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Runners

The Oakleys, #2

by

Phil Oakley

 

This absorbing family drama continues as the nation survives the Depression, Prohibition, and World War II.

 

Runners is the second book in Phil Oakley’s fictional saga based on his own family history, and it is an emotional and heart-wrenching dive into not only theirs but also the nation’s past. The author gives readers truly relatable characters, putting names and faces on previously anonymous beings who survived the Depression, Prohibition, the Dust Bowl devastation of Oklahoma, and World War II. These events deeply affected his and every other family in the country during those times. 

Judge Walter Oakley and his wife, Ada, are undoubtedly strong people, but after the constant strain of the times and the barrage of personal family tragedies, the cracks in their armor began to show. It was quite an emotional rollercoaster reading what they experienced. Early on, I wept along with Ada when she had no idea where young Ray had gone off to, whether he was alive or dead, whether she’d ever see her youngest child ever again, all while grieving the loss of an elder son, Glenn.

 The book is rife with vibrant settings and vivid descriptions, and I easily imagined what it was like for Ray to ride the rails while learning it was not at all the romantic experience as pictured in films. The same can be said of Ralph’s activities on the Louisiana coast, smuggling liquor, or Jimmie’s wild child life drinking and partying in speakeasies. The stories are so visual I felt like I was seeing things firsthand alongside the characters. The author tells an absorbing tale. For being two strong pillars of their community, the Oakley’s children almost all sow a lot of wild oats or live recklessly. Some eventually learn a lesson and come out better for the experience, while others do not. 

 As this is the second book in the series, much of what I imagine was covered in the previous book, had I read it, would have helped me enjoy and understand this one better. I had some difficulty figuring out who many of the characters were, having to determine that from context as the story progressed. The author often mentioned names of people who hadn’t been introduced in this book at that point, and that was confusing. Sometimes, an explanation would soon follow, as in the case of Jimmie’s friend, Lewis. Still, at other times, I was left in the dark for quite some time, as in the case of figuring out how many children there were in the Oakley family, their names, genders (Jimmie), and their position in the family. Their backstories were missing from this book in the series. I also experienced a bit of confusion regarding the timeline as the author jumps around some as he picks up the story of a different sibling. Eventually, my understanding did clear up, but by that time, I was well into the family drama. I feel that for the best reading experience, the two books should be read in chronological order. 

I recommend RUNNERS to readers of historical fiction, family dramas and sagas, especially those who enjoy stories based on real people. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Lone Star Book Blog Tours. 

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Beacon of Hope 2025 Kevin Hall, Vanita Halliburton Drew Robinson, Ellie (dog)

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 16th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on March 25 at the Omni Dallas Hotel. Nearly 600 guests gathered in support of the Foundation’s mission, helping to raise $300,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The morning began with a vibrant welcome reception featuring music by DJ Lucy Wrubel, a celebratory champagne wall, and a variety of engaging activations. Guests connected over coffee, shared messages of encouragement on the “Post Your Hope” wall, and spent time with service dogs in training, Eric and Elvis, courtesy of Patriot Paws. Attendees also browsed an array of exciting raffle packages that included vacations, luxury shopping experiences, unique sports events, and more.

The 2025 luncheon began with a performance of A Million Dreams by Syncopation, the a cappella choir from Plano West Senior High School—alma mater of Grant Halliburton, the Foundation’s namesake.

Guests were welcomed by Jenny Anchondo, host and producer of CW33’s Inside DFW, followed by an opening invocation from Father Paul Klitze, rector of Episcopal Church of the Ascension. Guests enjoyed lunch while connecting with friends and supporters.

Luncheon chairs Chris and Brent Bolding expressed their heartfelt thanks to the Grant Halliburton Foundation staff, committee members and volunteers, as well as luncheon vice chairs Amy and Michael Roseman, and founding luncheon chair Barb Farmer.

