Staff & Reader Submitted

Dwell with Dignity Announces Return of The STUDIO (Formerly Thrift Studio), Presented by Amazon

Juliette DC — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:17:59 Z

Dwell with Dignity announces the return of The STUDIO (formerly Thrift Studio), presented by Amazon, the organizations flagship annual fundraiser and a longstanding spring event within Dallas design and philanthropic communities. The VIP Party is April 9 (ticketed) and the shopping extravaganza, which is free and open to the public, is April 10 to May 9.

Launched in September 2011, The STUDIO is now in its 15th year, marking a milestone moment in the events evolution and continued impact across North Texas.

Since its inception, the event has grown into a highly anticipated event, bringing together interior designers, showrooms, retailers, corporate partners and supporters to generate critical funding for Dwell with Dignitys home transformation work across Dallas. The STUDIO provides approximately one-third of the organizations annual operating revenue.

Formerly known as Thrift Studio, the updated name reflects the continued evolution and maturity of the event. As designer participation and community engagement have expanded over the years, The STUDIO aligns with the caliber of the experience and the design-forward presentation the event has become known for.

The STUDIO is a high-end pop-up shop featuring donated and purchased furniture, housewares, accessories, artwork and designer finds sold at significant discounts, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting Dwell with Dignitys mission. The space is transformed into fully styled one-of-a-kind room vignettes by leading local designers, creating an immersive shopping environment that blends design, retail and philanthropy.

Each year, The STUDIO features a new roster of designers. The 2026 lineup includes nationally recognized and Dallas-based firms whose work spans residential, hospitality and showhouse projects:

The 2026 event is chaired by Jean Liu, Jean Liu Design, with Art Chair Kendall Bardin.

The STUDIO is our flagship fundraiser and a critical driver of our mission to transform lives through design, said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. Dwell with Dignity provides families with renovated fully furnished home interiors that give stability, support and comfort to empower them to lead their best lives in a beautiful environment. When someone shops at The STUDIO, they are directly supporting that work.

Amazon returns as Presenting Sponsor of The STUDIO. Since Amazon became presenting sponsor, the partnership has helped generate more than $1.5 million in merchandise sales, providing life-changing home transformations for 72 families and redesigning 21 community spaces into inspiring, functional environments that serve thousands.

"At Amazon, we invest in organizations that create lasting solutions for families in our community," said Vickie Yakunin, Amazons head of community engagement in Texas. "Through our continued partnership with Dwell with Dignity and The STUDIO, we're supporting their work to create thoughtfully designed spaces that foster stability and long-term opportunity for families across Dallas."

EVENT DETAILS

VIP Premiere Party

Thursday, April 9, 2026
6 9 p.m.

VIP early access: 6 p.m. 7 p.m.
General admission: 7 p.m. 9 p.m.
Ticketed event | Limited capacity

General Admission: $200
VIP: $300
Host Committee: $350

Purchase tickets here

The Premiere Party serves as the exclusive kickoff to the month-long pop-up, drawing industry leaders from Dallas design, business and philanthropic communities.

Open to the Public Pop-Up

April 10 May 9, 2026
Tuesday Saturday
10 a.m. 5 p.m.
Free admission

Location:
1833 E. Levee St.
Dallas, TX 75207

Following the Premiere Party, The STUDIO opens to the public for four weeks, offering access to designer-created installations and one-of-a-kind pieces available for purchase at significant discounts.

ABOUT THE STUDIO
The STUDIO (formerly Thrift Studio) is Dwell with Dignitys flagship fundraising event. Now in its 15^th year, the month-long pop-up features designer-created vignettes showcasing donated home furnishings, décor and artwork available for purchase at significant discounts. The STUDIO supports Dwell with Dignitys mission to create fully furnished homes and community spaces for families across Dallas.

ABOUT DWELL WITH DIGNITY
Founded in 2009, Dwell with Dignity is a Dallas-based nonprofit with a mission to transform lives through design. By providing and installing interiors for family homes and community spaces for individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness, the transformations inspire people to lead their best lives and thrive in a safe, functional and beautiful environment. Dwell with Dignity has completed more than 285 home design projects and 55 community spaces, and in 2025 the organization served more than 3,000 people through its home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors.

Managing Stress for Better Health with CRMC

Liz McGathey — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:54:46 Z

Everyone can experience stress its a natural physical and emotional response to lifes challenges. Whether related to school, work, money, or relationships, stress can sometimes help us stay focused and problem-solve effectively. However, when stress becomes long-term, it can take a toll on both your physical and mental health.

When Stress Becomes a Concern

Chronic stress, or stress that persists over time, can contribute to a range of health issues. Recognizing the signs early is an important step toward protecting your well-being. According to the CDC, common effects of stress may include:

Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, worry, or frustration

Changes in appetite, energy levels, and interests

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares

Physical symptoms such as headaches, body aches, or stomach problems

Worsening of existing health or mental health conditions

Increased reliance on alcohol or other substances

Effective Ways to Manage Stress

Incorporating simple, healthy habits into your routine can make a meaningful difference in how you respond to stress. Try these physical and mental techniques to help reduce mental overload:

Spend time in nature.

Take up daily walks, yoga, or other forms of exercise.

Take a few moments to breathe deeply.

Focus on what you can control and shift away from negative thinking patterns.

Write down your thoughts to help process emotions and reduce mental overload.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is an important part of managing stress. Start by managing your time effectively break tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and prioritize what matters most.

Support your overall well-being by maintaining healthy routines, including eating a balanced diet, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Its also important to set boundaries, allowing yourself to say no and step back from stressors when needed. Finally, staying connected with friends and family can provide valuable support and perspective during challenging times.

When to Seek Support

If stress becomes overwhelming or difficult to manage, seeking support is an important step. Talking with a healthcare provider or mental health professional can help you develop effective coping strategies and improve your overall well-being.

