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Tashara Parker and Barbara Bush

Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas celebrated 90 years of trusted healthcare, education, and advocacy in a morning loaded with star power at the 35th Annual Planned Parenthood Dallas Awards on Tuesday, December 9th at AT&T Performing Arts Center Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House. Pam and John Beckert co-chaired the milestone celebration. Barbara Bush headlined the event with both laughter and tears.

Barbara Bush was on stage in a conversation moderated by award-winning journalist, Tashara Parker, that was filled with funny remembrances about the Bush family and sweet, tearful memories of her grandmother who she described as unstoppable in her devotion to family and to the causes she felt important. Bush is now the NBA's Head of Social Responsibility where she leads the leagues social impact efforts.

This year’s distinguished Gertrude Shelburne Humanitarian Award recipient was Froswa' Booker-Drew, Ph.D.  Froswa' who delivered a moving acceptance speech highlighting her  passion for women’s causes and her partnership with Planned Parenthood in new program benefiting women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. She is the author of four books including the award-winning, Empowering Charity: A New Narrative of Philanthropy Her latest book released this summer is Front Porch Wisdom: Navigating Leadership Pressures and Barriers as a Woman of Color. Dr. Froswa' is the co-founder of HERitage Giving Circle, one of the first Black Women Giving Circles in the state of Texas, and co-founder of both Power in Action-Dallas and the South Dallas Employment Project, a collaborative of 140 organizations to address those impacted by incarceration. She is the recipient of honors including the 2025 Making Democracy Work awardee by the League of Women Voters, 2024 Black Women Give Back Award, and 2023 Texas Women's Foundation Maura Women Helping Women Awards.  She serves on the Board of Governors for the Antioch University System, Vice-Chair of the ACLU-Texas Board, and as Co-Chair of the Board of For Oak Cliff.

The Katherine Ripley Print Media Award recipient was The Dallas Morning News for “The Standard of Fear”, a powerful investigative series amplifying Texans’ voices and exposing the impact of restrictive reproductive care. The Award was presented at a VIP reception on December 8th at a private Bluffview home.

After the event, guests were encouraged to dine at one of the upscale restaurants that shared the day’s proceeds with Planned Parenthood including Le Bilboquet, Nonna Teak Tearoom, Mirador and Lovers Seafood and Market.

For information about Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas, please go to http://www.ppgt.org

 

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BT1D Luncheon Ryan McCartan, Amy Camp, Susan Baldwin, Jim Baldwin

The 2025 Breakthrough T1D Dallas Luncheon, held on November 20 at Brook Hollow Golf Club, brought together a passionate community of nearly 200 families, supporters, volunteers, and leaders united by one goal: accelerating progress toward cures for type 1 diabetes. Hosted by longtime CBS 11 Texas news anchor and dedicated T1D mom Karen Borta, the afternoon opened with her heartfelt welcome and personal story about her daughter Kylie’s diagnosis at age 13. She acknowledged the incredible impact of Breakthrough T1D on her family and celebrated the luncheon’s milestone—more than $1 million raised to date for life-changing research and community programs.

Karen then introduced Deborah Sloan, president of the Breakthrough T1D Dallas Board of Directors and a partner at Jones Day. Deborah shared her family’s connection through her son Clayton, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 4 and is now 21 and thriving at NYU. She highlighted how the many advancements have improved his daily life. She also emphasized the momentum of the chapter, which raised more than $6 million last year, and invited guests to upcoming events including the Dallas Gala in April and a Mahjong tournament in December.

Next, Territory Executive Director Amy Camp offered an energizing update on Breakthrough T1D’s mission. She detailed the organization’s global push toward what the T1D community needs now and next: advancing more than 400 research projects and 11 clinical trials, expanding early detection, driving disease-modifying therapies, and accelerating progress toward cures. She noted Breakthrough T1D’s $146 million investment in research last year, amplified to $521 million through strategic partnerships.

