Celebrating its 12th anniversary concert, the Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit, presented by Haynes Boone, raised more than $140,000 for Grant Halliburton Foundation. Held on Thursday, May 16at the Kessler Theater, the sold-out event featured a VIP party for sponsors with delicious bites donated by Eddie's Tex-Mex Cocina, live and silent auctions and music acts by Rhett Miller and Leslie Mendelson.

With the excitement of a new Texas Rangers season in full swing and World Series buzz still in the air, guests were especially excited to see the guest of honor, Eric Nadel, “Voice of the Texas Rangers,” and catch a glimpse of the new hardware on his hand. Nadel was happy to oblige as he mingled with guests before taking the stage to kick off the event.

“This was the first time the party has been on my actual birthday and the first time the Rangers were kind enough not to schedule a game on my birthday – it’s truly the happiest possible evening,” Nadel said as he welcomed everyone to his birthday benefit. “I want to extend my gratitude to Haynes Boone for being a first-time sponsor and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, to KXT 91.7 FM, the best radio station in the country, for its support as Media Sponsor, and all our other generous sponsors. The work of Grant Halliburton Foundation has saved lives and helped erase the stigma around mental health. Their mission is more important than it’s ever been.”

Nadel then introduced Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Leslie Mendelson, who opened the show and recently played Carnegie Hall for the first time.

After Mendelson’s set, Kevin Hall, Grant Halliburton Foundation president, spoke about the Foundation and its mission to help families and young people recognize the signs of mental illness and prevent suicide.

"Thank you to National Baseball Hall of Famer Eric Nadel for choosing us as the recipient of your birthday benefit for the fourth consecutive year," Hall said. "The proceeds from tonight's event will go toward supporting the Foundation's mental health and suicide prevention programming for children, teens and young adults in North Texas.”

The event also featured a live auction that included a date night with a private chauffeur in a Lincoln, dinner for four with Texas Rangers General Manager Bruce Bochy; a Texas Rangers home plate suite for 12; a week-long stay for 16 in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico; and a jazz cruise getaway with Chris Botti. Ronnie Conger served as auctioneer.

Finally, the talented headliner, singer/songwriter Rhett Miller, took to the stage and welcomed guests, setting a casual and fun house-party vibe with his set. Miller wowed with his signature move – the Windmiller – as he furiously strummed away, and fans sang along to old favorites. He shared stories about being invited to work with music legends Dolly Paton, Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, Waylon Jennings and Bob Dylan. The night was complete with everyone singing "Happy Birthday" to Eric.

“For several years, my good friend Rhett Miller of the Old 97’s has expressed interest in playing this event, and finally, the band’s schedule has allowed him to do so. Rhett has been very outspoken about his mental health struggles while growing up in Dallas,” Nadel said.

During the evening, guests enjoyed baseball-themed snack vendors handing out traditional baseball treats, including sunflower seeds, Cracker Jacks, Big League Chew bubble gum, and Baby Ruth candy bars.

VIPs spotted in attendance included Eric Nadel; Chris Young, Texas Rangers General Manager; Norm Hitzges, Texas Radio Hall of Fame radio host; Brad Sham, "Voice of the Dallas Cowboys;" Haynes Boone team (Presenting Sponsor); Joe Trahan, WFAA sports director; and Vanita Halliburton, Amy McCloskey and Alan Halliburton, Grant Halliburton Foundation co-founders.

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 through education, resources, and support. Since 2006, the Foundation has provided mental health and suicide prevention education and training to more than 325,000 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, available in English and Spanish, aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and substance use information and resources. Learn more about Grant Halliburton Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

The Robert S. Folsom Leadership Award is known for honoring its award recipients with an evening of fun surprises and warm personal tributes. The 2024 event honoring global business leader, philanthropist, speaker, artist, musician, and commercial pilot James W. Keyes was no exception.  More than 750 guests enjoyed the sounds of Alda Brass as they entered the Chantilly Ballroom at the Hilton Anatole Hotel on May 17^th. They soon learned that the trumpet is especially meaningful to Keyes who as a child wanted to play in the school band, but his family could not afford an instrument. A teacher recognized his talent and provided him with a trumpet, a gift that contributed to his lifelong love of music.

