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A Dallas Local Built a Real-Time Public Safety App for the City

 

Dallas moves fast.

Between police activity, accidents, emergency response, traffic incidents, and constantly changing situations across the city, it can be difficult to quickly understand what’s actually happening nearby in real time.

That challenge led to the creation of Talk Dallas Crime — a Dallas-based public safety awareness app designed to make publicly available incident information easier to explore through interactive mapping and live updates.

 

Originally started as TalkDallasCrime.com in 2020,

the project has now evolved into a full iPhone app featuring:

• Real-time Dallas incident mapping
• Live police activity updates
• Interactive neighborhood search
• Smart incident highlighting
• Publicly available scanner audio access
• Dynamic map clustering
• Push notifications for major active incidents
• Searchable locations and incident navigation

 

The app transforms publicly available municipal and third-party public safety data into a cleaner, faster, and more modern mobile experience focused on situational awareness and accessibility.

 

Users can explore active incidents across Dallas using an interactive map, tap incidents for additional details, search neighborhoods or landmarks, and instantly zoom to areas of activity throughout the city.

 

One of the newest features added in Version 5 is integrated access to publicly available Dallas police scanner audio feeds, allowing users to listen to real-time radio traffic directly within the app.

 

The latest update also introduced:
• Improved map performance and responsiveness
• Faster search and navigation
• Enhanced incident prioritization
• Smarter clustering in high-activity areas
• Visual refinements and interface improvements
• Smart push notifications for major incidents

 

The app is strictly informational and read-only. It does not allow crime reporting, communication with law enforcement, or emergency dispatch services.

 

Talk Dallas Crime is currently available on iPhone through the Apple App Store.

Download:
https://apps.apple.com/app/id6766671119

 

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Chairs Amy Green, Meredith Allen Connally; Honorary Chair Anne Seanor; DSOL President, Claire Catrino; Chair Elizabeth St. Marie

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, the 2026 Fashion Notes LimonCELLO featured Dallas’ own Mackenzie Brittingham as the Fashon Design Award honoree, who brought her signature couture craftsmanship and statement-making aesthetic to life in a most splendid fashion show.
        
Benefiting the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League celebrating its 80th Anniversary, the event was chaired by Meredith Allen Connally, Amy Green and Elizabeth St. Marie who were joined by Honorary Chairs Anne and Bill Seanor and DSOL President, Claire Catrino.
        
The event was a vibrant celebration of spring, style, and the power of the arts. This beloved annual happening brings together Dallas leaders, philanthropists, and tastemakers for an inspiring morning in support of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s education and outreach initiatives.
        
At the Meyerson’s entrance, patrons were greeted by the valet sponsored by Avondale Dealerships and Jewelry Sponsor de Boulle’s signature yellow vehicle literally bursting with blue, green and yellow flowers, echoing the Italian-inspired LimonCELLO theme.
          
Entering the main hall, guests stopped by the beautiful blue, yellow-and-white tiled backdrop for photos, took a chance on their favorite raffle items, and sipped on Prosecco and the day’s signature Limoncello and Aperol spritzes as they enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres. As a special treat, a separate vignette served a decadent crème brûlée cheesecake espresso martini and ladyfingers, also sponsored by Avondale Dealerships, all the while being serenaded by the Dallas Symphony Young Strings cellists Vincent Ramirez Boyce and Carlos Vargas.
          The centerpiece of the room was the opulent fashion show entrance which was framed by two towering arches of lush greenery accented with lemons and flowers in all shades of yellow, placed at the top of the main stairway. In tune with the blue tiled theme, the fashion show seating was set with clear acrylic chairs sporting the same design on the backs, a scene that wowed the crowd with its high style.
        