“We can’t do this on our own – this is powered by people like you,” Camp said. “We stand on the shoulders of so many who have supported these efforts, which is why we continue to see such meaningful advances. We thank the Roosevelt family, who launched the luncheon in 2013 and helped grow it into a celebrated annual event that has now raised over $1.2 million for T1D research.” She also expressed her gratitude to the many sponsors whose generosity makes the luncheon possible.

Camp then welcomed the 2025 Luncheon Chairs, Susan and Jim Baldwin, longtime volunteers with Breakthrough T1D. They shared their personal connection to the mission as the parents of their daughter Sarah, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 9. Jim reflected on the shock and steep learning curve their family faced 23 years ago and described how today’s advancements—made possible through ongoing research—have greatly increased Sarah’s independence and safety as she builds her life in New York.  Jim added, “Progress is possible.” Their gratitude for the generosity in the room was unmistakable and deeply heartfelt.

After recognizing the host committee and generous sponsors, including Stage Sponsor Allie Beth Allman & Associates, Valet Sponsor Eiseman Jewels, Program Sponsor Sanofi, and Youth Ambassador Sponsor Sterner Sedeño Communications —Borta introduced the event’s highly anticipated keynote speaker, actor and singer Ryan McCartan. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 6, McCartan has built an impressive career on stage and screen. He recently completed a Broadway run as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby. His additional credits include Fiyero in the 15th anniversary cast of Wicked, Prince Hans in the closing cast of Frozen, and the originating role of Jason Dean in the Off-Broadway production of Heathers. He has also appeared in numerous television roles, most notably as Diggie Smalls on the Disney Channel’s Liv and Maddie.

 

McCartan delivered an inspiring and humorous keynote about growing up with T1D. Highlights include:

  • Referencing Nick Jonas: “I had been on the Disney Channel for many years but was only the second most famous Disney diabetic. Do you know who is number one? Nick Jonas!  I remember watching him and thinking I could do that. Today I’m here to speak not as Nick Jonas—but as the next best thing.”
  • Early diagnosis: “I had no understanding of why I was constantly thirsty, shaky, exhausted, and frequently wetting the bed. It was all due to chronic high blood sugar.”
    • First experience managing T1D:  Attendinga Minnesota clinic, he learned to check his blood sugar and manage insulin – something he has done on his own ever since: “The suite of tools they used back then were actually developed by JDRF, now Breakthrough T1D, so you could say I have come full circle speaking here today.”  
    • Two areas of awareness: the importance of education and the power of levity. “I believe in the power of laughter and talking to others. I remember my first conversation with an agent who told me not to tell anyone about my diabetes as it was a potential burden. Now, just a week ago, I’m on a billboard in New York acknowledging I have diabetes – it’s not a secret, it’s a fact.  That’s a breakthrough.”
    • How he got his start: From a middle-class family, he was discovered at age 7 after being asked to sing at his sister’s voice lesson. “The teacher was looking for a young boy for a musical, and I got a call the next day.”
    • How T1D helped shape his career: “All my life I have been showing up, following directions, and paying attention—that’s what had been keeping me alive.” It was assumed he was an experienced actor because his teacher had exaggerated his background, though his only experience was managing diabetes. When the lead left a Halloween rehearsal for trick-or-treating, Ryan stepped in. “I had no interest in that—candy was a new poison, and as for a normal childhood, that ship had sailed. I got the lead, which led to more opportunities.”
    • Reflecting on T1D: “T1D has made me resilient, empathetic, and motivated. The louder and prouder you live with your circumstances, the more you get back. Nothing feels better than giving the keynote speech for the organization that saved your life.”
    • Looking ahead: “My story isn’t over. There are children, teens, and adults whose stories are just beginning. My dream for the future is that we do such a good job that we don’t need these types of luncheons anymore because we cured T1D… and we usher in an era where Disney and Broadway stars are just really good actors.”

Additional attendees included: Jen Burns, Amy Donovan, Natalie and Houston Duncan, Deborah Gunter, Richard Eiseman, Ola Fojtasek, Nirada Koonrugsa-Fritz and Anders Fritz, Tricia and Kenn George, Rohini Mehdiratta, Melissa Richards, Kim and David Roosevelt, Melissa Sherrill, Lisa Singleton, Janice and Gary Walsh, Sharyl and John Weber, and Terry Van Willson.