Amy Halliburton McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation, then presented her mother, Vanita Halliburton, co-founder and chairman emeritus of the Foundation, with the 2025 Beacon Award. In an emotional tribute, Amy spoke about her brother Grant, whose death in 2005 led to the founding of the organization, and the lasting legacy her mother built to support youth mental health. “My mom knew she wanted to do something in his memory to save other families from the tragedy of suicide and help them get the resources they so desperately need. She, my dad, Alan, and I co-founded Grant Halliburton Foundation in 2006 and set out to do just that—to help as many young people and their families as possible to find help, hope and peace of mind.”

A tribute video honored Vanita’s leadership in raising awareness and changing the conversation around mental health in North Texas. With her father, Alan Halliburton, by her side, McCloskey took the stage to present her with the 2025 Beacon Award—now renamed the Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award in her honor. Vanita received a standing ovation from the audience in recognition of her legacy and impact.

Vanita shared about Grant:

  • “As a teen, he once spent his entire savings ($65) on groceries for a friend’s single mom battling cancer and having financial troubles.
  • Another time, he jumped off the school bus to gather a boy’s crutch that some pranksters had thrown out the window. Then he ran between houses to hop back on that bus.”
  • She used that analogy about jumping off the bus to help others who need help—students, teachers, parents, staff, mothers, fathers.
  • “Sometimes, you have to jump off the bus to come alongside those who need help, information, and resources.”

The Foundation’s mission video played next, followed by remarks from Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation. He reflected on the theme “We Are Grant Halliburton Foundation” and reminded the audience that hope is at the heart of all the Foundation does. “I love that video. We are not just an office or a staff. We are a movement—a collective force of educators, parents, students, volunteers and advocates who believe that mental health should never be an afterthought.” He added, “Vanita, your vision has shaped not only this organization, but also the lives of countless people who will feel your impact every single day. Because of you, WE are Grant Halliburton Foundation.”

The final video shared the Boldings’ story and their journey following the loss of their daughter, Eleanor. “We’re pretty sure that every person in this room knows someone struggling with depression, anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts. Please take a moment to remind them that they are not alone. There is help. There is hope,” Brent said. They asked for people to generously donate to stop the loss of lives.

Eric Nadel, Texas Rangers Radio Broadcaster, introduced a video that shared Drew Robinson’s story. In 2020, Robinson, then a Major League Baseball player, miraculously survived a suicide attempt, resulting in a new-found purpose of helping others and destigmatizing mental health. After playing 12 seasons of professional baseball, he retired following the 2021 season to pursue a full-time role as a mental health advocate, the first of its kind in MLB. Leveraging his tagline, Strength Isn’t Always Physical®, Robinson is dedicated to sharing his journey and showcasing vulnerability to prevent suicide and promote mental health care.

Nadel served as the moderator. Following are some takeaways from their conversation:

Thoughts and Depression:

  • Robinson: “Your mind is your servant, not your master. Use our minds to serve us, not tear us down. We control our minds (meditation helps).”
  • Nadel: “Choose the thoughts that are meaningful to you. Having gone through the black hole myself, it’s like your brain cells have gone out of control.”
  • Robinson: “I was feeling so off, so I got tested, and it was normal. I was the last person I was thinking about. I took care of things, and I was thinking of my family. People don’t fake being depressed. They fake being okay.”

Robinson’s Service Dog:

Robinson: “Ellie (his eight-year-old service dog) is a major antidepressant.”

Mental Health Advocate:

After Robinson’s suicide attempt, he pitched with one good eye for the San Francisco Giants. His situation opened a lot of doors with his teammates to have discussions of mental health and depression. The Giants saw that and offered him an opportunity to be an advocate off the field. He remarked that it’s been “a very fulfilling role.”

Gratitude:

Robinson: “I’m grateful I survived. I am using this horrible decision to help others.”

Nadel: “Be grateful for the little things. Talk about it (depression, anxiety) and get it off your chest.”