Welcoming guests on behalf of the League, Claire thanked everyone for their support, saying that when fashion and music come together, something extraordinary happens! She said, “As we were planning this event, we embraced the theme ‘LimonCELLO’ — honoring both the Dolce Vita of Italy where the cello was invented as well as the DSO’s Young Strings students whose dedication to their craft inspires us all.” Continuing, Claire said, “This season has been one of incredible momentum and meaningful impact, and I feel deeply grateful to be a part of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, a league that continues to grow, evolve and make such a difference in our community.” 
        
Meredith thanked the honorary chairs, and in addition to the sponsors already mentioned, added special thanks to Floral Sponsor 3V Events, and Media Sponsor, PaperCity.
        
Amy enthusiastically recognized Mackenzie as the Fashion Design Award honoree and with heartfelt gratitude, gave a special shout out to the host committee, saying that with their help, today’s event is a sell-out!
        
Elizabeth presented Claire with a gift on behalf of all of the chairs. Gifts of appreciation were also given to Anne and Bill as honorary chairs and to the chairs in honor of their hard work on the event over this past year.
        

Michelle Miller Burns, DSO Ross Perot President & CEO said, “We are thrilled to be part of another stunning Fashion Notes event this year. Fashion Notes beautifully brings together creativity, community and purpose, and we are so thankful to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League and all of the volunteers who made it possible. Their passion and generosity help the DSO thrive, both on stage and throughout the community.”

        
The fashion show was a beautifully curated fashion presentation of Mackenzie’s couture designs, beginning with Calvert Collins-Bratton, emcee, welcoming the crowd and introducing the first models, DSOL President Claire Catrino with her two daughters, Grace and Katherine; followed by Faith Baldwin and her daughter Blake; Mackenzie’s youngest sister, Madison Lacy, with her daughter, Hallie; chair Meredith Connally with her son, Allen; Gloria Steves; chair Elizabeth St. Marie with her daughter Charlotte and son, William; chair Amy Green; and Anne Seanor, Honorary Chair.
        
The music hit a crescendo as the fashion show began, spotlighting 55 different looks in luxury evening wear and custom gowns for mothers of the bride and groom, debutantes, and distinguished socialites. In 2018, Mackenzie launched her Fur Collection, which made an appearance draped over the shoulders of models in dazzling gowns along with her collection of exotic handbags. Designed with the same couture mindset, each handbag is meticulously crafted with exceptional materials and attention to detail.

The custom collection presented during the show drew inspiration from Italy’s landscapes—from the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany—and translated a strong sense of place into couture form.

Flowing beaded gowns captured the movement of coastal waters, while structured silhouettes reflected the architectural elegance of historic villas. A palette of soft citrus hues, airy ivories, and rich blue tones echoed the “LimonCELLO” theme, complemented by intricate draping, hand-finished details, and globally sourced textiles that spoke to Italy’s heritage of craftsmanship. Each look reflected a distinct moment—from golden hour along the Mediterranean to the ease and elegance of an Italian summer evening—creating an immersive runway experience that felt both transportive and deeply personal.
        
The finale brought a rousing round of applause as Mackenzie walked the runway, waving to friends and taking the stage. Flanked by models in fashions from the finale, she was presented with a huge bouquet of gorgeous flowers.    
        
“Being recognized by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League in this way is incredibly meaningful to me—especially after such a beautiful and inspiring event,” Mackenzie said. “Seeing the collection come to life on the runway, surrounded by a community that values both artistry and philanthropy, was truly special. Fashion Notes represents the heart of what makes Dallas so unique, and I’m deeply honored to have been part of this year’s initiative.”

        
At the luncheon, tables were topped with mixed cloths in delightful designs of greenery with lemons, green and yellow tiles complemented by country-style pressed glasses and centerpieces of bright yellow tulips and softly-hued hydrangeas.
        
The first course, or Primi, was a traditional caprese salad with a delicious balsamic glaze. Secondi was a lemon garlic chicken penne pasta in a zesty cream sauce with asparagus and lemon. Dolci was a perfect trio of desserts: lemon meringue, lemon posset and a classic tiramisu.
        
