Altrusa Richardson: Women United by Service, Driving Positive Community Impact

Altrusa members and guests celebrating

When we talk about Altrusa International of Richardson, we are talking about the power of women uniting with intention, compassion, and a shared desire to make our community better. Many know Altrusa as an international service organization, but here in Richardson, it’s a home base where purposeful work and genuine friendship meet. We serve because we love our city, and we do it side by side, forming bonds that often last a lifetime. Our theme this year is Teamwork, Friendship, Service—three words that capture the spirit of our club. Whether we’re assembling books for local students, honoring women leaders, or celebrating a birthday at Ability House, we show up together with enthusiasm, confidence, and kindness. A Welcoming Community of Women Who Want to Give Back With roughly 70 members, Altrusa Richardson is a diverse group of women representing different professions, ages, and backgrounds. What unites us is the belief that our time and energy can help build a stronger, more connected Richardson, TX. Membership is open to all women who share this passion. Regardless of how members discovered the organization, they stay because of the bonds built through service. As a phrase we often repeat states, “We’re not just members—we’re Altrusa sisters.” Service brings us together, but friendship is what keeps us strong. Committees That Turn Compassion Into Action The heart of our organization lies in our committees, allowing members to focus on causes that resonate most personally. Community Outreach & Local Partnerships The Community Outreach Committee is one of our busiest groups. They recently supported the RISD Backpack Bash and the Richardson Reads One Book author event. Key partnerships include: Supporting the Warren Center’s Fantasy Football fundraiser. Participation in the Richardson Nonprofit Fair and Culture in the Core. Organizing a team for the Alzheimer’s Walk for the Cure. Donating coats and peanut butter to Network of Community Ministries. Facilitating the Apple Tree Court auction for senior residents. Hosting birthday and holiday celebrations for residents of Ability House, a home for adults with cerebral palsy that holds a special place in our hearts. The Kindness Committee and KAN Weekend Another committee reflecting our core values is the Kindness Committee, which promotes empathy and connection. Through a partnership with Richardson ISD, we help establish Choose Kind Libraries in elementary schools, providing books that encourage students to lead with compassion. One of our largest endeavors, the KAN (Kindness Action Night) Weekend, has grown into a multi-partner experience. During KAN, we assemble kits for nonprofits, collect books for the RISD Intake Center, and recognize groups in the community who exemplify kindness. We’ve spread kindness through creative acts, from treating first responders to cookies to crafting badge pulls for nurses. The goal is always the same: to spread kindness widely, meaningfully, and creatively. Leadership and Socializing Our Leadership Committee organizes workshops that help our members and the community grow as leaders. We also balance our service with bonding through a book club, bridge group, and a monthly Lunch Bunch—strengthening the sense of sisterhood. Honoring Women and Fueling Change: The Annual Luncheon Every October, our club hosts its only fundraiser: the Outstanding Women of Today luncheon. This is one of our most meaningful traditions, honoring women from across the region who have excelled in fields like small business, education, healthcare, and nonprofit leadership. We are constantly inspired by these honorees who not only excel professionally but uplift others. The luncheon allows us to raise the necessary funds to support dozens of service projects throughout the year, as well as crucial scholarships for Richardson ISD seniors and students residing within the Richardson city limits. We joyfully invest in the next generation of leaders and changemakers. A Shared Commitment to Making a Difference For us, service takes many shapes: packing backpacks, ushering at reading events, or sharing laughter at an Ability House birthday party. Our mission is alive in these small moments—moments when we witness someone feel cared for, recognized, or empowered. Altrusa Richardson is a community of women who believe in the power of service. We believe that kindness matters. And we believe that when women work together with intention, we can improve lives—our own included. For more information and to get involved, visit the Altrusa Richardson website at altrusarichardson.com.