Nadel asked, “Why do you think you survived?” Robinson replied, “Because I’m supposed to help people.”

Robinson’s trifecta to maintaining his mental health:

Regular exercise, therapy and journaling.

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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III Forks is working to reinvent the steakhouse, and the new iteration of the brand will debut in Addison’s Village on the Parkway when the restaurant’s new flagship location opens on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.

From the time guests approach the glowing exterior façade and open the gateway door with its oversized golden handle and enter the elegant lobby, they are transported by the mesmerizing graphic floor tiles and brighter lighting that help define this liminal space. Here, guests are treated to their first peek at the curated wine collection of more than 1,200 bottles.

As they enter the restaurant through the bustling bar, a destination, guests find a space that is more communal than clubby.  The see-and-be-seen dining room defines dining areas with a beautiful array of artistic, antique gold light fixtures and a uniquely layered ceiling with an impactful design. This contemporary brand expression is designed specifically to resonate with a broader audience, including a younger clientele of both women and men. Brand innovators at Harrison designed every aspect of the space with both the classic and contemporary in balance.

 

“This opening marks a bold reinvention of III Forks, our team blending its iconic heritage with a dramatic evolution in brand identity, guest experience and design, ensuring its timeless values remain at the heart of this transformation,” said Harrison CEO Keith Anderson.

Three key design components define the new III Forks brand expression. First, the design team created a custom pattern, a polished abstract representation of flowing abundance, the number three and the flow of time. Then, blind patterns that exude timeless elegance were added throughout the design, from exterior features to custom-designed wallpaper and more. Finally, by creating an environment that plays with the contrast between legacy and contemporary cues, III Forks secures memorable experiences in the heart of each guest.

While Chef/Proprietor Chris Vogeli and his team are excited to share delicacies such as Snake River Farms American Wagyu and A5 Miyazaki Gyu Japanese Wagyu paired with favorites including diver scallops with bacon jam, chicken fried lobster and prime double-cut pork chops with serrano peach BBQ sauce and a balsamic glaze, III Forks President Curtis Osmond cannot wait to share the finer details that truly make the III Forks flagship stand out.

“Our flagship location will redefine what steakhouse dining means, both in our larger dining room and in our private dining rooms,” said Osmond. “Entering our primary private dining room is akin to finding the well-hidden entry to a speakeasy. A second private dining space is artistically created with Art Deco accents, signature lighting and art.”

The lighting, art and textures throughout the confidently created spaces provide a warm glow that leaves every guest in soft rays of light, which provide privacy and intimacy without the use of artificial dividers. Even the restrooms and the adjoining corridor are filled with thoughtful extras. Elegantly curved ceilings share custom wallpaper reflecting nature scenes from the Texas Hill Country. The beautifully appointed spaces feature custom textures, tiles and artistically designed fixtures.

 

The entire III Forks experience gives the impression of walking into a luxury boutique. Guests instantly feel a sense of transcendence amid the warm and glowing surfaces as they are treated to culinary delights, craft cocktails and a world-class curated wine list perfect for any celebration.

The beautiful bar at III Forks opens daily at 4 p.m. The dining room is open Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations can be made at IIIForks.com/locations/Addison.

About Consolidated Restaurant Operations

Consolidated Restaurant Operations Inc. (CRO) is a Dallas-based privately held company which operates restaurants including III Forks, Silver Fox, Cool River, Cantina Laredo, El Chico, Luckys Café and Black Oak Grill. More information can be found at www.croinc.com. 

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When the Actor Inspired Chaos and Bloodshed

by

Nicholas Litchfield

 

The riveting tale of an actor unwittingly drawn into an obsessed director’s dangerous vision for an action/adventure cult film.

