2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium Features Two Dynamic Speakers

Join us on Saturday, February 22, 2025

Sponsored by the Dallas Historical Society | CPE credit is available for educators

There is a very special treat in store for Dallas Historical Society (DHS) members and all Alamo and history enthusiasts on Saturday, February 22nd at the 2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium sponsored by DHS. The event features two dynamic speakers: Ernesto Rodriguez III, Senior Historian at the Alamo and Sherri Driscoll, who from 2010 to 2024 served as the Director of Education for the Alamo, designing and coordinating programming for students, contributing to their understanding of Texas History.
        
Ernesto is a San Antonio native and has devoted over 25 years to historical research at this incredible site. His deep knowledge and love for the Alamo’s story and Texas history was recognized in 2019 when he was promoted from Associate Curator to Curator. As Curator, Ernesto is dedicated to the scholarly research that underpins both interpretive planning for the Alamo museum and a greater understanding of the Alamo’s archive and artifact collections.
        
This entertaining and informative symposium begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Hall of State in Fair Park at 3939 Grand Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210. The event is free and open to the public. Parking is free. Free continental breakfast. CPE credit is available for educators.  Register now! What a fun Saturday!
        
Plus afterwards, go right next door to the interactive massive diorama of the Alamo, Texas Liberty Forever,  ( https://www.dallashistory.org/exhibitions/ ) and use the iPads to hear the sounds of the battle, see close-up images and hear brief explanations of the different scenes. The app can also be downloaded to your own cell phone to experience this fabulous diorama. 
        
Created by Pennsylvania-based artist Thomas Feely Jr. over 18 years and stretching across 336 square feet, the Texas Liberty Forever! diorama is the largest depiction of its kind and serves as the centerpiece of the Battle of the Alamo Exhibit at the Hall of State. The re-creation of the besieged Alamo compound features over 2,000 hand-painted figures sculpted in 1/32 scale (54 mm).
        
Karl Chiao is the executive director of the Dallas Historical Society and Charles Lipscomb is board chair.
        
The 2025 Reed and Stanley Graff Texas History Symposium is funded by a donation from Dallas native Stan Graff with the goal of preserving the history of Texas by bringing educational and informative speakers to the Dallas Historical Society's Hall of State, and to invite participation by the general public in these free events.       
        
For more information, the public can contact David Lee at (214) 421-4500 ext. 104,  email education@dallashistory.org  and visit the website to register at  https://www.dallashistory.org/event/10567/?instance_id=737   

The Dallas Historical Society: Whether someone is new to Dallas or a native Texan, the Dallas Historical Society offers programs and exhibits that educate and inform visitors about their home city and reveal insights and little-known facts that one might be unable to attain from history books alone, especially with the museum’s newest permanent exhibit, the interactive Texas Liberty Forever: The Battle of the Alamo diorama by Thomas Feely.

Ongoing events include Brown Bag Lectures, An Evening With programs, and Pour Yourself Into History happy hours. Join in discovering more about Dallas and take part in one or more of these wonderful programs. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org

The Dallas Historical Society Celebrated Its Centennial Year In 2022 

The stories of Dallas are shared each day at the Dallas Historical Society through the three million items that comprise our archives and artifact collections. Established in 1922, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the unique heritage of Dallas and Texas to educate and inspire future generations.

Housed at the Hall of State in Fair Park since 1938, DHS presents these collections through education programs, exhibitions, tours, access to research materials and workshops. 

Among the three million historical artifacts at DHS are such treasures as Sam Houston’s handwritten account of the Battle of San Jacinto, the only known original Juneteenth document, James Fannin’s watch, and Santa Anna’s spurs. The DHS collection houses over 10,000 bound volumes and receives more than 1,500 research requests annually.

Each year, the Dallas Historical Society is visited by over 160,000 people and serves more than 20,000 students through guided tours and educational programming at the Hall of State, as well as outreach programs at schools. Visit the website for more information at www.dallashistory.org        IG: @dallashistory  FB: @DallasHistoricalSociety 

 Courtesy photos DHS.

By Nida Noor, MD, WellMed at Arlington North

February is recognized as American Heart Month, a health observance that encourages Americans to focus on their cardiovascular health and understand the importance of adopting healthier behaviors that can decrease the risk of serious health outcomes, such as a heart attack or stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States.

By adopting healthier lifestyle habits, individuals can learn to incorporate small, but powerful, changes into their day-to-day routines that can help prevent heart disease. The CDC states that living a healthier lifestyle can help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels normal and may help lower your risk of heart disease and heart attack.

