Eric Nadel and Michelle and Andy Heinz
Grant Halliburton Foundation was honored to be the beneficiary of the 13th annual Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit, held May 29 at the historic Longhorn Ballroom. With 640 guests in attendance and a lineup of live music, exciting auction items, and heartfelt moments, the event raised a record-breaking $173,000 in support of the Foundation’s mental health work with North Texas youth and families.
The evening began with a VIP sponsor party, where guests enjoyed food from Eddie’s Tex-Mex Cocina. They also had the chance to visit and take photos with the man of the hour Eric Nadel, Texas Rangers Hall of Fame broadcaster and longtime mental health advocate.
“I’m thrilled that you are here to help celebrate my birthday,” Nadel said. “We started off at The Kessler, but we ran out of space because more people wanted to attend. So we moved to the Longhorn Ballroom, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Five years ago, with Grant Halliburton Foundation, a nonprofit that provides mental health education, resources, and support to children, teens, and their families. The work they do is important, and I want you to know more about them.”
Kevin Hall and Lucy and Don Witte
Nadel introduced Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, who expressed the Foundation’s appreciation.
“Eric, we’re grateful for your courage and inspiration as a dedicated mental health advocate and for the impact you’ve made for us,” Hall said. “We’re honored to be the beneficiary again.”
Guests then participated in a spirited game of heads or tails, led by auctioneer Ronnie Conger, followed by an engaging live auction. Popular items included a Texas Rangers game experience with Nadel, a Jazz Cruise getaway with Elvis Costello and Boz Scaggs, and dinner with Texas Rangers Manager Bruce Bochy.
The music portion of the evening featured Alabama-based duo The Secret Sisters, they even closed their set by singing happy birthday to Nadel, who joined them on stage. The night wrapped up with a high-energy set from Shinyribs, led by the animated Kevin Russell, who brought the crowd to their feet with his blend of Texas blues, New Orleans R&B, and Memphis soul. Russell even made his way into the audience, dancing enthusiastically with several guests.
The event was presented by Haynes Boone and supported by media sponsor KXT 91.7.
To learn more about the Eric Nadel Birthday Benefit and see a full list of sponsors, visit granthalliburton.org/ericnadel.
By T.J. Griffin
Vice President of Communications