At Carrollton Regional Medical Center, we are committed to supporting your health, both physically and emotionally. Taking steps to manage stress today can lead to a healthier, more balanced tomorrow.

Carrollton Regional Medical Center is a 216-bed Acute Care Hospital managed by Sana Healthcare. CRMC serves Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Lewisville, The Colony, and other surrounding communities. CRMC offers an array of services including 24/7 Emergency Care, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Imaging Services, Rehabilitation and Therapy Services, Cancer Care, a 16- bed Intensive Care Unit, Surgical Services, and an Inpatient Orthopedic Center of Excellence. Our Womens Imaging Center is just 2 blocks north of the hospital and provides 3D digital mammography and other specialized breast procedures. CRMC is here to serve its community with high quality, patient-focused care, close to home. Visit www.crmc.health.

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry to receive more than $2.87 million to study TMD pain

Stephanie Patrick — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:43:00 Z

Texas A&M University College of Dentistrys professor and head of biomedical sciences and his researchers will receive more than $2.87 million over the next five years to study temporomandibular disorders.

Dr. John Neubert is A&M Dentistrys principal investigator in the worlds most extensive collaborative study of patients with TMDs. TMDs are 30-plus painful conditions that affect the jaw muscles, nerves and joints in the face. The $17 million Collaborative for REsearch to Advance TMD Evidence, nicknamed CREATE, project will collect data on patients chronic pain to identify ways to eventually manage TMDs more effectively.

Sufferers may report a variety of symptoms, including facial and jaw tenderness and pain; popping, clicking and grinding sounds when opening and closing their mouths; difficulty chewing; and locking jaws. Some people experience earaches, headaches, dizziness and vision problems.

This can make everyday activities such as eating and talking difficult, lowering quality of life, Neubert said. TMDs are also linked to stress, anxiety and depression, which can make things even worse. Despite how much these problems affect people and society, there are still no consistently effective treatments, partly because research hasnt fully bridged the gap between lab studies and real-world care.

Plans are to study 1,000 patients with TMDs and 300 pain-free individuals across five national sites, including A&M Dentistry, collecting brain images, clinical data and more. CREATE is funded by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institutes of Health, and its led by the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.

Other principal investigation sites include the University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and the University of Florida College of Dentistry, where Neubert taught and first contributed to the projects planning before joining A&M Dentistry in February 2025. Other partnering institutions are Missouri State University, UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, Colorado State University, HealthPartners Institute and The TMJ Association, a patient advocacy organization.

We are planning to have our first patient early this year, said Neubert, who is a nationally respected oral pain specialist.

Data collected will go to UF because it has the most experience managing clinical studies and data, he said. About 200 people will likely participate in A&M Dentistrys study.

Dr. Madhu Nair, professor and head of diagnostic sciences, is A&M Dentistrys other co-investigator. Neubert will recruit other clinical faculty at A&M Dentistry, a clinical manager, a clinical research assistant and support staff.

A&M Dentistry will collect data for three years and spend the last two years bringing back some patients for additional studies. Researchers will conduct standardized pain tests, collect biological samples such as saliva and blood and complete neuroimaging of the brain and TMJ to collect data for deep phenotyping with the goal of investigating molecular mechanisms in the future for those with TMDs.

Neubert, an internationally known expert in TMDs, said the collections will enable more grant-funded studies as science advances.

The temporomandibular joint, often referred to as TMJ, connects the jawbone to the skull. Theres one on each side of the jaw.

Few studies on TMDs exist.

TMDs affect 5-10% of the U.S. population, according to NIDCR. The conditions are at least twice as common in women as in men, and TMDs can occur alone or with other medical conditions such as back pain, migraines, fibromyalgia and arthritis.

The Imaging Center at A&M Dentistry and a regional imaging facility at the Sammons Brain Health Center at The University of Texas at Dallas that specializes in brain imaging will provide imaging support through cone beam computed tomography and high-resolution MRI for generating appropriate image datasets to help further understand the complex pathophysiology associated with TMDs, Nair said.

CREATEs research will build on the findings of Orofacial Pain: Prospective Evaluation and Risk Assessment, the largest prior study on TMDs.

The new study is part of the larger umbrella TMD Collaborative for IMproving PAtient-Centered Translational Research, TMD IMPACT for short. Developed by NIDCR in partnership with multiple NIH institutes, centers and offices, as well as the Food and Drug Administration, the initiative seeks to advance basic and clinical research, research training and translation to evidence-based treatments and improved clinical care.

This is TMD IMPACTs second funding round. The first awarded nine planning grants totaling $2.8 million in 2023. CREATE received some of that money. Neubert was a principal investigator and part of UFs CREATE Award before he joined the A&M Dentistry faculty.

As a companion to his work on the CREATE project, Neubert and others recently published an article in the Journal of Pain, titled Preclinical Perspectives on Disorders of the Temporomandibular Joint: Tracing the Past, Navigating the Present, and Shaping the Future, which offers a deep dive into the science behind jaw disorders. It looks back at past animal and lab studies, examines the state of current preclinical research, and suggests ways to improve future treatments.

This paper is an essential roadmap for translating basic science into real-world solutions for TMDand it highlights exactly where the field needs to focus next, he said.

Patriot PAWS Announces Third Annual Clays Shoot Benefitting American Veterans

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:33:22 Z

DALLAS Patriot PAWS will host its 3rd Annual Clays Shoot on April 10, bringing together North Texas supporters for a day of competition and community to raise funds for Service Dogs provided at no cost to disabled American Veterans and service members living with disabilities. The event kicks off celebrations of the organizations 20th anniversary in 2026.

The Clays Shoot will take place at the Dallas Gun Club on 3601 N Stemmons Fwy in Lewisville from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Attendees will begin the morning with breakfast and coffee before the first flight of sporting clays at 9 a.m. The competition will feature two 12-station courses, along with raffle prizes, a 50/50 cash drawing, and a barbecue lunch. Awards will be presented to the top three teams at the end of the day. Carts and ammo are provided, but participants must bring their own shotgun.

