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Metrocare and Solender/Hall Bianca Zamora, MS, Metrocare Director of Housing and Homeless Services; Ikenna Mogbo, Metrocare Chief Housing Officer; Dr. John Burruss, Metrocare Chief Executive Officer; Kevin Boyd, Metrocare Chief Facilities Planning & Construction Officer; Eliza Solender, President, Solender/Hall, Inc.

As the demand for mental health services increases, nonprofit organizations seek real estate sites that are accessible to those in need. Solender/Hall, a full service real estate brokerage firm specializing in helping nonprofits, represented Dallas Metrocare Services in purchasing 9696 Skillman Street a 63,000-square-foot building located at the merger of Forest and Skillman. The multi-tenant office building is three stories high on almost three acres. The property owner, BBH Capital Investments LLC, was represented by Yasaman Hafezamini of BBH Capital Investments. 

Located on a bus line, this site will provide mental health services, housing and homeless assistance and a pharmacy. The building will also be the location for The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic.

Dr. John W. Burruss, Metrocare CEO, said, “The demand for mental health services has surged, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the largest behavioral health provider in Dallas County, Metrocare is dedicated to expanding access to quality care. Our recent property acquisition is a testament to this commitment, providing much-needed space to enhance and broaden our services and programs. Last year alone, we served over 51,000 individuals through almost 3,000 daily clinical encounters, delivering quality mental health care regardless of financial means. This expansion is a crucial step in meeting the unprecedented demand for mental health support in our community.”

Eliza Solender, president of Solender/Hall Inc., added, “Metrocare continues to lead Dallas County in providing mental health services, and this location will allow them to expand their services in the northeast portion of Dallas County. In fact, this site is almost adjacent to Metrocare’s very busy Skillman Family Mental Health Clinic at 9708 Skillman.”

About Solender/Hall:

Since 1991, Solender/Hall has been assisting nonprofit organizations buy, sell and lease commercial real estate in the North Texas area. The firm has been highly successful in finding unique properties, often repurposing banks, stores, warehouses, bowling alleys and churches into new nonprofit locations. Find out more at www.solenderhall.com or by calling 214.215.0432.

About Metrocare:

Metrocare is the largest provider of mental health, developmental disability and permanent supported housing services in Dallas County serving over 50,000 children, teens, and adults annually. For over 57 years, Metrocare has provided a broad array of services from mental health care, primary care, services for veterans and their loved ones, accessible pharmacies, homeless outreach, and supportive social services [or “more”]. Metrocare provides specialty mental health services to over 10,000 children and teens and has numerous programs for infants, children, and adults with disabilities, including Early Childhood Intervention, Flourishing Families, Nurturing Parenting, Supported Employment and two specialty autism clinics in Dallas and DeSoto. In conjunction with clinical care, Metrocare’s Altshuler Center for Education and Research (ACER) is transforming the community mental health landscape of North Texas through workforce development focused on innovative partnerships and exceptional trauma-informed training.

Metrocare upholds the person-centered philosophy to focus care on the needs of individual. We take care to ensure that people’s preferences, needs, and values guide clinical decisions and to provide care that is respectful of and responsive to those we serve. We see ourselves as partners in healing with our clients and their support network.

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TWU Health Sciences Topping Off photo: Leo Gonzalez/TWU

University officials and commercial builders and architects marked a significant milestone in the construction of Texas Woman’s health sciences center, which will expand programming and research at TWU and increase health-related services for North Texans.

University leaders and representatives of AECOM Hunt construction and SmithGroup architects took part in a topping off ceremony, which celebrates placement of the final beam in a building project. Attendees signed their names to the beam, which in the coming weeks will be set into place.

“We are thrilled at the prospect of expanding health-related activities to better serve our students and the community, and we are excited about launching inter-professional collaborations that bring together multiple disciplines in innovative ways to improve the way we teach and learn,” said Angela Bauer, PhD, Texas Woman’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “The new health sciences center will be a beacon of health education for the academic community and a lifeline for rural North Texans who need greater access to health care.”

