What: A Night For Nexus Brazilian Carnaval

Where: The Joule

The 411: Glamorous Dallasites donned their most colorful gowns and tuxes, over-the-top masquerade masks, and bejeweled faces and headed to a Brazilian Carnaval benefiting Nexus Recovery Center on October 25.

Chaired by Alesia Turner and former Real Housewives of Dallas star Cary Deuber, the festive evening supported the Dallas nonprofit's mission to serve as a link to sobriety, independence, and dignity for low-income women and their families affected by addiction.

Emcee Alisha Laventure welcomed the crowd and introduced Rolando Diaz, a Dallas-based Cuban-American fine artist. He wowed the crowd by live painting an original oil-on-canvas depicting a mother and child surrounded by leaves, symbolizing the circle of life. The painting later sold in the live auction for $10,000 to benefit Nexus.

The spirited live auction featured fabulous prizes, such as a Tuscan villa for seven nights, a Texas ranch getaway, and a backyard barbecue with live music. Once the bidding had ended, guests heard from former Nexus client named Jeanine, who shared her heartfelt story about the daily struggles facing addicts and the power of triumphs in recovery. Her remarks inspired a resounding standing ovation.

Becca Crowell, Nexus CEO, reminded everyone that Nexus inspires hope, offers respect, and honors the unique differences of female addicts. In 2018, Nexus served 1,969 women and teens along with 341 children, including 64 Nexus-born babies.

Bright lights splashed the stage with color, and Downtown Fever Band rocked popular tunes spanning decades that kept everyone dancing until the lights went out.

Who: Mark Deuber, Darin Turner, Grady Reynolds, Laura Reynolds, Chris Young, Amy Young, Ben Peters, Crissy Peters, Ashley Foland, David Quinones, Adam Stagg, Misty Smathers, Steve Smathers, Raymond Faus, Kristy Faus, Gus Bryant, Lauren Bryant, Karen Luter, Carolyn Waghorne, Angie Waghorne, Rick Waghorne, Ashley Tatum, and Tonia Mailandt.