Fashion Notes continues to be one of the League’s most anticipated events of the season. Proceeds directly benefit programs that introduce young musicians to the orchestra, expand access to music education, and strengthen the cultural fabric of our community.
        
Sponsors also included: LimonCELLO Maestro: Mackenzie Brittingham, Anne and Bill Seanor. Amalfi Sonata: Meredith Allen Connally; Cortez Resources, Claire Catrino; Pendery’s Inc., Amy Green. Capri Virtuoso: Faith Baldwin, the Brittingham Family; Caroline Harrison Loehr, Elizabeth St. Marie and Gloria Steves. Positano Aria: Lori Allen, Marena Gault, Sara Woodall.
        
Proceeds from Fashion Notes benefit the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and its youth education and community engagement programs. Over the past 40 years, the DSOL has raised more than $25 million in support of the DSO.  To learn more about DSOL and its membership benefits and events, visit www.dallassymphonyleague.com

Funds raised by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League support transformative DSO programs, including:

  • The Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, which introduces Dallas youth to the inspiring world of classical music through accessible concerts at the Meyerson. Each year, more than 10,000 children participate in these experiences.
  • DSO Cares, which brings the wellness benefits of music to senior living facilities, hospitals, community centers and more. Each performance showcases a chamber ensemble of DSO musicians that is free for attendees and community partners.
  • The Young Strings and Kim Noltemy Young Musicians programs, which annually provide free instruments and instruction to 400 children primarily from Southern and East Dallas. Collectively, these programs have served more than 7,000 students and outpace similar youth programs with highly intensive training. Young Strings students have  a 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rate.
  • Bach’s Lunch, an ongoing adult education series of free, informal talks designed to connect music lovers through a shared passion for classical music.

About Mackenzie Brittingham:
              Mackenzie Brittingham is a Dallas-based designer and founder of her namesake luxury atelier, recognized for custom couture, bridal, eveningwear, luxury outerwear, and bespoke accessories.
         Known for a highly personalized design experience and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, Brittingham creates one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to life’s most meaningful moments—from weddings and galas to philanthropic events, milestone celebrations, and private commissions.
         Her work spans custom bridal gowns, mother-of-the-bride dressing, debutante presentations, cocktail attire, black-tie eveningwear, day-to-night wardrobe pieces, and specialty occasion dressing. In addition to couture apparel, Brittingham also offers custom fur designs, statement outerwear, and an evolving line of handcrafted luxury handbags and accessories.
         Celebrated for refined silhouettes, exceptional fit, and globally sourced textiles, Brittingham blends timeless elegance with modern femininity. Drawing inspiration from travel, architecture, old-world glamour, and Italian craftsmanship, each design is developed through an intimate collaborative process that honors both the client and the artistry of the garment.
         A longtime supporter of Dallas’ philanthropic and cultural communities, Brittingham’s designs have been featured at many of the city’s most prominent galas, charitable events, weddings, and social occasions. Through her growing atelier, she continues to shape a new chapter of bespoke luxury fashion in Texas while mentoring emerging creatives and championing craftsmanship for the next generation.

 

(Photos by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio and Thomas Garza.)

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East Dallas - Youth Support Center YSC high school diploma graduate Jacob Muniz with proud family

 

Juliette Fowler Communities, R3 Student Outreach and East Dallas Christian Church celebrate one year of transformative support for youth ages 10 to 24

One year after launching its expanded East Dallas partnership, the Youth Support Center (YSC) is celebrating a year of life-changing impact for North Texas youth and young adults. Through a collaboration between Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC), R3 Student Outreach and East Dallas Christian Church, the center has served 335 youth in its first year, providing education, workforce development, counseling referrals and wraparound support under one roof – all at no cost.

Located at 4210 Junius St. on the campus of East Dallas Christian Church, the 4,371-square-foot Youth Support Center was created to remove barriers for youth ages 10 to 24 who face challenges such as foster care transitions, justice involvement, housing instability and lack of educational access. Approximately 35% of its participants have aged out of foster care, and 60% have been justice involved.

