Richardson Life Magazine Issue 5

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

In the first quarter of 2023, just 19 new magazines were launched in America, according to the Mr. Magazine™Launch Monitor. Richardson Life Magazine was one of them and Samir Husni, director of the Magazine Innovation Center at the University of Mississippi and the self-proclaimed “Mr. Magazine,” took notice, posting a picture of RLM’s inaugural issue in his first two blogs of 2023.

For years, the prevailing sentiment within popular culture has been that print media would die a slow death due to the rise of the 24-hour news cycle and the Internet, but we’re still printing! Amazon was also predicted to shutter local bookstores, yet that hasn’t happened either. The question is…what do we have to offer that digital sources don’t? Yolanda Edwards, the former creative director of Condé Nast Traveler , once stated, “I think magazines are important because we slow down and absorb differently when we aren’t scrolling or clicking. It’s a more engaged, almost dream state you go into.” (http://catapult.co)

As Richardson Life’s editor and frequent writer, I am grateful for the opportunity to help produce a quality print publication that you can think of as a “collective” of sorts. We collect story ideas from the community and then bring those stories to life for your enjoyment. This is our fifth issue and we hope to keep creating community within Richardson by highlighted the best our great city has to offer.

Post-COVID, we shop differently, we socialize differently, we spend our time differently. I hope you’ve discovered -- or rediscovered -- a love of reading and that you’ll continue to support Richardson Life Magazine’s existence by advertising with us, by supporting the advertisers who keep us in print, and by sharing ideas for stories about Richardson’s people, places, businesses and philanthropies. We are always grateful to hear from you.

Happy reading!

Publisher

Kyla Obert

Editor

Patti Otte

Ad Sales

Mike Obert

Designer

Open Look Business Solutions

Special Thanks

Patricia Allbee, Deborah Dobbs, Alisha Gimbel, Ron Nag, Ben Jones, Jeff “Skin” Wade, Niranjan Hanumanna, Rev. April Bristow, Ian Gill, Debbie Cox, Robert & Lisa Grinsfelder, Brianna Ruelas, City of Richardson

Cover Photo Photographer Kyla Obert

For Advertising Questions, please email mobert@hylogroup.com

For Editoral Requests, please email pmotte@hylogroup.com

HyperLocal Media

224 W Campbell Rd, STE 428 Richardson, TX 75080

Managing Partners

Mike and Kyla Obert

Patti Otte

Stunning Pool by Hobert Pools

Photos by The Joyful Green and Jimi Smith Photography

Richardson’s vibrant community hosts an array of civic, social, educational, sporting, philanthropic and business events throughout the year. If you would like to have a picture included in the Richardson Scene, please send submissions to thescene@hylogroup.com.

THE RICHARDSON SCENE

Nathan Johnson, Randy Ford and Victoria Neave at recent Chamber event

Kristen Ceaser and Ginger Greenberg at RALC

Network's February Seniors Day

RFD Toy Delivery to Network

Winners of 2024 Ann & Charles Eisemann International Young Artists Competition

Scouts BSA 2024 Northern Trail YES Award Winners

Dignitaries & community leaders at Richardson Chamber’s Business Network gathering

Richardson East Rotary Club donating to Network

Richardson YMCA Annual Campaign Kick-Off

Watching Barbie movie at Richardson Senior Center

Scouts BSA Northern Trail's recent Eagle Scouts

Richardson Chamber Executive Committee

Network's December Parent Cafe participants

Richardson East Rotary Club Happy Hour

La Casita Bakeshop's Maricsa Trejo with Richardson Police Leadership at Coffee & Cops

Leadership Richardson participants at Methodist Richardson Medical Center

JJ Pearce Mustang Stampede performance at Culture in the Core

RPD's Glen Blackmon and Kyler Pleasant at Coffee & Cops

Richardson takes pride in offering its residents and visitors a variety of top-notch, City-owned facilities available for public rental, providing the perfect backdrop for events ranging from small meetings to large celebrations. Whether the event is a special occasion or a corporate function, the City of Richardson can accommodate the gathering. These two public, rentable meeting spaces may not be as well-known to the general public, so we’d like to share them with RLM readers.

Note: All information in this article was gathered from the City of Richardson’s public websites and social media channels.

RICHARDSON WOMAN’S CLUB

Built in the 1930’s, the Richardson Woman’s Club is a picturesque venue located in a beautiful, treelined area in Northeast Richardson. The home was originally privately owned and then purchased by the City of Richardson for community use via rental agreement.

The RWC Clubhouse is an ideal size to host smaller corporate, civic or private events. Renting the Clubhouse provides guests access to the Living Room, Main

Room, Dining Room & Sunroom. A full kitchen is provided for caterers to use.

The RWC Founders Hall can accommodate larger private parties or corporate events. The space has WiFi, state-ofthe-art audio/visual equipment, flexible seating arrangements, an elevated stage and a fully equipped kitchen for caterers.

Potential renters also have the option of reserving the entire facility. Doing

so provides access to the Clubhouse, Founders Hall, the Gazebo (a perfect setting for an outdoor wedding), the Arbor and the Wishing Well.

The RWC has ample parking for any event. More information can be found on the facility’s website.

Address: 2005 N Cliffe Drive, Phone: 972.238.0841

Website: http://rwctx.org

RICHARDSON’S IQ ® HQ

Richardson’s IQ®HQ was created to facilitate collaboration and networking for the North Texas innovation community and in that role, it includes space to rent for small and moderate sized events. As a City-owned facility, the rooms can be reserved by any Richardson resident. It boasts flexible accommodations - including presentation equipment and a prep area for catering. They welcome organizations of all kinds and have space tailored to fit a variety of needs.

Address: 1302 E. Collins Boulevard,

Email for inquiries:

AskRichardsonIQHQ@cor.gov

Website: http://richardsoniq.com

MASTERING MINDFULNESS

By Deborah Dobbs, MA Executive Director, The Counseling Place

Let’s get something straight. There is no mental health vs. physical health. There is simply health. Just as nourishment and exercise contribute to our overall health, so does our mental wellness. While there’s still much to learn about our brain, thanks to research in neuroscience, mental health is no longer an abstract concept. It’s fairly easy to boost our mental health and we can do so without breaking a sweat.

Think of mindfulness as good medicine for our nervous system and brain. Small mindful steps give giant boosts to our mental health. Put simply, mindfulness is the skill of paying attention. In other words, it means to be fully present without distractions. Because mindfulness is indeed a skill, it requires practice.

Here’s the good news: we can incorporate this practice when doing simple daily tasks.

BREATH

Since we can’t do much without it, breathing is a logical starting point for mindfulness. When we’re busy or feeling stressed, we have a tendency toward shallow breathing. One deep breath can help us reset and several mindful cycles of breath can work wonders.

Breathing techniques are powerful tools to keep in the toolbox. Some are easier than others. One for all ages that can be done anywhere is known as Box Breathing. Three or four repetitions are beneficial. The key is to focus on each stage. For instance, the inhalation might feel cool inside the nose. Lungs feel full during the hold. The breath might feel warmer on the exhale.

We don’t need to wait for stress, though, to breathe mindfully. Intentional breathing and paying attention to the breath is an excellent habit to build.

SIGHT

Although Richardson has plenty of parks to offer, mindfulness sight does not require stepping into nature. We can also look for beauty in unexpected places. We can see the mundane with new eyes, notice details in something ordinary, and pay attention to how something moves. Notice detail. Study movement. The key is to pause and take it in.

SCENT AND SOUND

Virtually anytime we step into a coffee house, restaurant or even our own kitchen, we have the opportunity to observe and (we hope) enjoy smells and sounds. By pausing and concentrating on these senses, without distractions from the phone or a mental to-do list, we practice mindfulness.