 

When the Actor Inspired Chaos and Bloodshed is Nicholas Litchfield’s riveting story of a struggling Hollywood actor cast as the “career-making” lead in a South American director’s upcoming action/adventure film. Enticed by his agent’s claims that this is sure to be his break-out role and the director’s early successes, actor Dominic Graves soon finds himself heading to Uruguay, anticipating 10 weeks on set in a beautiful seaside location. However, the amenable location may end up being the only promise fulfilled of the entire experience. 

Dominic Graves is a 31-year-old, five-year veteran of the Hollywood scene, but with only a handful of B-movie credits to his name, his signature megawatt smile is starting to dim. His agent, Bernie Finkelman, a horrid and abusive old man with rumored ties to the Mafia, is no longer an active advocate for Dominic’s career and has sold him a few “bill of goods” jobs in the past, so he’s understandably wary. However, Dominic, who has earned a reputation for hard drinking and carousing while on a project, starts drinking on the flight to Uruguay and takes some of his worst, self-destructive habits with him into this new opportunity, negatively impressing the other members of the cast and crew. Ignatio Martinez, the vision-driven and cliché-spouting director, only contributes to Dominic’s troubles with pre-dawn to late-night workdays, no downtime, and numerous unnecessary takes of scene after scene after scene. Add in a leading lady with a history with the director and desperate for a big career, who clings to whomever she currently deems most beneficial to her goal, including her new leading man, and the filming becomes a nightmare. Scores of unhappy film industry professionals are trapped working on a project that quickly begins to look like it will ever see distribution. 

The plot is well-paced, with an absolute gem of an opening that guaranteed my continued reading. Dominic is an engaging character, and I couldn’t look away as he immediately began making a series of unfortunate behavioral choices and what he experienced once on set. The behind-the-scenes glimpses of film creation were interesting, and the discussions around the practical aspects, especially the safety concerns for those involved, were fascinating. The suspense built steadily, and I had a constant, fearful anticipation of what would happen next and whether or not Dominic would even survive principal photography. 

I recommend WHEN THE ACTOR INSPIRED CHAOS AND BLOODSHED to readers interested in tales of filmmaking gone awry. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from Reedsy Discovery.

See this and more reviews on my blog, Guatemala Paula Loves to Read.

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Garages of America, the pioneers of the luxury garage concept, is expanding in Frisco with a second phase of its highly sought-after garage condos.

As luxury storage solutions continue to surge in popularity, Garages of America, the pioneers of the luxury garage concept, is expanding in Frisco with a second phase of its highly sought-after garage condos. The Frisco location originally opened in 2020 with 106 units that quickly sold out, leading to the development of Frisco Phase II, which adds 52 new customizable luxury garage suites.

With a growing market of car enthusiasts and small business owners seeking premium, climate-controlled venues in a secure and community-driven environment, Garages of America is the leader in this rapidly expanding sector.

Much like private marinas for boat owners or hangars for aviation enthusiasts, luxury garage condos are transforming how car collectors, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists protect and enjoy their assets. Rather than leasing space, owners at Garages of America purchase their units outright, receiving a deed and HOA protections, making it an investment rather than an expense.

“Real estate ownership in a specialized community like this offers more than just storage—it’s a lifestyle and a financial asset,” said Fred Gans, of Garages of America. “Our rapid expansion underscores the demand for secure, high-end spaces where like-minded individuals can comfortably gather, network, and share their passions.”

Garages of America provides a secure, gated environment with 24/7 surveillance, climate control, and an exclusive owners’ clubhouse for social and business gatherings. Each suite is fully customizable, featuring elevated ceilings, built-in mezzanines, oversized doors, and individually metered utilities—amenities that make these venues adaptable for both personal and professional use.

For many, luxury garage condos represent a compelling investment opportunity. As the demand for secure specialty storage increases, early adopters in this market have seen their properties appreciate in value, with resale interest growing in multiple locations.