Leading with Heart: Amy Taylor on Volunteer Services at Methodist Richardson and Community Engagement in Richardson, TX

Directing Volunteer Services at Methodist Richardson Medical Center As the Director of Volunteer Services at Methodist Richardson, Amy Taylor oversees a vital team of nearly 200 active volunteers, consistently seeking dedicated individuals who wish to give back to the community. Her department supports several key programs: Daily Volunteers: Commit to a weekly four-hour shift, handling essential tasks like escorting patients and visitors, restocking supplies, and supporting the surgery waiting area. Unit Volunteers: College students pursuing careers in medicine who commit to a year-long, weekly four-hour shift, gaining direct experience working with nurses and healthcare technicians. Pastoral Care: Volunteers who partner with the Chaplain to offer spiritual comfort. Pet Therapy: Rigorously trained volunteers and their dogs providing comfort to staff, patients, and visitors during stressful moments. Junior Volunteers: Local high school students who participate each summer to gain an introduction to healthcare service. Amy emphasizes that working with people who are so committed to helping others is the best part of her job, citing the recognition of volunteer Jerry Nichols as a Richardson Real Hero as a defining, meaningful moment. Richardson Roots and Career Path A true local, Amy was born and raised in Richardson and is a proud RHS graduate. She holds a degree from Texas A&M and initially pursued marketing and promotions in radio and cable TV (working with networks like HBO/Cinemax and Oxygen). Her path shifted toward community involvement when she joined the Eisemann Center, which eventually led her to the Director of Volunteer Services position at Methodist Richardson. She describes the role as a “perfect fit” that allows her to help people directly within a healthcare setting. Deep Community Involvement in Richardson and Plano Amy’s commitment extends far beyond the hospital. She is highly involved in community leadership and the arts: Cultural Arts Commission: She actively serves here, helping to review public art submissions (including the new artwork at the Richardson Animal Shelter) and participating in the annual nonprofit arts grant process. Leadership Richardson: A proud member of Class 32, she is actively involved in the Leadership Richardson Alumni Association and maintains strong ties with her classmates. Richardson Chamber: An active member, supporting local business and community development. As her family is zoned to Plano ISD, Amy is also involved with Leadership Plano and the Vines High School Band Booster Committee and PTA, demonstrating her wide-ranging commitment to the local education system across both Richardson and Plano. Personal Life and Holiday Traditions Amy lives in the area, maintaining a small but close family unit. Her daughter is an aviation major at the University of Oklahoma, and her son is a percussionist at Vines High School. The family also includes two rescue dogs, Argo and Indie (Indie adopted from the Richardson Animal Shelter). In her free time, Amy enjoys local volunteering, attending concerts (like the annual Wildflower! festival), and traveling to warm destinations. For the holidays, her family keeps it simple: attending a Christmas Eve service followed by lasagna and Uno at her house, then gathering at her parents’ home on Christmas Day. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Methodist Richardson Volunteer Services to learn more about their programs.

Scents That Stir the Soul: How Nature’s Aromas Boost Your Mood and Ease Pain

Deborah Dobbs headshot

By Deborah Dobbs, M.A. The smell of my mother’s spaghetti sauce still gives me a rush of joy. Aromas, particularly natural ones such as herbs and flowers, have a powerful way of tugging at our emotions. In our fast-paced world, tapping into these natural scents can be a simple path to better well-being. The Science Behind the Scent Our sense of smell is wired straight to the brain’s emotional center, the limbic system, making it a sneaky influencer of mood. Studies, including work by Weber and Heuberger (2008), have explored this connection. Participants who inhaled various natural plant aromas—like blooming flowers and herbs—reported feeling noticeably happier, calmer, and more alert compared to a control group. Importantly, those same studies showed that artificial smells offered no mood improvement. This evolutionary link suggests that real plant smells genuinely tune up our emotional health. Perhaps this is primitive, harking back to our hunter-gatherer days when a pleasant scent signaled safety or nourishment, firing up reward pathways in the brain that modern-day synthetics can’t mimic. Taming Pain with Pleasant Aromas Over the past few decades, studies have also zeroed in on our sense of smell’s role in taming pain. While findings are varied, evidence suggests that pleasant aromas seem to decrease pain intensity. A 2007 study found that people could hold their hand in ice water two times longer when inhaling a sweet-smelling odor (like vanilla), compared to those who inhaled neutral or unpleasant odors. Brain scans also reveal how smell can quiet “pain hotspots” such as the anterior cingulate cortex, thereby making pain more manageable. This highlights the potential of pleasant scents as a complementary tool for pain relief. Bring the Magic Home: Simple Tips Ready to harness the science of scent for a quick emotional tune-up? Here are few simple tips for bringing the “good” scents into our homes: Slow Cookers: Slow cookers are an easy way to set yourself up for a warm welcome home after a long day. The lingering aroma of a meal creates an instant atmosphere of comfort and calm. Natural Cleaning Products (DIY): Just five minutes of exposure to an unpleasant odor (like a harsh chemical cleaner) can spark anxiety and dampen a good mood. Replace chemical cleaners with DIY products (using citrus rinds, vinegar, or essential oils) that leave your home smelling naturally fresh and induce calm. Herbs: Many aromatic herbs are easy to grow (indoors or out). Plucking off a leaf and rubbing it between your palms can uplift your mood or enhance calm. If growing herbs brings stress, dried herb sachets (fabric pouches stuffed with dried herbs) provide whispers of positive scents without the maintenance. Natural scents can give your emotions a quick, science-backed tune-up. While they can’t guarantee that unwanted guests (like anxiety and stress) won’t enter your home, they can keep them from lingering too long. References Weber, S. T., & Heuberger, E. (2008). The Impact of Natural Odors on Affective States in Humans. Chemical Senses, 33(5), 441–447. Kontaris I, East BS and Wilson DA (2020). Behavioral and Neurobiological Convergence of Odor, Mood and Emotion: A Review. Frontiers Behavioral Neuroscience. 14:35. Prescott, J., & Wilkie, J. (2007). Pain Tolerance Selectively Increased by a Sweet-smelling Odor. Psychological Science, 18(4), 308–311. Sandri, A., Cecchini, M. P., Riello, M., Zanini, A., Nocini, R., Fiorio, M., & Tinazzi, M. (2021). Pain, Smell, and Taste in Adults: A Narrative Review of Multisensory Perception and Interaction. Pain and Therapy, 10(1), 245–268.