Perhaps the hardest thing about

practicing mindfulness is giving ourselves permission to detach from expectations and obligations for even a few minutes, but it’s essential to our health. Thankfully, the easiest thing about practicing mindfulness is that it can be done consistently…anywhere, anytime.

Deborah Dobbs, M.A. has been a part of the Richardson community since 1973. She joined The Counseling Place (The CP) in 1996 as a victim advocate and became Executive Director in 2009. She and her husband, a retired Richardson Police Detective, raised an amazingly strong daughter, who's a competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete. Dobbs has written for Good Life Family Magazine, she's currently writing screenplays, and she has two published novels (so far) in a psychological thriller series. She is a fan of fly fishing, good barbecue and Irish whiskey.

SPOTLIGHT ON CIVIC LEADERS

Tell us about your role as the director of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM).

The Office of Emergency Management consists of a part-time administrative assistant and four full-time staff to provide organized analysis, planning and resources to prevent/mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters. As the OEM’s Director, I serve the City by coordinating programs, plans, training and exercises to increase community resilience.

What do you love best about the profession? Is there a particular moment that stands out in your mind where you truly felt you were making a positive difference?

I like to help City departments plan and work together in a collaborative environment to identify efficiencies, thereby building confidence and trust in their ability to resolve complex issues or prioritize an immense workload after a disaster. I feel I'm making a difference when I encourage residents to prepare their households because small steps they take today, like having an emergency supply kit and enough water, can save lives and expedite our community recovery.

My favorite aspect of Emergency Management is mass care, specifically shelter management, because individuals arriving at a shelter following a disaster may have lost everything; providing immediate care in those moments of devastation is why I do what I do. Some of my most rewarding (and exhausting) experiences occurred when working through the COVID pandemic response, sheltering 2,800 individuals from Texas and Louisiana in Richardson after Hurricanes Delta and Laura, leading our community response to the October 2019 tornado, and continuing City services after the Richardson City Hall fire.

Do you collaborate with other cities in terms of emergency preparedness? If so, what does that effort look like?

Collaboration and communication

ALISHA GIMBEL

Director, City of Richardson Office of Emergency Management

are critical pillars of Emergency Management. We work together daily with other city, county, regional and state partners. Local businesses, hospitals, care providers, nonprofit and faithbased organizations play a critical role in community recovery efforts. These relationships are fostered through frequent presentations, meetings, trainings, emails and phone calls to ensure our partners are prepared. Jurisdictions help each other all the time by sharing best practices; our success can also be their success.

What has been the biggest "emergency" you have dealt with since you began working in your current position?

During the novel coronavirus (nCOV/ COVID-19/COVID) outbreak, we were incredibly busy: from monitoring national calls in January 2020, to

updating protocols with questions about recent travel from Wuhan, China, to monitoring CDC guidance, vaccine distribution, new variants, supply chain issues, and the health of our community, to planning with hospitals, funeral homes and pharmacies. My most intense response was to Hurricane Harvey for six weeks, supporting mega shelter efforts in Dallas and deploying to the Texas coast to assist with recovery efforts like debris removal.

How has the field of emergency management evolved during the years you have served in this capacity?

It continues to grow and change as the threats and impacts to our community have evolved. Our preparedness efforts for emergency operations improvements, special events planning, and better training continue to improve following each disaster.

From your perspective, what advances or positive changes can we expect with regard to the City's readiness for whatever emergency comes next?

No one can solve big emergencies or disasters at an individual level. Emergency Management is a team sport. A significant factor for success in Richardson is that our volunteers and City departments work together, using a foundational team approach during exercises and active responses to identify issues, solutions, and best practices for the City of Richardson. The Richardson Way includes care, innovation, collaboration, integrity, leadership and respect; I believe these values are fundamental drivers to address future emergency responses in Richardson.

Lastly, while I look forward to technological advances, emergency

managers must always maintain alternative methods because in every significant disaster response I have been to, technology is limited or unavailable for the first 24 to 72 hours.

Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up and attend college? What was your major? What path led you to the position you hold today with the City of Richardson?

I grew up in Anna, Texas, living in the country with no neighbors in sight. My major at the University of North Texas (UNT) was Emergency Administration and Planning, with a minor in Risk Management and Insurance. I chose this profession intentionally because of the feeling of helplessness I experienced as a high school sophomore on September 11, 2001. I wanted to make a difference, to prevent and respond to the worst days.

Name the best adjectives to describe you.

Determined, diligent, resourceful and collaborative

Did you have a mentor growing up who inspired you? If so, please tell us about him or her.

My mom and dad. My mother was a teacher and my dad retired in 2020 from

Alisha Gimbel working at the COR Public Safety Expo

Gimbel at COR Health Fair

Collin County Facilities Maintenance. Both my parents taught me the value of working hard and serving others.

Professionally, Don Magner has been my boss for the last three years and has been instrumental in implementing structural changes to bolster city services and readiness throughout his time as Deputy City Manager and now City Manager.

I have been very fortunate to have amazing, dedicated co-workers like my Emergency Management Coordinator, Scott Greeson. Scott is my right-hand man; he covers my position when I'm away. Having the flexibility to know that the City is protected when I'm on vacation or working at the regional or state level is invaluable. Scott was also

selected as the 2022 City of Richardson Employee of the Year.

We'd love to know you on a personal level…can you tell us about your family?

My husband and I will celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary this year in April (and I still like him). We have two girls, ages 9 and 12, two dogs, and one aquatic "rescue" turtle (found injured in a bag of crawfish).

When you aren't working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy most? How do you spend your free time when you aren't working?

I enjoy traveling, skiing and taking vacations with my family. Since my children aren't driving age, I am also a mom-taxi, taking my daughters to church, school activities, summer

camps, dance classes and recitals. I like reading historical fiction, and The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post is my recent favorite.

For the past two years, I have volunteered with Altrusa Richardson to support literacy, victims of domestic violence, and birthday/holiday celebrations at Ability House, a home for individuals with cerebral palsy. Growing up, my aunt had Down Syndrome, so volunteering with Altrusa and Ability House is near and dear to my heart.

My husband is my balance and my other half. He's hilarious and I love to laugh, using humor and enjoying time with my daughters to offset the stresses and demands of being "ready" all the time.

The Gimbel family

RICHARDSON INTERFAITH ALLIANCE

Building Bridges Across Communities of Faith

By Patti Otte

On the fourth Thursday of every month, a diverse group of faith leaders gathers to have lunch, share fellowship, and exchange ideas. For this hour, the group builds relationships and respect. Business is conducted, future plans are made, and a guest speaker presents a program centered around items of concern to all, including topics close to home, such as hospital and school districts, police and fire departments, City government and services, safety and

equality. They also discuss broader issues facing the world at large, like human trafficking, race relations, refugees and immigration. Time is then devoted to questions and answers, a significant part of the bridge-building process. After the monthly meetings, attendees disseminate information to smaller pockets of faith communities throughout Richardson.

This thoughtfully created organization is known as the Richardson Interfaith

Alliance (RIA). It was formed in 2012 and, according to RIA Chair Niranjan Hanumanna, who has served in that position for the past five years, the “purpose of the Richardson Interfaith Alliance is to increase respect of all faiths through education and increased awareness and to coordinate and enhance faith-based services for the betterment of OUR community…As the mission statement states, Richardson Interfaith Alliance is striving to achieve enhanced understanding amongst peace-loving residents of this great city!”

Grateful for the transformative journey at RIA, where diverse hearts and minds unite in a shared commitment to understanding, acceptance and respect. Each member contributes to a tapestry of harmony, building bridges that illuminate the path towards a more inclusive world.