In its first year, the center delivered:

  • Services to 335 youth and young adults in 2025
  • 2,640 hours of tutoring for 120 youth
  • 49 high school diploma graduates
  • 35 IBM micro-credentials earned
  • 30 graduates who secured employment or enrolled in college
  • Wraparound support for 220 youth, including food, clothing, bus passes and school supplies
  • A 78% completion rate in training and education programs - 30 percentage points higher than local averages for similar student populations, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 2023 Link, and the Texas Education Agency (TEA), 2023 Link

“One year ago, we hoped this partnership would create a stronger safety net for vulnerable youth and young adults,” said Juliette Fowler Communities President and CEO Nicole Gann. “Today, we are seeing lives changed through education, mentorship, encouragement and practical support. This center represents the evolution of our 134-year mission because it expands how we walk alongside young people as they heal, grow and build brighter futures.”

“The biggest difference between where we started and today is that we have become an integrated, needed resource for our community where youth and organizations are depending on us to continue our work,” said Juan Ramos, founder and executive director of R3 Student Outreach. “When a young person walks through our doors today, they feel at home, safe and they find a place of belonging.”

Ramos said the biggest needs in East Dallas remain access to flexible education pathways, workforce certifications, food, clothing and trauma-informed support.

“In Dallas, current programming still reaches only a fraction of disconnected youth,” added Ramos. “Our no-red-tape model matters because it helps young people get what they need quickly, without falling through the cracks. We also recognize that no two young people are alike, so our programs are designed to adapt to each individual’s needs rather than take a one-size-fits-all approach.”

One student success story that reflects that impact is an 18-year-old single mother of two who was justice involved and referred through Dallas County probation. She overcame family hardship, housing instability, and utility shutoffs to earn her high school diploma in December.

“Without this program, I didn’t think I could do it,” she shared. “This was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. It took me over six months, but I am very thankful for this opportunity of finally graduating.”

The Youth Support Center’s first year also confirmed the strength of its community-based partnership model. Since launch, more than 10 community partners have joined the effort, helping provide referrals, resources and specialized support. Demand has grown so significantly that the center has occasionally had to pause registration due to capacity.

“While we believe that Fowler’s deep roots and trusted presence in this community strengthen collaborative community partnerships, we know they would not be successful without our compassionate and dedicated partners working hard day in and day out,” said Lisa Mumford, director of programming, JFC. For generations, Juliette Fowler Communities has brought people together to care for neighbors in need, and that strong foundation helps programs like this grow, creating lasting change in the lives we serve.”

“Today, we are so thankful as we watch more and more youth being served and supported through our combined efforts,” said Rev. Allison Drake, senior pastor, East Dallas Christian Church. There are too many places where youth can slip through the cracks, and we know the Youth Support Center is providing a place for them to land.”

Looking ahead, the Youth Support Center plans to strengthen services for younger youth ages 12 to 18 through R3 Excel programming and expand its Nu Generations Private School into a full-semester option while continuing fast-track diploma opportunities.

To support the Youth Support Center or learn more about programming, visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.

# # # 

ABOUT JULIETTE FOWLER COMMUNITIES (JFC)

With a 134-year history of caring for all ages, Fowler's intergenerational mission creates a unique purpose-driven retirement culture in the heart of Dallas. Home to almost 500 older adults, JFC hosts the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative and is accredited as a Connected Community of Distinction through Hopeful Aging, embracing the I’m Still Here® philosophy – reflecting its commitment to compassionate, high quality dementia care. Young women in danger of homelessness live at Fowler in the Ebby House residential program, and over 700 children, youth and families receive resources through Fowler's Children, Youth, and Family Services. Fowler is adding a Bezos Academy affordable Montessori program for young children in the fall 2026. Since 2022, JFC has been honored as a Generations United Program of Distinction and has continued to maintain this designation each year. As the premier national recognition for high-quality intergenerational programs, the distinction recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and evidence-based impact in bringing generations together. Visit fowlercommunities.org or call 214.827.0813.