Event Co-Chairs Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Lottye and Bobby Lyle, and Carolyn and David Miller were recognized by Dallas Regional Chamber CEO and President Dale Petroskey. As host for the evening, he welcomed guests and shared stories of his 20-year friendship with Folsom Award recipient James W. Keyes. As the former CEO of 7-Eleven and Blockbuster, Keyes has served on the board of public companies and as an advisor to many foundations, investment firms, and start-up companies. His philanthropic interests include UT Southwestern, American Red Cross, Southern Methodist University, The Cooper Institute, The Catholic Diocese of Dallas, and Columbia University Business School. He was inducted into the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, Junior Achievement Dallas Business Hall of Fame, and the Spirit of Entrepreneurship Ring of Honor Award.  Recently, he became a published author. An autographed copy of his book, Education is Freedom, was provided for each guest.

Methodist Health System Foundation President James M. Johnston stated, “Methodist Health System provided over $182 million last year alone in uncompensated care, primarily to patients at Methodist Dallas and Methodist Charlton, its two hospitals in the southern sector of Dallas. Tonight, we are pleased to announce that in honor of Jim Keyes we have raised $1.7 million toward the transformation of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Methodist Dallas Medical Center.”

Johnston recognized presenting sponsors Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Carolyn and David Miller, The Lupe Murchison Foundation, Linda and Mitch Hart, Lottye and Bobby Lyle, Jewel and Roland Parrish, Mary and Rich Templeton, and Mike and Mary Terry. He also recognized past award recipients in attendance: Nancy Ann Hunt (2006), Bobby Lyle (2014), Jack Lowe (2015), Gerald Turner (2016), David Miller (2017), Texas State Senator Royce West (2018), The Honorable Mike Rawlings (2019), and Linda and Mitch Hart (2021), and Mary and Rich Templeton (2023). He paid tribute to Keyes, who exemplifies the legacy of the namesake of the award, Robert S. Folsom. Johnston introduced members of the Folsom family, followed by a video about Robert Folsom.

Following the invocation by Father Tony Lackland, Chef Richard Chamberlain spoke about his 30-year friendship with Margo and Jim Keyes. He stated that he was born at Methodist Dallas and was honored to be part of an event hosted by Methodist Health System. Chamberlain noted that during his years as CEO of 7-Eleven, Keyes developed a passion for Slurpees. Chamberlain introduced a lemon hibiscus Slurpee for the event, which was enjoyed by guests to begin the dinner. He then announced a special menu of baseball-cut succulent short rib in honor of Keyes’ love of baseball. Guests dined to the music of a solo trumpet which accompanied video images of original artwork by Jim Keyes.

Methodist Health System CEO James C. Scoggin, Jr. acknowledged members of the Methodist team, including physicians and nurses. He thanked Keyes for designating the proceeds of the event to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Methodist Dallas Medical Center, ensuring that every newborn in Methodist’s service area in Southern Dallas has access to life-saving advanced neonatal services.

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, who was appointed by President George W. Bush as the first woman chair of the board of governors of the American Red Cross and U.S. Ambassador to Finland, introduced a tribute video to Keyes with these words, “For God so loved the world, he gave us faith, family, friendship, and Jim Keyes – who has changed every organization that has benefited from his leadership.”

Video tributes during the evening included a personal message of congratulations from the former President of Mexico Vicente Fox. A special video tribute of accolades from Nancy Ann and Ray Hunt, Bobby Lyle, David Miller, Margo Keyes, Drayton McLane, Suzanna Russell, Kim Noltemy, Dr. Michael Hinojosa, Adan Gonzalez, Dr. Kenneth Cooper, Bishop Edward J. Burns, Charlie Duke, and Harvey Mackay was a highlight of the evening. They acknowledged many of the ways in which Keyes embodies a modern-day Renaissance man “His innovative mindset, social consciousness, and empathetic leadership collectively embody the ideals of versatility, curiosity, and humanism that define the Renaissance ethos. All of this – built on a foundation of family and faith and a passionate belief in the uplifting and transformative power of learning.”

