Marvin, 4-year old William and Lisa Singleton |
Dallas Dweller: Lisa Singleton
Lisa Singleton grew up on the West Coast and in the Midwest but moved to Dallas almost 13 years ago to work for American Airlines. Lucky for us, she met a wonderful man, got married and has made Dallas her home. Five years ago her mother was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Lisa connected with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of North Texas looking for support and information. She has attended their annual fundraiser, the Saint Valentine's Day Luncheon and Fashion Show for the last four years but this year, she is taking the helm and has the daunting task of serving as the chair of this massive event. "When I was asked last year to take the chair, I gladly accepted to help raise funds to find a cure while also providing hope and support to those facing the disease. We’re THRILLED to have Highland Park Village on as this year’s Fashion Sponsor for the first time – and we have a great roster of participating designers: Hadleigh’s, Lela Rose, Ralph Lauren and St. John. We’ve also added a new component to the luncheon this year, a post-luncheon event back in Highland Park Village offering attendees the opportunity to shop the runway looks. Obviously, the Jan Strimple-produced show will be tremendous. But I also think what has made this event so special is that the women who have served as the event founders, past chairs and our past presenting sponsors continue to be involved and serve as champions. For a luncheon to be successful 31 years is a testament to these women. I find it just extraordinary." For tickets and more information on this event, visit http://www.saintvalentinesdayluncheon.org/event/tickets-and-sponsorship.html.
Lisa and her husband have a 4-year old son, so I wanted to know what some of her favorite spots were around town to relax, recharge, dine and shop. Here's a look at her favorite haunts.
RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH LISA SINGLETON
OSC: Where do you go or what do you do to relax and recharge?
LS: With a full-time job, community activities, and four year old, I don’t t have that much downtime. When I do, I like to spend it with family and friends. Our weekends are spent exploring, especially Klyde Warren Park and current museum exhibits, and trying out new restaurants. I love to cook and entertain so we try to fit some of that in on the weekends. I’m a true magazine junkie, and my airplane time is spent getting caught up. I’m also an avid reader and try to read at least a chapter or two a day. (Okay, that sounds like I have a lot of free time!)
Lisa Singleton, Jennifer Houser & Carmaleta Whiteley at the LLS St. Valentine's Day Luncheon kickoff party at Bistro 31, Oct. 2014 |
LS: I actually keep a written running list of restaurants to share with visitors and newcomers! So many favorites. But, with that said, my friends do think I own stock in Bistro/Lounge 31. The Mercury is one of my all-time favorites; their crispy chicken is to die for. I’m not much of a dessert girl, but the bananas foster butter cake at Eddie V’s is out of this world. Nonna for Italian. And nothing beats a lobster tail and baked potato at Daddy Jack’s Friday evening after a tough week. I could go on and on….
OSC: What are your favorite Dallas stores to shop?
LS: My shopping tends to run towards grocery shopping. Whole Foods is my mainstay. I love Nicholson-Hardie and Jackson's for home; great displays, great selections. We've rediscovered the Dallas Farmer's Market and can't wait until all the remodeling is complete.
OSC: What’s your favorite Dallas festival or event?
LS: The Saint Valentine’s Day Luncheon & Fashion Show!!
OSC: Tell something about you that most people don’t know.
LS: I had a bit part in the Julia Roberts/Nick Nolte movie, “I Love Trouble.” And I mean bit. You can see the top of my head over an airline seat in one shot.
OSC: What do you think makes Dallas such a great place to live, work and raise a family?
LS: I think it’s a combination of the things we’ve talked about here. Definitely the people. I’ve never lived in a city so warm and welcoming and friendly. Great cultural institutions, and the Arts District has been a game changer. Most certainly the restaurants. Generally just great people and great quality of life. I’m working on a project right now to help transition Toyota to North Texas and I can’t say enough great things about our community to those making the transition.