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As the largest hotel in Texas, Sheraton Dallas Hotel is proud to announce it has been ranked #51 on Cvent’s prestigious list of the Top 250 Meeting Hotels in North America, a recognition that underscores Sheraton Dallas’ dedication to excellence in meetings and events. Cvent, a leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, compiles this annual list based on sourcing activity from over 145,000 active event planners in its global network.

With nearly $18 billion in group business sourced through the platform last year alone, this recognition is a strong industry endorsement. Among over 340,000 hotels worldwide, Sheraton Dallas stands out for its excellent service, adaptable event spaces, and prime location in the heart of Downtown Dallas.

As the “Official Hotel of Meetings and Events,” the Sheraton Dallas team takes pride in delivering seamless, high-impact experiences, whether hosting a small corporate gathering or a large-scale convention. The recent renovations, sustainability initiatives, and personalized event services make Sheraton Dallas a top-tier destination for planners and organizations nationwide.

We invite you to explore what makes Sheraton Dallas a leader in meetings and events. To book your stay, please visit the Sheraton Dallas website. For more information about booking your next event, please visit here.

Sheraton Dallas is located at 400 Olive St, Dallas, TX 75201.

 

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Nikki Beneke, Dixey Arterburn, Joanie Stephens

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Selected to Receive a League of American Orchestra’s Gold Award of Excellence for the DSOL’s 2024 Savor the Symphony

Dixey Arterburn, 2024-2025 president of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, is honored to announce the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League is selected to receive a League of American Orchestra’s Gold Award of Excellence for the DSOL’s 2024 Savor the Symphony fundraiser, chaired by Nikki Beneke and Joanie Stephens. Nancy Labadie was 2023-2024 president. The Gold Award of Excellence recognizes best-in-class programs or initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras.
        

“We’re honored and thrilled to be named a Gold Award of Excellence recipient,” Dixey said. “Our Savor the Symphony is an important fundraiser that brings together supporters in a lovely setting celebrating everything food and wine, plus offering guests an overview of the League and our commitment to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra.”
        

Nikki said, "We are so excited to receive the LAO Gold Award of Excellence. In 2024, we reimagined Savor the Symphony with new branding and a new program and reached a larger corporate and individual donor audience. Updating the event allowed us to incorporate the Magic of Music through our incredible magician and illusionist and performances by alumni involved in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra's education and outreach programs. The performances showcased how music changes lives for children in our community. Savor the Symphony is a unique event that focuses on a first-class evening where patrons enjoy gourmet offerings paired with lovely wines, a live and silent auction, and featured performances.”

Proceeds from the event benefit the Dallas Symphony Association and its education and outreach programs including:

• Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians and the Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series impact over 20,000 students and are vital as they open doors to a brighter future and more opportunities.

• MyDSO Concerts are specially designed for children and adults on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and caregivers.         

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League's (DSOL's) mission is to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra Community Outreach and Education Programs opening doors to a brighter future for the children in our community. The programs include: Young Strings, Kim Noltemy Young Musicians, Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, DSO on the Go (Community Concerts and Performances), and My DSO Concerts for children and adults on the autism spectrum. The DSOL has raised over $22 million to support these programs. 
Learn more at www.dallassymphonyleague.com/Savor-the-Symphony.

The League of American Orchestras:
The League of American Orchestras (LAO) champions the vitality of music and the orchestral experience, supports the orchestra community, and leads change boldly. The only national organization dedicated to orchestras and their communities, the League supports the field through advocacy, research, convenings, leadership development, artistic programs, and grants. Founded in 1942 and chartered by Congress in 1962, the League includes nearly 25,000 musicians, conductors, orchestra staff, board members, volunteers, and business partners working within our membership of 1,600 world-renowned orchestras, community groups, summer festivals, student and youth ensembles, conservatories and libraries, businesses serving orchestras, and individuals who love symphonic music. 