The event supports Patriot PAWS mission to restore independence and quality of life through highly trained Service Dogs that assist Veterans living with mobility disabilities, post-traumatic stress, military sexual trauma, and traumatic brain injury.

The Clays Shoot is a great opportunity for people to get involved with Patriot PAWS, whether by sponsoring the event, registering a team, or simply coming out to support the cause, said Lauren Vaughan, Director of Development of Patriot PAWS. Our Veteran clients will be there as well, sharing mission moments and the real impact a Service Dog has on daily life. Its a chance to spend time together, hear their stories, and see firsthand how community support helps us continue this work.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities range from $250 individual shooter entries to $15,000 presenting sponsorships, with all proceeds supporting the training and placement of Service Dogs at no cost to the Veterans who receive them. To purchase a ticket or become a sponsor, visit www.PatriotPAWS.org/clays-shoot/.

This year marks Patriot PAWS 20th anniversary, and its incredible to reflect on how many lives have been changed through the Service Dogs placed with Veterans across the country, said Rick Stevens, Executive Director of Patriot PAWS. Today, more than 80 active Service Dogs are supporting Veterans nationwide, while more than 50 Veterans remain on our waiting list as we work to meet the growing need. Preparing each dog takes thousands of hours and the support of an entire community, which is why events like the Clays Shoot are so important.

Since its founding in 2006, Patriot PAWS Service Dogs has grown into a nationally recognized provider of highly trained Service Dogs for disabled Veterans at no cost to them. Through partnerships with universities like Texas A&M and the Trained to Heal program within Texas Department of Criminal Justice facilities, Patriot PAWS prepares Service Dogs for Veterans living with both visible and invisible wounds of service. The result is Service Dogs that restore independence, strengthen families, and change daily life for the people they serve. In honor of its 20th anniversary, Patriot PAWS is aiming to have 120 Service Dogs in their 2026 training program, a significant increase from their 80 to 100 dogs trained annually. Patriot PAWS welcomes community members to become a Puppy Raiser and provide critical socialization to Service Dogs in Training, with all costs covered by Patriot PAWS.

Tatakis named head of periodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas

Stephanie Patrick — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:03:00 Z

After a national search, Dr. Dimitris N. Tatakis is the new head of periodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. Dr. Deborah M. Foyle, who served as interim head of periodontics, will assist Tatakis before assuming another high-level position at A&M Dentistry.

Tatakis started Feb. 2 and came to A&M Dentistry from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was a visiting professor in the periodontics department. He was a tenured professor at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry in Columbus, where he led the advanced education program in periodontics, and was a consultant to the Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland.

Hes a director of the American Board of Periodontology, a member of the CODA Periodontics Review Committee and an editorial board member of several biomedical publications.

His record of research and scholarship, as well as his record of service, represents a lifelong commitment to excellence in our profession, contributing to his national and international reputation, said Dr. Lily T. García, A&M Dentistry dean.

Tatakis said he plans to build on the periodontics departments strong foundation.

Texas A&M has an accomplished group of people and a bold vision, he said. There is a tremendous opportunity for our department to continue advancing its excellence, and I look forward to supporting that growth.

Hes held faculty positions at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in Kentucky and the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in California, where he attained tenure. Tatakis earned his dental degree from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in Greece and a certificate in periodontology and a doctorate in oral biology from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.

Inspired by a strong interest in biology that began during his high school years in Greece, Tatakis has built a career focused on understanding biological mechanisms and addressing clinically relevant scientific questions. Hes dedicated his professional life in dentistry to advancing academic inquiry and educating the next generation of periodontists.

When youve seen people struggle with serious dental problems, you come to appreciate how profoundly dentistry can help by relieving pain, restoring comfort and function and improving quality of life, he said.

Periodontics, which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the tissues that support and surround the teeth and dental implants, appealed to Tatakis because of its strong foundation in biology and its clear alignment with his interest in surgical practice.

The public should know that good periodontal health, or lack thereof, can have a significant impact on a persons systemic health, he said. Periodontists can really make a difference.

Plaque and tartar can build up where teeth and gums meet when proper dental hygiene is not followed, often causing gums to swell and bleed. Left untreated, the gum tissues and bone around teeth begin to break down. Periodontitis affects about 42% of adults over 30 in the U.S., according to the American Dental Association.

Tatakis said he plans to strategically expand the faculty and strengthen the departments research enterprise to position the program as a national leader in periodontics. He also aims to elevate resident training to ensure graduates are exceptionally well prepared to meet the evolving demands of the profession.

The Steady Presence Every Child Deserves

Culver Public Relations — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:08:16 Z

Every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and cared for, but for many children in foster care, that sense of stability can disappear overnight. What happens next often depends on whether someone is willing to step in and create a space where they can begin to feel secure again. That someone is a foster parent.

Foster parents are not defined by perfection or special qualifications. They are defined by their willingness to open their homes and their lives during moments of uncertainty. They are the people who sit at the dinner table with a child who may not yet feel comfortable speaking, who keep the nightlight on a little longer, who show up day after day with patience, consistency, and compassion.

They understand that healing does not happen all at once. It happens in small, quiet moments, a reassuring conversation, a steady routine, a reminder that someone is there and not going anywhere.

In our community, there is an ongoing need for more foster families. Children of all ages are entering the system, each with their own story, their own fears, and their own hopes for what comes next. When there are enough foster homes, children are more likely to stay close to their schools, their friends, and the pieces of life that still feel familiar. When there are not, those connections can be lost, adding even more disruption to an already difficult time.

Choosing to foster is not always easy, but it is deeply meaningful. It is a commitment to showing up for a child when it matters most, to offering stability when everything else feels uncertain, and to being part of a journey that can truly change the course of a young life.

