the runway spectacular, was a seated luncheon in the Grand Ballroom where four of the runway looks were feted in a live auction, including a pair of Justin Boots embossed with the yellow rose of Texas, and yellow dresses by Carmen Marc Valvo, Abi Ferrin and Tibi.  Cole Hahn provided fabulous wristlet clutches in a rainbow of colors for each guest.

The yellow theme left everyone feeling sunny and optimistic about the fight against cancer. The war might not be over, but this event was a battle won and that's something to celebrate! 

Courtney Kerr Gets the Boot

The 2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon Kick-Off Party was held on March 28, 2012 at Winston’s Supper Club in Uptown.  This is my favorite shot from the evening: As this year's celebrity waiters were being introduced, Bravo TV's Most Eligible Dallas star, Courtney Kerr, pointed out the fact that she was wearing a medical boot. Apparently, she dropped a MacBook on her foot and severed a tendon. Ouch! Pamela Martin Duarte from Big Rich Texas sympathizes at the thought of not being able to wear cute shoes for 2-3 months.

The 2012 Celebrity Waiter Luncheon benefiting Family Gateway will be held Friday, September 7, 2012 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas and will kick off Family Gateway’s 25th anniversary in style. Last year's luncheon was such a riot, I can't wait for this year's luncheon circus show!

For more information, visit http://www.familygateway.org/events.htm

DIFFA 2012 Was Smoking Haute

On Saturday, March 31, 2012, more than a thousand socialites, drag queens, fashionistas and charitable do-gooders gathered at the Hilton Anatole for Smoking Haute: DIFFA Collection 2012 - a silent auction including smoking jackets, live auction, dinner, an amazing runway show, theater, after party, spectacle and excitement in a way that only DIFFA can deliver. All benefiting North Texas HIV/AIDS charities.

In 1966 Yves Saint Laurent introduced Le Smoking, a tailored fitted tuxedo jacket for women. A revolutionary idea that brought traditional male tailoring to the feminine form.  DIFFA took this as their inspiration for this year's theme and decided to reinvent this fashion classic in 2012, asking top name designers from around the county interpreting the Smoking Jacket with one-of-a kind couture designs for both men and women.  

(top left) Rene Rouleau and Shona Gilbert (top right) Buster and Cathy Williamson
(bottom left) Hillary and Eric Gilbert  (bottom right) Victoria Snee, Amy Vanderoef and Abi Ferrin

I came of age in the 1980's when HIV/AIDS first hit the mainstream as the "gay disease" that resulted in a painful and certain death.  In the next ten years, we discovered that you could also get the disease from sharing needles and that Mothers could pass it to their unborn children in the womb. The scientific community moved swiftly to discover drugs that would cure, prevent or at least treat the disease. 20+ years later, while no cure exists, we have been successful in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. But with these medical advances comes complacency for a new generation no longer faced with the fear my generation had about this disease.

Clint Bradley, DIFFA Chairman says, "HIV/ADIS is now a top-5 killer within mainstream communities worldwide, the US and especially Dallas. I am greatly alarmed with the bullet-proof misconceptions our youth possess towards the AIDS pandemic today.  DIFFA/Dallas has increased our focus on providing funding for preventative education."  With Federal funding diminishing, fundraising events like DIFFA are critical. 

(top left) LeeAnne Locken and Danielle Vollmar  (top right) Cynthia with Matt Nordgren
(bottom left) Heidi and Bill Dillon  (bottom right) Justin Bundick and Jose Reyes

Co-Chairs, Matt Wilkerson and Darin Kunz kicked off the event, welcoming attendees and introducing the 2012 Style Council.  Every team needs cheerleaders, and each year DIFFA selects a new group of Ambassadors, which include some of our town's most stylish trendsetters and movers-and-shakers.  But, these individuals aren't just pretty faces rah-rah'ing for the event - they are selected for their valued commitment to raising awareness of the fundraiser and money for North Texas AIDS service organizations who provide direct care to those living with HIV and AIDS.

