On Angels' wings
Soaring Dallas gala helps make nonprofit's lifesaving mission possible
What: Angel Flight South Central's inaugural Mission Possible: Soaring Hearts Gala
Where: Frontiers of Flight Museum
The 411: About 250 guests gathered February 15 for Angel Flight's first Soaring Hearts Gala — appropriately themed to both Valentine's weekend and the mission of the organization. Angel Flight South Central helps people in need of free air transportation for medical and humanitarian purposes in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, and New Mexico. The nonprofit arranges travel, through a network of volunteer pilots, for people who require specialized medical treatment not available to them locally.
A VIP reception held above the event floor kicked off the night. Then Elevation presented by Emerald City Band welcomed guests to the main event with upbeat classic hits.
Patrons could explore the museum as they sipped wine and perused silent auction offerings. An open bar and buffet dinner — featuring cranberry-goat cheese salad, chicken in white sauce, vegetables, and assorted dessert cakes — followed.
Emcee Lyndy Phillips and director Elizabeth Hancy welcomed supporters, and Darryl Purpose performed a beautiful original folk song written for Angel Flight.
Legendary Dallas Cowboy Everson Walls spoke about the importance of giving to others in times of need — specifically, when he gave a kidney to friend and former Cowboys player Ron Springs. Keynote Speaker Peggy Whitson then told the audience about her experiences as a former NASA astronaut. Whitson has made the most spacewalks of any woman in the world, logging over 60 hours.
Awards were given to three members of the organization: treasurer Raymond Bailey (2020 Silver Wings Award), vice chairman Larry Forney (Golden Wings award), and Angel Flight volunteer pilot Craig Dow (Lifetime Achievement Award).
A spirited live auction raised funds for outreach, volunteer pilots, and mission coordination efforts. Patrons then celebrated the event's success by dancing the night away to the Elevation band.
Who: Honorary chair Jimmy Wescott, Cliff Millican, Maxi Millican, Cindy Forney, Susan Forney, Wayne R. Maynard, Nan Maynard, Rebecca Hackl, and Brenda Bailey.