R3 STUDENT OUTREACH

Founded in 2019 in San Antonio, Texas, R3 exists to bring renewal, revival and restoration to the minds and hearts of youth and young adults. In middle school, Juan Ramos, R3 founder and executive director, was severely bullied by classmates and teachers. Carrying the burdens of these past experiences, he never forgot the need for youth support. In 2019 after learning of youth suicides due to bullying, Ramos took action, and with the help of friend and partner, Angela Brown Williams, he opened R3 Student Outreach, which has served more than 10,000 youth and young adults since opening. This faith-based agency has expanded services into North Texas in partnership with Juliette Fowler Communities and provides tutoring, workforce development, certifications, mentorship, food, clothing and resources – helping those aged 10 to 24 excel in personal development and academic pursuits at no cost. Visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.

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An influential cross-section of Dallas arts patrons, filmmakers, alumni, and cultural supporters gathered on May 20 for an exclusive first-look presentation of the upcoming Ingmar Bergman documentary from acclaimed filmmaker Keith Maitland, celebrating both the legendary Swedish director’s cinematic legacy and Dallas’ unique role in preserving a remarkable chapter of film history.

Held at the historic U.S. Post Office & Courthouse in downtown Dallas, the invitation-only evening served as both an intimate preview of the documentary and a successful fundraiser supporting the film’s continued production. Funds raised during the event will help support Maitland’s upcoming fact-finding and research trip this summer to Bergman’s estate in Sweden, where the creative team will continue gathering historical insight and contextual material for the film.

Guests included alumni and supporters connected to Southern Methodist University, The University of Texas at Austin, the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, and a broad network of North Texas cultural advocates and film supporters.

 The documentary draws from rare archival footage captured during legendary filmmaker Ingmar Bergman’s historic 1981 visit to SMU as the inaugural recipient of the Meadows Award. The footage includes nearly four hours of intimate conversations and master classes with students, believed to represent the longest filmed interview Bergman ever participated in.

The evening featured select clips from the documentary, followed by a live conversation between Maitland, Bergman in Dallas producer Daniel Laabs,  and Swedish producer André Persson discussing Bergman’s artistic influence, the significance of the archival footage, and the global cultural impact of the iconic director.

“Bergman’s influence reaches far beyond cinema,” said Maitland during the event. “His storytelling shaped generations of filmmakers, artists, writers, and even modern Swedish pop culture. To uncover this remarkable footage in Dallas and share it with audiences today feels both surreal and incredibly meaningful.”

The event also highlighted the enduring place Bergman holds within Swedish cultural identity. Widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in cinematic history, Bergman’s work helped define Sweden’s global artistic reputation throughout the 20th century. His films, including The Seventh Seal, Persona, and Fanny and Alexander, continue to influence contemporary directors, television creators, theater artists, and broader Scandinavian popular culture.

Special recognition was given to longtime Dallas arts advocate Pat Porter for her connection to the original Meadows Award programming and her ongoing support of arts and cultural preservation in North Texas. Organizers noted that the rediscovery and restoration of the SMU archival footage would not have been possible without decades of stewardship by individuals connected to the university and Dallas arts community.

Presented in partnership with the Honorary Consulate of Sweden Dallas and the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce Texas, the evening reinforced the strong cultural ties between Sweden and North Texas while celebrating Dallas’ often overlooked contributions to film history and documentary preservation.

The upcoming documentary continues production and is expected to further explore Bergman’s creative philosophy, his influence on generations of filmmakers, and the extraordinary archival discovery housed for decades within SMU’s film archive

 

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Texas State Historian Dr. Richard McCaslin discusses how Spanish Coahuila y Tejas played a pivotal role in helping American patriots secure independence from Great Britian at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at 300 N. Allen Drive.

