The two community champions should be absolutely no surprise to anyone — the Junior League of Dallas is the group honoree and Bud Callahan is the individual honoree. Oh, you know the JLD, but Bud’s name is new on your contact list? Well, he a successful DFW realtor and liaison between Promise House and the Duncanville, Desoto, and Oak Cliff MLS and the Women’s Council of Realtors.

Tickets are $20 per person via online pre-event and $25 at the door. But besides being part of the action, guests will also enjoy lite-bits and appetizers from Cuba Libre (they’re pretty stellar) and specialty cocktails by Pama Liqueur.

If you’re one of those who avoid the paparazzi on the red carpet, pull a Jack Nicholson and just slip on your shades. That’ll drive the photogs crazy.

But all four-legged creatures don’t have it as good as yours. There are animals like Dido (pictured) at the Dallas Animal Shelter that if not adopted are destined for death row.

Your SweetCharity staff has checked out the new facilities on Westmoreland at I-30. After all you would expect us to. Forget that Oliver Twist facility that used to be next to the Dallas Zoo. The new facility is really rather spectacular and the staff is doing a yeoman’s job. But they need to get the critters out of there. Each day dogs and cats are killed (let’s not pussyfoot around with euthanize, put to sleep, etc.) because of the surplus.

Did you know that quality animals are being turned in hourly? You don’t believe it? How could you doubt us??? We’ve seen everything from Chinese Crested to Labs available for adoption because of the economy. And what a bargain. For less than the price of a Wii Fit Plus, you get a life-long bud that is spade/neutered, microchipped, heartworm tested, and had its first round of shots.

Ah, come on, you know you have room or you know someone who is in need of being loved. Now, head over to the shelter.

Want to have sweet dreams to go with that comfy slumber? Why not gather up your old blankets and donate them to those in need? Homeless shelters, like The Bridge, can really use them.

What’s that? You’ve got a blanket, but it’s pretty ratty? Then animal organizations have just the place for it. They could also use your old newspapers. Seriously.

ShopTalk gals, heads up on this one. Here’s a real deal: Think about heading to the Salvation Army Thrift Stores and Goodwill stores. You’ll be amazed what bargains can be had! (Please note: we rarely use exclamation points.) Yes, everything from baby blankets to duvets can be had for a pittance, but they can invaluable to someone who is facing a very chilly Christmas Eve and winter. Plus you’ll be supporting two non-profit organizations that are year-round heroes.