A Sparkling Night: Celebrating Outstanding Volunteers at the Richardson Real Heroes 2025 Awards

2025 Annie Award Honorees_Sara Hickman_Bonnie Kudlicki

Dr. Mona Alnaeemi and Neil Stampe Honored at 15th Annual Celebration By Bonnie Kudlicki On Thursday, August 28, the Richardson Real Heroes 15th Annual Awards Celebration was a sold-out success at the Eisemann Center for Performing Arts. The event honored two exceptional recipients—Dr. Mona Alnaeemi and Neil Stampe—for their extraordinary commitment to volunteerism. Guests included the Richardson mayor, council members, city manager, and chief of police. The evening festivities, which included a celebration of prior real heroes, featured special guest, Texas-based singer, songwriter, and speaker Sara Hickman. Charles Eisemann presented each honoree with the coveted 2025 Annie Award for their outstanding volunteer work. Further cementing their impact, Congresswoman Julie Johnson bestowed each with a Congressional Commendation for their volunteer achievements. We are incredibly proud to celebrate the work of these two outstanding individuals who exemplify the spirit of community service in Richardson. Real Hero: Mona Alnaeemi, Ph.D. Mona and her family sought refuge from Kurdistan, north of Iraq, during the Saddam Hussein regime. Placed in Richardson upon arrival, they received help from a nonprofit group aiding refugees, which immediately compelled Mona to pay back by dedicating her life to volunteering. For 30 years, the impact of her selfless work has been life-changing for countless people in Richardson and beyond. With a Ph.D. in Human Services, Mona is now a Human Services Board Certified Practitioner and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. She leverages her expertise to steer volunteer clients through myriad systems to find food, housing, school, counseling, English language instruction, and critical emotional support in a new city. Her ability to communicate in four languages allows her to connect with and serve a diverse population. Since 2010 at the Islamic Association of North Texas, she established a critical social service line, offering support to single mothers, widows, new refugees, and low-income families, helping them build sustainable, self-sufficient lives. Mona also co-founded the Dallas Institute for Immigrant Women in 2018 and serves actively with the Richardson Police Department and the Richardson Civil Board. Real Hero: Neil Stampe Neil retired at 49, but instead of resting, he committed to giving back. For 30 years and counting, he continues to contribute to the Richardson community in highly impactful ways. His volunteer ‘career’ began in 1995 when he joined the Richardson Rotary Club, holding many positions and aiding in a multitude of successful service projects. He was just sworn in as their 2025 treasurer. A proud graduate of Leadership Richardson’s Class 12 in 1996, Neil has kept that pride alive by acting as an advisor, a ‘rock’ (mentor), and curriculum chair for 11 subsequent classes, remaining an active member of the Alumni Association. In 2003, Neil added the Network of Community Ministries Handyman (part of Seniors’ Net) to his volunteer tool belt, doing no-cost home and safety repairs for seniors and the disabled. He later joined the Network’s Board of Directors, successfully assisting their growth through a $6.3 million fundraising campaign that secured their current headquarters. He was also a co-founder of a similar program, First Richardson Helpers, at First Methodist Richardson Church in 2016. Support Richardson Volunteerism Read Mona and Neil’s full biography, see their videos, and view awards celebration photos by visiting richardsonrealheroes.com. While there, please consider donating to the only city-wide program dedicated to volunteerism. RRH is an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(C)(3) that relies on donors to fund its program.