A former Texas State Historical Association professor of Texas history at the University of North Texas, McCaslin has written or edited twenty-two books, including Tullis Award-winner Tainted Breeze: The Great Hanging at Gainesville, Texas, October 1862 and Pulitzer nominee Lee in the Shadow of Washington.

Dr. McCaslin observes, “Without the support of several nations—most notably France, Spain, and the Netherlands—the United States would never have won its independence from Great Britain. Gov. Bernardo de Gálvez of Spanish Louisiana, an officer with experience in and support from Texas, contributed to the patriot cause with a successful military campaign on the Gulf Coast that led the British to return Florida to Spain, reversing a territorial loss of twenty years earlier.”

Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, DAR Bernardo de Gálvez and Allen Quilters Guild, the program is free. Call 214-509-4911 for more information.

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Funds raised by the Shelton Parents' Association support tuition assistance, the Shelton Endowment Fund, campus security, the new auditorium, scholarships, mental health and more.
The 2025-2026 Shelton Parents’ Association leadership, including Co-Presidents Kimberly Kahn and Leigh Erin Lundy, Stampede Auction Co-Chairs Mandy Evans and JoAnna Sudbeck and Director of Volunteer Relations & Events Shelly Lloyd, who together presented a check for a record-breaking $1,800,000 to Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell at the SPA End-of-the-Year Breakfast on May 20, 2026.

In addition to the historic 50th Anniversary Stampede Auction, Shelton Parents’ Association events during the 2025-2026 school year included the 50th Homecoming tailgate party and drone show, Lunch with Dads, Sky Ranch, back-to-school parties, Books & Bagels, Boots & Bling, Pi Day, Thankful Thursdays, staff appreciation lunches, Teacher Appreciation Week, Holiday Happiness and more.

Funds raised by the SPA support tuition assistance, the Shelton Endowment Fund, campus security, the new auditorium, scholarships, mental health and more. In addition, funding supports a wide range of division and program needs, including Lower School literacy and Montessori materials; Middle School geometry, language arts, math and science materials; Upper School evaporative coolers for the chicken coop, a forensic anthropology set and a horizontal projectile launcher to investigate kinetic energy; Fine Arts musical instruments, cameras and lighting boards; and Athletics equipment including a cold and compression therapy unit, treadmills and cheer uniforms.

The SPA Co-Presidents for 2026–2027 are Bethard Hearne and Brettne Hemley. We are grateful to our wonderful Shelton parents!

During the SPA End-of-the-Year Breakfast, Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell thanked members of the SPA. "Thank you for your unwavering support and for creating an organization that is so inclusive and welcoming to new parents. None of this could've happened without the involvement of all of our parents."

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 Dr. Larry P. Tadlock, head of orthodontics at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, received the James E. Brophy Award April 30 at the American Association of Orthodontists’ annual session in Orlando, Florida. The award is given annually to an orthodontist who renders distinguished service to orthodontics and the AAO. 

Tadlock, a graduate of the then-Baylor College of Dentistry Class of 1984, served as general chair of the 2022 AAO Annual Session. He also served as director of the American Board of Orthodontics from 2011 to 2020 and was ABO president from 2018 to 2019. 

“Serving as a director of the ABO is one of the greatest privileges of my professional life,” he said. “Serving as general chair of the 2022 AAO Annual Session was challenging but successful because of the herculean efforts of the AAO staff and other AAO leaders, especially then-AAO President Ken Dilleay.” 

Tadlock joined A&M Dentistry’s faculty in 2000 at the urging of Dr. Rolf G. “Buzz” Behrents, who was the orthodontics department’s chairman. Behrents was scheduled to receive the AAO Lifetime Achievement Award in Orthodontic Research on May 3 at the annual session, but he passed away April 24. 