The afternoon concluded with a Q&A, leaving attendees inspired, connected, and motivated to continue driving progress. Thanks to the generosity and passion in the room, the 2025 Dallas Luncheon strengthened the momentum toward a world where type 1 diabetes is no longer part of anyone’s story.

(photo credit: Tamytha Cameron)

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BT1D Luncheon Ryan McCartan, Amy Camp, Susan Baldwin, Jim Baldwin

The 2025 Breakthrough T1D Dallas Luncheon, held on November 20 at Brook Hollow Golf Club, brought together a passionate community of nearly 200 families, supporters, volunteers, and leaders united by one goal: accelerating progress toward cures for type 1 diabetes. Hosted by longtime CBS 11 Texas news anchor and dedicated T1D mom Karen Borta, the afternoon opened with her heartfelt welcome and personal story about her daughter Kylie’s diagnosis at age 13. She acknowledged the incredible impact of Breakthrough T1D on her family and celebrated the luncheon’s milestone—more than $1 million raised to date for life-changing research and community programs.

Karen then introduced Deborah Sloan, president of the Breakthrough T1D Dallas Board of Directors and a partner at Jones Day. Deborah shared her family’s connection through her son Clayton, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 4 and is now 21 and thriving at NYU. She highlighted how the many advancements have improved his daily life. She also emphasized the momentum of the chapter, which raised more than $6 million last year, and invited guests to upcoming events including the Dallas Gala in April and a Mahjong tournament in December.

Next, Territory Executive Director Amy Camp offered an energizing update on Breakthrough T1D’s mission. She detailed the organization’s global push toward what the T1D community needs now and next: advancing more than 400 research projects and 11 clinical trials, expanding early detection, driving disease-modifying therapies, and accelerating progress toward cures. She noted Breakthrough T1D’s $146 million investment in research last year, amplified to $521 million through strategic partnerships.

“We can’t do this on our own – this is powered by people like you,” Camp said. “We stand on the shoulders of so many who have supported these efforts, which is why we continue to see such meaningful advances. We thank the Roosevelt family, who launched the luncheon in 2013 and helped grow it into a celebrated annual event that has now raised over $1.2 million for T1D research.” She also expressed her gratitude to the many sponsors whose generosity makes the luncheon possible.

Camp then welcomed the 2025 Luncheon Chairs, Susan and Jim Baldwin, longtime volunteers with Breakthrough T1D. They shared their personal connection to the mission as the parents of their daughter Sarah, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 9. Jim reflected on the shock and steep learning curve their family faced 23 years ago and described how today’s advancements—made possible through ongoing research—have greatly increased Sarah’s independence and safety as she builds her life in New York.  Jim added, “Progress is possible.” Their gratitude for the generosity in the room was unmistakable and deeply heartfelt.

After recognizing the host committee and generous sponsors, including Stage Sponsor Allie Beth Allman & Associates, Valet Sponsor Eiseman Jewels, Program Sponsor Sanofi, and Youth Ambassador Sponsor Sterner Sedeño Communications —Borta introduced the event’s highly anticipated keynote speaker, actor and singer Ryan McCartan. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 6, McCartan has built an impressive career on stage and screen. He recently completed a Broadway run as Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby. His additional credits include Fiyero in the 15th anniversary cast of Wicked, Prince Hans in the closing cast of Frozen, and the originating role of Jason Dean in the Off-Broadway production of Heathers. He has also appeared in numerous television roles, most notably as Diggie Smalls on the Disney Channel’s Liv and Maddie.

