Imagine driving a few miles south of Austin, going through a gate and being instantly transported to the African savannah. That happened for over three hundred guests attending the Texas Safari fundraiser for the Capital Area Dental Foundation on February 7^th.  Texas Disposal Systems has created a wonderful facility where African game animals roam freely.  Three bus tours of the property were held before sunset and were the focus of the photography contest. Other activities enjoyed by guests were a golf contest, a washer-pitching tournament, and face painting for the youngsters.

 

After sunset the activities moved indoors for a silent auction, live auction, BBQ dinner and a band. The goals of this event were to have fun and raise money for the Foundation. I think we succeeded on both counts. 

 

This event could just as well have been named the circle of life. Our old lion Leonard Dolce described the goals of the Foundation to the members of the Dental Society and our honored guests. Many of our younger dentists brought their children to see the animals. This really highlighted that we are a dental community and not just the faces we see at our monthly meetings. Our young lions will grow to take over one day. Our future as a dental society is bright.

 

The Texas Safari would not have been possible without the support of our many generous sponsors. Please take any chance you get to thank them. They are listed in the Capital Star. The committee members who worked tirelessly on this project deserve all the credit for its success. Thanks to all of them.

 

Editors’ note:  This article was written by Dr. Stan LaCroix, Chairman of the Special Event. Many sacrifices were made on his part to ensure that the Safari was a success. Stan is also the President-Elect of the Capital Area Dental Society and Treasurer of the Capital Area Dental Foundation. Dr. Jeff Brunson, CADS Treasurer, dedicated many hours on this event as well heading up the live and silent auctions.