Jim Keyes expressed his gratitude for being named the recipient of an award named after Robert S. Folsom, “a man who changed the landscape of Dallas in so many ways.”  In receiving this honor, Keyes shared five points of gratitude:

• Faith. “Dallas is a community of faith. Faith-based organizations like Methodist are the unsung heroes that keep us safe and healthy.”
• Family. “Dallas is family, and I feel a part of it.”
• Friendship. “We are blessed with so many friends and thankful to all who are here tonight.”
• Philanthropy. “I’ve traveled the four corners of this planet, and I’ve never seen a city more giving than Dallas.”
• Freedom. “Dallas is a classic city in which anyone can unlock his or her potential through education. The more you dream, the more you can achieve. We all have adversity. The best way to eliminate it is through knowledge, light, and faith.”

Following the presentation of the Robert S. Folsom award to Keyes, he was honored onstage by a group of high school graduates who have been inspired and supported by Keyes’ Education is Freedom Foundation, which to date has presented over $450,000 in scholarships.

To close the evening, there was a video featuring a flyover complete with special effects similar to jet exhausts, “like a majestic eagle taking to the sky, Education is Freedom.”

About Methodist Health System

Methodist Health System is a faith-based non-profit organization established in 1927. Its Mission is to improve and save lives through compassionate quality healthcare. For almost a century, Dallas-based Methodist Health System has been a trusted choice for health and wellness. It offers nationally recognized medical services, a network of 12 hospitals through ownership and affiliation, and more than two dozen clinics located throughout the region. Methodist is known and recognized for its exceptional teaching programs, innovative research, and its strong commitment to the community. Methodist Health System provided more than $182 million in uncompensated charity care in fiscal year 2023.  Additional information is available at MethodistHealthSystem.org.

About Methodist Health System Foundation

Methodist Health System Foundation is a nonprofit foundation led by community and civic leaders who donate their time, service, and expertise to assist Methodist Health System in funding its hospital projects. More information is available at Methodisthealthsystem.org/RobertSFolsomLeadershipAward.

Two generations received recognition at Bachman Lake Together’s annual Community Action Network (CAN) graduation ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of parent leaders and preschool graduates in the Bachman Lake community of Dallas. 

Eighteen Bachman Lake-area parents graduated from the nine-month CAN program, which equipped them with the skills and knowledge to advance their children's education and well-being. Additionally, 13 parents, who completed advanced levels of the program, were also celebrated for their achievements in volunteer leadership and early education advocacy. 

The bilingual ceremony, held at the Bachman Recreation Center, marked the culmination of Bachman Lake Together’s CAN parent leadership program, which empowers parents to become advocates for their children's education and leaders in the community. Additionally, 16 preschool graduates from AVANCE North Texas joined their parents in celebrating this milestone, recognizing the shared success of two generations.

Bachman Lake Together Executive Director Olga Martinez Hickman, Ph.D., welcomed the audience of Bachman Lake families, and Bachman Lake Together partners and supporters, saying, “Every day I get the honor of experiencing the magic of parent leadership first-hand – whether it’s witnessing a family enrolling their child in school for the first time, talking to a partner about the power of community voice they have seen in one of our meetings, or listening to a parent speak of their leadership journey. Today we know that the change that is happening in our community is due to the wonderful parent leaders who are here in front of you.”

George Rodriguez, chairman of the Bachman Lake Together Board of Trustees, added, “The parents graduating today are leaders dedicated to improving the lives not only of their children, but also of countless families in the Bachman Lake community – and beyond. They are developing their voices as leaders, recruiting families in the neighborhood to register for Pre-K and taking on volunteer leadership roles. They have the power to transform this community.” 

During the ceremony, Yesenia Cardoza Ramirez, Dallas ISD Director of Family & Community Engagement in Early Learning, delivered a keynote address, highlighting the importance of parent engagement in children's education. Graduates shared their personal experiences in the program, emphasizing the transformative impact it had on their families' lives. 

