Mike and Lori Jones and Roger Staubach

On Sunday, March 25th, hundreds of patrons gathered in Dallas to help senior citizens in need. The event was the VNA’s (Visiting Nurses Association) inaugural event, “Wheels for Meals and More”.

Co-chaired by Dallas philanthropist’ Marianne and Roger Staubach, the event was presented by Bank of America. The evening which included a social hour and dinner, was highlighted by the Live Auction which included a “Fund-A-Cause” which raised over $100,000 to fund “Meals On Wheels” service for hungry seniors in Dallas County.

The gala had a NASCAR theme and was held in the Park Place Porsche Dealership garage. The Texas Instruments DLP Number 96 NASCAR which is owned by Hall of Fame Racing, a joint venture between former Dallas Cowboy Quarterbacks and NFL Super Bowl Hall of Famers, Staubach and Troy Aikman was on hand for the event.When it was time for the Live Auction to begin, Professional Auctioneer and President of United Country Auction Services announced “Ladies and Gentlemen, Start Your Bidding!” at which time the Number 96 Chevrolet was cranked up and the crowd jumped to attention.

Highlights of the auction included an autographed Talladega 2006 Nextel-Sprint Race Day Autographed Helmet for $5500, Infineon Raceway NASCAR Package in Sonoma for $6500, Cartier Ladies Watch, bought by Staubach for $6000, Texas Motor Speedway Package complete with helicopter arrival, $5000 and a Meal-A-Month for a year at Dallas’ finest restaurants brought in $5,000.

Robert P. Carpenter, President and Chief Executive Officer said that “Due to the support of Mike Jones, his team and United Country Auction Services, the VNA’s inaugural event, Wheels for Meals and More…exceeded our expectations and we are deeply grateful to you for enabling us to be the community’s provider for 3,200 men and women who count on VNA volunteers to help them maintain their health and independence.”

He added, “It is truly a life-essential program,” Mr. Carpenter said.