One could make a solid argument that Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum is the most hotly anticipated restaurant opening this spring. So Tuesday night’s private dinner at the barbecue favorite was special not only because it honored the top fundraisers for CultureMap’s 2014 service partner Carry The Load, but also because these troops got to eat at the restaurant before its official opening on May 23.
Just more proof it pays to be charitable in Dallas.
Another coup: Attendees — including Rosa and Nathan Hanson, Kristina Kilk, Brandy Simpson, John Muschalek, Clayton Sheppard, Courtney Covey, Jamie Covey, and Amanda and Roberto Pereira — dined on menu items prepared especially for the event, such as jalapeño sausage sandwiches, barbecue chicken atop cheesy potatoes and tacos loaded with that famous brisket. With ice-cold beer in hand, they took their plates to the spacious light-strung patio to enjoy the perfect springtime weather.
Then Carry The Load co-founder and former Navy SEAL Stephen Holley got down to business. His passion was evident as he spoke about the organization and introduced honorary chair Gordon Keith of “The Ticket” and WFAA’s John McCaa. Both shared why they are proud to stand behind this organization.
The Carry The Load Memorial May National Relay is a 2,000-mile relay with 348 legs from West Point, New York, to Dallas. Participants compete in teams during this epic show of support for the American heroes — military, law enforcement, firefighters and rescue personnel — who go to work to keep us safe every day.
Funds raised during this annual event help support the nonprofit in its mission to restore the true meaning of Memorial Day.
Roberto Pereira, Amanda Pereira