Gold Award Description:
The Gold Award of Excellence recognizes best-in-class programs or initiatives that have made a significant impact on their orchestras. Each winner receives a crystal award at a special reception and makes a PowerPoint presentation to fellow volunteers during the conference. The LAO 2025 National Conference is June 11-13 in Salt Lake City, Utah and will be hosted by the Utah Symphony & Utah Opera.  https://americanorchestras.org/gold-award-of-excellence/

Photo by Danny Campbell

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Celebrate Pride Month in the heart of Dallas with Fairmont Dallas as your luxurious home base. Nestled in the vibrant Dallas Arts District, the hotel offers unparalleled access to the city's premier Pride events and a host of exclusive amenities to make every stay unforgettable.

 

Sip on These New Chic Pride Cocktails!

For the entire month of June, Fairmont Dallas is proud to offer two specially curated Pride cocktails at the Pyramid Bar and Pool Terrace Bar. Savor vibrant, handcrafted cocktails amidst the action in the lobby bar or by the rooftop Junior Olympic pool:

  • Fairmont Spritz, a zesty twist on the classic Aperol Spritz
  • Oak Lawn Margarita, a magical, sparkly purple concoction crafted with Casamigos, Butterfly Pea Tea, and Luster Dust, and rimmed with pop rocks and salt for an extra oomph!

 

Unwind at the Rooftop Pool

Take a refreshing dip in Fairmont Dallas’ Junior Olympic-sized rooftop pool, offering breathtaking views of the Dallas city skyline. Thursday through Sunday, the Pool Terrace Bar serves handcrafted snacks and specialty cocktails, making it the perfect spot to relax poolside with a book, hang with the girls, or create special memories with the whole family.

Complimentary access for hotel guests. Day Passes are available for purchase at Resort Pass.

 

Stay at the Center of Pride Celebrations!

Located just steps away from the Dallas Arts District, Fairmont Dallas places guests at the epicenter of the city's Pride festivities. On Friday, June 20, immerse yourself in the Dallas Arts District Pride Block Party! This free, inclusive celebration features pride-themed tours, performances, films, gourmet food trucks, drag shows, and more, all within walking distance of the hotel. Enhance your cultural experience by attending the Dallas Symphony Orchestra's Pride Night with the DSO, in collaboration with the acclaimed Turtle Creek Chorale. Celebrate the invaluable contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community through a night of inspiring music and community engagement.

Join the Fairmont Dallas this June to celebrate Pride Month with elegance, love, culture, and community. Whether you're attending the city's vibrant events or relaxing by the pool, your Pride experience starts here.

 

Fairmont Dallas is located at 1717 N Akard St.

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June is recognized as Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the health challenges men face and encouraging early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. At Carrollton Regional Medical Center, we are committed to helping the men in our community lead longer, healthier lives by promoting preventive care, education, and lifestyle changes.

Statistics show that men are less likely than women to visit the doctor regularly and often delay seeking medical help. This can lead to the late detection of serious conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers.

This month, we encourage you to take charge of your well-being by: 

✔ Scheduling your annual physical
✔ Checking your blood pressure and cholesterol
✔ Staying active and eating balanced meals
✔ Talking openly about mental health
✔ Encouraging the men in your life to do the same

Men’s Health Month serves as an important reminder to take charge of your health, not just for yourself, but for the people who count on you every day.

Carrollton Regional Medical Center is a 216 - bed Acute Care Hospital managed by Sana Healthcare. CRMC serves Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Lewisville, The Colony, and other surrounding communities. CRMC offers an array of services including 24/7 Emergency Care, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Imaging Services, Rehabilitation and Therapy Services, Cancer Care, a 16- bed Intensive Care Unit, Surgical Services, and an Inpatient Orthopedic Center of Excellence. Our Women’s Imaging Center is just 2 blocks north of the hospital and provides 3D digital mammography and other specialized breast procedures. CRMC is here to serve its community with high quality, patient-focused care, close to home. Visit www.crmc.health.

 

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When Kenny Bowers was preparing to open Kenny’s East Coast Pizza in 2016, the acclaimed chef/restaurateur knew he’d be judged on the simplest of things. For Bowers, that meant making the perfect cheese pizza. He knew with such a classic and basic presentation, he wouldn’t be able to hide behind fancy garnish or techniques. It was simply about the dough, the sauce and the cheese. Now, the team at the acclaimed Italian-American restaurant in Plano is sharing its secrets with guests.