Among those graduates was Gabriela Pacas, who described how her experience in the CAN program inspired her, saying, “When parents are informed, they have the power to build a better future for their children, and early education is a fundamental part of our children’s success.” 

To close the ceremony, the preschool-age AVANCE graduates performed a song, “Súbete al tren de la alegría (All Aboard the Happy Train).”

Bachman Lake Together extends its gratitude to its partners, volunteers and supporters for their commitment to empowering families and building a stronger community. The organization remains dedicated to its mission of uniting the Bachman Lake community to fully prepare children for kindergarten – academically, socially, and emotionally – so they thrive in school and in life.

A roof stands guard over your home. It shields you from the forces of nature, enduring heat, cold, rain, and wind, yet its fortitude is not inexhaustible. Constant exposure to the elements takes a toll, necessitating vigilant maintenance to preserve its protective qualities. Maintenance is key.

Proactive attention and care for your roof can prevent the insidious creep of deterioration. Neglect can be costly, but regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of this essential barrier.

Winter Woes: Fortify Your Roof

As temperatures plummet, the structural integrity of your roof is put to the test. Accumulated snow and ice, together with freeze-thaw cycles, can wreak havoc on roofing materials, necessitating preemptive and responsive measures. It is imperative to establish routine checks for the presence of ice dams and icicles, as these can be indicative of heat loss and potential moisture intrusion, which, if left unaddressed, may lead to significant damage.

In preparation for the challenges of winter, homeowners should consider the adoption of a "winterization protocol". This includes ensuring proper insulation and ventilation in the attic to minimize heat loss—a primary contributor to ice dam formation. Moreover, it is advisable to have a professional inspect and, if necessary, repair any compromised shingles, flashing, or other components before the onset of harsh weather. By implementing these strategies, you can substantially reduce the risk of winter weather impairing your roof's structural integrity and performance.

Insulating Against Ice Damage

Proper attic insulation and ventilation are critical for preventing ice dams and subsequent roof damage.

Ice dams can weigh hundreds of pounds, stressing your roofing structure and exacerbating potential damage.

High-quality insulation impedes the transfer of heat through the roof, discouraging ice dam formation by maintaining an even roof temperature. Without ice dams, meltwater flows off the roof as intended, preventing water pooling and infiltration.

Ensuring adequate ventilation throughout your attic space is equally imperative. It helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, thus impeding the cycle of freezing and thawing that contributes to ice damage.

Checking and Repairing Seals

Seal integrity is pivotal in preserving a roof's resilience against environmental stressors.

1. Inspect Seals: Begin by examining the roof seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights.

2. Identify Damage: Look for cracks, gaps, or any signs of wear that may lead to leaks.

3. Clean Surface: Ensure the area around the compromised seal is clean and dry.

4. Apply Sealant: Use a high-quality, flexible roofing sealant to repair any faults.

5. Smooth Sealant: Spread the sealant evenly, ensuring a watertight barrier.

6. Check Edges: Pay extra attention to the edges where seals often fail first.

7. Monitor Curing: Allow adequate time for the sealant to cure, following manufacturer guidelines.

Defective seals can lead to substantial moisture intrusion and damage.

Routine inspection and prompt repair of sealing materials are crucial to roof longevity.

Spring Showers: Preventing Leaks

April's increased precipitation necessitates pre-emptive measures to fend off insidious moisture penetration.

As warm weather melts winter's residue, ensure your roof's drainage system (gutters and downspouts) is unclogged and free of debris, directing water away from your home's foundation and preventing potential leaks.

Prioritize the sealing of joints and intersections, fortifying them against the pervasive springtime showers that test your roofing material's fortitude.

Gutter Cleaning Essentials

Gutters play a crucial role in directing water away from your home's foundation, mitigating potential damage to your property's structure. Clogged or poorly maintained gutters can cause water to overflow, leading to costly repairs.

To ensure proper function, gutters must be cleared of debris regularly.

Seasonal debris, such as leaves and twigs, can quickly accumulate and obstruct the flow of water, necessitating thorough cleaning (often biannually) to maintain efficiency.