In September 2023, Texas Woman’s broke ground a $107 million, 136,000 square-foot health sciences center to serve as an inter-professional education facility linking students in the allied health fields with an emphasis on preparing them to serve in rural settings. The building will expand health-related programming, community outreach, research and other activities at Texas Woman’s.

The building will include labs, classrooms, collaborative workspaces, outdoor clinic sites and a teaching kitchen, as well as community health care clinics and student training spaces. The building project is scheduled for completion in summer 2025, with opening set for fall 2025.

“Through skill, dedication, and at times sheer grit, the health sciences center is making its way toward completion,” said Clint Binkley, AECOM’s vice president and Higher Education Sector Lead of the company’s South Region. “This is a milestone for this project, and we proudly look toward the impact the health science center will have ? creating opportunity and opening pathways to new careers, and growing access to health services in some of our most underserved rural communities in need of care. We are incredibly proud to be a part of the team that has helped make today’s topping out a reality, and I thank each and every one of the talented subcontractors, AECOM Hunt and SmithGroup workers, for their countless hours that brought us to this moment.”

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The Hope Party Kickoff Laura McCallan, Hope Party auction chair; Steve Noviello, Hope Party co-chair; Danielle Hunter, Hope Party co-chair; Reed Robertson, Hope Party co-chair; and Jess Bolander, Hope Party wine and spirits pull chair

To kick off its 15th annual Hope Party, Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted a kickoff event on July 25 at Simkhai in Highland Park Village where more than 60 guests gathered to learn more about the annual gala, set for Friday, November 22. Guests sipped beverages and sampled small bites provided by Bistro 31, while they shopped at Simkhai, where 15% of sales were donated back to the nonprofit organization.

Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, welcomed everyone. “Tonight’s kickoff is not just a celebration but a launchpad for our most important fundraising event of the year. It’s heartening to see so many dedicated supporters come together for a cause that truly makes a difference.”

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from the 2024 Hope Party co-chairs, Danielle Hunter, Steve Noviello and Reed Robertson. Each chair shared their excitement and commitment to the upcoming gala, setting the stage for a successful year ahead.

Hunter expressed her enthusiasm stating, “I’m thrilled to be a part of this incredible event. The support we’ve received is overwhelming, and I’m confident that with everyone’s ongoing support, the 15th annual Hope Party will be our best yet.”

Robertson shared his gratitude and said, “The energy in this room is contagious. It’s clear that we have a passionate and committed group of people behind the Foundation’s cause.”

The event allowed guests to learn more about Grant Halliburton Foundation and the upcoming Hope Party. The evening features dinner, dancing to the music of AURA by Scott Michaels, an incredible live and silent auction, and the popular wine and spirits pull. This celebratory soiree supports the Foundation’s work providing mental health education, resources and support to North Texas youth and their families.

Noviello added, “We look forward to welcoming those who support the Foundation and new supporters to this lively event. Be sure to purchase your sponsorships now before the event sells out.”

The Hope Party sponsorships and underwriting opportunities are now available at GrantHalliburton.org/hopeparty. For more information, call 972-744-9790 or email  hopeparty@granthalliburton.org. Individual tickets go on sale in September.

Presenting Sponsor: Christopher Barkley Foundation

Emerald Sponsor: Danielle Hunter and Shane Sealy

Sapphire Sponsors: Berry Corporation, Matthew Gabay, Carolina Herrera, Simkhai

Media Sponsor: PaperCity

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 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 aim to offer easy access for North Texans seeking mental health and addiction information and resources. Learn more about the Foundation at GrantHalliburton.org.

 

# # #

HOPE PARTY CO-CHAIR BIOS:

Danielle Hunter is president of Berry Corporation, an independent, publicly traded energy company. She also serves on the board of KLX Energy Services and Educational First Steps, a Dallas-based nonprofit focused on providing early childhood education to low-income communities. Hunter and her husband, Shane, live in Highland Park.

Steve Noviello is an 11-time Emmy Award-winning Fox 4 News journalist and consumer rights advocate. He recently launched a new late-night show, "Last Call with Steve Noviello." He serves on the board of Grant Halliburton Foundation and has emceed the Foundation's Beacon of Hope Luncheon and The Hope Party since 2017. Noviello is also active in the Dallas recovery community. He lives in Highland Park with his husband, Doug, and their two sons.