Kenny’s East Coast Pizza will host its first hands-on pizza making class at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 22. The class is limited in size so that each guest can learn perfect technique from Chef Knacho Lozano and his team. Participants will enjoy appetizers and a 3-course wine pairing while the culinary team teaches them the basics, then it’s time to get their hands (or gloves) a little dirty as they learn how to toss and stretch the dough, top the pizza and prepare it for baking. Then, they’ll enjoy a light dessert while their pizzas bake in the restaurant’s signature deck ovens. The class will also leave with a “pizza kit” to take home upon departure, with instructions to make a pizza in their own house at their convenience. Classes are $100 per person. Guests should call the restaurant at 972-519-9669 to make reservations before the 10 spots sell out! More classes will be available in the future if you miss out on this one!

Since the class is on Sunday, savvy diners will take advantage of the Meatball Sunday promotion at the restaurant. Guests can order meatballs to eat in store – or up to a dozen per person to take home – for only $1 each.

Kenny Bowers and partners Bob Stegall and Clay McAfee founded Kenny’s Restaurant Group with the belief that “Every day is a holiday and every meal a feast.”  The group is dedicated to customer-centered service and the recognition that hospitality is extended in every moment of guest interaction.  The restaurants are regularly lauded for their exceptional service and dedication to excellence. 


Kenny’s East Coast Pizza

kennyseastcoastpizza.com

4701 W Park Blvd #101

Plano, TX 75093

972-519-9669

 

 
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Eric Nadel Birthday Eric Nadel and Michelle and Andy Heinz

Celebrating its 13th anniversary, the Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit on May 29at the Longhorn Ballroom raised more than $173,000—a new record—for Grant Halliburton Foundation with 640 in attendance. The evening included a VIP party for sponsors with food from Eddie’s Tex-Mex Cocina where Nadel visited with and took photos with guests. The evening included live and silent auctions and music performances by double headliners The Secret Sisters and Shinyribs. The event was presented by Haynes Boone, and the media sponsor is KXT 91.7.

Eric Nadel, Texas Rangers Hall of Fame broadcaster and mental health advocate, hosted the annual birthday benefit and welcomed guests.

“I’m thrilled that you are here to help celebrate my birthday,” Nadel said. “We started off at The Kessler, but we ran out of space because more people wanted to attend. So we moved to the Longhorn Ballroom, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Five years ago, I decided to partner with Grant Halliburton Foundation, a Dallas nonprofit that provides mental health education, resources, and support to children, teens, and their families. The work they do is important, and I want you to know more about them.”

Nadel then introduced Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president.

“Eric, we’re grateful for your courage and inspiration as a dedicated mental health advocate and for the impact you’ve made for us,” Kevin Hall said. “We’re honored to be the beneficiary again. I want all of you to know more about our organization through this video.”

After the video played, Ronnie Conger, auctioneer, invited those who purchased beads to stand up to play a spirited game of heads or tails. Then he led the live auction, which included watching a Texas Rangers game with Eric Nadel, a Jazz Cruise getaway with Elvis Costello and Boz Scaggs and a dinner with Texas Rangers Manager Bruce Bochy.

Following the live auction, Alabama-based The Secret Sisters played their emotional songs and ended by singing happy birthday to Nadel who joined them on stage. Then, Shinyribs, led by the animated Kevin Russell performed their blend of Texas blues, New Orleans R&B funk and horn-inspired Memphis soul music. Russell even took to the floor dancing enthusiastically with several guests, while others danced.

For more information and a complete list of sponsors, visit https://www.granthalliburton.org/ericnadel.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

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Eric Nadel Birthday Eric Nadel and Michelle and Andy Heinz

Celebrating its 13th anniversary, the Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit on May 29at the Longhorn Ballroom raised more than $173,000—a new record—for Grant Halliburton Foundation with 640 in attendance. The evening included a VIP party for sponsors with food from Eddie’s Tex-Mex Cocina where Nadel visited with and took photos with guests. The evening included live and silent auctions and music performances by double headliners The Secret Sisters and Shinyribs. The event was presented by Haynes Boone, and the media sponsor is KXT 91.7.