A blocked gutter can result in backed-up water, compromising the siding, and potentially causing water to infiltrate the interior of your home, emphasizing the importance of consistent maintenance.

Professional gutter cleaning services are highly recommended for safety and efficacy. They are equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to remove debris thoroughly while inspecting for any signs of gutter damage or wear.

In addition to cleaning, it's prudent to inspect your gutters' alignment. Proper slope ensures water flows towards the downspouts, preventing stagnation and prolonging the life of your gutter system.

Shingle Inspection and Repair

Regular inspection of roof shingles is crucial to detect wear or damage early. It is advisable to schedule these inspections biannually, with additional checks after severe weather events.

Deteriorated shingles can compromise the roof's integrity, leading to leaks and further damage to your home's interior. These inspections should assess shingle granule loss, curling, cracking, or absence.

During inspection, any compromised shingles must be promptly repaired or replaced to maintain the roof's protective barrier. This preemptive action avoids more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

When repairing shingles, it's essential to use materials that match existing roofing in quality and aesthetics. Failure to do so can lead to uneven wear and potential breaches in the roof's surface.

Ultimately, diligent shingle maintenance is a key element in extending the life of your roof and protecting your home from the elements.

Summer Sun: Defend Against Heat

High temperatures can significantly accelerate the aging process of roof materials, affecting their functionality.

In summer, UV rays and thermal expansion can degrade roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, causing them to become brittle and potentially crack. Adequate attic ventilation is imperative to mitigate heat buildup and alleviate stress on your roof's structure.

Installing reflective roofing materials or coatings can deflect solar radiation, helping to maintain a cooler roof surface.

Reflective Coating Application

Reflective coatings are vital in defending your roof against UV radiation and excessive heat.

1. Assess the roof to ensure it's suitable for a reflective coating; clean and repair any damages.

2. Choose a high-quality reflective coating specifically designed for your roofing material.

3. Apply the coating evenly, using brushes or rollers, following manufacturer's guidelines.

4. Inspect the application for consistency and coverage, addressing any misses or thin spots.

5. Maintain the coating by cleaning and reapplying as recommended by the manufacturer.

Proper application is crucial to maximize the lifespan and reflectivity of the coating.

Regular maintenance ensures the coating continues to effectively reduce heat absorption.

Ventilation Upgrades

Upgrading attic ventilation is a pivotal aspect of maintaining roof health throughout the year. A sustained flow of fresh air prevents damaging heat and moisture accumulation, which can degrade roofing materials over time.

Properly designed ridge and soffit vents create an optimal airflow. This ventilation mechanism facilitates a cooler, drier attic space.

Ventilation enhancements should be thoughtfully integrated with existing roofing systems to ensure cohesion and functionality. These upgrades can also magnify the efficiency of other roofing components by stabilizing attic temperatures.

Incorporating advanced ventilation technology represents a proactive approach to roof maintenance. By upgrading to a system that can adapt to variable climatic conditions, you effectively safeguard your roof from potential moisture-related issues and assure its structural integrity. Moreover, enhanced ventilation can meaningfully contribute to the overall energy efficiency of your home, thus representing a beneficial investment with multi-faceted returns.

Fall Prep: Pre-Winter Checkup

The transition to the cooler months necessitates a vigilant approach to roof preservation, wherein a pre-winter checkup becomes critical. This time, characterized by falling leaves and fluctuating temperatures, demands thorough inspection to avert any potential seasonal damage. Ensuring gutters are cleared of debris, shingles are secured, and flashings remain sealed forestalls the complications that frost and ice can precipitate.

This period of preparation should be marked by meticulous scrutiny, often termed a "preventive audit." Branches that may impose a risk to your roof, due to the added stress of winter storms, should be pruned back. Furthermore, it's an opportune moment to examine your roof's thermal integrity. An inspection by a qualified professional can detect subtle vulnerabilities that, if left unaddressed, could magnify into significant issues under the weight of snow and ice accumulation.

Debris Clearance Strategies

Effective debris management is an essential component of maintaining a roof's structural integrity. Accumulated organic matter like leaves, twigs, and branches can obstruct drainage pathways, encouraging moisture retention and fostering an environment conducive to decay, which can severely compromise your roof's resilience.