Current and upcoming Garages of America developments include:

  • Carrollton, TX (Phase II under construction)
  • Dallas (Love Field area)
  • Garland, TX (Firewheel)
  • Katy, TX (Houston)
  • Lakeway, TX (Austin)
  • The Woodlands, TX (Houston)
  • Plano, TX
  • Roanoke, TX
  • Rockwall, TX 
  • Towne Lake (Cypress, TX)

Founded in 2014 by real estate investor Fred Gans and former Le Mans race car driver and developer Jack Griffin, Garages of America pioneered the luxury garage condo concept with its first community in Plano, Texas. The company has expanded with locations in Dallas, Houston, and Austin. For more information, visit garagesofamerica.com.

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Take a timeless ride at the Classic Car & Truck Show at the Castle Hills Village Shops from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 13. The event is FREE for spectators, and everyone is welcome! The Village Shops are located at 2540 King Arthur Blvd. in Lewisville. Time Machine Car Shows features the area’s finest classics, hot rods and mods. See the cars and trucks close-up and chat with car owners!  

The $10 entry fee allows vehicle owners to be eligible for awards in multiple categories such as Castle Hills Pick, Best of Show Car and Best of Show Truck. Registration is from 8-10 a.m., and awards will be announced around 12:30 p.m. Those interested in showing cars can get more information from Brittany at 940-600-9651 or Ray@TimeMachineCarShows.com. 

Be sure to pull over at one of the Village Shops’ destinations like Sophia’s Kitchen or the Netflix-featured The London Baker. Grab some breakfast at Hills Café, then after the show, get a burger and a beer at The Grind Burger Bar, pizza at PI.E 3.14 or some street tacos at T.B.D. Kitchen. If you’re in the mood to travel to more worldly fare, head to Z’s Wok or Kanzi for some delicious Asian cuisine. 

The Castle Hills Village Shops is a charming neighborhood destination with a number of unique retailers and conveniences. It also features tree-shaded walkways, gardens, and numerous water features, including the very popular interactive water fountain and shaded outdoor seating. 

In the event of inclement weather, please visit Castle Hills Community Facebook page for event updates. 

 

About Castle Hills

Castle Hills, an award-winning Bright Realty development, is a 2,900-acre master-planned and mixed-use community located in Lewisville, Texas. Since welcoming its first residents in 1998, Castle Hills has continued to evolve as a community for people to live, work, play and thrive. With a convenient location that is close to freeways, airports and major corporate headquarters, Castle Hills has expanded to include two large mixed-use communities, The Realm at Castle Hills and Crown Centre at Castle Hills. The community continues to be recognized as one of the premier communities in north Dallas with abundant office, living, shopping and dining. www.CastleHills.com

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Susser Bank's LPO will be led by Corey Doyle, Director of Commercial Real Estate, who brings over 30 years of experience in structuring financial solutions for small to mid-sized businesses as well as real estate investors.

Susser Bank has opened its newest loan production office in the heart of downtown Fort Worth. Located in City Center at 201 Main Street, the new office marks a strategic expansion of the bank’s North Texas footprint and reinforces its commitment to serving the financial needs of Fort Worth’s thriving business community.

The office will be led by Corey Doyle, Director of Commercial Real Estate, who brings over 30 years of experience in structuring financial solutions for small to mid-sized businesses as well as real estate investors. With deep ties to the Fort Worth market and a strong reputation for relationship banking, Corey and his team will focus on delivering customized banking strategies that drive growth, optimize capital, and support long-term client success.

“Our new Fort Worth office positions us in the heart of the city, reinforcing our commitment to serving one of Texas’ most dynamic and rapidly growing economic regions,” said Doyle. “This expansion enhances our accessibility to the businesses and entrepreneurs driving Fort Worth’s future, and we look forward to deepening our impact in this thriving community.”

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with offices across Texas – Dallas, Arlington, Austin, Bedford, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Plano, Round Rock and San Antonio. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that make Texas stronger. 

More information is available at susserbank.com.

