Each time Henry Winkler comes to North Texas, he manages to actually make people realize that “The Fonz” was indeed an act. The philanthropist, businessman and family man speaks off the cuff to … not at … his audience, using memories of his past, G-rated rumor and lessons that all can share. That is exactly what happened on Friday, October 28, at the seventh annual Each Moment Matters at the Hilton Anatole. In addition to boasting Winkler’s presence, the event also recognized some dozens of local role models. Here is a report from the field:
Henry Winkler’s mix of humor and passion was just the right recipe for the seventh annual Each Moment Matters Luncheon at the Hilton Anatole on Friday, October 28, as he shared his life lessons of tenacity and gratitude. Mr. Winkler’s iconic portrayal of The Fonz for 10 seasons on “Happy Days” (1974-84) made him one of the most recognized actors in the world, earning him two consecutive Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy Series and three Emmy nominations in the same category. He is also an author of children’s books entitled “Hank Zipzer: The World’s Greatest Under-Achiever,” which have appeared on several Best Seller lists. More recently, he co-starred in the NBC reality series “Better Late than Never,” which has been renewed for a second season.
Emceed by Fox 4’s Clarice Tinsley, and hosted by Presbyterian Communities and Services Foundation (PC&SF), the luncheon raises money for the Faith Presbyterian Hospice’s Caring Fund. Such funding provides critical financial support for end-of-life services to terminally ill patients needing assistance – but who have exhausted all of their financial means. In addition to receiving excellent hospice care, patients can participate in music, massage and pet therapies and their families are offered bereavement services, including children’s grief therapy.
While raising funds is the focus of the event, it also honors local individuals who have been selected for their impactful work in various organizations, schools, churches, or businesses. The 2016 Each Moment Matters honorees are: Sharon Balch, Mary Bartholow, Frederick Brewster, Judy and Dr. Bill Burnett, Catherine Bywaters, Kathryn Carpenter, Cleveland “Cleve” Clinton, Robyn Thomas Conlon, Louis Dunklin, Sharyn Fein, Mary “Mackey” Harper, Linda Humphries, Richard Knight Jr., Dr. Robert I. Kramer, Alice Masciarelli and Dr. Filippo Masciarelli, Melissa “Missie” Neathery, MSN and James “Jim” Neathery, DMN, Camille Owens, Patricia Porter, Shannon M. Radford, Ralph G. Santos, Katie McKinley Schlieve, David Grant Smith, Rand Stagen and Dr. Daniel Varga.
Barbara Hunt Crow and Lucy Johnson served as this year’s co-chairs and reported that a net amount of $360,000 resulted from the luncheon. A generous day-of challenge gift from a longtime donor, combined with board members’ contributions, totaled $50,000, encouraged additional giving.
* Photos provided by Presbyterian Communities and Services Foundation