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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
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Kitchen Design Concepts recently completed a beautiful transformation to a historic Lakewood home. This project began with a vision to breathe new life into the space, turning a poorly executed addition into a beautiful primary suite that stays true to the original home. 

The original addition had a small closet and bathroom, an oddly shaped ceiling, and lacked cohesion with the rest of the home. Kitchen Design Concepts worked closely with the client to reimagine the space, relocating the closet door and converting it to a pocket door, incorporating unique storage solutions in the bathroom to maximize the small space, reframing the ceiling with wood beams to complement those in the kitchen, and replacing the carpet in the primary bedroom with hardwood flooring to create a cohesive look with the rest of the home. 

Before the client even approached KDC with this project, she had already chosen a wallpaper she loved. However, when it came time to order the wallpaper, it was out of stock and would not be available for several months. After several samples were ordered from different wallpaper suppliers, the client landed on a company called Rebel Walls. 

The wallpaper that the client selected was a mural that was initially designed for installation in spaces with 10-foot ceilings. After sharing the dimensions of the room with the company, they scaled down the mural and ensured the artwork would fit in the small space without losing its impact. 

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Ghostlight

by

Kenneth Oppel

 

A suspenseful and exciting middle-grade novel of ghosts, friendship, and family

 

SYNOPSIS from Goodreads:

One teen's summer job scaring tourists with ghost stories takes a terrifying turn when he accidentally summons the spirit of a dead girl—and she has demands. . . .

Rebecca Strand was just sixteen when she and her father fell to their deaths from the top of the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse in 1839. Just how they fell—or were they pushed?—remains a mystery. And their ghosts haunt the lighthouse to this day. . . .

Gabe tells this story every day when he gives the ghost tour on Toronto Island. He tries to make it scary enough to satisfy the tourists, but he doesn’t actually believe in ghosts—until he finds himself face to face with Rebecca Strand.

The true story of her death is far more terrifying than any ghost tale Gabe has told. Rebecca reveals that her father was a member of the Order, a secret society devoted to protecting the world from “the wakeful and wicked dead”—malevolent spirits like Viker, the ghost responsible for their deaths. But the Order has disappeared, and Viker’s ghost is growing ever stronger.

Now Gabe and his friends must find a way to stop Viker before they all become lost souls. . . .

 

Ghostlight is a suspenseful and exciting middle-grade novel about ghosts, friendship, and family. In addition to the fictional tale, the book includes some serious and highly discussable topics such as divorce, the death of a parent, immigrant experiences, and what happens after you die. This is definitely one I would have been glad to share with my boys when they were that age for the excellent story, superior storytelling, and the diverse conversations it most likely would have prompted. 

The ghostly aspects of the story are unique. I enjoyed the author’s vision of how ghosts exist, hidden on the edge of regular daily life. The descriptions of the evil Viker were scary, and I could clearly visualize his appearance and the changes he underwent. His consuming the other spirits and the images of the ghosts crossing the water to get to land both gave me the willies. And I worried from the start about Rebecca draining the energy from Gabe; it seemed so realistic.

 The setting was fresh (Toronto), and I enjoyed the quest the four friends conducted to find the answer to Rebecca’s terrible problem (trying to avoid spoilers there.) The kids, including Rebecca, were well-drawn, each different from the others, but a well-matched, balanced group with interesting backstories. I liked that Callie was continuously researching for clues, and Yuri was steadfast in his focus on improvising the best way to combat the evil ghosts. These kids were serious about what they were doing yet still displayed their fun, young, and modern side. (Even Rebecca is intrigued and learns to use some modern conveniences.)  They were or became friends, and some of their dialogue had me laughing out loud. 

                “Steaming pile of yak dung! Who says such a thing?”

                “Me, from now on!” 

With its unique setting, characters, and ghostly afterlife to its suspenseful and exciting plot, I recommend GHOSTLIGHT to middle-grade readers who like stories that involve puzzling out a mystery or a search, ghosts, or a setting during a summer job at an amusement facility or waterside in Toronto. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author or publisher through NetGalley and TBR and Beyond Book Tours.