Many foster parents will tell you that while they set out to make a difference for a child, the experience ends up changing them, too. It expands their perspective, deepens their empathy, and reminds them of the profound impact that care and connection can have.

If fostering has ever crossed your mind, even briefly, it may be worth taking the time to learn more. You do not have to have all the answers. You simply have to be open to the possibility of making a difference.

Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can offer a child is a place to land, and the knowledge that, even in a time of uncertainty, they are not alone.

Dallas PULSE Calls On Fans To "PACK THE HOUSE" For Women's History Month Night MARCH 26

Mary Jane Coker — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 17:43:35 Z

Dallas PULSE encourages fans to Pack the House in celebration of Womens History Month for their home matchup against Atlanta Vibe at Comerica Center on Thursday, March 26, at 7:00 p.m. CT. Throughout the match, woman-owned businesses and North Texas volleyball club directors will be recognized.

The Dallas PULSE organization, both on the court and behind the scenes, would not be possible without the incredible women who make it all happen, said Dallas PULSE Vice President of Marketing & Creative, Katrina Streiner. Calling on fans to Pack the House during Womens History Month aligns with our values of championing womens advocacy and continuing to build momentum for womens sports.

Dallas PULSEs staff is 65% women, all working to grow professional volleyball in North Texas and elevate womens sports. The teams success in its inaugural season is driven by elite athletes on the court, a strong coaching staff led by Shannon Winzer, dedicated administrative staff and women in ownership all working together to build a lasting legacy in North Texas.

To help Pack the House on March 26, fans can purchase tickets at dallaspulsevb.com.

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas first womens professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyballs 2026 season. Playing at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth home to one of the nations largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit Dallas PULSE or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage.

HPHS Alumni Happy Hour

Francie Johnsen — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 11:00:00 Z

all classes of Highland park High and all elementary campuses and middle school/junior high come gather next Wednesday April 1st @the barley house! Its been a year since our last happy hour. Spread the invite to your buddies.

https://evite.me/WSugy9e3Hk

Aw Shucks 13th Annual Crawfish Boil Brings Cajun Flavor and Live Music to Lewisville

Kathy Beazley — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 08:50:53 Z

Crawfish season returns to North Texas as Aw Shucks hosts its 13th Annual Crawfish Boil on Saturday, April 25, bringing hundreds of crawfish lovers to Lewisville for a day of Cajun flavor, live music and family-friendly fun. The popular parking lot party takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Aw Shucks, 1630 S. Stemmons Freeway in Lewisville, where guests can roll up their sleeves and enjoy one of the areas most anticipated spring seafood celebrations.

Indulge in all-you-can-eat crawfish with sausage, corn and potatoes for just $39.99, ensuring you never go home hungry. Feast on these savory crustaceans prepared to perfection, Cajun-style, right before your eyes.

But the fun does not stop there. Aw Shucks is pulling out all the stops with an array of exciting activities and entertainment. Sip on refreshing drinks while enjoying live music throughout the day. Sing along, dance and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this annual tradition. Feeling lucky? There will be several opportunities to win fantastic prizes throughout the day.

For those craving more than crawfish, Aw Shucks also offers its full restaurant menu inside, including fried shrimp or catfish served with fries, hush puppies and coleslaw, blackened tilapia tacos with rice, chicken strips with house-made ranch and desserts such as Key Lime Pie.

Our crawfish boil has become one of our favorite traditions of the year, said Nick Peterson, CEO of Peterson Management Group. Its a chance for friends, families and crawfish lovers from all over North Texas to gather for great food, live music and a day of fun. And for those who cant make it to the party in Lewisville, our DIY crawfish kits make it easy to host a boil at home.

Bring the Crawfish Boil Home

For those who want to host their own backyard crawfish celebration, Aw Shucks also offers DIY Crawfish Kits packed with everything needed to create a Louisiana-style boil at home. The kits include a 30-pound sack of live crawfish (market price) along with optional add-ons such as a spice package with three boil sachets for $20, corn on the cob pieces priced at $30 for 30 pieces, and 30 red potatoes for $30. Guests can also add sausage for $12 per pound or head-on shrimp for $20 per pound to round out their boil.

DIY kits must be pre-ordered at least 48 hours in advance. Guests can find their nearest Aw Shucks location and place an order by phone. Pickup is available seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Customers are encouraged to bring a cooler to transport their crawfish sack. The Aw Shucks website includes full instructions on how to prepare the boil at home.

Details and ordering information are available at awshucksdallas.com/its-almost-crawfish-season.

Whether guests join the Lewisville parking lot party or host their own boil at home, Aw Shucks makes it easy to celebrate crawfish season with friends, family and plenty of Cajun flavor.

For more than 40 years, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar have been the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and tasty crawfish when in season. With its eclectic seafood shack atmosphere, guests are guaranteed to have the best shuckin time. A division of Peterson Management Group, a family-owned and operated restaurant management company, there are five locations in North Texas. For more information on Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, visit awshucksdallas.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and promotions. #shucksdallas

ABOUT PETERSON MANAGEMENT GROUP

Peterson Management Group is a family-owned and operated restaurant management company with 13 restaurants located across North Texas. Founded by Bob Peterson and Scott Holyfield, two guys with larger-than-life personalities, it all started in 1983 with eclectic seafood shack restaurants, Aw Shucks and Big Shucks Oyster Bar. They are the best places in North Texas to get raw oysters, shrimp, catfish, crab legs, po'boy boy sandwiches, a nice cold beer, and some tasty crawfish when in season. In addition to Aw Shucks and Big Shucks, Peterson Management Group opened Blue Goose Cantina in 1984, where fantastic made-from-scratch Mexican food, legendary drinks, top-notch service, a fun atmosphere and a kick-ass attitude come together. The restaurant chain has repeatedly been voted the best in North Texas for its winning combination of food, fun, and signature margaritas. Today, Nick Peterson, son of Bob, leads the family business, serving as its CEO.