Reed Robertson has worked in the fashion industry for more than 18 years and is a personal stylist at Highland Park Village, where he provides personally curated shopping experiences. Robertson is also actively involved in the community, volunteering with Grant Halliburton Foundation and serving on event committees for the Children's Cancer Fund and Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. He resides in Dallas with his partner, T.J.

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The Hope Party

Grant Halliburton Foundation is thrilled to launch its 15th annual Hope Party season with a kickoff event at Simkhai in Highland Park Village on Thursday, July 25 from 5 to 7 p.m. The special event will also introduce the 2024 Hope Party co-chairs, Danielle Hunter, Steve Noviello and Reed Robertson. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the Foundation and its annual gala while shopping the Simkhai Fall ‘24 collection and enjoying hors d’oeuvres and wine by Bistro 31.

In addition, Simkhai will donate 15% of its sales from Wednesday, July 24 to Saturday, July 27 when shoppers mention Grant Halliburton Foundation.

The 15th annual Hope Party is set for Friday, November 22 at the Statler Hotel in downtown Dallas. The evening features dinner, dancing to the music of AURA by Scott Michaels, an incredible live and silent auction, and the popular wine and spirits pull. The fall gala supports Grant Halliburton Foundation’s work providing mental health education, resources and support to North Texas youth and their families.

"We’re thrilled to kick off the 2024 Hope Party with our incredible co-chairs and can't wait to share all the ways our new and returning supporters can get involved this year," Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said. "The Hope Party is an opportunity to support the Foundation’s life-saving work providing essential mental health and suicide prevention education, resources and support to the children, teens and families in North Texas."

Hunter is president of Berry Corporation, an independent, publicly traded energy company. She also serves on the board of KLX Energy Services and Educational First Steps, a Dallas-based nonprofit focused on providing early childhood education to low-income communities. Hunter and her husband, Shane, live in Highland Park.

Noviello is an 11-time Emmy Award-winning Fox 4 News journalist and consumer rights advocate. He recently launched a new late-night show, "Last Call with Steve Noviello." He serves on the board of Grant Halliburton Foundation and has emceed the Foundation's Beacon of Hope Luncheon and The Hope Party since 2017. Noviello is also active in the Dallas recovery community. He lives in Highland Park with his husband, Doug, and their two sons.

Robertson has worked in the fashion industry for more than 18 years and is a personal stylist at Highland Park Village, where he provides personally curated shopping experiences. Robertson is also actively involved in the community, volunteering with Grant Halliburton Foundation and serving on event committees for the Children's Cancer Fund and Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. He resides in Dallas with his partner, T.J.

To attend the kickoff event at Simkhai, RSVP to hopeparty@granthalliburton.org by July 22. The Hope Party sponsorships and underwriting opportunities open online on Thursday, July 25 at GrantHalliburton.org/hopeparty. Individual tickets go on sale in September.

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 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 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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Collaboration partners Keri M. Stitt (Youth 180 president and CEO), Eliza Solender (Solender/Hall, Inc. president), Traswell C. Livingston III, (AIDS Services of Dallas CEO)

Through an outstanding collaboration, Youth 180 and AIDS Services of Dallas (ASD) have successfully completed a real estate transaction of 10,000-square-feet in North Oak Cliff in Dallas. Youth 180, known for substance abuse counseling services tailored to youth and families, has partnered with ASD, a nonprofit dedicated to providing housing and support to those affected by HIV/AIDS, enabling both groups to expand their essential services within the community. Solender/Hall, Inc. served as the real estate broker between the two nonprofit organizations.

 

“The transaction between Youth 180 and ASD is an excellent example of how collaborations can serve the entire community,” said Eliza Solender, president of Solender/Hall Inc. “Both organizations showed remarkable leadership and dedication to their missions, resulting in a beneficial outcome for all involved.”

 

Youth 180 sold its 10,000-square-foot building at 201 South Tyler Street to ASD; however, the organization will lease back approximately half of the space, continuing to use the facility for administrative purposes and ongoing services.