Tadlock, who received both his master’s and an orthodontic specialty certificate from what’s now UTHealth Houston, was in private practice in Keller and North Richland Hills for more than 30 years. He’s received numerous awards, including ABO’s Dale B. Wade Award of Excellence in Orthodontics in 2025; it’s presented to a senior clinician and board-certified orthodontist who demonstrates exceptional dedication to orthodontics. 

“This national recognition reflects Dr. Tadlock’s long-standing commitment to excellence in orthodontic education and service to the profession,” said Dr. Lily T. García, dean of A&M College of Dentistry. “As one of my dental school classmates, I have had the privilege of seeing firsthand his dedication and leadership, and I am proud to see him receive the prestigious James E. Brophy Award from the American Association of Orthodontists.” 

Orthodontics is the most prevalent dental specialty, the American Dental Association Health Policy Institute reported in 2025. About 5% of U.S. dentists are orthodontists. 

 

 

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Most people driving through Keller on Saturday morning probably didn't notice the work happening behind the scenes.

While many residents were starting their holiday weekend, a group of volunteers from the Keller Lions Club gathered at the Keller Veterans Memorial and Mt. Gilead Cemetery with gloves, tools, and a shared purpose: making sure Keller's veterans memorials are ready for Memorial Day.

More than a dozen volunteers spent the morning cleaning, landscaping, and performing maintenance at the memorial sites where families, veterans, and community members will gather to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The effort is part of an ongoing partnership between the Keller Lions Club and the City of Keller. According to organizers, the city provides materials while Lions Club members volunteer their time throughout the year to maintain the memorials.

What started as a grassroots effort several years ago has grown into a recurring community project that reflects something Keller has long been known for: neighbors working together to preserve the things that matter.

Among those volunteering Saturday morning were local business owners, veterans, civic leaders, and residents who simply wanted to give back to the community.

For Keller Lions Club President Larry Lodge, a veteran himself, the work carries a deeper meaning.

"Memorial Day is personal for those of us who served," Lodge said. "These memorials represent the lives and sacrifices of men and women who served our country, including those who never made it home. Taking care of them is one small way we can honor their legacy and ensure future generations understand the value of service, sacrifice, and freedom."

The volunteers focused their efforts on both the Keller Veterans Memorial located near Keller Parkway and Highway 377 and Mt. Gilead Cemetery, which will host Keller's annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony on Monday.

As the morning wrapped up, freshly cleaned memorials, trimmed landscaping, and American flags stood ready for the families and community members who will visit over Memorial Day weekend.

In a time when community can sometimes feel divided, Saturday's effort served as a simple reminder that honoring those who served is something that still brings people together.

Keller's Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony will be held Monday, May 25, at 10:30 a.m. at Mt. Gilead Cemetery.

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Most people driving through Keller on Saturday morning probably didn't notice the work happening behind the scenes.

While many residents were starting their holiday weekend, a group of volunteers from the Keller Lions Club gathered at the Keller Veterans Memorial and Mt. Gilead Cemetery with gloves, tools, and a shared purpose: making sure Keller's veterans memorials are ready for Memorial Day.

More than a dozen volunteers spent the morning cleaning, landscaping, and performing maintenance at the memorial sites where families, veterans, and community members will gather to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The effort is part of an ongoing partnership between the Keller Lions Club and the City of Keller. According to organizers, the city provides materials while Lions Club members volunteer their time throughout the year to maintain the memorials.

What started as a grassroots effort several years ago has grown into a recurring community project that reflects something Keller has long been known for: neighbors working together to preserve the things that matter.

Among those volunteering Saturday morning were local business owners, veterans, civic leaders, and residents who simply wanted to give back to the community.

For Keller Lions Club President Larry Lodge, a veteran himself, the work carries a deeper meaning.

"Memorial Day is personal for those of us who served," Lodge said. "These memorials represent the lives and sacrifices of men and women who served our country, including those who never made it home. Taking care of them is one small way we can honor their legacy and ensure future generations understand the value of service, sacrifice, and freedom."