Persistent attentiveness must guide the removal of rooftop debris. This process should involve regular inspections, especially after severe weather events, ensuring that the roof remains clear and functional.

Strategic removal, employing tools such as roof rakes for snow or leaf blowers for lighter detritus, should be conducted gently to avoid damaging the roof materials. Delicate handling is essential to preserve the integrity of your roof while eliminating unwanted materials.

If significant debris accumulates, it may necessitate professional removal. Experts possess the expertise and equipment to clear your roof safely, preventing injury and damage that may arise from amateur attempts.

It is paramount to avoid delaying debris clearance, as procrastination can allow for the development of mold, mildew, or even structural damage. Addressing the accumulation promptly ensures that the roof continues to operate effectively and prolongs its lifespan.

Lastly, a meticulously documented maintenance schedule, incorporating routine debris clearance, is vital to a roof's longevity. Consistent execution of a carefully crafted plan will mitigate the risks posed by accumulated debris, preserving your roof's condition year-round.

Professional Inspection Benefits

Professional roof inspections grant a diagnostic evaluation, highlighting potential vulnerabilities and enabling preemptive action against impending issues. The insights from trained eyes can save significant expenses down the road.

Expert evaluations can detect subtle signs of damage early on, thwarting larger, costly repairs. Specialists are equipped with advanced tools and techniques to identify concerns that may elude untrained observers.

Moreover, professional inspections can extend the service life of your roofing material, delaying the need for a full replacement. Such preventative measures provide financial prudence and peace of mind.

Annual inspections by certified roofing professionals are recommended. These experts assess the roof's condition comprehensively, ensuring that every component functions optimally and that warranty requirements are maintained.

The benefit of a professional perspective is immeasurable when it comes to safeguarding your investment. Professionals offer detailed assessments and action plans, fortifying your roof against the multifaceted challenges it faces throughout the year.

Ultimately, engaging experts to inspect your roof's condition is essential for ongoing performance. Their assessments bolster roof resilience, fostering a secure, robust barrier against the elements year-round.

Tucker Roofing Systems is a leading provider of high-quality roofing solutions dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in installations, repairs, and replacements, serving both residential and commercial clients. Contact us at (972) 833-2271 to schedule a consultation.

Imagine giving a new life to plastic bags, those ubiquitous companions that often end up cluttering landfills. This is the magic behind plarn (plastic yarn) mats, a testament to upcycling's power to combine environmental responsibility with social good.

The Happy Hookers, a dedicated group at the CC Young Senior Living, exemplify this spirit. By transforming plastic bags into plarn, they crochet cozy mats destined for a heartwarming purpose.

One of the places that these mats find a new home at the Wesley Rankin Community Center's Casa Feliz senior adult center.

There's a special significance to this donation. Many senior adults in the community step up as caregivers for their grandchildren. The plarn mats, meticulously crafted from everyday discards, provide a perfect solution for these impromptu extra beds. Not only are they practical and durable, but the vibrant colors and textures add a touch of cheer to any room.

The impact goes beyond practicality. Children often find these mats "cool," a welcome change from the usual bedspreads. This unexpected delight adds a layer of joy to their stay with their grandparents.

The Happy Hookers' dedication extends far beyond the act of crocheting. By upcycling plastic bags, they're making a conscious effort to reduce waste. Each mat represents a handful of bags diverted from landfills, a small but significant step towards a cleaner environment.

The story of the plarn mats is a heartwarming example of community spirit in action. The Happy Hookers' dedication, the thoughtful donation to the Wesley Rankin center, and the unexpected delight of the children – all these elements come together to create a story of warmth, both literal and figurative.

So the next time you reach for a plastic bag, remember the potential it holds. With a little creativity and care, it could be transformed into a source of comfort and joy for someone in need.

The Happy Hookers meet Mondays at 9:30 a.m. in The Point Auditorium at CC Young Senior Living.

Photo Caption: Happy Hookers Gloria Little and Judith Banes at Wesley Rankin Community Center