– Chitra Niranjan, President, Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center of Dallas

Richardson Interfaith Alliance members with City officials

Richardson Interfaith Alliance is a zero-cost forum for leaders from a variety of faiths to share their wisdom and commit to promoting compassion and unity. They are tasked with providing solutions to problems pertaining to faith issues within Richardson. One way they look for solutions is to discuss how people of various faith perspectives address topics such as conflict resolution and forgiveness.

As of this time, approximately 40 groups are involved with RIA. They range from Buddhist to Christian to Islamic to Jewish to the Baha’i Faith and many unitarian groups as well, such as the Sai Center & Meditation Center. Richardson Interfaith Alliance’s steering committee consists of 8-10 individuals who work in the background to keep the group on track. Thanks to Niranjan Hanumanna’s leadership and a committed steering committee, the group has survived despite an aging member population and numbers which dwindled during COVID; thankfully, the group is currently growing back to its pre-COVID participation.

One of the cornerstones of the group centers around compassion in action. RIA has a compassion in action director, a program director and a youth group leader, a position which is currently vacant. The City of Richardson partners with the

RIA on several cultural and public safety initiatives, including Trash Bash. Beyond working with the city, the group participates in Feeding Children Everywhere, National Day of Prayer and other charitable initiatives. With a wide representation of different faith communities working together, RIA does its part to see Richardson flourish through a common thread of loving one’s neighbor.

According to steering committee member Rev. Dr. April Bristow, “Cen-

In every religion and walk of life, one aspect stands out: the values that are foundational to our life’s purpose. And after meeting so many faith-based leaders from different houses of worship, my understanding [of our shared values] has only solidified! The golden rule - the principle of treating others as one would expect to be treated - points to these shared human values. I quote Rumi: ‘Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing, there is a field. I will meet you there.’ I believe that that place of peace is right here in Richardson!

– Niranjan Hanumanna, Richardson Interfaith

Chair

tral to RIA's mission is the charter for compassion. At the heart of compassion is a recognition of pain and dis-ease in the world and a conscious and intentional effort to ‘be with’ others in ways that are healing, to help individuals and communities move to wholeness. I am proud to be a part of efforts that seek to build rather than tear down.” Through the thoughtful work of the Richardson Interfaith Alliance, the cross-cultural ties that bind Richardson citizens together have grown stronger every year.

Alliance

RIA winter drive and knitting donation to Network

RICHARDSON’S MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Editor’s Note: Movers and shakers are people who make things happen, influencers whose energy creates positive change. They’re always busy and often pioneers in their respective fields. In each issue of Richardson Life Magazine , we highlight an individual, couple or group of people who we feel fits this definition. If you would like to nominate a mover and shaker to be celebrated in the pages of the magazine, email pmotte@hylogroup.com .

DEBASISH “RON” NAG

A Richardson Visionary on a Mission to Change the Face of Healthcare Through Innovation

By Patti Otte

Ron Nag showcasing MedCognetics' imaging capabilities

Ron Nag’s official title on LinkedIn -Senior Executive & Entrepreneur, specializing in Engineering, Technology, Healthcare and Business Development -- provides a glimpse into his business acumen and versatility. But knowing that Nag’s favorite engineer is Leonardo DaVinci and that his greatest joy comes from parenting his three boys offers a more complete picture of this dynamic Richardson leader.

The son of two teachers, Debasish “Ron” Nag grew up in the Midwest, spending many of his early years in the Detroit area. He possessed an inquisitive mind at an early age and developed an interest in pursuing technology and engineering in college. Nag describes himself as a “passionate, results-driven problem solver” and he has spent his

career doing just that…finding solutions to complex issues.

Nag holds a BSEE in Control Systems Engineering and an MBA in marketing and operations. When asked why he decided to study both engineering and business, Nag replies, “I had a technical methodology for solving a problem, but I needed to understand business methodology as well. In business, the math functions of add, subtract, multiply and divide are powerful tools for problem-solving compared to the complex math engineers use. I consider myself a ‘recovering engineer’ in that I can now convey a complex idea in a simple manner thanks to basic math and the ability to convey a story or idea. Engineering and business are complementary skills sets.” Like DaVinci, Nag seeks to balance the artistic and the technical, stating,

“There is an art to solving a problem. True artistry exists in equations, which is how science describes nature. And the ‘art’ of engineering is math – and a dollop of creativity.”

Innovation has always been at the forefront of Nag’s professional interests. He pursued a technical/ executive career in robotics, telecom and semiconductors before becoming a healthcare executive. Believing that limitations in healthcare pose a tremendous challenge/problem to be solved, Nag decided to dedicate his time and energy to that field.

Four years ago, Nag became an Entrepreneur in Residence for the UT system (UT Dallas and UT Southwestern). While there, he developed an interest in a key

Nag at UTD's Venture Development Center

You can create generational leadership and watch the evolution of a young person to a young leader in Scouting. You know you have contributed and you can see the results. When they assimilate the ideals of Scouting, it’s very fulfilling.

– Ron Nag

cancer detection technology -- Artificial Intelligence (AI) for medical imaging. He saw the potential for combining the medical expertise of physicians and scientists with an engineer’s capacity for problem-solving. Acting upon that vision, Nag established MedCognetics, a business venture founded on a symbiotic relationship between UT Dallas (who had the technology) and UT Southwestern (who had the clinical and medical expertise).

Under Nag’s leadership, MedCognetics has received FDA clearance for its first product, which utilizes proprietary algorithms and software developed by the company to guide its own Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyze mammograms and detect/identify breast cancer at its very earliest stages. When asked why breast cancer was the chosen disease for this new technology, Nag replies, “It’s everybody’s issue…your mom, your sister, your daughter, your niece, your piano teacher…someone you care for may be faced with it.”

MedCognetics’ AI is not ChatGPT-type technology. The company builds its own algorithms by first securing mammograms through global cooperation, a necessary step since women of different races develop cancer in unique ways and reading scans from a variety of ethnicities allows MedCognetics to deliver unbiased AI screening capabilities.

Once the mammograms are gathered, radiologists then read the images. The team at MedCognetics turns the radiologists’ findings into computer code which “teaches” the AI engine. In essence, the physicians are training the computers to look for cancer at an even higher degree of certainty than the human eye.

In 2023, Nag and his team at MedCognetics received the Richardson Chamber of Commerce Economic Development, Growth and Entrepreneurship (EDGE) Award for Innovation. In partnership with the City of Richardson, and the Richardson and Richardson East Rotary Clubs, this awards program recognizes outstanding and cutting-edge Richardson businesses, initiatives and people that create economic impact and sustain community involvement.

Nag was a member of Leadership Richardson 32’s Business & Economic Development Committee. He views MedCognetics as the culmination of what he learned during LR32. States Nag, “I now have the privilege and honor of delivering a cutting-edge business

MedCognetics' AI engine which is revolutionizing breast cancer detection

that originated from Richardson, [grew] with Richardson employees, and is still located here in Richardson. Our goal is to start the next chapter of innovation in our city, one which has a deep technological heritage.”

Nag is not content to rest on his current laurels. When asked about his “medical bucket list,” he mentions hoping to develop technology that can predict a patient’s propensity to have cancer (any type) with a single body scan. The company’s motto is to “See the Unseen” and MedCognetics hopes to create a “face detection” for cancer. They are starting with breast cancer but plan to move to lung and then prostate cancer in the future.

When he is not busy innovating, Nag is a very family-oriented single parent of three teenage boys. Dhilan, his oldest, is a freshman Eagle Scout at UT participating in their honors engineering program. Kamran and Aren, twins, are juniors in high school. Kamran is in the process of earning his Eagle rank with Troop 198 in Richardson. Aren plays cello and is also a jazz pianist. All

of Nag’s boys are interested in technology, music and community service.