 

McCartan delivered an inspiring and humorous keynote about growing up with T1D. Highlights include:

  • Referencing Nick Jonas: “I had been on the Disney Channel for many years but was only the second most famous Disney diabetic. Do you know who is number one? Nick Jonas!  I remember watching him and thinking I could do that. Today I’m here to speak not as Nick Jonas—but as the next best thing.”
  • Early diagnosis: “I had no understanding of why I was constantly thirsty, shaky, exhausted, and frequently wetting the bed. It was all due to chronic high blood sugar.”
    • First experience managing T1D:  Attendinga Minnesota clinic, he learned to check his blood sugar and manage insulin – something he has done on his own ever since: “The suite of tools they used back then were actually developed by JDRF, now Breakthrough T1D, so you could say I have come full circle speaking here today.”  
    • Two areas of awareness: the importance of education and the power of levity. “I believe in the power of laughter and talking to others. I remember my first conversation with an agent who told me not to tell anyone about my diabetes as it was a potential burden. Now, just a week ago, I’m on a billboard in New York acknowledging I have diabetes – it’s not a secret, it’s a fact.  That’s a breakthrough.”
    • How he got his start: From a middle-class family, he was discovered at age 7 after being asked to sing at his sister’s voice lesson. “The teacher was looking for a young boy for a musical, and I got a call the next day.”
    • How T1D helped shape his career: “All my life I have been showing up, following directions, and paying attention—that’s what had been keeping me alive.” It was assumed he was an experienced actor because his teacher had exaggerated his background, though his only experience was managing diabetes. When the lead left a Halloween rehearsal for trick-or-treating, Ryan stepped in. “I had no interest in that—candy was a new poison, and as for a normal childhood, that ship had sailed. I got the lead, which led to more opportunities.”
    • Reflecting on T1D: “T1D has made me resilient, empathetic, and motivated. The louder and prouder you live with your circumstances, the more you get back. Nothing feels better than giving the keynote speech for the organization that saved your life.”
    • Looking ahead: “My story isn’t over. There are children, teens, and adults whose stories are just beginning. My dream for the future is that we do such a good job that we don’t need these types of luncheons anymore because we cured T1D… and we usher in an era where Disney and Broadway stars are just really good actors.”

Additional attendees included: Jen Burns, Amy Donovan, Natalie and Houston Duncan, Deborah Gunter, Richard Eiseman, Ola Fojtasek, Nirada Koonrugsa-Fritz and Anders Fritz, Tricia and Kenn George, Rohini Mehdiratta, Melissa Richards, Kim and David Roosevelt, Melissa Sherrill, Lisa Singleton, Janice and Gary Walsh, Sharyl and John Weber, and Terry Van Willson.

The afternoon concluded with a Q&A, leaving attendees inspired, connected, and motivated to continue driving progress. Thanks to the generosity and passion in the room, the 2025 Dallas Luncheon strengthened the momentum toward a world where type 1 diabetes is no longer part of anyone’s story.

(photo credit: Tamytha Cameron)

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I live in North Texas. Big body luxury SUVs are a way of life so when a vehicle promises the confidence of an Escalade and the calm power of an EV, you know I’m going to explore it. Luckily, I wear lots of hats (mom-journalist-founder-coach) and can view it with the variety of lens all firmly in place. That being said, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ is Cadillac’s boldest step yet into the electric future, and after spending time with it, I can confirm: this one is a beauty, designed for families who love space, style, and the thrill of seamless power.

It’s big. It’s beautiful. It's luxe and thoughtfully designed. And it is purpose built to support busy, full of life, being-pulled-in-10,000-directions households like ours.

A New Kind of Power: Electric, Smooth, and Delightfully Powerful

From the exterior, it looks unapologetically like Escalade with a glam and striking front fascia. The Escalade IQ doesn’t whisper “electric”—it declares it while remaining true to its much-loved roots. Echoing the thrill of the V-Series, with up to 750 horsepower available and instant torque that makes this land yacht float, the IQ reminds you the beauty of electric power -- zero lag and an easy access point to performance, this SUV delivers the kind of performance that reminds you: yes, electric -- even a big electric -- can absolutely be exhilarating.

Smooth navy leather with pale grey piping round out a first-class cabin appeal. Credit: Teia Collier

  • Up to 460 miles of range (under ideal conditions)
  • 100 miles of charge in about 10 minutes on a fast charger
  • Whisper-quiet acceleration
  • Standard all-wheel drive for year-round confidence

Behind the wheel, it feels like traditional Escalade luxury wrapped around the modern ease and efficiency of an EV. Instant response. Smooth ride. Stellar driver assistance and safety suite. Zero fuel stops on your weekly routine, if you charge at home. It’s luxury that supports real life—not the other way around. It makes it easy to love, live and enjoy the journey that you happen to be on.