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Carrots, celery and apples are known teeth-friendly foods that scrub away plaque, stimulate saliva production and help fight against bad breath and decay. However, eating them every day is dull unless you’re a rabbit. 

In honor of National Show Your Smile Month in May, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas suggests five surprising foods that keep teeth and gums healthy. Consider it a spring gift for your mouth. 

Onions 

Kissing isn’t delightful immediately after eating onions, but the pungent vegetable is kind to the mouth. 

 “Chewing raw onions releases sulfur compounds, controlling harmful bacteria,” said Dr. Luz Mendoza, program manager in the dental college’s public health sciences department. 

Eggs 

Vitamin D in eggs helps the body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong teeth, Mendoza said. Eggs also contain phosphorus, promoting both bone and tooth health, as well as protein for gum health and tissue development. 

Turkey 

Turkey is rich in phosphorus and protein as well. 

Sweet Potatoes 

Sweet potatoes offer beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Not having enough vitamin A can lead to a dry mouth and increased susceptibility to infections, Mendoza said. 

Yogurt 

Plain yogurt is rich in calcium and beneficial bacteria. It increases saliva production, which helps prevent cavities. 

 “Skip the sugar added in many yogurt brands,” she said. 

Remember, no food replaces the dental benefits of brushing and flossing at least twice daily. In addition, visit the dentist twice a year. 

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Dads deserve an unforgettable celebration and Dodie’s Cajun Diner located on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard in Rockwall has the menu and a view to make his day great!

With Cajun specialties of Shrimp Brochettes, Redfish or Mahi Mahi, there is something on our menu for every preference! Whether he loves spicy and loaded with flavor or light and fresh with just a pinch of Cajun seasoning, Dodie’s will ensure Dad has his wish.

And don’t forget the refreshments New Orleans is known for! Enjoy a cold beverage, a classic Hurricane, smooth bourbon cocktail, or a refreshing brew while taking in the magnificent lakeside views.

The Dodie’s environment compliments our fantastic and flavorful menu with authentic Cajun flair! Dining indoors offers comfortable booths or tables to seat the whole crew, and our patio is a great place to sit back, relax, and enjoy family time.

With limited seating, reservations for your dad’s special occasion are highly recommended and can be made online https://dodiesattheharbor.com/fathers-day/

Prefer to celebrate at home? Dodie’s has Crawfish Backyard Boil Party Packs available to go! Party in your backyard and enjoy more great memories with the man in our life!

Get directions to the award-winning Dodie’s Cajun Diner, see the full menu, and get all the details about Father’s Day at DodiesAtTheHarbor.com

Laurie Deckert
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Tucked into the lush greenbelt of Austin Waters, 2324 Barton Creek Blvd is more than a home—it’s your private retreat in The Colony. Backing to 20 acres of protected creek greenbelt, this rare 1.5-story beauty offers complete serenity with no rear neighbors and sunsets that steal the show.

Inside, rich hardwood floors, designer lighting, and custom finishes create a warm, elevated vibe. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a farmhouse sink, KitchenAid stainless appliances, granite island, extended cabinetry, and under-cabinet lighting. With 4 spacious bedrooms plus a 5th upstairs, 3 full baths, a game room, and two studies (yes, two!), this floorplan adapts to modern life with effortless style.

Step outside to your very own resort—imagine morning coffee by the waterfall pool, weekend BBQs in the shaded outdoor dining area, and movie nights under the stars. Thoughtful upgrades like a temperature-controlled walk-out attic, tankless water heater, energy-efficient HVACs, app-controlled systems, and pre-wired holiday lighting add convenience to the luxury.

This is Texas living at its finest—peaceful, private, and beautifully done. Ready to fall in love? Call Laurie Deckert at 972.322.0870 and let’s put the LD in SOLD.