Nag is a self-proclaimed Scout dad. He is actively involved in Richardson’s Troop 198 and currently mentors Eagle Scout candidates. He has closets filled with camping gear and devotes significant time to Scouts BSA. He likes performing local community service but in an organization with the propensity to make a difference on a much larger scale. And given that Nag determines whether or not to put in bandwidth for a charitable initiative by determining whether outcomes can be generational, Scouting fits the criteria perfectly. And Nag believes that Scouting is akin to an extended leadership workshop.

And while he doesn’t have much free time, the father of three enjoys travelling, watersports, and fine dining. His travel bucket list includes places such as Antarctica, Southeast Asia/Pacific Islands, New Zealand and the moon! First, he has to stop working so hard. In 2024, he is hoping to close out some projects with MedCognetics to garner

some free time to spend with his family.

Nag loves living and working in Richardson. He states, “Richardson allows me to work, raise my family, and relax without any commute -it’s a onestop shop for me. Good infrastructure, fiscal management, and outstanding parks/recreation.” And in the future, Nag would like to see Richardson become home to a tier one facility for children’s health, emergency and acute care. Ron experienced the need of this service when he had to tend to a son’s broken arms and had to go outside of Richardson to address this issue.

When asked what he hopes people will remember about him, Nag replies, “I hope I will be known for being funny, engaged and always offering cheerful service.” And in true Scouter fashion, he jokingly states that he wants his epitaph to read: “He left no trace.” Or “This side up.” Ron won’t get his wish about leaving no trace as the impact he has made in both the Richardson community and the world at large will be felt for years to come.

Ron is a true creative genius whose technologies have the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics across the globe. His entrepreneurial spirit is matched only by his desire to be a servant leader – both making Richardson a better place.

– Kim Quirk, Richardson Chamber

of

Commerce President & CEO

Nag spending free time surfing

Nag and eldest son Dhilan at UT game

Nag and his twins at Diwali

kbaur@texasbankandtrust.com

roger@rwbconsultingCFO.com

ryan@platformconstructionusa.com

Jill@seniorlivingspecialists.com

ARTS & CULTURE IN RICHARDSON

Richardson Community Chorale

Note: This organization is funded in part by the City of Richardson through the City of Richardson Cultural Arts Commission.

In September of 2016, with the help of an enthusiastic young director named Ian Gill, who has been with the organization since its inception and is now the Music and Artistic Director, the Richardson Community Chorale was founded. We sat down recently with Gill to discuss the past, present and future of the RCC.

Educate our readers about the Richardson Community Chorale. How long has it been in existence and what is its primary purpose within the community? How is it unique from other choirs in the Metroplex?

The RCC started out as a former chorus that met at UTD. 26 singers came together on September 19th, 2016, for the first time as the RCC. Since then, we've grown to more than 50 singers. The Richardson Community Chorale is a non-auditioned choral ensemble; anyone who loves to sing is welcome. No matter their musical

background, ALL are welcome. We perform free concerts throughout the fall, winter and spring. One of our goals is to provide quality, free performances for our community that are familyfriendly events.

Is the RCC a nonprofit? If so, what makes it unique among nonprofits in Richardson? What makes you most proud to be associated with the RCC?

We are a 501(c)3. Our singers pay dues of $75 per semester. The dues help us with our operating costs. We also write grants and take donations

throughout the year from friends of the Chorale who attend our concerts or support us on North Texas Giving Day.

I'm very proud of how we have grown as an organization. When we started, we had about $200 to hire staff, find music, rent a rehearsal and performance space, and provide decorations for that performance. We came together as a group and made all of that happen with donations from folks who believed in us. I'm proud to be their director. From our humble beginnings, we have gone on

The Richardson Community Chorale

to perform for thousands of concert attendees as well as taken part in two performances with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra in our first five years as an organization.

What highlights can you share with us from the RCC’s 2023-2024 season?

Our current season began with what we can “mini concerts.” These events usually last approximately 45 minutes and we perform them all over Richardson and surrounding communities. The mini concerts are similar to our “run out” performances, during which a small group of singers will go out into the community (to nursing homes or senior living facilities) and perform a familiar repertoire that audiences can join right along in singing with us.

So far in our 2023-2024 season, we have performed at Light Up Lockwood, First United Methodist Church

Plano,

Richardson, Friends Place and The Richardson Public

Our next concert is our spring one, entitled The Elements , which will be performed on April 26 at 7:00 pm. This concert will feature songs based on air, fire, water and Earth. The concert

the Richardson Senior Center, Huffhines Park, Network of Community Ministries, First United Methodist Church

Library.

North Texas Giving Day celebration at CityLine

RCC performance at Huffhines Park for Richardson's 150th

Ian Gill is a conductor, singer and guitarist living in Richardson, Texas. He has conducted and performed in 31 states as well as throughout England, Germany, Hungary, Austria, Poland and Australia. During that time, he has worked with some of the most well-respected conductors and musicians of the modern era, such as Dale Warland, Dr. Don Moses, Dr. Donald Neuen, Dr. Lynne Gackle, Vijay Singh, Dr. Tim Sharp, Dr. Richard Zielinski and guitarist George Benson.

Mr. Gill has conducted children's choirs, youth choirs, adult choirs, community choirs, church choirs, youth orchestras, the Norman Philharmonic Orchestra (Norman, Oklahoma) and the 2016 Southwest Oklahoma Circle the State with Song festival choir. He currently serves as the Associate Director of Music at First United Methodist Church Richardson. In addition, Gill is the founding Music and Artistic Director of the Richardson Community Chorale.

Gill is a member of the band Skyland and enjoys making music with those incredible musicians. The group performs all around DFW entertaining audiences with their blend of Celtic, Folk and World Music. Skyland (formerly Five Second Rule) has been together in its current lineup since 2019.

Gill has a six-year-old named Cooper, who is the light of his life. The two enjoy going for nature walks, talking about dragons, watching movies and eating pizza.

To enrich and enhance the surrounding local communities by providing creative and artistic choral performances and be a representation of the creative spirit of the City of Richardson.

– RCC’s Mission Statement

is free and will be held at First United Methodist Church Richardson.

Does the RCC have a goal for 2024? Or any plans for change? If so, can you share with us any future plans?

Our future goals continue to be to grow our membership, to expand to more performances for senior citizens, adults and children, and to perform new music by living composers. We premiered a new piece at the Richardson Public Library in February and we are premiering another at our April 26 concert; it was written by local composer Debra Scroggins.

From your perspective as an active member of the Richardson community, what are the most exciting aspects of living and working in Richardson?

Richardson has wonderful people to work with, supportive city staff, amazing local talent to collaborate with, and world-class facilities in which to perform.

Is there anything else you would like the citizens of Richardson to know about the RCC, about you, or about Richardson?

Be sure to follow us on Facebook @richardsoncommunitychorale, on Instagram @rcchorale, or on our YouTube channel for everything RCC! You can also visit our website at http://rcchorale.org.

Ian Gill

Friends Place run out performance in February

Director Ian Gill performing with the group

THE COUNSELING PLACE

A VITAL NONPROFIT SERVING RICHARDSON CITIZENS SINCE 1979

While mental health has become a hot topic, finding help can be a challenge. Many Richardson residents don’t know that affordable services are just around the corner at a nonprofit mental health and victims’ assistance organization called The Counseling Place, aka The CP. We talked with The CP’s Executive Director Deborah Dobbs, who has been with the agency since 1996.

RLM: The CP has been serving the Richardson community since 1979. How did it begin?

Dobbs: Richardson had a growing number of unsupervised children in the seventies. That was my generation, and we used the term “latchkey kids.” Some of them were getting into a wee bit of trouble after school, so a few community members, ranging from clergy to educators, created our agency to offer services. Through a collaboration with the Richardson Police Department, they established a Juvenile First Offenders’ Program. The point was diversion, to help young people learn how to make better choices and avoid the criminal justice system.