Driving Experience: Big Body Presence, Surprisingly Nimble

For a vehicle of this size, the Escalade IQ drives with unexpected grace.

Yes, it's a land yacht. It's massive -- think the size of a full-size truck with the additional body height of an enclosed trunk. That being said, Cadillac does big body SUVs better than most, making good use of their signaturefour-wheel steering system tightens the turning radius, making parking lots, school pickup lines, and city garages less intimidating. Add Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that creates a cloud-like drive that can handle even the bumpiest of roads and still let your youngest nap in the back and Magnetic Ride Control to create a ride experience that is refined, controlled, and ready for everything from road trips, to carpool and date night.

24" Wheels that echo the style and grace of American luxury. Credit: Teia Collier

And of course, Super Cruise, the hands-free driving system that takes the edge off long highway stretches, acts like a luxe boon when activated. The trek from Dallas to Houston was a breeze, and families who road trip will appreciate what a difference it makes when the vehicle can confidently help share the load.

Inside the Cabin: Lounge-Level Luxury for Families Who Do It All

Step inside, and the Escalade IQ gives you the full “flagship Cadillac” experience. It reminds you that Cadillac is pure, decadent American luxury on four wheels. My youngest noted that "he finally got the good seats." -- and he is right. The mid-cabin experience is top tier and had us looking for reasons to get in and explore.

The First Thing You Notice: The Screens

It shines at night. Massive 55-inch touch screen and climate control makes it modern and accessible. (Credit: Teia Collier)

A sweeping 55-inch curved LED display spans the dash, blending driver information and entertainment in one breathtaking view. Paired with Google Built-In, 5G connectivity, and streaming capability, the IQ feels like a rolling digital sanctuary.

Space & Comfort

Executive seating and in car coolers elevate the space. Rear entertainment set up for the win.

  • Three-row seating for up to seven passengers
  • Plush materials and detailed stitching throughout
  • Available Executive Second-Row Seating with massage, individual screens, and recline functions
  • A 12.2 cu-ft front trunk (eTrunk) for strollers, bags, tech gear, or road-trip extras

It’s big-car energy with boutique-hotel comfort—creating a space that works for families, creatives, and entrepreneurs who live life at full speed.

Family-Friendly Features That Make a Real Difference

A drive that makes you smile. (Credit: Teia Collier)

As a mom and a storyteller who spends half her life in transit, I evaluate vehicles by how well they support modern family chaos. The Escalade IQ earns its stripes here:

  • Quiet cabin that turns late-night drives into soothing and peaceful moments that you look for reasons to recreate.
  • Hands-free power doors and soft-close features—no more slamming or contortionist moves to close doors.

Open and close doors with a slide of finger on the screen from the center console that also houses a wireless charging pad. (Credit: Teia Collier)

  • Advanced camera system and Night Vision for easy maneuvering after dark and navigating the girth of a massive drive.
  • Generous cargo room including the eTrunk that is perfect for all the gear that growing families make use of
  • 8,000-pound towing capacity for trailers, gear, or weekend adventures

A "Frunk" or e-trunk with generous space. (Credit: Teia Collier)

If you can dream the trip, this SUV can support it.

Design: Clean, Bold, Confident—An Omen of Cadillac’s New Chapter

Outside, the Escalade IQ blends Escalade presence with a hefty dose of futuristic refinement. Clean lines, elegant textures, bold lighting signatures, and a stance that says luxury without shouting. Cadillac leans into an electric aesthetic without losing the iconic shape families (and celebrities) have loved for decades.

The result? A statement vehicle that still feels warm, approachable, and deeply functional with the extra delight of some serious swag factor.