From Service to Scholarship: One North Texas Students Journey with Folds of Honor

Culver Public Relations — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:24:52 Z

For North Texas families of military service members and first responders, an important deadline is approaching.

Folds of Honor North Texas is currently accepting applications for its 2026 educational scholarships, with a deadline of March 31. The scholarships support children and spouses from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as those pursuing higher education, including college, trade school, and postgraduate programs. Applications can be submitted at foldsofhonor.org/scholarships.

Behind every scholarship is a family with a story. United States Air National Guard Staff Sgt. Skurupey served nearly 17 years across the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, and Air National Guard as part of the 203rd RED HORSE Squadron. He was killed in the line of duty just one day before his 35th birthday. February 26, 2026 marked 25 years since his passing.

Today, his daughter, Sheridan Skurupey, is carrying that legacy forward as a Folds of Honor higher education scholarship recipient. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Nonprofits and the Arts at Southern Methodist University in Dallas and is in her final two semesters. With the support of Folds of Honor, she is closer to achieving her academic and career goals.

Originally founded to serve military families, Folds of Honor has expanded its mission to also support the families of fallen and disabled first responders, reinforcing its commitment to those who serve both our country and our communities. Scholarships help cover a range of education-related expenses, from private school tuition and tutoring to college, technical programs, and advanced degrees.

In North Texas, community support continues to drive this impact. The organization raised $4.6 million at its 2025 gala, directly funding scholarships for local families. Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 73,000 scholarships nationwide, totaling more than $340 million.

With the March 31 deadline quickly approaching, families are encouraged to apply or share this opportunity with someone who may benefit.

Saturday, March 28: Join Preservation Park Cities in Landmarking Three Significant Park Cities Homes

Sharon Adams — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 15:51:19 Z

Preservation Park Cities invites everyone to join us as we landmark three significant Park Cities homes. We meet outside in front of the homes.

Beginning at 10:00 a.m. the first home is 4421 Arcady. Then 10:30 a.m. at 4726 Drexel followed by 3601 Beverly at 11:00 a.m.

One of the Preservation Park Cities board members shares background on the home, architectural background.

Most times the owner/s are there and give some highlights of the homes history. This is not a home tour.

Its a lovely morning learning more about the homes in our community and meeting their owners.

Our Landmarking Program was started as a way to celebrate those home owners who have preserved (or renovated) homes in our community that maintain their original architectural integrity. Although the awards themselves have no bearing on future renovations (or even demolition), we feel many home owners deserve a public acknowledgement for their efforts.

We have established three award categories in order to:

Encourage the preservation of the fabric of the community we treasure.
Make a statement about the importance of architecture and history in our community.
Commend a homeowner for their care of a property.
Raise the visibility of our Society in the community.

Award Categories

Historic Significance
Architectural Significance
Renovation Excellence

For more information, visit https://preservationparkcities.org/landmarking

How Dallas Homes Are Turning Backyards Into Entertaining Spaces

Culver Public Relations — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:33:19 Z

Theres just something about cooking and gathering outside, especially here in Dallas. The food tastes better, conversations last longer, and your backyard quickly becomes everyones favorite place to be. Its no surprise more homeowners are investing in outdoor living spaces that feel just as thoughtful and functional as the inside of their homes.

Across Dallas, outdoor kitchens are showing up in all kinds of styles, each one tailored to how people actually like to live and entertain. Some keep it simple with a classic grilling setup, built-in grill, durable countertops, and just enough storage to make weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts easy. Others lean more modern, with clean lines, integrated appliances, and subtle lighting that makes the space feel polished without being overdone.

For those who prefer something warmer and more relaxed, farmhouse-inspired outdoor kitchens continue to be a favorite. Natural materials like stone and wood, paired with features like pizza ovens or open shelving, create a space that feels inviting and lived-in, perfect for long dinners and slow weekends at home.

Then there are the full entertainment setups, which have become especially popular in Dallas. These spaces go beyond cooking, adding built-in bars, TVs, fire features, and comfortable seating that make it easy to host everything from game days to larger gatherings.

One thing that comes up often is how outdoor projects naturally lead to updates inside the home. Once the backyard is transformed, it makes sense to rethink how the interior supports that lifestyle too. That might mean refreshing a kitchen with updated cabinetry, reworking the layout with the help of Dallas kitchen designers, or taking on a full kitchen remodeling Dallas project to better connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

The same goes for other areas of the home. Many people use the opportunity to update bathrooms or rework interiors more broadly, bringing in bathroom designers Dallas homeowners trust or tackling bathroom remodeling Dallas projects alongside larger renovations. It becomes less about one isolated upgrade and more about creating a home that feels cohesive and easy to live in.

Dallas has no shortage of experienced professionals, from home remodeling contractors Dallas TX homeowners rely on to interior remodeling contractor teams offering full house interior remodeling services. Whether its a focused kitchen remodel Dallas project, new kitchen cabinets Dallas homeowners have been wanting to update, or a larger Dallas home remodel, the goal is the same: create a space that works better for everyday life and makes hosting feel effortless.

Outdoor kitchens are just one way to get there, but they tend to spark bigger ideas. And sometimes, thats exactly what a home needs.

Art in the Square.

Amy Zagar — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:19:24 Z

Does your teen need community service hours? Please have them visit artinthesquare.com to register to volunteer. This years event will be April 24, 25 and 26 in Southlake and is a great way to earn hours and help the community! Hope we see them there!