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2025 Teacher of the Year-ParkPlace and Elementary Blake Cooper, New Car Sales Director; Robert Fitzgerald, Elementary Teacher of the Year; Gabe Delgado, Pre-Owned Sales Manager

Park Place Lexus Plano recognized Frisco Independent School District Teachers of the Year, Robert Fitzgerald and Sarah Dickerson. Fitzgerald was named Elementary Teacher of the Year and Dickerson was recognized as Secondary Teacher of the Year for FISD.

The two Frisco ISD teachers were offered their choice to drive a Lexus NX or ES for the 2025 summer, deluxe detail and tank of gas for the winner’s vehicle, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game with a parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge that includes an “all you can eat” buffet and drinks of choice. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, and other Park Place swag.

“At Park Place, we believe in celebrating those who make a lasting impact in our communities,” said Chris Brunner, Park Place Lexus Plano General Manager. “Mr. Fitzgerald and Ms. Dickerson exemplify the passion, dedication, and excellence that inspire the next generation. We’re honored to recognize their hard work and hope these experiences offer them a small token of our immense gratitude.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. Park Place was acquired in 2020 by Asbury Automotive Group, Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Duluth, GA. For more information, visit parkplace.com. 

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Dwell with Dignity 2025 photo: Aaron Dougherty

Dwell with Dignity, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through design, announces the return of its largest fundraiser, Thrift Studio, presented by Amazon. The event kicks off with an exclusive Premiere Party on April 3, followed by a month-long luxury designer pop-up shopping experience at deeply discounted prices from April 4–May 3 at 1833 E. Levee St., Dallas, TX 75207.

The Thrift Studio features six new designers annually who install vignettes using their own donated inventory in addition to general donated items to Dwell with Dignity and unique artwork collected at the Art+Color Party. The 2025 designers include:

For more details on this year’s talented designers, visit here.

The 2025 Thrift Studio is chaired by Samantha Reitmayer Sano and Joslyn Taylor, Swoon, the studio, as well as Art Chair Hannah Brown, Hannah Brown Art.

The Thrift Studio VIP Premiere Party on April 3 offers guests exclusive early access to the curated, designer-furnished pop-up shop before it opens to the public. The event will feature live entertainment, one-of-a-kind shopping opportunities and a chance to engage with the interior designers and supporters behind the transformation. The VIP entrance starts at 6 p.m., and tickets are $275. General admission entrance is at 7 p.m., and tickets are $175. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit here.

Following the Premiere Party, Thrift Studio will open to the public from April 4–May 3. Admission is free, and hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The limited-time shopping event features a curated collection of designer-donated furniture, artwork and décor at inexpensive prices, with 100 percent of proceeds supporting Dwell with Dignity’s mission.

“Thrift Studio isn’t just about shopping—it’s about design as a catalyst for stability and opportunity,” said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. “Every piece sold helps fuel our work to transform houses into homes where families can thrive and turns community spaces into hubs of stability and connection for schools and nonprofit organizations.”

Since Amazon became the Presenting Sponsor of Thrift Studio three years ago, more than $1 million in merchandise sales have fueled Dwell with Dignity’s work, providing life-changing home transformations for 48 families and redesigning 17 community spaces into inspiring, functional environments that serve thousands.

“At Amazon, we’re committed to supporting organizations that provide real solutions to challenges faced by families in our community,” said Vickie Yakunin, Amazon’s head of community engagement in Texas. “We support Dwell with Dignity in a few different ways – through our partnership for Thrift Studio, with employee volunteers and by teaming up to support community partners.” With Amazon’s continued support, Thrift Studio will once again bring together the design community and mission-driven shoppers, making a lasting impact for families and neighborhoods across Dallas.