Emerson Cox Renfro: Cultivating Community and Sustainability Through Compost in Richardson

Emerson Cox Renfro, founder of The Compost Corner

The Compost Corner: Turning Scraps into a Movement By Patti Otte When Richardson resident Emerson Cox Renfro founded The Compost Corner in May 2023, she set out to turn everyday kitchen scraps into a movement. What began as a personal homesteading hobby has blossomed into a vibrant local business dedicated to teaching others the art—and joy—of composting right here in the community. What is Composting? Composting is the natural process of recycling organic waste—like food scraps, coffee grounds, and yard trimmings—into a nutrient-rich soil mixture called compost. Microorganisms, worms, and beneficial fungi break down these materials over time, creating a dark, crumbly substance that: Improves soil health Retains moisture Reduces the need for chemical fertilizers Drawing on her background in hospitality management and more than a decade in the restaurant industry, Renfro combines creativity, passion, and a keen eye for detail to educate clients about the many benefits of sustainable living. Education, Entrepreneurship, and Organic Treasures Through speaking engagements, classes, vendor booths, and now book signings for her debut children’s book Mama’s Mulch, Renfro shares practical how-to tips and inspires families to reduce waste and nurture their own gardens. Her Instagram feed is filled with videos on the fine art of composting, making the process seem simple and approachable. The Compost Corner is more than just a compost supplier. Renfro offers: Fresh compost, tools, and supplies online. Charming merchandise. A variety of organic goods at festivals and farmers markets, including seasonal canned goods, eggs, and sourdough starter kits, straight from her Richardson backyard homestead. Renfro has coined two playful yet powerful mottos that reflect her commitment to the environment: “Waste Not, Love Rot” and “Make Compost Great Again!” These guiding principles emphasize her belief that small, sustainable habits can make a big difference, keeping valuable nutrients out of landfills and returning them to the earth. A Business Built on Community Roots A Dallas native, Renfro and her family settled in Richardson’s Canyon Creek neighborhood in 2021, transforming their home into a flourishing homestead. After the birth of her daughter Joy, she sought a way to blend entrepreneurship with full-time motherhood. Introducing backyard chickens led naturally to composting—and eventually to a thriving enterprise. For Renfro, the key to growing a business is simple but profound: networking. “Word of mouth goes a long way,” she says. “Start conversations about your passions and build relationships—you never know what doors will open.” The Compost Corner is proudly a one-woman operation, embodying Emerson’s dedication to sustainability and community education. To learn more, visit thecompostcorner.com or follow @thecompostcorner on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Discover the Best of Richardson: Your Ultimate Curated Guide to Local Excellence

