With the fall weather making the reappearance of sweaters and boots, Dallas CASA’s Young Professionals’ Third Annual Voices For A Cause was a sellout at The Rustic on Thursday, October 18. As if the food and friends weren’t enough, Ray Johnston and his band uploaded the fun to a new level. Here’s a report from the field:
Dallas CASA Young Professionals hosted Voices for a Cause on Thursday, October 18, at The Rustic Dallas. It was an exciting night with a sold out crowd of more than 300 young pros enjoying the rain-free, fall weather and terrific music. The group feasted on buffalo meatballs, brisket sliders and goat cheese bruschetta while enjoying drinks and the hard-wood fires on The Rustic’s patio. The third annual benefit concert raises funds to help support the work of Dallas CASA.
Opening band, Signed Out, was fronted by Dallas CASA board member and Richards Group exec Dave Kroencke. The arena rock cover band was cheered on by an enthusiastic group of fans who often joined in to sing the familiar tunes.
Texas country singer/songwriter and headliner The Ray Johnston Band, kept the party going with upbeat lyrics and melodies highlighting the positive side of life. In remission from Leukemia for 5½ years, Ray brings his signature brand of feel good to every show. The crowd roared when Ray sang the words to his buoyant tune, “No Bad Days”.
Young Professionals President Kenneth Wherry was joined by event chairs Reasha Hedke, Elise Nichols and Dana Swann to thank the enthusiastic crowd including Kyle Laney, Elise Nichols, Erin Jesberger, Annie Allred, Bela Cooley, Kristy Hoglund Robinson, Lisa Broencke, Mindy and Woody McMinn, Cassie and Kaleb Moore, Karl Wolff, Molly Vaughan, Katie Evanich, Tori Brunelli, Cassi Oesterling, Deri and Doug Hartman, Jocelyn and Casey Herren, Jennifer and Jeff Jones, Linda and Rob Swartz and event sponsors.
Voices for a Cause presenting sponsor was The Hiduke Foundation. Other sponsors included Christine and Jonathan Bassham, Sewell Automotive and Mindy and Woody McMinn.
* Photo provided by Dallas CASA