RLM: You’ve added more services since then.

Dobbs: Oh yes. At the time the agency was established, the victims’ rights movement had gained momentum. We added a victims' assistance program for victims of crime or virtually any crisis that requires a response from the Richardson police. Due to demand, we also added general counseling services to the Richardson community. We serve people of all ages now.

RLM: The CP is a nonprofit organization. Why do so many people not know this?

Dobbs: I’d like to think it’s because our therapists provide clients with cuttingedge, research-based interventions and incorporate a wide range of strategies, from polyvagal theory to existentialism. That's quality you don’t expect from a nonprofit. On the other hand, it might also be because I’m not fantastic at community relations.

RLM: Right. You claim to be an extreme introvert.

Dobbs: Because I am.

RLM: Then how do you help the community know about your services?

Dobbs: For starters, Cindy Shafer joined our team full-time. I watched her do amazing work as the CEO of The Network of Community Ministries and her outreach and development skills

ran circles around mine. When she left Network, I convinced her to come work with us as our first-ever Development Director and I’m listening to her and doing what she tells me to do. That includes a new special event this spring: The Mindful Mile Color Walk.

RLM: Sounds fun! How did you come up with the idea?

We wanted a stress-free, affordable, and meaningful event that provided fun and education, not only about what we’re doing at The CP, but about mental health overall. Mindfulness is a form of mental fitness everyone can do, and we teach that to our clients. As for the walk itself, whether people are on foot or in a wheelchair, most folks can manage a mile. Then, we threw in the color blasts for a little pizzaz. Throughout the event, we’ll be providing activities that provide practical tips, for people of all ages. We’ll also have a “Mindful Memory Garden” where people can experience some quiet or remember how mental health or mental illness has impacted their lives and loved ones. The $20 registration fee includes an event shirt that’ll be doused in color by the end of the event!

RLM: How does someone get help from The Counseling Place?

Dobbs: We have a new client line people can call to get the ball rolling. It’s on our website.

RLM: What if counseling simply isn’t in someone’s budget?

Dobbs: Thanks to donors, grants and a partnership with the City of Richardson, whether you can pay $1 or $100 per

session, if you live, work, or study in the city of Richardson, as long as we can meet your mental health needs, we’ll serve you.

Deborah Dobbs, MA

Executive Director, The Counseling Place

Deborah Dobbs has been part of the Richardson community since 1973, when her family fled the Chicago snow and moved into a home in Cottonwood Creek. Growing up, Dobbs enjoyed the lifestyle of the daughter of an airline pilot. She traveled extensively and loved experiencing unfamiliar cultures. Dobbs didn’t share her father’s passion for flying, however. (In fact, she dislikes it.) Her passion was, and still is, writing and she hoped to continue her traveling adventures with a career in journalism.

"I suppose it wasn't meant to be,” Dobbs said. In the fall of 1988, Dobbs arrived at the University of Texas at Austin, excited to get started in the communications school. “I was lost in the soup,” she said, “And I ended up with a B.A. in sociology.” After graduation, Dobbs returned to Richardson and commuted to the University of North Texas, where she earned a Master of Arts in sociology.

Dobbs was an adjunct faculty member at Richland College in 1996 when her mother Marilyn convinced Deborah to volunteer with her at The Counseling Place (then Neighborhood Youth Services). Crisis work came naturally to mom and daughter and Dobbs found another passion in crime victim advocacy and mental health. After thirteen years as a victim advocate, she became Executive Director.

Random Facts about Deborah Dobbs:

• She holds a PADI Dive Master Certification.

• She's a published author of psychological thrillers (available on Amazon or directly from Anatolian Press LLC). She also has several screenplays in the works.

• She loves fly-fishing with her husband, drinking Irish whiskey and smoking the occasional cigar.

• Dobbs’ husband Wayne is a retired detective from the Richardson Police Department. Their daughter Faith is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and an utterly amazing young woman.

• If Dobbs loves you, she’ll cook for you.

RLM: What does that mean: “as long as we can meet your mental health needs?”

Dobbs: If someone requires a higher level of care than what we can provide, like hospitalization or substance abuse treatment, we must provide them with referrals. Kind of like, if I broke my arm and called my cardiologist to check it out, he’d refer me to an orthopedist.

RLM: You’ve been with The Counseling Place for twenty-seven years. What has been the biggest change?

Dobbs: Gosh. The first thing that comes to mind is how far the mental health field has come, especially when it comes to trauma. We’ve learned so much about the brain, the nervous system, and even gut health and how they’re interconnected and boost or compromise our mental health.

RLM: What changes have you seen in the city, related to the work you do at The Counseling Place?

Dobbs: The community seems to embrace mental health more than they did in 1996. More people view mental health as a component of overall health, which is fantastic. In fact, this year, Leadership Richardson’s Health Committee included mental health, which, to my knowledge, is a first. Our partnerships with the City of Richardson and the Richardson Police Department are more vibrant, too, like everyone’s on the same page. Our Police Chief, City Management, and City Council have also ramped up their support for mental health services. It feels like we’ve entered a new era, and I’m loving it!

For more information about The Counseling Place, visit their website at http://counselingplace.org or call 469.283.0242.

The Counseling Place's location

Creative Reuse Takes Hold in Richardson and Beyond

By Patricia Allbee

Baskets of yarn and bags of bottlecaps; rolls of fabric and jars of beads, buttons, shells, corks and old keys; bins of art paper, picture frames, vintage magazines and postcards; shelves of paint,

pens, crayons and pencils—such are the types of things one might find at a creative reuse center, a type of business that’s been around for decades but has quietly increased in popularity and location.

A mecca for crafters, teachers and eco-conscious shoppers alike, creative reuse centers generally share a purpose of keeping “pre-loved” materials with creative potential out of the landfill and selling them at a low cost or giving them

Untrash Creative Reuse booth at Cottonwood Market

40 miles of Dallas (other than thrift, vintage and antique stores) until it landed in Richardson thanks to former art teacher Debbie Molotsky, who fell in love with the concept and founded the nonprofit Chartreuse Creative Reuse in 2014.

back to the community to be reused and upcycled, hopefully again and again. Materials are taken in on a donation basis, with some reuse businesses awarding shopping “points” or discounts to donors.

Many offer blogs, workshops and/or classes on ways to use the materials; they also weigh the materials to let the community know how many pounds are being diverted from the landfill. The actual centers take a variety of forms, from online shops and pop-ups at outdoor flea markets, such as Cats Eye Creative Reuse in Boise, Idaho, to giant, stand-alone brick-and-mortar

stores like Scrap Exchange in Durham, North Carolina.

“Creative reuse helps makers and creatives thrive and produce unique things affordably,” says Jeanna Dunlap, a fiber artist in Denton. “I could not have started my small macramé and weaving business several years ago without it…and the ever-changing materials found at a creative reuse center give artists inspiration, a creative challenge.”

Surprisingly, creative reuse did not have a notable presence within

Though Chartreuse no longer actively operates (it took in materials from businesses and offered art activities for children at Richardson schools and festivals), it inspired my small creative reuse business (Untrash Creative Reuse), which opened in March 2023 inside Richardson’s Cottonwood Market. I’ve always been a crafter/DIYer in some form or fashion almost all my life, and an avid recycler/reuser. Though Chartreuse didn’t last, I always felt that Richardson would still support creative reuse in a publicly accessible, retail version and for years I kept dreaming about making that happen.