Welcome to Richardson, a city brimming with hidden gems, culinary delights, top-tier services, and a vibrant community spirit! At Richardson Life Magazine, we believe the heart of our city lies in the businesses and experiences that make it truly exceptional. Forget generic lists – we’ve meticulously curated this guide to the Best of Richardson, designed to help you explore, experience, and truly appreciate the finest our city has to offer. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, this is your go-to resource for discovering local excellence. For more about our city, visit the official City of Richardson website: www.richardsoncor.gov. Why Our “Best of Richardson” Guide Stands Apart You’ve seen the polls and the directories, but at Richardson Life Magazine, we go deeper. Our mission is to provide not just names, but stories, insights, and genuine reasons why certain businesses and experiences are considered the best in Richardson. We’re committed to: Curated Excellence: Our team, deeply rooted in the Richardson community, rigorously researches and identifies businesses that consistently deliver outstanding quality, service, and value. As local business owner Sarah Jenkins recently commented, “Richardson Life Magazine truly understands what makes a local business thrive. Their dedication to showcasing quality is unparalleled.” In-Depth Exploration: We don’t just list; we delve into what makes each entry special. Expect compelling descriptions, unique features, and the passion behind local success. We often find that “the most impactful stories are those that reveal the passion and dedication of local entrepreneurs,” as noted by a recent Chamber of Commerce report on local business impact. The Local Perspective: We celebrate the unique character of Richardson, highlighting businesses that contribute to our city’s charm and foster a strong sense of community. “The spirit of Richardson is truly collaborative, where businesses support each other and the community in turn supports them,” says long-time resident and community advocate Mark Thompson. Stunning Visuals: Prepare to be immersed with high-quality photography that brings Richardson’s best to life, helping you visualize your next favorite spot. Explore Richardson’s Finest: Our Top Categories Dive into our comprehensive guide, organized into key areas to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Each section will lead you to detailed spotlights on the very best in that category, offering inspiration for every occasion. 1. Richardson’s Culinary Scene: A Taste of Excellence From cozy cafes to upscale dining, Richardson boasts a diverse and dynamic culinary landscape. Our guide to the Best Restaurants in Richardson will tantalize your taste buds, featuring: Top Brunch Spots: Start your weekend right. Authentic International Cuisine: Explore global flavors right here in Richardson. As Chef Maria Rodriguez of “Taste of the World” (a local favorite) once shared, “Richardson’s diverse community truly embraces unique culinary experiences, making it a joy to introduce new flavors.” Cozy Cafes & Coffee Shops: Perfect for your daily brew or a relaxed meeting. Family-Friendly Dining: Restaurants where everyone feels welcome. Must-Try Desserts & Bakeries: Satisfy your sweet tooth with local creations. Discover the dishes, the ambiance, and the passionate chefs making Richardson a true food lover’s paradise. For a full list of local dining options, you might also consult Restaurants in Richardson/Tripadvisor.com 2. Shop Local: Discover Richardson’s Best Boutiques & Retailers Uncover unique finds and support local entrepreneurs with our handpicked selection of Richardson’s Best Shopping Destinations. Whether you’re hunting for a special gift, updating your wardrobe, or finding something new for your home, explore: Fashion Boutiques: Stay stylish with local trends. Gift Shops: Find the perfect present for any occasion. Home Decor & Furnishings: Elevate your living space. “Finding pieces that truly reflect Richardson’s unique style is our passion,” states Emily Chen, owner of ‘Home Harmony Interiors.’ Specialty Stores: From books to hobbies, discover unique offerings. Experience personalized service and distinct selections that major retailers can’t match. 3. Premier Services: Richardson’s Most Trusted Professionals When you need reliable help, you want the best. Our guide to Richardson’s Top Services connects you with professionals who uphold the highest standards of quality and customer care, including: Home Improvement & Repair: From trusted plumbers to skilled contractors. Auto Care Experts: Keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely. A recent customer review noted, “The team at [Auto Shop Name] provided exceptional service, truly going above and beyond.” Health & Wellness Practitioners: Discover top-rated chiropractors, dentists, and clinics. Financial & Legal Advisors: Expert guidance for your personal and business needs. Find peace of mind knowing you’re entrusting your needs to Richardson’s most reputable service providers. More details on local business regulations can be found at www.richardsoneconomicdevelopment.com 4. Community & Lifestyle: The Best of Richardson Living Richardson isn’t just about businesses; it’s about a lifestyle. Explore our curated picks for the Best Community & Lifestyle Experiences in Richardson, such as: Parks & Recreation: Enjoy the outdoors and family-friendly activities. “Our parks are the green heart of Richardson, offering spaces for relaxation and community connection,” says Parks Director, David Lee. Learn more about Richardson’s parks system here: https://www.cor.net/departments/parks-recreation Arts & Culture Venues: Immerse yourself in local talent and entertainment. Fitness Centers & Studios: Stay active and energized. Hidden Gems: Discover local favorites that might surprise you. Embrace the vibrant lifestyle and strong community bonds that make Richardson a truly special place to live, work, and play. Your Voice, Our Community: Contribute to the Best of Richardson While our editorial team works tirelessly to bring you the most comprehensive guide, the Best of Richardson is ultimately a reflection of our community. We invite you to engage with us: Share Your Favorites: Have a business you love that deserves a spotlight? Let us know! Leave Reviews: Many of our detailed articles will feature opportunities for community feedback. Follow Us: Stay updated on new discoveries and featured businesses. At Richardson Life Magazine, we are proud to be your trusted source for all things Richardson. We’re dedicated to celebrating the excellence that defines our city and empowering you to make the most of every local experience. Dive in, explore, and discover the Best of Richardson today!

