"See you at the Park..." is truly the phrase everyone is saying these days!

A cocktail party atmosphere prevailed at the opening celebration at Martini Park on Jan. 24, which was a benefit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC) between 6 & 8 p.m. During her opening remarks, Christina Alford, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County, said "the BGCCC is an organization dedicated to its mission of enabling all young people, especially those who need us the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens." Lending their support to the BGCCC mission were three generous sponsors - Martini Park, Modern Luxury Dallas Magazine and Park Place Dealers - who hosted the event in this exciting, classy setting.

Friends and community supporters of the BGCCC met and socialized with many new friends to promote the impact this organization has on at-risk and disadvantaged children in Collin County. This diverse crowd learned about after-school and summer programs in addition to other valuable activities offered by the BGCCC while dining on a wonderful array of hors d'oeuvres and cocktails from the unique bar. Mr. Chris Barish, owner and CEO of Martini Park, said, "I have been an advocate for the Boys & Girls Clubs in New York City the past ten years. Martini Park is very excited about supporting such an excellent local organization that makes a lasting impact in the lives of so many children."

Amid the live musical genre and DJ, the guests were treated to an opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind handmade plates created by the kids. The BGCCC team, led by Christina Alford, CEO, announced that the 2007 Chrysalis Ball will be held on Nov. 3 at the Embassy Suites Hotel, Frisco. As an added treat, a 2007 Chrysalis Ball package, which included two VIP tickets to the gala, an overnight stay at the Embassy Suites for the evening of the event and a Lexus rental for the weekend of the gala, was raffled at the conclusion of the evening's festivities. The lucky winner of this special luxury package was Mr. Dan McLaughlin of Rockwall. Mr. McLaughlin said, "I am touched by the BGCCC's dedication and hard work to help the many less fortunate children in our community and that moved me to help and support their efforts. I just happened to be the lucky one that evening by winning the 2007 Chrysalis Ball package."

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County staff members present were Christina Alford, chief executive officer; Cathy Barker, director of development; and Angie Toles, community outreach coordinator. All three praised their sponsors for contributing to a fun evening and reported that more than $3,300 was raised to benefit the children's' programs.

If you would like to help, volunteer or have any questions about the BGCCC, please contact our headquarters by phone at 214-544-8924 or email Christina Alford, CEO, at calford@bgccc.org. The mailing address is P.O. Box 3166, McKinney, TX 75070.