Things finally started coming together thanks to The IQ® Brew, a free, monthly,

Pegasus and Untrash owners at Pegasus soft opening Author Patricia Allbee far right

CREATIVE REUSE CENTERS IN NORTH TEXAS

UNTRASH CREATIVE REUSE

101 S. Coit Rd. #50, Richardson

http://untrashcreativereuse.com

Offers pre-loved supplies for a variety of arts and crafts, including sewing, knitting, scrapbooking, painting and jewelry making, plus pre-loved how-to and fine art books, wrapping/gifting materials, creative office/ school supplies and vintage items; also offers art from local artists who use upcycled materials in their creations. Notable “constants” at Untrash include bowls crafted from vinyl records, earrings made from Barbie doll shoes, and a large collection of vintage Sports Illustrated magazines.

PEGASUS CREATIVE REUSE

1300 S. Polk #274 (Tyler DART Station), Dallas

http://pegasusreuse.com

A large open space lined with shelves and bins chock full of creative materials, plus a large center table where you can work on projects or attend one of Pegasus’ many craft workshops. Also available for use are several tools, including a die-cutting machine. Watch for their “intern,” a cardboard cutout of the late Bob Ross, watching over the shop.

THE WELMAN PROJECT

3950 W. Vickery Blvd., Ft. Worth

http://thewelmanproject.org

Has a small shop that’s open to the public featuring creative and vintage materials, but the heart and soul of this nonprofit is the adjacent educator warehouse, where any staff from an accredited public or charter school (or nonprofit private school) can shop for free. Teachers come from near and far to fill their cars with materials, including art supplies, bulletin board décor, books, games, STEAM gadgets, theatre costumes—basically, if you’re a teacher and need something for your classroom, they probably have it. Other notable spaces at Welman include a stylish lounge where teachers can take a break from shopping and enjoy an espresso and “Dad’s Garage,” a makerspace where community workshops, camps and classes are held.

THISTLE CREATIVE REUSE

618 W. University Dr., Denton

http://thistlecreativereuse.com

Offers a large assortment of creative and vintage materials in its brickand-mortar location as well as in its online store, where new items are added every Sunday. Unique to Thistle is its store mascot (the felt “Star Buddy”) and Thistle-branded, staff-made craft kits; also notable is a visible donations area where the public can watch donation processing in action.

local speaker series sponsored by the City of Richardson—I write about the series in my communications job with the City. In March 2021 the guest speaker was from SCORE, a free federal program that provides information, webinars and volunteer mentors to anyone wanting to start up a business. I filed that tidbit of information away in my head and, a year later, got up the courage to act on it, receiving two wonderful SCORE mentors. About six months later, Untrash Creative Reuse became a reality!

Another exciting change in the reuse community happened in August 2023, when a creative reuse center was finally established in Dallas when Pegasus Creative Reuse opened in Oak Cliff. For those who love the concept of reducing, reusing and recycling, creative reuse is for you.

Patricia Long Allbee has lived in (or within two blocks of) Richardson for the past 30 years, where she raised two daughters with her husband and volunteered in leadership roles for "too many organizations to count." A longtime freelance writer and blogger, she wrote for the Dallas Morning News for more than 20 years and was also published in Dallas Child, Dallas Family, D Magazine, and The Dallas Observer among other publications. Since 2015 she's worked part-time as a writer/Citizens Information Specialist in the City of Richardson's Communications Department.

Barbie shoe earrings at Allbee's store Untrash

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BEN & SKIN

Radio Celebrities with Richardson Roots

By Patti Otte

Most folks don’t get to earn a living chatting and laughing with their best friend. But that’s exactly what Ben Rogers and Jeff “Skin” Wade have done every day since 2008 on their wildly popular radio show “Ben & Skin.” Says Ben, “The best part of being a radio personality is that I make a living goofing off with my best friend. Our conversations aren’t entirely different from the ones we had way back in high school — only now we make a living having those same ridiculously immature conversations.”

If you’re a sports fan, you’ll have heard of Ben & Skin. They’ve etched their names into the annals of sports talk radio, bringing a dynamic and entertaining flair to the airwaves. Based in Dallas, this dynamic duo has cultivated a devoted fan base with their unique blend of sports analysis, humor and genuine camaraderie.

But what folks may not know is that the radio hosts both grew up in Richardson. I first met Ben working on RLM’s story about Coach Mark Malcolm as both Ben & Skin played on Apollo Junior High School’s championship football team under Coach Malcolm. Ben has so many fond memories of growing up in Richardson. He recalls, “We had the amazing playground with the giant monster at Huffhines Park. We had Huffhines Recreation Center. We had that big, beautiful creek where you could go on any number of adventures. And, of course, I loved Richardson Square Mall, which featured a movie theater, an arcade and the first Chick-fil-A. And who can forget about the greatness of Twin Rivers’ arcade games and batting cages!”

For other locals, Ben’s memory of

We are not ones to sit by and let life happen to us. We are not here to be passive recipients or to live in someone else’s vision of the world. We believe the world is what you make of it. We believe that with imagination and hard work anything is possible. We believe in ourselves … Opportunity is on the horizon. And that life you want is right over there. Let’s roll

– Rollertown Manifesto

being a kid at a time when Richardson police officers carried around Dallas Cowboys trading cards and gave them to kids who knew to ask for them will bring back fond memories. And, says Ben, “It created a cool relationship with the police department as the Dallas Cowboys were obviously everything to us.”

One of the key elements of Ben & Skin's success is their ability to seam -

lessly blend sports commentary with humor. While many sports talk shows focus solely on the game, Ben & Skin inject a healthy dose of laughter into their broadcasts. Listeners are not only treated to insightful analysis but also to a lively banter that reflects the hosts' genuine friendship. Ben calls Skin the most talented person he has ever known, stating, “Skin’s incredibly intelligent with a razor sharp wit…but also

Ben & Skin at Rollertown, their brewery in Celina Photo by @Ben and Skin

a beautiful, kind person who cares a great deal about people. On top of how utterly hilarious this man is, he’s the first person I go to for real life advice, or to talk about things that are heavy.”

Beyond their humor, Ben & Skin are known for their authenticity. They don't shy away from expressing their opinions, even when they diverge from popular sentiment. This honesty has earned them respect and credibility among their audience. Listeners appreciate the hosts' willingness to tackle controversial topics and provide unfiltered perspectives, creating a space for open and engaging discussions.

In addition to their on-air chemistry, Ben & Skin have successfully adapted to the changing media landscape. They've embraced digital platforms, connecting with their audience through social media, podcasts and live streaming. This

multi-platform approach has allowed them to reach a broader audience and stay relevant in an era where traditional radio alone might not suffice.

As if the time they spend working together isn’t enough fun, Ben & Skin are now the proud owners of the brewery Rollertown Beerworks in Celina. It’s so successful that the team (Ben & Skin and their partners) are breaking ground on a new brewery headquarters in Frisco at the end of March.

Despite their success, Ben & Skin remain humble and grateful for the support of their fans, both on the radio and at Rollertown. This down-to-earth attitude has endeared them to listeners and patrons alike, fostering a sense of fun and camaraderie wherever the duo goes. If you haven’t already discovered Ben & Skin, now’s the time. You don’t know what you’re missing!

Ben & Skin Photo by @Ben and Skin

Ben & Skin in their high school days

Photo by @Ben and Skin

FOCUS ON WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Brianna Ruelas

Brianna Ruelas Music

Brianna, you are such a talented and multi-faceted entrepreneur…musician, speaker, author, wife, mom. For those who don’t know you, how would you describe yourself and your business?

Well, you hit the nail on the head with multi-faceted. I am a student of life and welcome growth and expansion. I’m also a cheerleader at heart and accelerating others as they step into their big “next” fires me up. Creative strategy,

brainstorming and planning are my sweet spots in the coaching side of my business and “music + motivation” sets me apart as a keynote speaker/singer.