Under the guidance of President and CEO Keri M. Stitt, Youth 180 offers crucial substance abuse prevention and treatment services to youth (K-12) and their families. When Youth 180 received an unsolicited offer for its Tyler Street property, the board saw an opportunity to better align the organization’s space needs with its budget by selling the building and leasing back a portion.

 

“The decision to explore this real estate opportunity was strategic and forward-thinking. By leveraging the expertise of Solender/Hall and engaging in thoughtful negotiation, we ensure Youth 180 remains steadfast in our mission to empower youth and families through accessibly and sustainable support systems,” Stitt said.

 

When it became evident that a compatible sublease tenant would mean an opportunity to manage occupancy costs effectively during the negotiation process, Solender immediately thought of ASD as a potential subtenant. ASD, under the leadership of CEO Traswell C. Livingston III, was seeking to maintain and expand its presence in North Oak Cliff, an area it has served for more than 37 years. With Solender able to help negotiate the terms, the previous buyer from the unsolicited offer stepped aside to allow for the partnership between Youth 180 and ASD.

 

Livingston shared his excitement about the partnership. “We are thrilled to expand our services with a new community resource in North Oak Cliff. This acquisition not only gives us more room to operate, but it also deepens our ties with the community we are dedicated to serving.”

Both CEOs saw the bigger picture—a chance to do more together than they could alone—and made trust and open communication their guiding principle. Behind the scenes, the boards of both organizations played vital roles by offering support to their CEOs as they navigated the complexities of the sale, purchase, and leaseback. The legal teams also played a significant part, ensuring everything went smoothly.

 

In the end, this collaborative effort stands as a testament to the spirit of community service in North Oak Cliff. With ASD now owning the building and Youth 180 continuing its essential work, both organizations are poised to make an even greater difference in the lives of those they serve. Wasting no time, the two organizations have already begun joint grant efforts to enhance community services, showcasing the power of collaboration in real estate transactions.

 

About Solender/Hall:

Since 1991, Solender/Hall has been assisting nonprofit organizations buy, sell and lease commercial real estate in the North Texas area. The firm has been highly successful in finding unique properties, often repurposing banks, stores, warehouses, bowling alleys and churches into new nonprofit locations. Find out more at www.solenderhall.com or by calling 214.215.0432.

 

 

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Eric Nadel’s Birthday Benefit Cindi Halliburton, Eric Nadel and Alan Halliburton, co-founder of Grant Halliburton Foundation

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.

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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.

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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.

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Methodist Folsom Steve Folsom, Jim Scoggin, Jim Keyes, Jim Johnston

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 17th. 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.

 

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Fungi Delight (red) Hillcrest High School

SPARK! Dallas, the innovative educational facility fostering creativity in youth, announced a groundbreaking partnership with arts and entertainment company Meow Wolf second SPARK! PRISMATIC Art Pop-up Experience featuring 28 area high school artists’ creations. The colorful exhibition is an immersive experience showcasing the students’ creativity through a variety of themed areas imagined, designed and built in a single color and theme. The community is invited to see the PRISMATIC Art Pop-up Experience June 1 to September 29 at SPARK!, located at Southside Lamar (1409 Bothan Jean Blvd., Suite #004, Dallas, TX 75215).

Meg Bittner, executive director of SPARK! said, “As an inaugural grantee of the Meow Wolf Foundation for 2023-2024, SPARK! Dallas is honored to announce Meow Wolf Grapevine as a presenting sponsor, which will contribute to the success of the PRISMATIC Art Pop-up Experience. This partnership not only provides financial backing, but also offers amazing opportunities for student enrichment, including behind-the-scenes tours at Meow Wolf Grapevine, mentorship from Meow Wolf's Exhibitions team members and funding for materials.”