Living a longer, healthier life starts with taking care of your heart. Here are six lifestyle habits that can be implemented today that may improve not only the heart, but whole-body health.

Choose Healthy Foods and Drinks.  By choosing healthy meals and snacks, you may help prevent heart disease and heart complications.Be sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, and less processed foods. Eating foods high in fiber and low in saturated and trans fats can help prevent high cholesterol.  Since drinking alcohol can raise your blood pressure, if you choose to drink, limit the amount of alcohol consumed to no more than one drink per day for women, and no more than 2 drinks per day for men. 

1. Keep a Healthy Weight.  Maintaining healthy weight is important.  People who are overweight or suffer from obesity have a higher risk of heart disease. Extra weight can put extra stress on the blood vessels and the heart.

2. Get Regular Physical Activity.  Any physical activity is better than none.  It can be helpful to choose an activity that you enjoy, such as biking, yoga, walking, swimming or tennis. Physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, and help lower your blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. For adults, the Surgeon General recommends at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking or biking, every week for heart health.  For adolescents and children, it is recommended they get at least 1 hour of physical activity daily.

Disclaimer: Talk with your doctor before significantly increasing your activity level. This is especially important for those with underlying medical conditions. Ask about the amounts and types of activities that may be best for you.

3. Don’t Smoke.  Cigarette smoking and tobacco use can increase your risk of heart disease. If you are a non-smoker, do not start.  If you smoke, quitting will lower your risk for heart disease.  Talk to your doctor to learn about ways to help you quit.

4. Take Charge of Your Medical Conditions.  If you have a medical condition such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, you can take steps to help lower your risk of heart disease. Monitor your cholesterol as recommended by your health care provider, check your blood pressure on a regular basis, and manage your blood sugar levels if you have pre-diabetes or diabetes. If you take medication to treat any of these diseases, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Never stop taking medication without first talking to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

5. Get Good Sleep.  Getting a good night’s sleep isn’t just important for your energy levels, it is also critical for your heart health.   Adults who do not get at least 7 hours of sleep each night are more likely to have had health problems such as heart attack, asthma and depression, some of which can raise the risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Some things you can do to get better sleep include sticking to a regular sleep schedule, do not eat or drink within a few hours of bedtime, keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and get enough physical activity during the day.

It’s true that some habits are hard to break but remember that small steps can lead to big victories.  Take one habit at a time and with a series of small changes you are on your way to a healthier lifestyle and healthier heart.

Dr. Nida Noor specializes in family medicine with WellMed at Arlington North.  Dr. Noor received her medical degree from Lahore Medical and Dental College in Punjab, Pakistan; completed her residency at Reid Health (KCU-GME Consortium) in Richmond, Indiana, and is certified by the American Board of Family Medicine. She is fluent in English, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi. Dr. Noor provides patients with personalized care focusing on prevention, staying well and living healthier.

Resources:

• Preventing Heart Disease | Heart Disease | CDC
• American Heart Month Communications Toolkit | Heart Disease | CDC
• Heart Disease Facts | Heart Disease | CDC
• About Sleep and Your Heart Health | Heart Disease | CDC

Dwell with Dignity, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through design, celebrated the grand reveal of its largest project to date: a library transformation at Dallas ISD’s Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy (BOMLA). The Eula Harris-Williams Library Media Center, which has been transformed into a vibrant hub for learning and growth, reflects the vision of more than 400 students who shared their ideas for the transformation.

“This library is a testament to what thoughtful design can achieve and the heart of what our work is about,” said Teresa Charnock, executive director of Dwell with Dignity. “It’s been an incredible honor to help bring the vision of the BOMLA community to life. Their creativity and insight have shaped a space that will serve as a foundation for learning, connection and growth for years to come.”

Members of the BOMLA community, including students, educators and local leaders, gathered to celebrate the library’s transformation. The event included remarks from Nakia Douglas, founding principal of BOMLA, and Chris Blackburn of Texas Counter Fitters, lead sponsor, as well as performances by the BOMLA band and a tour of the transformed spaces.

Renovated spaces include:

• Library: A welcoming environment with updated seating for reading, studying and group collaboration.
• Campus Community Hub: A space where students can access uniforms, school supplies, toiletries and food, underwritten by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.
• Podcast Room: A creative studio for students to record and share their stories.
• Student Success Center: A private space for college and career counseling, helping first-generation college-bound students prepare for the future.
• Historical and Art Center: A showcase of Oak Cliff’s rich history through photography and student artwork.
• STEM Learning Space: Featuring stones, gems and minerals donated by Texas Counter Fitters, this hands-on area introduces students to geology and STEM learning.