Tell us more about Brianna Ruelas Music. What do you mean when you say you are a “Creative Cultivator & Strategist” and “Music Motivator”? Cultivator is an interesting word, isn’t it? By definition, a cultivator prepares soil to

Photo by Kathy Tran

ensure that it’s fertile for growth. When I’m coaching my clients inside their business or speaking to college-aged women from the stage, most of them are feeling a tug or pull (I refer to it as “a whisper”) to step into a new dimension of their lives or take action on a vision that’s been placed on their hearts.

To confidently bring that vision to life, we must ensure the soil (or foundation) is prepared to make way for the “bloom.” I believe creativity (including music, brainstorming, idea mapping, etc.) opens a pathway to boldly make decisions for life and business that result in big moves and forward momentum. As a Creative Strategist, I am always eager to share a new perspective or solution that enables others to see the limitless possibilities ahead.

As a Music Motivator & Keynote Speaker, I integrate LIVE performance and original music into my talks to reinforce key concepts that ignite motivation, innovation and action. I encourage others to anchor into their faith and discover their natural-born gifts so they can make a meaningful contribution in the world around them and activate their impact.

Who is your typical “customer”?

Currently, I am working with female business professionals and entrepreneurs who desire motivation and guidance, and who are seeking creative, streamlined ways to solve problems in their businesses. I also work with HR coordinators that host speakers and employee engagement opportunities for their teams. My clients appreciate my organization, encouragement and efficiency.

What is your background? Have you always been a musician and an entrepreneur?

Music has always been a big part of my life. I grew up on musical theatre and actually started out here in Richardson at the Repertory Company Theatre, which is still thriving today. I continued musical theatre through college, but eventually realized it was singing that I was most drawn to. Living in Los Angeles at the time,

I felt it was a perfect place to explore that avenue more. It led me to becoming a Top 100 Finalist on the OG Season of American Idol, Season 4.

Although I never dreamed of entrepreneurship or believed as an emerging adult I’d be “good” at business, as a “Learner” I have thrived through the journey and really surprised myself. As an integral part of several startups, including a restaurant and music school, and the founder of my own LLC, I’ve acquired a lot of wisdom and knowledge through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

Do you have a motto or inspiration which drives your business and your life? If so, what is it and why did you choose it?

I’m fully inspired and driven by my faith in God, but there is a motto I do love: “You Gotta Start Somewhere.” I’m not afraid to take the first step because new seasons in life always have a beginning, which always starts with the courage to act.

Proverbs 3: 5-6 is an anchor for me and reminds me that I don’t always have to all the answers and I can lean into the mystery and trust the goodness of God.

Brianna Ruelas

Do you live in Richardson? If so, what brought you here? If not, what made you decide to locate your business in Richardson?

I do live in Richardson and was actually born and raised here. I am a proud alumnus of Heights Elementary, West Junior High and Richardson High School (Go Eagles!).

After high school, I moved to California to attend Pepperdine University and ended up staying there for 10 years. When our oldest was almost two years old, my husband, Victor Hugo, and I relocated back to Richardson because Dallas was a great place for Victor, a restaurateur, to open his own business one day.

We ran Victor Hugo’s Oak Cliff for seven years, but now he does private chef dinner experiences, catering and Pop-Up Events (in Round Top and

locally). We are an entrepreneurial family and LOVE our great city of Richardson.

What are three adjectives which best describe you?

Ambitious. Compassionate. Outgoing.

What skills do you find most necessary for running your business?

Hard Skills: Writing, Speaking, Marketing, Branding

Soft Skills: Organization, Creativity, Dependability, Motivation

So, what’s “next” for Brianna?

Well, on the family front, we are gearing up for high school graduation! My oldest is attending Northeastern University in Boston this fall, so there’s a lot of preparation and transition ahead.

Professionally, I am working on my next book project, which will help young women anchor themselves in faith, and inspire possibility as they navigate the highs and lows of their college era. It will also act as a catalyst to open real conversation and dialogue between mothers and daughters during this exciting, but often tumultuous season of emerging adulthood. I’m also actively booking speaking gigs through the year at both college campuses and organizations.

Is there anything else you would love for your neighbors to know about you or Brianna Ruelas Music?

Please don’t hesitate to connect with me! I love meeting my Richardson neighbors! You can follow me on Instagram @briannaruelasmusic and also connect with me at http://briannaruelasmusic.com.

Brianna at one of her many speaking engagements

Photos by Adrienne Leigh Photography

Network Launches New MENTAL HEALTH and WELLNESS SERVICES

Network is responding to alarming mental health statistics in Texas by introducing mental health and wellness services to their existing programming. This initiative aims to address the gap in mental health care accessibility, providing compassionate and evidence-based services at no cost to those in need. In Texas, 3.3 million adults are diagnosed with mental health conditions and a staggering 55% of adults with mental health conditions cannot or do not seek the necessary treatment.

Key components of the program include the addition of three full-time mental health professionals — a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) as a Clinical Case Manager and two Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) for individualized therapy. Network has also partnered with a contract psychiatrist to provide wraparound, multidisciplinary care. These services are offered at no cost, and for as long as services are needed. Comprehensive

This new collaboration with Network builds on our ongoing partnership to make meaningful improvements and we hope it serves as an example of an effective approach to addressing mental health needs.

– Richardson City Manager Don Magner

I am hopeful that my donation will be used to provide counseling and mental health services, especially for girls and women who might otherwise not have access to these services.

– Ann Marmion, Ruth Ann Marmion Charitable Fund

screenings for depression and anxiety, as well as a Self-Sufficiency Survey, help to identify specific needs.

Additionally, Parent Café, open to all neighbors, is a program that provides a safe space for parents to enjoy a meal, take a break, and discuss their successes and challenges among a group of peers. While parents participate in the program, childcare activities are offered.

Adding mental health services to

Network’s existing program is designed to break down barriers to access, offering free, unlimited counseling sessions to those who need it most.

Funding from the City of Richardson and the Ruth Ann Marmion Charitable Fund makes this program possible. For more information about Network and its mental health and wellness services program, please contact Amanda Pels, Chief Strategy Officer, at 972-234-8880 ext. 109 or email her at apels@thenetwork.org.

(l-r) Holly Packer - Clinician I; Ashley Gonzalez - Clinical Case Manager; and Heather Chadwick - Clinician I

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FACES OF RICHARDSON WILL ARRIVE IN SUMMER 2024.

RISD EDUCATORS’ CORNER

Editor’s Note: In each issue of Richardson Life Magazine, we highlight individuals who are making a difference in the lives of Richardson Independent School District students. If you would like to nominate someone to be showcased in this section of RLM, email pmotte@hylogroup.com.

ROBERT AND LISA GRINSFELDER

RISD Unsung Heroes Making a Lasting Impact in RISD Schools Through the We Read Together Program

By Patti Otte

To say that Lisa and Robert Grinsfelder love Richardson -- their family, their friends, their church, the wider community -- would be an understatement. These two are making a difference by volunteering their time and talents to RISD schools and

their impact on RISD students will be a lasting one.

Lisa and Robert Grinsfelder have become unsung hometown heroes in their retirement years, even though they aren’t comfortable with

that description. Lisa grew up in Richardson, attended school here, graduating from RHS, and then returned upon finishing college. Robert came to RISD in the ninth grade and attended Lake Highlands High School. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout in

Lisa and Robert Grensfelder

We are big advocates of public education and strong supporters of teachers and staff in schools. The stronger our schhols are, the stronger our community, state and country is.

– Lisa & Robert Grinsfelder

Richardson’s Troop 890. Robert recalls, “RHS was king of the hill back then. Lake Highlands wanted to beat them when we could because we were the little guys!”