ABOUT THRIFT STUDIO:
Thrift Studio is a high-end pop-up shop and fundraiser benefiting Dwell with Dignity. The month-long event features designer showrooms curated by top interior designers, showcasing high-quality, donated home furnishings and décor available for purchase at deep discounts. Since its inception, Thrift Studio has become a must-attend event for Dallas’ design and philanthropic communities.

ABOUT DWELL WITH DIGNITY:
Founded in 2009, Dwell with Dignity is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a mission to transform lives through design. By providing and installing interiors for family homes and community spaces for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, the transformations inspire people to lead their best lives and thrive in a safe, functional and beautiful environment. Dwell with Dignity has completed more than 250 home design projects and 50 community spaces, and in 2024 the organization served more than 3,000 people through their home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors. Learn more at www.dwellwithdignity.org.

 

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Nestled in the heart of East Dallas, McRae's American Bistro & Cocktails has swiftly become a cherished dining destination since opening its doors in July 2023. Founded by seasoned restaurateur Mike McRae, a Bryan Adams High School alumnus, the bistro reflects his deep-rooted connection to the neighborhood. "This is my neighborhood; it's where McRae's was meant to be," Mike shares.
 
A well-known name in the Dallas restaurant scene, McRae also owns the legendary Stan's Blue Note on Lower Greenville—Dallas’ oldest bar and a favorite among sports fans—and Dodie's Cajun Diner at The Harbor in Rockwall, a lakeside destination renowned for its authentic Cajun cuisine. He is also the former owner and creative mind behind the award-winning Table 13 in Addison. With McRae’s experience shaping some of the area’s most iconic spots, his newest venture at 9913 Garland Road continues his tradition of creating spaces where great food, drinks, and community come together.
 
This spring, McRae's is elevating the local dining scene with a chef-curated Easter prix fixe brunch experience, promising a memorable culinary delight for all attendees. Complementing the exquisite menu is the bistro's covered patio, an inviting space adorned with ivy-covered cedar fencing, ceiling fans, misters, and chandeliers, making it an ideal spot for leisurely Saturday and Sunday brunches.  
 
The bistro's dinner menu is a testament to its commitment to variety and quality. Every Monday through Thursday during Happy Hour (5 to 6:30 p.m.), guests can indulge in an array of $10 appetizers – everything from Texas Twinkies and Southern Deviled Eggs to Reuben Fries and Tenderloin Crostini. Popular entrees include a three-day, marinated and grilled Pork Chop with Mango Chutney; Lemon Caper Chicken, Salmon Meuniere, Chicken Fried Venison; and Filet Mignon. Late nights include $12 two-topping Neapolitan pizza pies between 9 and 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Specialty cocktails, meticulously crafted by the skilled bar team, offer a delightful accompaniment to any meal. They also have a variety of gluten free options. General Manager Frank Horak emphasizes, "Our goal is to provide an eclectic menu that caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every guest finds something they love."​
 
Beyond its culinary offerings, McRae's is deeply committed to community engagement. The bistro actively participates in local events and supports neighborhood initiatives, reinforcing its role as a community cornerstone. This dedication has been widely recognized, with accolades including the East Dallas Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the title of Best New Restaurant at the 2024 CultureMap Dallas Tastemaker Awards. Most recently, McRae’s claimed top honors in the Dallas Morning News’ Best in DFW People’s Choice Awards, winning Best Brunch, Best Cocktail Bar, Best Date Night Spot, Best Martini, and Best Outdoor Dining. Additional distinctions include CultureMap Dallas’ Best Tailgate Dish Award and The Advocate’s Best Cocktails Award.
 
Mike McRae's vision for the bistro extends beyond its walls. "Being a part of this community means giving back," he reflects. "We're here to create memorable experiences and contribute positively to the neighborhood that has given us so much." ​
 
For those seeking a distinctive dining experience that blends culinary excellence with community spirit, McRae’s is a true neighborhood gem. Behind its modest exterior lies a cozy, vintage-inspired space brimming with charm, whimsy, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after the last bite—drawing you back time and again.