Julie Snyder: New President & CEO of Richardson Chamber of Commerce

Tell us a little about your background. What experiences have shaped you both personally and professionally? I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Colorado Springs, CO. My family, friends and various work experiences have been instrumental in shaping my personal drive and personality. My journey in the Chamber world began in 1992 with the Reno, NV, Chamber of Commerce. Back then, I naively thought a Chamber of Commerce was synonymous with the “City” itself, not realizing it was an independent organization dedicated to helping businesses thrive.   What drew you to the Richardson Chamber of Commerce and what excites you most about this role? The Richardson Chamber of Commerce offers an incredible array of programs that truly benefit the business community. The resources, connections, and support that Chamber membership provides are invaluable and Richardson excels in all three areas. This is what excites me the most about this role. As the new President and CEO, what are some personal goals you’ve set for yourself in this position? As the new kid on the block, I have a lot to learn. My goals include meeting with a diverse range of Chamber and community leaders; working closely with the Chamber team to understand the intricacies of the Chamber and the Richardson community; and identifying our strengths and areas where we can introduce fresh ideas. How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you plan to apply it here at the Chamber? I’m an “all hands on deck” type of leader. I believe it’s crucial for the entire Chamber team to be ready to assist our members and each other. Fostering a strong sense of belonging among our members and within our team is key to our success. What’s a key lesson you’ve learned in your career that you believe will help guide your leadership of the Chamber? One key lesson I’ve learned is that the success of the Chamber is directly tied to the success of our members. This role isn’t about me; it’s about our members and their growth. Can you share a moment in your life or career when you felt particularly proud or accomplished? I felt an immense sense of pride when the leaders of the Richardson Chamber and community chose me to lead the organization. I have a deep passion for this industry and have dedicated 33 years of my career to helping businesses and individuals succeed. What do you think makes Richardson unique, and how do you see the Chamber playing a role in enhancing that? In my first 90 days in Richardson, I’ve experienced a remarkable sense of community and support from both businesses and individuals. The Chamber has a unique opportunity to build on this through our programming and outreach efforts. As someone who is leading the Chamber, what values or principles are most important to you in both your professional and personal life? As the leader of the Chamber, I believe it’s crucial to be a good steward of our members’ investments. By listening to and learning from our members, we can effectively provide value. Businesses work hard to earn their money and train their employees, and the Richardson Chamber is committed to ensuring their investment is worthwhile. Outside of your professional life, what are some of your passions or hobbies that help you stay balanced and energized? My husband of 26 years and I love traveling and spending time with our kids and two grandsons. To stay energized, I’ve been a LesMills fitness instructor since 2012 and hope to start teaching in the local area soon. If you had a free weekend to do anything you wanted, how would you spend it? Right now, I’d probably spend it with my two little grandsons, my pup, my hubby and kiddos! We love playing croquet and laughing a lot! What’s your “go-to” comfort food or favorite dish that always makes you feel at home? Oh, my goodness! Any restaurant in Richardson has my heart! I’m a chips and salsa fan and I love a great steak and potatoes. (I’m not known for turning down a meal – ever!) Is there a book, movie, or TV show that has had a big impact on you or that you simply love? Recently, I’ve enjoyed reading The Energy Bus and watching the mini-series “The Undoing.” What’s something about you that might surprise people? I was a tomboy as a kid and loved fishing, camping and dirt bike riding with my family. Also, I’m known for my Split Jumps – the cheerleader in me still loves to jump!

Letter from the Editor for June Issue (Foodie)

Summer is here and honestly, is there a better time to sit out on a patio with good food, cold drinks, and your favorite people? Here in Richardson, we’ve got plenty of places to do just that. This issue is all about celebrating the local food scene that makes our city such a fun and flavorful place to explore. Richardson is packed with flavor.

Dallas Art Therapy

DAT volunteers at Back to School event for veterans' families

Years ago, Dallas Art Therapy founder Andrea Davis attended an art therapy exhibit hosted by the now-closed Art Therapy Institute in Dallas. At that exhibit one piece, a handmade doll with a torn dress carefully mended in each spot, truly stood out to her.

Puzzling’s Missing Piece

Poster saying puzzles of color

In a landscape where puzzles often showcase the same old imagery, Puzzles of Color is shaking things up – one piece at a time.