Pricing & Value: A Premium SUV Built for the Long Game

Starting around $127,000, the Escalade IQ competes at the top tier of the luxury EV SUV segment—alongside the Rivian R1S, Mercedes EQS SUV, and BMW iX. All are stellar competitors, particularly for the driver that wants an EV with a striking appearance and future tech now modernity, but what sets Cadillac apart is its blend of:

  • Pure American luxury
  • Long-range electric capability
  • High-tech comfort
  • Family-first usability

Built for longevity—both in design and in the technology that powers it, the 2025 Escalade IQ is a green flag for the new direction of Cadillac.

Final Thoughts: Who Is the Escalade IQ Perfect For?

This SUV is purpose-made for families, entrepreneurs, and luxury lovers who want:

Front 3/4 view of the 2025 Cadillac ESCALADE IQ in Summit White parked on a city street.

✔ A fully electric SUV without sacrificing space or comfort.
✔ Cutting-edge tech in a familiar, refined package.
✔ A quiet, powerful vehicle that is intuitively designed to make everyday life feel smoother and just a little bit easier.
✔ A flagship machine that supports long trips, big schedules, big families and even bigger dreams.

For those building a life filled with adventure, ambition, and beautiful moments, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ feels like a lucky road partner—one that shows up ready for everything.

Ready to experience it or need a recommendation to a trusted dealer? Let us know here, and we'll get a list right over to you.

 

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For many children in foster care, the holiday season can be the hardest time of the year. While others gather for familiar traditions, these kids often face grief, separation, and reminders of past trauma. Some spend the holidays in group homes or temporary placements instead of stable family settings, making what should be a joyful season feel confusing and lonely.

In the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex alone, more than 9,000 children are currently in foster care, a number that reflects the urgent need for safe, nurturing homes here at home, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.Every year many youth age out of care without ever finding that lifelong connection. 

This is why adoption and foster support matter so deeply, especially now. Every child deserves a safe home, consistent traditions, and adults who show up for them not only during the holidays, but all year long. Opening your heart and home to a child can change the trajectory of their life and give them a sense of belonging at a time when it is needed most.

That’s why EMPOWER, a child welfare collaborative serving children and families across North Texas, is reminding the Dallas-Fort Worth community about the importance of offering love, stability, and hope throughout the holidays and beyond. The organization works alongside local families, support networks, and child welfare professionals to meet the unique needs of children in care, helping ensure they don’t walk this season alone. 

You don’t have to adopt to make a difference. You can mentor, support foster families, raise awareness, or simply take time to learn about the needs of children waiting for permanency. Every act of kindness strengthens the fabric of our community and shows kids that they matter, that their story can be full of hope, and that there is a place where they belong.

During this season of giving, consider the gift of family. Know that your involvement, in whatever form that takes, can bring light into a child’s life when they need it most.

 

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This holiday season, skip the wrapping paper and give a gift that truly shines. Tianyu Arts & Culture and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Grand Prairie have teamed up to offer the ultimate experiential gift—a combo package that unlocks two of North Texas’ most dazzling attractions, located just five minutes apart. It’s the perfect way to enjoy both experiences in one magical day or spread the fun across multiple visits.

Ideal for families, friends, or anyone who prefers memories over material gifts, this limited-time package delivers double the excitement with:

One-time entry to Tianyu Lights Festival— valid any date and time during the festival season, where guests can wander through glowing lantern worlds, enjoy live performances, sip warm seasonal drinks, and explore an artisan marketplace filled with handcrafted treasures.

One-time entry to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Grand Prairie 5-Way Combo— including the Odditorium, Enchanted Mirror Maze, Power Up, Wax Hands, and Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks. 

Two package options—Adult and Child —make it easy to build a holiday outing, surprise a loved one, or tuck the experience under the tree for a magical reveal. Guests may enjoy both attractions on the same day or choose two separate days of fun.

“Experience gifts are the most meaningful gifts,” said Huiyuan Liu, event manager for the Tianyu Lights Festival. “Pairing our immersive lantern worlds with the unforgettable adventures at Ripley’s gives families a chance to create memories they’ll cherish long after the holiday lights come down.”

Perfect for stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, family experiences, or out-of-town visitors, the combo package offers a unique twist on holiday giving—blending holiday wonder with interactive fun, just minutes apart in Grand Prairie.