SPARK! received 22 submissions, and the following six public high schools were selected to participate based on their creativity, design elements and proposal submission:

  • CityLab High School (Dallas ISD) – Dream Cream(sicle) (coral)
  • Hillcrest High School (Dallas ISD) – Fungi Delight (red)
  • Newman Smith High School (Carrollton/Farmers Branch ISD) – Orange Lovers (orange)
  • West Mesquite High School (Mesquite ISD) – Snake Eyes (green)
  • Williams High School (Plano ISD) – Automation Biker Frogs (purple)
  • Woodrow Wilson High School (Dallas ISD) – Moonlight Sonata  (blue)

In addition to being the presenting sponsor and major funder for this initiative, Meow Wolf Grapevine is offering mentorship to the students and an opportunity to show the community their artistic creations come alive when the exhibition opens.

“I am thrilled to mentor SPARK! Dallas students to inspire and empower young creators,” said Exhibition Manager for Meow Wolf Grapevine Christy Howell. “This PRISMATIC Art Pop-up Experience offers students a platform to unleash their imagination and creativity. This partnership epitomizes the dynamic convergence of art, technology, and engineering, offering students an unparalleled chance to delve into immersive design concepts.”

“Partnering with SPARK!, we are eager to see these innovative projects.”  said Lead Exhibition Technical Engineer at Meow Wolf Daniel Bornhorst.  “Meow Wolf Grapevine specializes in integrating traditional art with cutting-edge technology to create immersive experiences. From sound processing and lighting to scent design, we blend various elements to craft truly unique experiences which makes this partnership perfect.”

Bittner added, “These public high school students are amazingly talented, and I am impressed with how they have thoughtfully sketched and are creating their rooms into an interactive and immersive pop-up experience perfect for social media moments. I invite everyone to come see it and celebrate these students’ success.”

Exhibit hours:

Open to public starting June 1-Sept. 29

Fridays: 1:00-8:00 p.m.

Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

Sundays: 1:00-6:00 p.m.

Adult Nights (age 21+): Thursdays starting June 6-Sept. 26,5:00-9:00 p.m.

Ticket prices:

Adults regular admission:  $25

Children (ages 2-17) :  $23

Teachers (with Teacher ID): $20

Adult Night (age 21+): $40, includes 2 drink tickets

All tickets include the PRISMATIC exhibit and admission to the play sculpture areas.

Learn more and make a ticket reservation: https://sparkdallas.org/prismatic/ or 214.421.7727.

About SPARK! Dallas:

A nonprofit founded in 2010, SPARK! Dallas provides children from second grade to high school with a fully immersive creative environment with hands-on learning that develops their self-definition as creative individuals. Through an endless roster of workshops and pop-up activities, students exercise their creativity and learn from creative experts, innovators, and artists. The organization’s vision is to help students acquire creative skills to excel in school and compete in the work force. SPARK! also hosts interactive camps, field trips and birthday parties. SPARK! is located in the historic South Side of Lamar building at 1409 Botham Jean Blvd, Ste 004, Dallas, Texas 75215. For more information, visit https://sparkdallas.org/.

ABOUT MEOW WOLF:

Meow Wolf is not your typical arts and entertainment company; they’re the creators of extraordinary, mind-bending experiences that transport millions of adventurers of all ages into breathtaking realms of imagination and wonder. As the proud recipients of numerous accolades, including Time Out's #1 Immersive Experience in the US (2023), Fast Company's World's 50 Most Innovative Companies (2022 and 2020), and USA Today's Top 10 Best Immersive Art Experiences (2022), Meow Wolf is committed to engaging curious seekers through the magic of discovery and play. They are distinct in their collaboration with hundreds of visionary artists who infuse creativity into every Meow Wolf experience. The journey began with the THEA Award-winning House Of Eternal Return in Santa Fe (2016), a mystery house with hidden passages and mesmerizing art exhibits. In Las Vegas, Omega Mart (2021) presented a surreal grocery store experience. Denver's Convergence Station (2021) appeared as a maximalist architectural marvel linking four alien worlds. In July 2023, Meow Wolf unveiled The Real Unreal in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and plans to open a new location in Houston in 2024. As a certified B-Corporation, Meow Wolf leads in themed entertainment, innovating and celebrating human imagination. All are invited to join a journey that defies convention, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

 

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SPARK! Dallas PRISMATIC WINNING TEAMS:

CityLab High School – Dream Cream(sicle) (coral)

Advisor: Kelsey Turner Creators: Brian, Diego, Jennifer, Jose, Kevin, Princess, Sebastian

A creamsicle comes from the sky into a living room on the top story of a building. The creamsicle is in the middle of the room and has broken a part of the wall and ceiling. This living room resembles a crime scene where the room also has clues about why this creamsicle is in the room in the first place in which includes the immersive part like parts of the room being a scavenger hunt. The room includes a coffee table that the creamsicle crashed into, a bookshelf with books on the floor, a couch and pinboard with connected dots related to the crash of the creamsicle to start up the scavenger hunt.

Hillcrest High School – Fungi Delight (red)

Advisor: Karleen Hesselbacher Creators: Dana, Inergee, Kyra

The design includes a textured floor (red moss and red turf) accompanied with different species of handmade mushrooms and natural looking elements. On the ceiling, we incorporate different aspects of nature, such as poppies and red spider lilies with fairy lights. On the walls, we utilize a 3-D mushroom design that extrudes outwards and adds depth to the space. There are glowing mushrooms surrounding the bigger mushrooms that visitors can sit on and take selfies. The mushroom chairs are main focal point of the room. The room transports viewers to an environment that would remind them of storybooks by Lewis Carroll. We also incorporate additional senses with scents as well as the visual and tactile aspects.

Newman Smith High School – Orange Lovers (orange)

Advisor: Allison Ketchersid  Creators: Cora, Haydrienne, Hazel, Triniti

The design was inspired by many beautiful poems using oranges as a sign of love and the beauty of having someone to make your life just a bit easier. This metaphor is shown throughout the room by many different sketches of peeled orange “furniture” such as cushions, a peelable orange table, even small peelings used as light decor. The idea of the theme was to be seen as a place to relax and be at ease just lounging with someone. A gesture to prove love is not something grand and always upbeat, but to have times of calm and peace. One wall has round orange movable dioramas showing the growth of a relationship such as dates, and even a proposal. Along one mirrored wall, inspired by Yayoi Kusama's Pumpkins, is hope reflecting that love only needs commitment to grow.

West Mesquite High School – Snake Eyes (green)

Advisor: Megan Eakins  Creators: Chris, Emma, Esmerelda, Haley, Heaven, Jasmine, Mariah

The design is based on a thick tropical rainforest. Using green as our main color, we fill the room with vegetation and highlight focus points in the room with UV paint to glow under a black light. The story behind our room is that highly valuable crystals are scattered throughout the forest; people who have succumbed to greed and stolen from the forest have faced its wrath and have been permanently trapped in the forest.

Williams High School – Automation Biker Frogs (purple)

Advisor: Emily Garner  Creators: Archie, Birdie, Cale

We wanted to replicate a Western town with a cartoony style. To design our village, we are creating a saloon, sheriff's office/jail, bank and general store. We add components like astroturf  “sand,” barrels, backdrops and a water trough to give the room more details that will interest the guests and add to the aesthetic. Our room has multiple interactive components like funny items in the market, multiple silly animals, walkable saloon doors, a hidden cat, wanted snake signs, and a scavenger hunt to find all the snakes because they “escaped” from the jail.

Woodrow Wilson High School – Moonlight Sonata (blue)

Advisor: Jessica Raff  Creators: Sera, Karen, Kara, Dascha

Step into this enchanting world where the theme revolves around a mesmerizing moon light. The walls are adorned with a breathtaking backdrop of majestic mountains, providing a sense of depth to the room. Playful swirly clouds, painted in vibrant patterns, dance across the ceiling, creating a whimsical atmosphere. The focal point of the room is a moon with its own swirly designs, casting a cool and mysterious glow. The moon's glow on the ground adds a touch of magic, contrasting beautifully with the darker hues of the clouds. The overall effect is a vibrant and lively ambiance, evoking the warmth of twilight scene. This space is designed to inspire creativity and ignite the imaginations of the little ones who enter, turning bedtime into a magical adventure. With soft clouds, this room invites kids into a world of dreams beneath the moon.