This year's 2012 Style Council included:  Gillian Breidenbach, Anne Stodgehill, Raymund C. King, Bret McKinney, Hillary Gilbert, Jeri Johnson, Tara Harper, Abi Ferrin, Ken Foret, Chuck Steelman, Laura Ginsburg, Amy Vanderoef, Shay Geyer and Alberto Lombardi. 

photos courtesy of Quoc "QC" Cong of XO Photography

After a bland dinner of a breaded chicken breast, green beans and one baby carrot (seriously, for $300 a ticket they need to kick this up a notch next year) the fashion show began.  Produced by Jan Strimple, it was an over-the-top extravaganza of style and pop performance.  Of course, it's just not a DIFFA show without a drag queen show-stopper - and this year held a FABULOUS performance by some of my favorite girls lip-syncing to the Spice Girls. 

After they got the crowd all pumped up, it was time to boogie into the after-party. The DJ started spinning and everyone took to the dance floor. I immediately commanded my entourage, "Shoes off!" and we made a pile of stilettos in the middle of the dance floor, followed promptly by our clutches and other assorted accessories. We then proceeded to dance with wild abandon around the pile like gypsies around a campfire. It was hilarious fun and I can't wait for next year's event!

My dance posse:  LeeAnne Locken, Cynthia, Rene Rouleau and Dawn Neufeld.

Click here to see many more photos 

from this event on Facebook.

About DIFFA:  
The mission of the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) is to raise funds and grant those funds to organizations which fight HIV/AIDS by providing preventative education programs targeted to populations at risk of infection, treatment and direct care services for people living with/impacted by HIV/AIDS and that support public policy initiatives which add resources to private sector funds.

About my ensemble:
Special thanks to Watters for my beautiful gown, Kendra Scott for the beautiful jewelry and to Daniel Lewis at Green Peridot Salon for sculpting my tresses into a sophisticated up-do for the evening. I felt like a Princess! 

Attitudes & Attire 15th Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon

Attitudes & Attire held their 15th Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show on March 2, 2012 at the Dallas Trade Mart. Founder and executive director Lyn Berman presented the Kim Dawson Attitude Award to Sarah Losinger. The award honors a woman whose personality and accomplishments exemplify the full potential of all women.  Christi Clinger of 7-Eleven was event chair and my friend, Janet Fresquez was honorary chair. (Thanks for inviting me to sit at your table, Janet!)

LeeAnne Locken, Alison Volk, Amy Vanderoef and Dawn Mellon

Dedicated to promoting confidence, and personal growth for women, several A&A former clients modeled and stomped the runway with confidence in beautiful designs supplied by Park Cities boutique, Elements. Amy Vanderoef from Good Morning Texas, CW33's Danielle Vollmar and Toni Duclottni, actress LeeAnne Locken, Dawn Neufeld, Alison Volk and many more philanthropic women were also spotted on the catwalk.

(top left) Lyn Berman (top right) Connie Sigal, Janet Fresquez and Heidi Dillon
(bottom left) Julia Stafford and Dee Simmons  (bottom right) Nicole Hodges and Jarrod Fresquez

Attitudes & Attire™ is a nonprofit agency dedicated to promoting personal growth for women seeking self-sufficiency. Their program provides the tools that raise self-esteem, promote ethics, and build the confidence necessary to succeed in the workplace.  Attitudes & Attire offers interpersonal skills training for women who are building better lives for themselves and their families.

The workshops help women learn how to recognize their self-worth, create a positive image, overcome barriers, and improve job search skills. The agency also provides a work-appropriate outfit of the woman’s choice from its boutique, which is stocked with donations from local retailers, manufacturers, individuals, and corporate clothing drives.

Click here to see many more photos on Facebook

photos courtesy of Thomas Garza Photography

Pat Smith Treasures You

You probably know Pat Smith as the wife of former Dallas Cowboy and NFL Hall of Famer, Emmitt Smith.  Maybe you saw her in D Magazine when she was bestowed the title of one of Dallas' 10 Most Beautiful Women of 2011.  If you're like me, you've looked at her in the pages of a magazine and thought, "Now, there's a woman who has it all." And she does. Now. But she didn't used to have anything. And it's that story that makes Pat Smith one of the most beloved figures on the Dallas (heck, the national) scene today.

Smith was the first African American woman to win the title of Miss Virginia in 1993 and was named first runner-up in the 1994 Miss USA Pageant. She then began her acting career with roles in The Wayans Brothers Show, Beverly Hills 90210 and Sunset Beach. She met and married comedian and actor Martin Lawrence and as she says, "...was living the dream: a mansion in Beverly Hills, driving a cute Jaguar, I had a closet full of designer shoes and outfits." And she was scared and miserable.  One night she got up her courage, packed one suitcase, grabbed her daughter and fled for her life. She had no money, no credit of her own, no where to go and felt humiliated to ask for help. After all, she had "the perfect life".