To purchase the combo package or explore festival details, visit: tianyuculture.us/dallas

 

Combo: Admission to 5 Ripley’s Grand Prairie Attractions + Tianyu Lights Festival

Pricing: Adults: $63.75, Children: $51.5 (including all taxes and fees)

Available: November 4 – January 18, 2026

 

Valid Nov. 4, 2025 through Jan. 18, 2026. Combo sold through Tianyu Lights Festival. Includes all five Ripley’s Grand Prairie attractions and Tianyu Lights entry.

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Shirley Horn recently marked her 93rd birthday with a celebration at The Carnegie, inviting all community residents to join in the joy. The event was more than a personal milestone—it highlighted the vibrant friendships and connections that make life here so special.

At The Carnegie, residents have countless opportunities to gather, celebrate, and build lasting relationships. Moments like Shirley’s birthday reflect the heart of our community: a place where everyone belongs, friendships flourish, and everyday life is full of shared experiences.

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Surrender to the NEW DQ Restaurants in Texas Chicken Tenders

DQ® restaurants in Texas are raising the bar with the introduction of their new undeniably crispy and juicy chicken tenders. Made from 100% chicken tenderloin, each tender is marinated in a signature blend of spices, coated in golden breading, and cooked to crunchy perfection. Every bite is deliciously tender, packed full of flavor, and crafted to shine alongside classic DQ dipping sauces.

Fans can enjoy the all-new Chicken Tender Country Basket, served with their choice of dipping sauce, including the classic creamy gravy or DQ Texas sauce, and paired with the iconic Texas toast and crispy fries for an unforgettable flavor experience.

“DQ fans across Texas will Surrender to the Tender,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “These new tenders deliver bold flavor, a perfect crispy crunch, and the kind of craveable experience that keeps guests coming back for more.”

Fans can add a festive finish to their Chicken Tender Country Basket from the Blizzard® Treat menu with the NEW Peppermint Bark Blizzard Treat or the returning Frosted Sugar Cookie Blizzard Treat.

This holiday season, DQ restaurants in Texas are offering holiday-themed gift cards, perfect for treating friends and family. DQ fans can share the joy this season by giving the gift of Treats and Eats from their favorite DQ restaurant in Texas. 

For more than 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries. 

 

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Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) has awarded Dallas College Foundation a $500,000 grant—the largest education and workforce development grant the Texas Women’s Foundation has ever made to a single organization. Texas Women’s Foundation leaders presented a check on November 19 at Dallas College’s Brookhaven Campus to support programs helping thousands of students enroll in Dallas College and access wraparound services that help them complete their education. These programs are part of Dallas College Foundation’s work to drive innovation and student success at Dallas College through strategic philanthropic investments.

Josh Skolnick, Executive Director of Dallas College Foundation said, “We thank Texas Women’s Foundation for its commitment to making a significant impact in education. This grant will help thousands of students achieve a life-changing credential, leading them to a rewarding career in Dallas’ top industries. The supported programs, including the Dallas College Promise Scholarship, have already helped over 26,000 students pursue their dreams.” Dallas College is  one of the largest colleges in the nation, serving more than 130,000 students.

Texas Women’s Foundation Board Chair Cris Zertuche Wong shared the findings from TXWF’s 2024 Economic Issues for Women in Texas Report. “Women play a critical role in the Texas economy, representing 46% of the workforce. And according to the Commit Partnership, 63% of all jobs in Texas will require some post-secondary education by 2031. This grant is designed to help women pursue and complete their education and to advance opportunities for economic security, stability, and success for themselves, their families and their futures.”

Dr. Carlos Cruz, Associate Vice Chancellor of Well Being & Social Support at Dallas College, discussed the grant’s impact. “A substantial portion of this grant will support the Dallas College Promise Scholarship, offering a tuition-free associate or bachelor’s degree to qualifying seniors at Promise High Schools. Scholarships are also available to eligible students’ parents or guardians to pursue a scholarship or to fund a certificate or associate’s degree at no cost, thus making this a true two-generation approach.”