A Night Out Worth Getting Dressed Up For: Some Like It Hot Returns to Dallas March 31

Teia Collier — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:37:20 Z

If youve been waiting for a reason to plan a real, intentional night outthis is it. Some Like It Hot is back in Dallas, and its bringing all the sparkle, movement, and feel-good energy we love about live theater with just the right amount of drama and fun to add delight to the day

The Show Everyone Will Be Talking About

Winner of 4 Tony Awards® (including Best Choreography and Best Costumes) and a Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album, this show isnt just goodits a full-on experience.

As The New York Times puts it:
A Super-Sized, All-Out Song-And-Dance Spectacular!

And honestly thats exactly what it feels like.

A Story That Keeps You Moving

Set in Chicago during Prohibitionwhen everyones just a little thirsty for excitementSome Like It Hot follows two musicians who find themselves on the run after witnessing a mob hit. What follows is a cross-country escape, a whole lot of disguise and reinvention, and a journey that turns into something much bigger than they ever expected.

Its fast, its funny, and its filled with those big, sweeping moments that make you fall in love with theater all over again.

The Associated Press calls it:
A glorious, big, high-kicking musical Nobodys perfect? This show is!

And Deadline?
A tap-dancing, razzle-dazzling embrace of everything you love about musical theater.

Why This One Feels So On Point for Right Now

This is one of those shows that reminds you why we leave the house for live experiences in the first place.

Some Like It Hot Brings:

Big energy
Beautifully choreographed
Laugh-out-loud funny moments
And just the right amount of heart

Whether youre planning a girls night, a date night, or even a family outing with older kids, it hits that sweet spot of being entertaining and memorable. It's exactly the love fest that I've been craving lately.

What to Know Before You Go

Recommended for ages 10 and up
Run time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (with one intermission)

Translation and pro-tip? Its a full eveningso plan dinner, get dressed, bring a great attitude and make it a moment.

If youve got a group (hello, birthday plans or mom crew night out), there are also group discounts available for parties of 10 or more, which makes it even easier to turn this into a shared experience.

Final Thoughts

Theres something about a show like Some Like It Hotthe music, the movement, the storytellingthat just pulls you in and lets you breathe for a minute.

Its playful. Its polished. Its a little bit nostalgic and completely alive. And right now? That kind of energy feels exactly right on time.

If youve been saying we should go out moreconsider this your sign. Score your tickets here.

EarthX Announces Earthx2026: A New Era of Environmental Leadership with Programming

Teia Collier — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:16:18 Z

EarthX recently announced speakers and programming for Earthx2026, a three-day Congress of Conferences taking place in Dallas at the Hilton Anatole on April 2022, 2026. Since 2011, the event has gathered leading voices from across the environmental spectrum to examine how innovation, markets, and culture can define the next chapter of environmental leadership.

Now in its 15th year, this event brings together policymakers, investors, scientists, business leaders, artists, technologists, and civic leaders to move beyond polarization and toward pragmatic, scalable action that supports both human prosperity and planetary health. This nonpartisan convening will offer an honest environment to identify common ground solutions that align incentives not ideology and set a course towards a healthy and flourishing future for the planet.

Our mission at EarthX is to create a space where leaders from business, policy, conservation, and advocacy can cut through division and work toward pragmatic outcomes, said EarthX CEO Peter Simek. This event is about moving beyond rhetoric and building solutions that people across cultures, industries, and political lines can actually support.

Congress of Conferences Speakers

Earthx2026 will feature an expanding roster of globally recognized leaders with new additions, including:

Bob Ballard, Oceanographer and Founder, Ocean Exploration Trust
Xiye Bastida, Executive Director of Re-Earth Initiative
Felipe Calderón, Former President of Mexico
Kristy Drutman, Founder Browngirl Green and co-founder of Green Jobs Board
Dr. Sylvia Earle, Founder, Mission Blue
Isolde Fair, Grammy Award-winning Singer-Songwriter and Performing Artist
Lord Fatafehi Fakafnua, Prime Minister, Kingdom of Tonga
Peter Fiekowsky, Founder, Foundation for Climate Restoration
Torrei Hart, Comedian, Actress, and Social Impact Entrepreneur
Danielle Holly, Executive Lead, North America, Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Dr. Serena McCalla, Ph.D., Founder, iResearch Institute; nationally recognized science education pioneer
Juan Carlos Monterrey, Special Representative for Climate Change of Panamá
Steven Nickel, Director, Consumer Hardware Operations, Google
Adam Peer, Senior Director, Plastics Sustainability, American Chemistry Council
Charlie Schwarze, Senior Director, Keurig Dr. Pepper & Board Chair, Circular Action Alliance
Jeff Seabright, Former Chief Sustainability Officer, Unilever North America
Bershan Shaw, Entrepreneur, Global Speaker, and Leadership Coach
Stormy Simon, Former CEO, Overstock.com
Dr. John Warner, CEO, The Technology Greenhouse and the founder of green chemistry
Andrew Winston, Author of Net Positive; Thinkers50 #1 Management Thinker in the World"

These speakers will join an exceptional roster of leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across sectors including Ed Begley Jr. (Actor and Environmentalist), Rachelle Carson Begley (Actor and Environmentalist), Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet (Oceanographer), Mariel Hemingway (Actor, Author, and Environmentalist), Commander G. Mark Miller (Co-Founder, GMSO), Margaret Trilli (CEO and Chief Investment Officer, ImpactAssets), Richard Wiese (President, The Explorers Club) with more to be announced.

