Stan’s Blue Note, Dallas’ oldest and most beloved sports bar located on Lower Greenville Avenue, is proud to announce a record-breaking $8,886 raised during its 14th Annual Chili Cook-Off. The event, held Sunday, February 1, benefited Amplified Minds, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to offering free mental health services to individuals ages 18+ while working to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

With nearly 30 chili entries, a packed house, and a day full of friendly competition, the annual event once again brought the East Dallas community together for a cause that matters. Proceeds from the cook-off directly support Amplified Minds’ efforts to expand access to critical mental health care.

“We’re blown away every year by the generosity and heart of this community,” said Bob Myers, General Manager of Stan’s Blue Note. “From our cooks and judges to our sponsors and guests, this event is a true reflection of people coming together to make a difference.”

Supporting a Critical Mission

Amplified Minds’ primary objective is to remove barriers to care by providing free, high-quality mental health services to adults—particularly within the creative community and other underserved groups who may not otherwise have access or the means to afford support.

The organization places a special emphasis on serving creatives—including musicians, performers, DJs, visual artists, and service industry workers, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community and others who often face unique challenges in accessing care—ensuring support remains both accessible and culturally relevant.

By prioritizing accessibility, Amplified Minds is committed to fostering a healthier, more connected community—helping individuals live more fulfilling lives through compassionate, professional mental health care.

To learn more or get involved, visit amplifiedminds.org or follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/amplifiedmindshelp.

“We are incredibly grateful for this year’s support and the record-breaking $8,886 raised through Stan’s Blue Note’s Chili Cook-Off,” said Lauren O’Connor, President of Amplified Minds. “Community-driven events like this make it possible for us to continue offering free therapy sessions and support groups to those who might not otherwise have access to care. It’s through partnerships like this—and the generosity of everyone involved—that we’re able to keep breaking the stigma around mental health and expanding our reach. This support truly changes lives.”

A Message of Hope and Awareness

A special thank you goes to Stephanie Gray, whose passion and leadership continue to be a driving force behind the event and its mission.

“This event is about more than chili—it’s about connection, awareness, and reminding people they’re not alone,” said Gray. “The semicolon t-shirts we sold at the event have become a meaningful tradition, representing that a person’s story isn’t over. It’s a symbol of hope in suicide prevention—choosing to continue. Seeing so many people wear that message in support of Amplified Minds’ mission is incredibly powerful.”

Event Highlights & Winners

This year’s competition featured standout entries across both Judges Choice and People’s Choice categories:

Judges Choice Winners
• 1st Place — Kayla Cooper
• 2nd Place — Wade Padgett
• 3rd Place — Ryan Clark and guest

People’s Choice Winners
• 1st Place — Ben Stewart
• 2nd Place — RJ Ables
• 3rd Place — Chris Plumetazz and Rhys Gabbitas

Gratitude to Sponsors & Supporters
Stan’s Blue Note extends sincere thanks to this year’s event sponsors:
Busch Light; East Dallas Automotive; Rising Tides; James Hawkins; Dallas Hemp Co.; Dallas Amputee Network

Special appreciation also goes to the generous raffle prize donors, including:
Terilli’s; Rise Soufflé; Dodie’s Rockwall; Dodie’s Greenville; McRae’s American Bistro; Stan’s Blue Note; Alejandra Bakos, Heart Center Beauty; Strouderosa BBQ; Walton’s Garden Center; Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House; Fortunate Son; Cock & Bull Neighborhood Pub; The Whistling Pig Neighborhood Pub; Goodwins; Truck Yard; The Lounge Here; El Vecino; Main Street Café; Far Out; Saint Valentine

And of course, heartfelt thanks to every contestant, volunteer, judge, donor, and guest who cooked, tasted, gave, and showed up in support of Amplified Minds.

A Community Tradition with Purpose

Now in its 14th year, Stan’s Chili Cook-Off has become a beloved tradition in East Dallas—blending great food, neighborhood camaraderie, and a shared commitment to making a difference.

Dallas, TX – Valentines weekend at McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails makes for a celebration of love, flavor, and casual sophistication. Chef Alejandro has crafted menus especially for the occasion beginning, Friday, February 13 through Sunday, February 15.

Saturday’s three course Prix Fixe dinner menu sets the scene for a cozy and romantic Valentine’s evening. Offered exclusively on Saturday, February 14, your appetizer course begins with Texas Pimento & Gulf Shrimp, Texas Twinkies, or Blueberry & Fig Crostini followed by Love Salad or Lobster Bisque. Dinner entrees include Surf ‘n Turf ($79), Herb Crusted Salmon Oscar ($69), Pear & Strawberry Glazed Pork Chop ($59), and Lemon Caper Chicken ($59).

This memorable culinary experience is perfectly complemented with the addition of a luscious dessert of Chocolate Espresso Cake, Crème Brulee, or Tiramisu ($10 each).

On Friday and Sunday evening, our regular dinner menu includes several select specials - Surf & Turf ($55) or Herb Crusted Salmon Oscar ($39).

Those celebrating during the day will enjoy $5 Mimosas with our weekend lunch Prix Fixe menu ($39/person) featuring many of our favorite chef specials listed above. Lunch is offered Saturday and Sunday beginning at 11:00a.m.

With intimate seating, reservations are highly recommended at McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails. While walk-ins are welcome when available, advance reservations ensure your table for this special holiday. See our website for the full Valentine’s weekend menu offerings.

McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails is located at 9913 Garland Road near White Rock Lake and offers an eclectic menu, creative cocktails, and a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe to celebrate your special someone. Reservations can be made online or call 214-792-9944 for more information https://mcraesamericanbistro.com/valentines-day/

Ring in the New Year at Dodie’s Cajun Diner at The Harbor

Rockwall, TX – Dodie’s Cajun Diner at The Harbor, Rockwall’s lakeside destination for authentic Cajun flavor, invites guests to celebrate New Year’s Eve with New Orleans style! Close out 2025, with a memorable evening as you enjoy a special Prix Fixe menu overlooking Lake Ray Hubbard.

On Wednesday, December 31, Dodie’s will offer three exclusive seatings at 5:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 9:00 p.m. At $25.99 per person, this chef-inspired menu features a selection of favorite Cajun dishes, complemented with a champagne toast to welcome the new year.

The New Year’s Eve menu includes appetizer selections of Crab Cake or Chargrilled oysters (choice), followed by either Dodie’s House Salad or Caesar Salad. Choose from delicious entrées of Almost Crusted Salmon, Chicken Caprese, or Jambalaya Pasta capped off with a rich, sweet Chocolate Hershey Brownie.

Dinner reservations are recommended for this special event and can be made online or by calling 972-771-0004.

The celebration continues into 2026, as Dodie’s popular weekend brunch menu takes the stage.  Available on New Year’s Day from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. guests will enjoy more of their Cajun favorites with special $4 drink offerings (Mimosa, Tequila Sunrise or Bloody Mary).

Whether your festivities surround dinner or brunch, combining bold flavor, waterfront views, and lively New Orleans’ style, Dodie’s creates a memorable backdrop for your New Year’s celebration! Visit https://dodiesattheharbor.com/new-years-eve/ to see the complete menu selections.

Dodie’s is located at 2067 Summer Lee Drive in Rockwall’s Harbor district. Known for their award-winning Cajun dishes, Dodie’s features fresh seafood, signature cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere for casual dining.

This holiday season, Dodie’s Cajun Diner in Rockwall is making Christmas dinner unforgettable with the plump and juicy flavor of Cajun-fried Turkeys ($89.99 each) and heat-and-eat Cajun feasts that include the bird and all the fixings ($159.99)!

Dodie’s has perfected the art of the Cajun-infused turkey, becoming a staple on many local tables each holiday season. Our fresh, 12 lb. turkeys are brined and injected with our special blend of Cajun seasonings and spices, then fried to perfection. Turkeys are limited so please order soon to dress up your table with Cajun style.

Want even more zest for your holiday feast? Our holiday family packs include the delicious turkey and the mouth-watering extras – garlic and green onion mashed potatoes, green beans amandine, charred bourbon corn, cornbread stuffing, homemade cranberry sauce, French bread, and Dodie’s famous bread pudding! This full holiday spread of delicious Cajun-inspired recipes feeds 6-8 people for just $159.99! 

Got a larger crowd? Add on another turkey or select sides. We even have homemade pies and beverages to go!

All turkeys and feast orders can be picked up now through Christmas Eve at 5:00 p.m. However, to ensure each order is made fresh for you, a 48-hour notice is required for each order. Cajun-fried turkeys are available while supplies last so order soon to ensure your holiday dinner is complete.

Place your holiday order online https://dodiesattheharbor.com/christmas-cajun-fried-turkeys/ and sit back and relax knowing your holiday table delivers on a Cajun-inspired holiday feast.

Wednesday, November 19 | 5–10 PM 25% of all dinner food sales donated to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research

At McRae’s, we believe in good food, good company, and good causes — especially when they begin close to home.

When McRae’s owner Mike McRae met Alexis and Richard Penn, longtime guests who shared the story of their daughter Emily, he was deeply moved. Emily was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) at 15, which is a rare, progressive neurological condition that affects balance, coordination, and muscle strength. The diagnosis turned their world upside down, but what followed has been nothing short of inspiring.

Instead of retreating, the Penn family stepped forward — choosing to live with purpose, optimism, and grace. Now 32, Emily is married with four children, and her parents have dedicated themselves to helping other families through the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA).

Since joining FARA, Alexis has watched remarkable progress unfold. What began as a small grassroots movement in 1998 has grown into a global research network funding more than a dozen clinical trials and supporting the first-ever FDA-approved treatment for FA. About 95% of all funds raised go directly to research, driving innovations in gene therapy, protein restoration, and other promising paths toward a cure.

As Alexis shared, “We fundraise because we know research is advancing. When scientists meet our patients face-to-face, it stops being abstract. That human connection motivates the work.” She added, “We’ve been riding this train for 17 years, and we’re not stopping. I tell Emily, ‘You’re going to see a cure in your lifetime.’”

Moved by their story, McRae’s is proud to host Families for a Cure: McRae’s Evening for a Cause honoring the Penn family and supporting FARA’s life-changing mission.

On Wednesday, November 19, we’ll donate 25% of all dinner food sales to FARA, helping fund research that brings hope to families like the Penns and to every person living with Friedreich’s Ataxia.

Join us for an evening of good food, warm company, and shared purpose to move one step closer to a cure.

Reservations are recommended to ensure your preferred seating time and table. While walk-ins are welcome, we encourage guests to reserve in advance. Make your reservation online at www.mcraesamericanbistro.com or call (214) 792-9944.

Families for a Cure — McRae’s Evening for a Cause

• Wednesday, November 19
• Dine-in only | 5–10 PM
• 25% of all dinner food sales donated to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research
• Enjoy dining in our cozy atmosphere or outside on our covered & heated patio.
• No flyer needed — all dine-in dinner guests count toward the donation. Explore our menu: https://mcraesamericanbistro.com/menu/

Location & Contact:

McRae’s American Bistro 9913 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218 (214) 792-9944 www.mcraesamericanbistro.com