Eric Nadel, Texas Rangers Hall of Fame broadcaster and mental health advocate, hosted the annual birthday benefit and welcomed guests.

“I’m thrilled that you are here to help celebrate my birthday,” Nadel said. “We started off at The Kessler, but we ran out of space because more people wanted to attend. So we moved to the Longhorn Ballroom, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Five years ago, I decided to partner with Grant Halliburton Foundation, a Dallas nonprofit that provides mental health education, resources, and support to children, teens, and their families. The work they do is important, and I want you to know more about them.”

Nadel then introduced Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president.

“Eric, we’re grateful for your courage and inspiration as a dedicated mental health advocate and for the impact you’ve made for us,” Kevin Hall said. “We’re honored to be the beneficiary again. I want all of you to know more about our organization through this video.”

After the video played, Ronnie Conger, auctioneer, invited those who purchased beads to stand up to play a spirited game of heads or tails. Then he led the live auction, which included watching a Texas Rangers game with Eric Nadel, a Jazz Cruise getaway with Elvis Costello and Boz Scaggs and a dinner with Texas Rangers Manager Bruce Bochy.

Following the live auction, Alabama-based The Secret Sisters played their emotional songs and ended by singing happy birthday to Nadel who joined them on stage. Then, Shinyribs, led by the animated Kevin Russell performed their blend of Texas blues, New Orleans R&B funk and horn-inspired Memphis soul music. Russell even took to the floor dancing enthusiastically with several guests, while others danced.

For more information and a complete list of sponsors, visit https://www.granthalliburton.org/ericnadel.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Grant Halliburton Foundation was established in 2006 in memory of a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder for several years before his suicide death at the age of 19. The Foundation that bears his name works to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness through a variety of avenues including education, conferences, collaboration and encouragement. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health education, training and support to more than 350,000 students, educators, parents and professionals. The Foundation also offers Here For Texas, which includes HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community tools aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

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Join McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails for an unforgettable Father’s Day on Sunday, June 15. We are opening early at 10:30am for the celebration so, make plans to honor dad with bold flavors and warm hospitality on his special day.

Cocktails are a signature feature at McRae’s, and you can rest assured an expertly crafted, Elder Fashioned, with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Elderflower, and Angostura Bitters, will be an added highlight as you toast dad and all he means to you.

Father’s Day Prix Fixe Menu

Begin with a starter of a Buffalo Shrimp & Blue Cheese Polenta or Venison Crostini followed by a second course of Wedge Salad or Shiner Bock & Cheddar Cheese Soup.

Delightful and creative entrees feature Whiskey Glazed Pork Chop ($39), Chicken Fried Chicken with Black Truffle Country Gravy ($39), Surf & Turf ($49), or Mediterranean Branzino ($39).

Save room for a sweet treat with dessert offerings of Espresso Chocolate Mousse Cake or Crème Brulee ($10 each). A kids menu for children 12 years and under is available for $14.

This menu is offered exclusively on Father’s Day (our regular brunch and dinner menu will not be offered) so make the most of the day and give Dad a savory culinary experience he will remember.

Whether you dine in our cozy dining room or outdoors on our comfortable patio, McRae’s offers an upscale dining experience in a relaxed, casual setting. Seating is limited and reservations are highly recommended. See the full Father’s Day menu and make your reservations online at McRaesAmericanBistro.com or call us at 214-792-9944.

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IMG_0974 Atmos Staff present donation to Harold Yo

Rockwall, TX - J.E.R. Chilton YMCA announces with gratitude, that Atmos Energy recently donated a generous gift of $10,000 to Angel Camp, a program of the Rockwall YMCA dedicated to providing authentic summer camp experiences for special needs youth in and around Rockwall County.

The donation, announced following a presentation to Atmos Energy employees on May 28, 2025, goes a long way to providing this important program at no cost to the camper’s families.