After both attending Texas Tech, where they met and fell in love, Robert and Lisa came back to Richardson to live, work and raise a family. Lisa dedicated her life to teaching science, first at Forest Meadow for 25 years and then at Berkner for the last 13 years of her career. Robert proudly remembers, “Lisa was the teacher who helped with everything financially for the kids…she had a personal 'slush fund' for her students which she used to fill her desk drawer with snacks, school supplies, and anything else kids might need but might not be able to afford. Lisa laughingly states that she

received a raise by retiring because she no longer had to set aside money for the slush fund!

Both Lisa and Robert are passionate about public education in general for having been products of it. They state, “We are big advocates of public education and strong supporters of teachers and staff in schools. The stronger our schools are, the stronger our community, state and country is.” Upon retirement, the couple became very involved at First United Methodist Church Richardson, where they now chair FUMCR’s Children First program. The Children First team established a reading program with FUMCR partner schools Mark Twain Elementary and Greenwood Hills Elementary to make a difference in the lives of students. Church members read to pre-k

through second grade students, help on campus workdays, and provide support to the local PTAs.

For the past two years, FUMCR’s congregation has made possible the donation of a book for each student to take home at the end of the fall semester and 1-2 books for the spring semester with the goal of creating a library in each home. Almost 10,000 books have been given since the program began. States Robert, “Purchasing books has had a tangible impact at Greenwood Hills and Mark Twain.”

This spring FUMCR and Children First are spending $2600 to provide the book The Wish Tree to all the students at Greenwood Hills. Librarian Kim Sierra brought the concept of “Greenwood Hills Reads One Book” to the school.

Greenwood Hills principal Misti Lehman distributing a book

Each family receives a lesson plan to accompany the book and which chapters to read. The book deals with racism, kids not feeling welcome, and more relevant topics. The art department has made a tree in the hallway and students are putting wishes on it.

Dr. Carrie Thomas, Director of Community Engagement for RISD, realized that the Children First’s reading model could be expanded into an RISD reading program and she solicited the Grinsfelders’ help to make it happen. In the spring of 2022, RISD piloted We Read Together. Reading specialists came up with curriculum. The Grinsfelders helped recruit volunteers, who were then trained by the District on different techniques to use with readers. The program is now in its third year and data indicates that the program is helping students to be

on track with their reading by the time they reach third grade.

Lisa and Robert believe that reading is just one component of the program’s success. Says Lisa, “It’s having another adult in the student’s community - a mentor who cares about him or her - that helps the child experience success.” The program now boasts approximately 100 adult volunteers, but the District has big plans for We Read Together. They hope to have 600 volunteers at the end of 2024 and expand to more campuses throughout the District. The Grinsfelders credit RISD top leadership for embracing the program. It’s an “every student, every teacher, every day” school philosophy which fosters inclusiveness and respect.

If you would like to join the Grinsfelders

The Grinsfelders consistently go above and beyond, embodying dedication and compassion in every task they undertake. Their innate ability to listen attentively and offer genuine support creates a ripple effect of positivity, inspiring others to follow their example. With a contagious enthusiasm for making a difference, they effortlessly bring out the best in those they encounter, leaving a lasting legacy, especially for RISD’s We Read Together program.

– Dr. Carrie Thomas, RISD Director of Community Engagement

help a child in RISD have a brighter future through We Read Together, it only takes one hour a week. Become a champion outside the classroom. For more information about the We Read Together program or to register to volunteer for this outstanding program, visit http://risd.org/wereadtogether/.

We Read Together Campuses:

Audelia Creek Elementary

Greenwood Hills Elementary

Mark Twain Elementary

Northrich Elementary

Richland Elementary RISD Academy

OUT & ABOUT IN RICHARDSON

Richardson’s city-wide calendar is filled with opportunities to learn, have fun and give back in the place where you live. If you know of a future event you would like to see posted in “Out & About,” please email calendar information to pmotte@hylogroup.com.

March-May 2024

MARCH 30

Saturday 10:30 am-12:00 pm

APRIL 6

Saturday 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Seasonal Success: Designing and Creating Your Ideal Yard

North Texas Master Naturalists Sean and Chrissy Cortez-Mathis discuss design elements when looking at our landscapes, and how to create spaces that people can enjoy both inside and outside the home — and the wonderful plants and creatures you discover when you bring native plants into your yard. Free seeds available while supplies last. For adults & teens. Registration is not required.

Location: City Council Chamber, Richardson City Hall, 2360 Campbell Creek Boulevard

Books and Music with the Richardson Symphony Orchestra

What Songs Changed Your Life?

Read the book World Within a Song by Jeff Tweedy, then join the RSO to discuss the top five songs that changed their lives, along with a string quartet performance of pop songs. A unique and musical afternoon! For adults and teens. Registration is not required. Call 972-744-4376 for more info.

Location: City Council Chamber, Richardson City Hall, 2360 Campbell Creek Boulevard

APRIL 13

Saturday 7:00 pm

A.I. Artificial Investigation: A Deep-Fake Mystery Comedy

Join Richardson’s Adult Literacy Center for a night of mystery! Immerse yourself in this year's Murder Mystery while enjoying complimentary drinks and hors ‘oeuvres. All proceeds benefit the Richardson Adult Literacy Center and its programs.

Location: Richardson Senior Center, 820 W. Arapaho Road

City of Richardson Annual Trash Bash

APRIL 20

Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

APRIL 20

Saturday 7:30 pm

This community event brings friends, families, corporations and philanthropic groups together to take part in a City-wide Community Cleanup Event. In conjunction with Trash Bash, the Richardson Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association will be hosting their annual electronics recycling event.

Location: First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N Central Expressway

Richardson Symphony Orchestra Season Finale Concert

Anna Geniushene, 2022 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Silver Medalist, performs Rachmaninoff's last work for piano and orchestra, featuring both astonishing virtuoso passages and Rachmaninoff's best-known melody.

Location: Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, 2351 Performance Drive

APRIL 26

Saturday 7:30 pm

Richardson

Community Chorale Spring Performance

Join the RCC at The Elements, the organization’s spring show. The Richardson Community Chorale is a non-auditioned musical ensemble that has members of all ages and experience levels. The concert is free and open to the public.

Location: First United Methodist Church Richardson, 503 N Central Expressway

APRIL 27

Saturday 6:00 - 10:00 pm

Richardson East Rotary Club Games & Giving

Richardson East Rotary Club Games & Gala is now Games & Giving. A chance to learn about Richardson East Rotary Club during a festive evening supporting many community projects. Dinner and drinks, casino games, Bingo and the opportunity to participate in a fabulous silent auction. Ticket required.

Location: St. Paul Catholic Church Parish Center, 900 St. Paul Drive

May 1-27

May 4

Saturday 10:00 am - 7:00 pm

May 5

Sunday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

May 17

Friday 6:00 pm - 12:00 am

May 18

Saturday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

May 19

Sunday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

Richardson

Civic Art Society 58th Annual Regional Juried Art Exhibition & Sale

Come and view artistic pieces created by amateur and professional Texas artists, age 18 and over. A variety of mediums will be entered for judging. Event funded in part by the City of Richardson through the Richardson Cultural Arts Commission.

Location: Charles W. Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, 2351 Performance Drive

Cottonwood Art Festival

Cottonwood Art Festival, a juried semi-annual art show, features work from the nation’s top visual artists. Family-friendly event with art, music and food. Pets on leashes welcome at this beloved outdoor festival.

Location: Cottonwood Park, 1321 W. Beltline Road

Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival

One of Richardson’s most celebrated annual festivals It’s all about the music…and then some. Three days filled with music, food, festival activities and fun!

Location: Galatyn Park Urban Center, 2351 Performance Drive