He added, “The grant also supports the Finish & Fly Fund, helping students complete the final credit hours and certification exams needed for their credential, and the Family Care Program that supports student parents and expectant parents by addressing family care needs and providing critical wraparound services. Family support includes classes on parenting, nutrition and wellness, while also receiving guidance from a dedicated team that includes a student care coordinator, success coach, licensed counselor and academic tutor.”

Ann Margolin, Dallas College Foundation Board Vice Chair, former Texas Women’s Foundation board member and longtime supporter, added, “Thank you, Texas Women’s Foundation, for your leadership in research, advocacy and grantmaking. By making sure that education and workforce development are at the forefront of advancing women and girls, you are ensuring that the 14.7 million of us who call Texas home will play on a level playing field.” 

Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, concluded, “Thank you, Dallas College, for the work you do to advance economic mobility for students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the workforce. We are grateful to play a part in increasing opportunities for them.”

About Dallas College Foundation:  

Dallas College Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 that advances economic mobility for students by channeling the power of philanthropy to lift Dallas College to new heights of innovation, equity and excellence. Since its creation in 1973, the Foundation has raised more than $153 million in private donations and distributed more than $79 million in scholarships and grants to support thousands of students in Dallas College.    

About Texas Women’s Foundation:

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North Texas’ coolest holiday host, DJ Polar Ice of The Light Park, delivered festive cheer, high-energy music, and unforgettable family fun during two beloved holiday traditions: the 2025 Dallas Holiday Parade and Little Elm’s Very Merry Christmas celebration and parade.

A fan favorite across Texas, DJ Polar Ice entertained thousands of spectators across both cities, spreading the joy, sparkle, and music synonymous with The Light Park—Texas’ biggest drive-thru holiday lights spectacular.

A Frosty Favorite at the Dallas Holiday Parade

On Saturday morning, DJ Polar Ice joined the iconic Dallas Holiday Parade, appearing alongside The Light Park float featuring dazzling lights, themed décor, and costumed characters. With an estimated 400,000+ spectators lining the streets and thousands more watching the televised broadcast, Polar Ice kept spirits bright with curated holiday mixes, crowd engagement, and signature dance prompts that delighted families of all ages.

The Light Park float appeared in the second half of the televised broadcast, offering viewers a joyful reminder that holiday fun continues all season long at three DFW locations—Frisco, Arlington, and Little Elm.

“This parade has been the heartbeat of Dallas holiday tradition for decades,” said The Light Park’s Matt Johnson. “Bringing DJ Polar Ice to the streets of downtown provided a perfect way to show the community exactly what The Light Park does best—celebrate togetherness, joy, and the magic of the season.”

Holiday Joy Continues in Little Elm

Later that same day, DJ Polar Ice brought the winter wonderland energy to Little Elm’s Very Merry Christmas Parade, walking the route alongside costumed characters and festive floats. Following the parade, the celebration concluded with the annual Tree Lighting, drawing families to Little Elm’s lakeside district for seasonal activities, photo ops, and holiday performances.

Little Elm officials welcomed more than 6,000 attendees, marking one of the community’s most spirited turnouts. DJ Polar Ice’s interaction with children and families throughout the walk and tree lighting added extra excitement, music, and movement to the beloved hometown celebration.

“Little Elm represents the heart of Texas holiday community spirit,” said Johnson. “Polar Ice is more than a DJ—he’s a character who invites people to dance, laugh, and simply feel the magic of being together.”

The Light Park: The Holiday Experience That Keeps Celebrating

Families who met DJ Polar Ice along the parade routes are invited to continue the fun at The Light Park, open nightly through January 4 at all DFW locations.

Guests enjoy:

  • Millions of synchronized holiday lights
  • Drive-thru formats perfect for families, pets & visiting relatives
  • Soundtrack synced to their car radio
  • Specialty treats, including Blitzen Bundles and photo collectibles
  • Weeknight value pricing and limited-time holiday offerings

Holiday travelers, visiting grandparents, and families looking to keep the celebration going will find the most accessible and stress-free holiday tradition right from the seat of their own car.