Framing the Global Conversation on the Main Stage

New for 2026, the EarthX Main Stage serves as the narrative anchor of the event, platforming the biggest ideas facing the planet and the leaders driving real-world solutions. Programming will center on five core questions shaping the future of environmental leadership:

America at 250: Can Nature Still Be Our Common Ground? At a moment of deep polarization, can land, water, and wildlife once again serve as a unifying national projector has environmentalism become too politicized to repair?
Innovation, Capital, and Corporate Leadership: Who Actually Drives Environmental Change Now? If government sets the rules but markets move the world, how are companies, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping the future of energy, conservation, and resilienceand where are they falling short?
Nature Under Pressure: How Do We Manage Land and Oceans in a Resource-Hungry World? What frameworks allow conservation, restoration, and responsible extraction to coexistwithout pretending tradeoffs dont exist?
Health, Culture, and Connection: Why Environmentalism Lost Peopleand How to Win Them Back discusseshas environmentalism failed by becoming abstract and moralizingand can a renewed focus on human health, beauty, place, and lived experience rebuild broad public support?
Designing for Nature and Life: What Comes After Sustainability? If sustainability is no longer ambitiousor honestenough, what does a life-centered model of growth look like in practice across cities, infrastructure, food systems, and industry?

A Congress of Conferences with One Connected Ecosystem

Earthx2026 features more than 20 summits, stages, and forums, each designed to address a critical dimension of environmental leadership. Together, these conferences form a single ecosystem designed to foster collaboration across sectors, geographies, and ideologies. These include:

The Family Office Summit is a peer-to-peer convening for high-net-worth individuals, family foundations, and family office principals with more than $100 million in assets or net worth from the U.S., Latin America, and around the world. Designed as a confidential forum for principals and decision-makers, the summit focuses on long-term capital stewardship, intergenerational leadership, impact investing, and navigating geopolitical, environmental, and market volatility through pragmatic, values-aligned strategies.
The 2026 E-Capital Summit convenes, inspires, and catalyzes action from thousands of the countrys and worlds leading investors, family offices/foundations, innovators, startups, established companies, industry leaders, policymakers, and innovation ecosystem leaders including incubators/accelerators/federal labs with the goal of driving substantial, positive impact on investments, businesses, people, and our planet.
EarthxEnergy: Texas & the Next Nuclear Era Convened by the EarthX Institute, this new research-driven initiative brings together leading scientists, policymakers, investors, and technologists to examine how Texass track record in energy leadership can inform the next phase of nuclear deployment. Through focused discussions, the convening will translate Texass experience into a practical policy framework to accelerate advanced nuclear development, modernize the grid, streamline permitting, and position nuclear energy as a cornerstone of Americas clean-power future amid rising AI demand and grid stress.
Circle America Summit: Advancing a Circular Economy and Culture convenes leaders across policy, business, and culture to examine how a circular economy can better reflect nature, protect human health, and reduce waste at scale. Through practical case studies and solution-driven conversations, the program explores innovations in reuse, recycling, and materials management, alongside the policies and market forces shaping their impact. The summit will also catalyze new partnerships and launch Circle America, a national effort to educate, engage, and mobilize the public around building a truly circular culture.
The Nature Summit is an invitation-only, exclusive convening of government leaders, family offices, philanthropists, and corporate visionaries shaping the future of the blue and green economy. Designed to unlock sustainable investment opportunities, the summit aligns public, private, and philanthropic capital around nature-based solutions that enhance resilience, restore ecosystems, and drive long-term prosperity through high-impact collaboration.
Blue Finance Convening and Workshop is where the Marine Technology Society convenes marine scientists, technologists, policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to explore how innovation and technology are advancing ocean health, resilience, and sustainable economic activity. The summit highlights cutting-edge marine technology, ocean observation, blue economy solutions, and cross-sector partnerships critical to protecting and restoring the worlds oceans.
Sport as a Force for Sustainability, presented by the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, examines how the worlds most influential cultural platformsportcan drive environmental leadership at scale. Featuring leaders from sports organizations, teams, and host cities, the summit explores sustainability in mega-events, infrastructure, fan engagement, and climate leadership, demonstrating how competition and culture can accelerate and craft a sustainable future for the world stage.
The Monarch Corridor: Trade, Infrastructure, and Environmental Resilience in North America convenes business leaders, policymakers, and investors to examine the future of cross-border trade, supply chains, and sustainable growth between Mexico and Texas. The summit, hosted in partnership with Asociacion de Empresarios Mexicanos (AEM), focuses on nearshoring, energy, infrastructure, workforce development, and bilateral partnerships critical to economic resilience and environmental progress in North America.
Island Resilience Forum brings together government leaders, development institutions, investors, and climate practitioners from island and coastal nations to address the urgent challenges of climate vulnerability. The forum focuses on adaptation finance, resilience planning, and scalable solutions that protect communities, ecosystems, and economies on the front lines of climate change.
Texas Symposium on Climate and Energy Transition convenes legal, corporate, and financial leaders to examine the legal and regulatory frameworks shaping climate and energy transition projects. Through expert-led sessions, the program, organized by the Environmental & Natural Resources Law Section of the State Bar of Texas, explores dispute resolution, private capital deployment, community engagement, and the evolving role of legal professionals in enabling low-carbon technology, infrastructure, and project success.
Climate Restoration Summit challenges conventional climate thinking by focusing not only on reducing emissions, but on restoring a safe and stable climate. Centered on the science, policy, and scalability of atmospheric carbon removal, the summit, organized by the Foundation for Climate Restoration, explores how nature-based and engineered solutions can reduce legacy CO and create a future where both humanity and ecosystems can thrive.
Citizens in the Arena: Leadership for Land and Energy, presented by The Roosevelt Initiative. Inspired by Theodore Roosevelt's call to those "in the arena", this inaugural convening examines the intersection of conservation, markets, and policy through the lens of civic responsibility and engagement. The summit challenges leaders to move beyond rhetoric and engage directly in the work of environmental stewardship, democratic leadership, and pragmatic problem-solving at a pivotal geopolitical moment.
North Texas Day convenes leading regional environmental organizations, NGOs, government agencies, policymakers, and advocates to take stock of the years work on the ground. Through workshops, panels, and collaborative sessions, the conference sets priorities and strengthens partnerships to advance the North Texas environmental agenda for the year ahead.
9th Annual North Texas Climate Symposium serves as a platform for sharing the latest research, innovations, and strategies in climate action and sustainability focusing on how these critical issues affect the Dallas community, local businesses, and overall quality of life of city residents. Hosted by the City of Dallas Office of Environmental Quality & Sustainability this years symposium theme is Climate Resilience, focusing on the capacity of social, economic, and environmental systems to support mitigation and adaptation efforts.
The Solutions Stage is a fast-paced, public-facing platform showcasing tangible, real-world solutions emerging across the EarthX ecosystem. Featuring rapid-fire talks from innovators, businesses, governments, NGOs, and academics, the stage highlights actionable ideas, scalable models, and on-the-ground progress driving measurable environmental impact.