For Eva Hummel, Manager of Public Affairs for Atmos Energy, this is an important program that she has witnessed to be life changing. “Service to the community is at the forefront of everything we do,” says Hummel. “When we first learned of Angel Camp, we knew it lined up perfectly with our “Fueling Safe and Thriving Community” initiatives and hearing more really opens our eyes to why we support this wonderful program. Our employees are excited to volunteer at Angel Camp once again.”

The $10,000 donation has a significant impact, ensuring these young people receive an opportunity to grow, connect with others, and create lasting memories.

“Speaking for our staff, the campers, and certainly their parents, we are appreciative of Atmos Energy’s partnership,” says Harold Young, Executive District Director. “Their generosity directly impacts the quality and the accessibility of our program offerings.”

Over six weeks each summer, Angel Camp offers activities the participants might not otherwise experience. Through field trips (horseback riding, sailing Lake Ray Hubbard aboard Sail With Scott, bowling at Shenaniganz, fun at Jungle Trek, Urban Air, and others) and onsite activities of canoeing, archery, arts and crafts, games, and swimming, Angel Camp provides educational and engaging activities in a safe environment, while also promoting friendships, confidence, and socialization.

For J.E.R. Chilton YMCA, Young says, “The gift from donors like Atmos is transformational for us to provide on-going services to the special needs community.”

The J.E.R. Chilton YMCA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. J.E.R. Chilton YMCA offers a variety of programs to the surrounding area including Safety Around Water, health and wellness, youth sports, seasonal and summer camp, Angel Camp for special needs, childcare programs, special events, youth leadership, and more.

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Kloria Publishing recently announced the release of two new fiction books: “The Beloved Son and His Brother” by Katie Schuermann and “Above All Things: The Tale of the King” by Christine Elliott Rivers. On May 21, Schuermann and Rivers hosted a book-signing event at Faith Lutheran School in Plano, Texas at which readers met and interacted with the authors.
Kloria Publishing recently announced the release of two new fiction books: “The Beloved Son and His Brother” by Katie Schuermann and “Above All Things: The Tale of the King” by Christine Elliott Rivers. On May 21, Schuermann and Rivers hosted a book signing event at Faith Lutheran School in Plano, Texas at which readers met and interacted with the authors. 
 
“The Beloved Son and His Brother” is the second book in Kloria Publishing’s The Creed series, a historical fiction trilogy inspired by the three articles of the Apostles’ Creed and designed for readers in grades three through five. “Above All Things: The Tale of the King” is the first book in Kloria Publishing’s The Commandments series, a collection of fairytales inspired by the Ten Commandments and designed for readers in grades two through four. These new releases are the most recent products of the publisher’s ongoing focus to provide beautiful and content-rich books for families, educators and others that uphold the teachings of God’s Word and the Lutheran Confessions. Both books are available for purchase at https://kloria.com/collections/fiction-for-children
 
Christine Elliott Rivers has a bachelor of arts degree from Concordia University, Chicago and a master of arts degree from The Ohio State University. She has served as a teacher for 25 years and currently teaches elementary and high school classes at Faith Lutheran School in Plano, Texas. “Above All Things: The Tale of the King” is her first book. When she is not teaching or writing, she is out adventuring in the wild with her husband, their three children and their dog. Learn more at www.christineelliottrivers.com
 
A native of central Illinois, Katie Schuermann studied vocal pedagogy and literature at Greenville University before earning graduate degrees in both choral conducting and music history from the University of Missouri—Kansas City’s Conservatory of Music. Today, she is a full-time homemaker, part-time musician and widely-published writer. Schuermann resides in Champaign, Illinois with her husband of 23 years, the Rev. Michael P. Schuermann. When not writing, she can be found singing, gardening, cooking, holding babies or trying to climb the nearest tree. Learn more at www.katieschuermann.com
 
Kloria Publishing creates and distributes books, artistic works, and other materials which proclaim the unchanging Gospel of Jesus Christ and uphold the teachings of God's Word as correctly expounded in the Lutheran Confessions. Learn more at www.kloria.com