“This library is more than a transformation – it’s a testament to the potential within our students and the power of their voices,” said Nakia Douglas, founding principal of BOMLA. “It’s a space where their ideas come to life, and they can find the tools, inspiration and support to pursue their dreams with confidence.”

The transformation of the BOMLA library was a collaborative effort between Dwell with Dignity, BOMLA and key sponsors including Texas Counter Fitters, lead sponsor, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and the State Fair of Texas. Their generous contributions and commitment to the BOMLA community helped turn the vision for this library into a reality.

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 250 home design projects and 50 community spaces, and in 2024 the organization served more than 3,000 people through their home and community projects. The nonprofit is backed by the support of over 100 designers, 1,100 dedicated volunteers and 150 sponsors and donors. Learn more at www.dwellwithdignity.org.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:

Chris Blackburn, Founder and Owner, Texas Counter Fitters:
“The young men of Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy are incredibly impressive. They are dedicated to their studies and shine outside the classroom as well, demonstrating talents in music, photography and art. We understand the power of having a beautiful space to inspire these young minds. That’s why we wanted to partner with Dwell with Dignity to transform the library AND create a brand new podcast room for the boys to tell their stories.”

Jessica Vitela, Manager, Community Relations and Events, State Fair of Texas:
“At the State Fair of Texas, our mission extends far beyond 24 days. We are deeply committed to strengthening our community through education, growth and opportunity. Supporting projects like this library reflects our dedication to creating spaces where students can learn, dream and prepare for a brighter future.”

Ashley Douglas, Vice President, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas / Southern Dallas Thrives / PepsiCo:
“United Way Metropolitan’s Southern Dallas Thrives initiative is excited to expand our campus-based Community Hub resources and services to Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy. Designed to holistically support sector scholars through targeted academic engagement and resources that help families thrive, we are thrilled to increase this network of support on the campus. Through this collaborative approach alongside community partners, we are committed to ensuring that our students remain positioned to continue to thrive.

“This transformation of the library space will provide new motivation, inspiration and opportunities for all of our stakeholders. Not to mention, it will create new resources for increasing levels of success for the BOMLA community. The possibilities are endless. Thanks go out to Dwell with Dignity and the United Way for empowering the future of BOMLA.”

Mr. D. Legington, M.Ed./CI, Visual Arts Educator, The Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy:

“This transformation of the library space will provide new motivation, inspiration and opportunities for all of our stakeholders. Not to mention, it will create new resources for increasing levels of success for the BOMLA community. The possibilities are endless. Thanks go out to, Dwell with Dignity and the United Way for empowering the future of BOMLA.”

Mr. Lawrence Stokes Jr., Library Media Specialist, The Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy:
“This transformation of the library would put new life into the heartbeat of this school.  The library is the focus point of all small gatherings in the school. Its use goes far beyond our students, faculty and staff, but for our community and other visitors. "This 2025 Transformation gives us a heighten sense of pride and joy as the central hub of higher learning through reading, art, music, and technology. Thank you, Dwell with Dignity and United Way."

Valentine’s Day is for lovers, and there’s no place more romantic than the luxurious, 660-acre Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa. For the holiday weekend, the resort is enticing guests to book a room package that is truly decadent.

The “Bubbles & Bliss” package includes curated accommodations and begins with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and artisanal chocolates upon your arrival to the resort. Spa robes and 10% off spa services will allow guests to truly relax during their stay. The Mokara Spa, located on the ground floor of the resort, is a full-service salon and spa designed with tranquility in mind. The spa offers head-to-toe treatments and is complete with world-class amenities like whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas.

During your stay, enjoy a $100 food and beverage credit and breakfast at one of Omni PGA Frisco’s many dine-and-drink venues is included.

The Bubbles & Bliss package is available to book through the month of February at Bubbles & Bliss | Omni PGA Frisco Resort.

The Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa was named the #1 resort in the state of Texas and provides the perfect luxury experience throughout the year. The adjacent PGA District offers a variety of family-friendly programming and activities year-round. Guests can learn about upcoming events at pgafrisco.com/events or by registering for the PGA Frisco e-newsletter.

Photos and logos can be requested at HEC@sunwestpr.com.

About Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa

Recently opened on May 2, 2023, Omni PGA Frisco Resort offers a reimagined destination resort experience for the ultimate getaway. With a wide selection of unique experiences and remarkable year-round programming and activities, the resort provides a diverse and fun-filled destination for guests of all ages. The oasis of the 660-acre PGA Frisco campus, this luxury resort is one of the world's leading meeting and conference destinations as well as a bucket list leisure escape featuring two championship golf courses at Fields Ranch designed by Gil Hanse and Beau Welling, a 2-acre putting course and a par-3, 10-hole short course. With comprehensive resort amenities featuring a full-service salon and spa, 13 restaurants and bars, and boutique retail shops - there's something designed for all. Featuring subtle nods to Texas culture, each of the resort's 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom modern-Texas ranch houses, offer sweeping views of lush surrounds. The resort features more than 127,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor space for meetings and events, including 2 ballrooms; 19 meeting rooms; 9 outdoor event venues; and Panther Creek Pavilion, the ideal venue for weddings. Visit omnipgafriscoresort.com or call 469-305-4500 for more information and room reservations. Follow Omni PGA Frisco Resort on Facebook and Instagram.

The Shelton School hosted the 23rd Annual Shelton Ethics Symposium, “Shaping Your Future with Integrity,” on Friday, January 31, 2025. The event brought together students, educators and professionals to explore the principles of ethics and their application across various fields.

The day began with welcome remarks from Shelton Student Council President Ford Myers, followed by an introduction from Shelton’s Executive Director, Suzanne Stell. Shelton alumnus Nathan England, Class of 2005 and now a commercial real estate agent with Wynmark Commercial Real Estate Group, presented the “Charge For the Day,” setting the tone for the discussions that followed. “Guard your reputation with your life,” he told the juniors and seniors. “Reflect on your values and what matters to you most. Do what you say, underpromise and overdeliver. Be true to your values even when it's inconvenient.”

The keynote speaker, Bob Mong, former President of the University of North Texas at Dallas and former Editor of The Dallas Morning News, delivered a powerful address titled “Living a Life of Integrity.” Drawing on his wealth of experience, Mong inspired students to incorporate ethical principles into their personal and professional lives.

“I suspect all of you know the difference between right and wrong," he told students. "The best compass for figuring that out is really your heart. And so listen to it. Ethics often has to do with doing more than you have to do.”

Mong encouraged students to approach their college and career decisions with a sense of balance, resilience and ethical awareness. Acknowledging the pressures and excitement that come with these transitions, he emphasized the importance of bravery in the face of temptation and self-awareness in personal growth. “All of you are smart enough to be successful in life,” Mong said. “But in addition to intelligence, which is so important, just as important is paying attention to your temperament and how you work with others.”

He highlighted the value of introspection, a strong work ethic and ethical decision-making, reminding students that those who work harder often achieve more. “Temperament, desire, a good ethical head on your shoulders — matched with your intelligence — and you'll be fine," he concluded.

Engaging Panel Discussions
Following a short break, attendees participated in panel rotations, which allowed them to explore ethics in three areas:

• Ethics & Social Media panelists:

•  Dr. Jane Tan, assistant professor of Information Technology & Operations Management at SMU’s Cox School of Business 

• Ashley Slayton, Audience Development Editor at The Dallas Morning News 

• Wil Murphy, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at K Strategies Group

• Ethics & Engineering panelists: 

• Dr. Richard S. Barr, associate professor in the Operations Research and Engineering Management Department at SMU’s Lyle School of Engineering

• Diane Gollhofer, president of DGR Consultants LLC and president of Dispute Resolution Board Foundation

• Dr. Rabah Mezenner, associate professor inUT Dallas’s Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science

• Ethics & Sports panelists:

• Rick Hart, SMU’s Director of Athletics 

• Shakiel Randolph, former SMU football student-athlete and former Kansas City Chiefs player who now serves as SMU’s Director of Business Operations within the Athletics Department

• Evan Grant, a sports journalist who has been covering the Texas Rangers and Major League Baseball for The Dallas Morning News since 1997

Each panel engaged students in meaningful dialogue about the ethical challenges and opportunities in these fields.

Interactive and Reflective Activities
After lunch, students delved into ethical dilemmas and participated in group discussions, fostering critical thinking and collaboration. An interactive activity encouraged participants to apply what they had learned and reflect on their own values.

The symposium concluded with a final charge to carry forward the day’s lessons and make integrity a cornerstone of their future endeavors.