What to Expect?

Throughout the three days, EarthX will also offer curated side meetings, small group conversations, hands-on workshops, and designated meetup spaces designed to spark meaningful exchange around shared interests and real-world challenges. In-app tools allow participants to create or join meetups, whether planned in advance or formed organically on site.

EarthX is intentionally paced to create shared moments and rituals, from hosted lunches and evening networking hours to banquets, keynote moments, and awards celebrations that bring the full community together. These moments are not side events, they are central to how EarthX builds connection, trust, and momentum.

REGISTER:

Reserve your ticket at https://earthx.org/earthx2026/tickets/, with special Early Bird rates available for a limited time.

Grant Halliburton Foundation Kicks Off 20th Anniversary with Beacon of Hope Luncheon

Juliette DC — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:17:33 Z

Grant Halliburton Foundation hosted its 17th annual Beacon of Hope Community Luncheon on Friday, March 13 at the Omni Dallas Hotel, kicking off the organizations 20th anniversary year. More than 500 guests gathered in support of the Foundations mission, helping to raise $335,000 for youth mental health and suicide prevention programs across North Texas.

The event featured keynote speaker Steve Burns, best known as the original host of Nickelodeons Blues Clues, along with remarks from Foundation leaders and Co-chairs Meredith and David Camp and Amy and Michael Roseman.

Ahead of the program, DJ Lucy Wrubel set an upbeat tone at the Welcome Reception, where attendees enjoyed champagne and sparkling water from a 20th anniversary-themed champagne wall. Over coffee from Another Sunrise Coffee Company, guests connected and recorded messages of hope at the Hope Hotline telephone booth, an installation marking the Foundations milestone year.

Another activation featured an oversized Blues Clues-inspired purple mailbox inviting attendees to take an encouraging letter of hope. Guests also stopped at a 20th anniversary photo wall and browsed raffle packages that included luxury travel, high-end shopping experiences, sporting events and more.

The luncheon opened with the Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy Singers performing Seasons of Love from the Broadway musical Rent.

Steve Noviello, FOX 4 News host, welcomed guests, followed by an invocation from Cantor Vicky Glikin, senior cantor at Temple Emanu-El. Guests then enjoyed lunch while connecting with fellow supporters.

TheRosemans thanked sponsors, donors, committee members and volunteers, along with Founding Luncheon Chair Barb Farmer.

TheCamps then presented the 2026 Vanita Halliburton Beacon Award to Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, founder of No More Victims and executive director of the Phillips Foundation.

Phillips was recognized for her advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and for leading the passage of Treys Law in Texas and Missouri, which prohibits the misuse of nondisclosure agreements against survivors, in memory of her late brother, Trey Carlock, who died by suicide.

We refuse to let the end of their story be the whole story, Carlock Phillips said. We invite joy and sorrow to coexist. Keep fighting for the unseen and the hurting.

Following a mission video, Foundation President Kevin Hall reflected on the organizations 20 years of impact.

As the video showed, the story of Grant Halliburton Foundation is the story of a community that has shown up over the past 20 years to make sure young people know they are not alone, Hall said. The Foundation has reached more than 375,000 students, educators, parents and professionals with life-saving mental health and suicide prevention training because of you.

Amy McCloskey, co-founder of the Foundation and Grant Halliburtons sister, spoke about the organizations ongoing work.

Because of this community, there are young people who are alive and well today who might not have been otherwise, McCloskey said. Continue this legacy with us by bringing help, hope and peace of mind to young people and their families.

David shared how he and his wife became involved after five friends lost children within five years and encouraged attendees to connect with young people in their lives.

I realized it only takes five minutes to start a conversation that could change the trajectory of a struggling youths future, he said.

David and Michael led the paddle raise, joined on stage by Amy Roseman and Meredith.

Burns delivered a personal message about his experience with depression during his talk, The Cost of Showing Up Happy: Burnout and the Wisdom of Asking for Help.

He now shares his story as a speaker, podcast host, musician and actor, continuing conversations about mental health with audiences of all ages.

What made the show work was the idea that I needed [help from] the home viewer, Burns said. Will you help me? I would ask [on the show]. Its OK to ask for help. Make asking for help seem ordinary.

Burns said that while he appeared joyful to millions of Blues Clues viewers, he was living with undiagnosed depression.

Burns experience reflects the challenges many young people face, a focus of the Foundations work as it marks its 20th anniversary year and continues expanding youth mental health education and resources across North Texas.

That focus was echoed earlier in the program.

Because the future we are working toward is one where young people feel safe asking for help, where parents know what to look for and where to turn, and where suicide prevention is proactive, not reactive, Hall said.

About Grant Halliburton Foundation: Celebrating 20 years of hope and impact, Grant Halliburton Foundation was founded in 2006 in memory of Grant Halliburton, a Dallas teen who battled depression and bipolar disorder before his suicide death at age 19. Over the past two decades, the Foundation has provided mental health education, resources, and support to more than 375,000 students, educators, parents, and professionals. The Foundation also offers help through HereForTexas.com and the Here For Texas Mental Health Navigation Line. These free community resources provide North Texans with easy access to trusted information and support for mental health and substance use. Learn more at GrantHalliburton.org.

Photos: Simon Luna Studios