Cynthia Smoot, Pat Smith and Amy Vanderoef

Miss Patricia Southall Smith comes from a long line of Southern women. You can bend a Belle, but we do not break easily. After finding her way, getting back on her feet and eventually meeting and marrying Emmitt. ("Can I get a hallalujah!" she exclaims when talking about Emmitt)  Pat is taking the life lessons she learned about seizing control of your destiny, your money and your happiness and has dedicated herself to a "new ministry" she's created called Treasure You: a women’s support group that hosts conferences and luncheons devoted to encouraging women to find their passion in life.

Smith told Dallas Child recently, “My ultimate goal is to help women tap into their purpose, passion and power in life so that they can start feeling fulfilled and happy — this feeling of contentment has made me a better woman, wife and mom.”  Yesterday, Smith hosted an intimate gathering at Neiman Marcus in Willowbend to share and empower women to start thinking about their financial independence and power.  Annette Watkins of Ameriprise gave us some startling statistics:

• Did you know that 75% of all marriages today end in divorce? (holy cow!)
• Did you know that women are widowed at an average age of 56, and 1 in 4 of these women are broke within two months of being widowed? 
• Did you know that 87% of poverty stricken elderly Americans are women

Girls, you need to get a hold of your finances and get your head out 'da sand! Or get a good financial planner and do what they say. But do something, was the general message of the day.  Chuck Steelman and Pat ended the day with a fun informal runway show showing us Neiman's 10 trends for Spring. An ironic twist after talking about saving money, that Chuck then urged us to all go downstairs and spend it!

Janet Jackson sang, "I'm in control, never gonna stop. Control, to get what I want.  Control, I got to have a lot.  Control, 'cuz now I'm all grown up." Smith wants us to grow up. And I like being in control...

Sign up to get updates from Treasure You for retreats, conferences and seminars.

Win a copy of Kim Whitman's New Book, "Party Planner: An Expert Organizing Guide for Entertaining"

Shay Geyer hosted an intimate book signing and luncheon for Kimberly Schlegel Whitman on Monday, February 13 at her furniture store and design studio, IBB Design Group.  Normally, I would not travel to Oklahoma for event, er, I mean Frisco. But for Shay and Kim I made an exception! (I know it does not offend Shay that I make this joke because she made the same one when she thanked everyone for coming)

Author, Kimberly Whitman

Not only is Kim a 5-time book author but she has recently been appointed Editor-at-Large for one of my favorite magazines, Southern Living.  You might have also seen her on one of her many TV appearances on the "Today Show" or "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway" or maybe you've caught her daily radio show for KVIL 103.7 FM. 

      LeeAnne Locken and Amy Vanderoef          Kimberly Whitman and Shay Geyer


Shay gathered 50 of her closest gal pals to celebrate the launch of Kim's newest book, "The Party Planner: An Expert Organizing Guide for Entertaining".   In her latest tome, Kim holds your hand through creating a fun-filled soiree without stress.

Her book organizes the process of planning and hosting a party, from the earliest inception to working with a budget, choosing a venue, hiring catering and musicians, creating a guest list and invitations, decorating, seating, stocking a bar, photography, entertainment, favors and attire-in essence, organizing every last detail for hosting a successful party for any occasion.

Click here to see more photos from this event on Facebook

Kim autographed a book for me - which I am going to GIVE AWAY to one lucky reader! To enter to win, leave a comment below and tell me your favorite party trick or tip for a successful event. If you don't have one, that's okay! Just say, "I don't have one, that's why I need this book!" I will pick one winner* for all entries on Friday, February 17th at 5PM/CST.

*The winner will be notified by email and you will have 48 hours to respond with your mailing address. If I do not receive a response within 48 hours, I maintain the right to pick another winner.

D'Andra Simmons Bridal Shower was Tres BLING! and C'est Magnifique

Remember in Junior High when the most popular girl in school had a big sleep-over and every girl in the school was on pins and needles to see if she was going to get an invitation? That's kind of what Saturday night's lingerie bridal shower was like for one of the biggest names on the Dallas social scene, skin care Queen D'Andra Simmons.

Dee and D'Andra Simmons (and yes, that's a cake!)