The volunteers focused their efforts on both the Keller Veterans Memorial located near Keller Parkway and Highway 377 and Mt. Gilead Cemetery, which will host Keller's annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony on Monday.

As the morning wrapped up, freshly cleaned memorials, trimmed landscaping, and American flags stood ready for the families and community members who will visit over Memorial Day weekend.

In a time when community can sometimes feel divided, Saturday's effort served as a simple reminder that honoring those who served is something that still brings people together.

Keller's Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony will be held Monday, May 25, at 10:30 a.m. at Mt. Gilead Cemetery.

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Hawaiian Falls is making a splash this Memorial Day weekend as its Mansfield, Roanoke and Waco waterparks open daily for the summer season. Families can pack the sunscreen, grab the beach towels and celebrate the start of summer with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

Hawaiian Falls is making a splash this Memorial Day weekend as its Mansfield, Roanoke and Waco waterparks open daily for the summer season. Families can pack the sunscreen, grab the beach towels and celebrate the start of summer with slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.

To honor those who serve, Hawaiian Falls will offer free admission to all active-duty and retired military personnel with a valid military ID during Memorial Day weekend, Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25. The parks will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday and from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Memorial Day. Season passholders receive early entry 30 minutes before the parks open.

“As a thank you to the men and women who are currently serving and those retired from our armed forces, we want to offer these honored guests free admission,” said Hawaiian Falls Marketing Director Ron Mckenzie. “Because of their service, families can enjoy quality time with friends and families.”

Each of the waterparks feature a wave pool and lazy river in addition to slides and attractions of varying height and age requirements. Season passes in 2026 for individuals start at $49.99 for unlimited visits at their home park with early entry every operating day or $59.99 for unlimited visits at all three Hawaiian Falls waterparks with early entry every operating day, as well as 20 percent savings on all food and beverage, and 20 percent off on cabana rentals and 25 percent off weekday tickets for additional guests.  

Hawaiian Falls 2026 special events include:

  • Father’s Day weekend – Dads get in free June 21
  • Champions Day – June 13 and July 25 Champions (individuals with special needs) and their families will have exclusive access to the parks from 9 am -10 am. Champions tickets are FREE and family companion tickets are only $10 (limit 4) for the whole day.
  • Summer Sing-Along Dive in Movie Series – June 5 (Waco); June 12 (Mansfield) and June 19 (Roanoke) 
  • World’s Largest Swimming Lesson – June 25 in Mansfield Roanoke, and Waco
  • Independence Day weekend – Active duty and retired military personnel as well as first responders receive free admission.
  • Dive in Movie – July 10, 17 & 24 in Mansfield, Roanoke, and 
    in Waco.
  • Drop the Puck and Make a Splash – July 14 (Waco only)
  • Aloha Back to School Supply Drive – July 27 – August 9 

Hawaiian Falls Waterparks has been serving Texas families for more than 20 years, with locations in Roanoke, Mansfield, and Waco, Texas. Hawaiian Falls has been named among the Top 20 Best Waterparks in the United States. The parks feature a wide variety of attractions, slides, and amenities designed to create lasting memories for the families and communities they serve. For more information about Hawaiian Falls, including operating hours and details for the Mansfield, Roanoke, and Waco locations, visit hfalls.com. 

In 2025, Hawaiian Falls was acquired by Orlando‑based Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment, reinforcing a shared commitment to continued investment and long-term growth.

Built on the foundation of a daily newspaper cartoon in 1918 — still in print today — Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment has grown to be a global leader in family entertainment with more than 100 attractions across nine countries. Along with Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Ripley’s Aquariums, Great Wolf Lodge (Niagara Falls), Guinness World Records attractions, wax museums, traveling shows, miniature golf courses, mirror mazes, and more, the world of Ripley’s continues to grow through exciting new experiences, and online content.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment is a proud member of The Jim Pattison Group, Canada’s largest private company.

Learn more about Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment by visiting Ripleys.com  and following on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.