Hostess Kelly Stafford sent the lucky ladies their lottery tickets (invitations) via a custom box filled with red feathers. "Meet you in the Red Shoe Suite" it read.  It was referring to the Red Shoe suite at Hotel ZaZa, where everyone gathered to sip champagne around a custom cake built as an exact replica of D'Andra's stunning 10-carat oval Tanzanite engagement ring.  After several rounds of cocktails, the group made its way down to the main ballroom for a seated dinner (and more cocktails) then back up to the Suite for cake and the obligatory present opening.

Click here to see more photos on Facebook

The film "Moulin Rouge" was the inspiration this soiree.  Red corsets, black lace, sky-high heels, peek-a-boo masks and lots and lots of champagne were everywhere you turned, making for lots of great people watching and picture taking!  Stafford had designed a custom step and repeat just for the occasion and the photographer could barely control the crowd of women angling to get in front of his lens.

Kelly Stafford, D'Andra Simmons and Deb SoRelle

Good Morning Texas co-host Amy Vanderoff, Anna-Sophia Van Zweden, interior designer Shay Geyer, Big Rich Texas star Pamela Martin Duarte, Maggie Cooke Kipp, Jill-Beth Hayes, Nancy Gopez, Andrea Weber, Anne Stodghill, Ellen Winspear and Phyllis Comu were among the lucky madmoiselles in attendance.

Cynthia Smoot with D'Andra Simmons, Anna-Sophia Van Zweden with Shay Geyer
Pamela Martin Duarte, Teffy Jacobs with J. B. Hayes

You know what happens when you get a room full of women together. The gab gets going! So, what juicy tidbits got divulged? Well... while there were several fabulous tidbits I gleaned, they were all "off the record" - for now. One thing I can share with you is that Pamela Martin was excited to tell me that she and daughter Hannah, are developing a fragrance. According to Pam "no one from Dallas has ever launched a fragrance line" and she is very excited to be the first.  No word yet on the name or when it will be release, as it is early in the game.

Anna-Sophia Van Zweden told me that this was the first bridal shower she had ever been to and I just laughed and said, "Well honey, don't think they are all like this one!"  This party, was a one-of-a-kind experience.

photos courtesy of Danny Campbell.

DIFFA Announces Style Council Ambassadors for 2012

There was a Smoking Haute Style Council announced at DISH last Thursday night!  DIFFA/Dallas announced their 2012 Style Council Ambassadors last night at a party hosted by DISH Restaurant. Guests sipped on delicious libations and noshed on bites while the new Style Council Members mixed and mingled with the crowd.

Chuck Steelman & Darin Kunz, Laura Ginsburg & Lloyd Pierson
Amy Vanderoef, Sir Earl Toon & Abi Ferrin

This year’s style council includes a diverse group of ambassadors across various industries and backgrounds.  So, you are probably thinking, "What does it mean to be on the Style Council for DIFFA?" Well, let me tell you.  Members of the Style Council are responsible for getting out the word about DIFFA and fundraising for the signature event, the Collection, which this year is called Smoking Haute. It will take place at the Anatole on March 31.

The 2012 Style Council Ambassadors are:

 Abi Ferrin, Designer

 Alberto Lombardi, Restaurateur

 Amber Campisi, Playmate, model, socialite

 Amy Vanderoef, Host of Good Morning Texas

 Anne Stodghill, Community volunteer

 Bret McKinney, Director of visual merchandising at Stanley Korshak

 Chuck Steelman, P.R. manager at Neiman Marcus/Willow Bend

 Gillian Breidenbach, Vice president, Bank of America

 Hilary Gilbert, Medical City of Dallas

 Jeri Johnson, Community affairs at Microsoft Corporation

 Ken Foret, General manager of Barneys North Park

 Laura Ginsburg, Manager at Lela Rose, Highland Park Village

 Raymund King,  Attorney

 Shay Geyer, Owner IBB Design Fine Furnishings

 Tara Harper, Founder of  Paws In The City

About DIFFA

DIFFA plays a major part in HIV/AIDS funding, awareness and prevention education in the North Texas area, having granted over $4.5 million dollars since 1988. The Dallas chapter is the Foundation’s largest and most successful in the country and has made significant financial contributions to AIDS Service Organizations in the North Texas area.  The DIFFA grants process includes site visits, fiscal scrutiny, and personal interviews with potential grantees to insure that funds are appropriated where they can do the most good.  www.diffadallas.org

photos courtesy of Ninah Dee, Art of Mind Productions