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Nearly 400 Gifts Delivered to Local School, Orphanage, and Senior Center

Mexico City, Mexico – May 2025 – The Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) recently completed a meaningful cultural and humanitarian mission to Mexico, fostering friendship and understanding through people-to-people exchange and heartfelt community outreach.

As part of ACAESUSA’s ongoing international cultural exchange efforts, the delegation visited Colegio Senda, a local school, as well as a senior care center and an orphanage. Nearly 400 thoughtfully prepared gift packages were delivered, including toys, school supplies, new shoes, toiletries, cosmetics, and original artwork by ACAESUSA’s young artists. These gifts were warmly welcomed by children and elderly residents, serving as symbols of care, respect, and cultural connection.

At Colegio Senda, the delegation interacted with students and educators, placing special emphasis on the school’s inclusive support for children with autism and other special needs. The classrooms were filled with bright smiles and joyful exchanges between students and their American guests.

The visit to the senior care center brought warmth and dignity, as the team shared gifts and meaningful conversations with the elderly—many of whom were deeply moved by the thoughtful gestures and personal attention.

At the orphanage, the children excitedly opened their gifts, expressing gratitude and joy. The moment underscored the power of cross-cultural compassion and kindness.

The delegation concluded their journey with a visit to the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico’s national theater, where they attended a spectacular performance of traditional Mexican music and dance. The show celebrated the richness of Mexican heritage and left a lasting impression on all attendees.

“This journey demonstrated the power of cultural understanding and the deep impact of even small acts of kindness,” said Jian Xie, President of ACAESUSA. “We are grateful for the warm hospitality of our hosts in Mexico and look forward to deepening collaboration in cultural exchange and community service.”

Katelyn Hu, Youth Ambassador for ACAESUSA and Miss Asian Culture and Education Society USA 2025–2026, also reflected on the experience:

“Spending time with children my own age in another country helped me realize how connected we all are, no matter where we come from. Sharing art, smiles, and stories reminded me how important it is to build friendship through kindness and culture.” 

ACAESUSA extends sincere thanks to the volunteers from both the United States and Mexico who made this exchange possible. Special appreciation goes to Youth Ambassador Katelyn Hu the leadership, Annie, Monica, Rosa, Lleana Gonzalez, Jian Xie, Arthur Pei, Cecilia Li, Ian Song, and Amelia Peng for their dedication and support. Special thanks to Blue Bonnet Meadows RV Park for their generous sponsorship of this mission.

With renewed energy and commitment, ACAESUSA will continue to champion global youth development, cultural exchange, and charitable outreach—building unity through mutual respect and shared humanity.

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John Hood, Ed Garahan, Deputy Mayor Tammy Meinershagen, Council Member John Keating, Jonathan Hubbard, and John Lettelleir.

Carbon Companies, a Dallas-based privately owned real estate firm, announces the groundbreaking of the final two phases of The Links on PGA Parkway, a luxury multifamily development in the heart of Frisco’s Urban Village. The groundbreaking follows the closing of an approximate $125 million loan on April 22, arranged by the Carbon Companies team to finance the remaining phases of the 38-acre development.   

A ceremonial groundbreaking event was held on Wednesday, May 28, to commemorate the occasion, and attended by project partners, city officials, and community stakeholders.  

Located at 15950 Paramount Way, off of PGA Pkwy and the Dallas North Tollway, The Links on PGA Parkway will deliver an additional 620 podium-style luxury units, 815 underground parking spaces, and state-of-the-art wellness facilities and resort-inspired amenities, contributing to the full build-out of 1,310 total residential units. 

The first two phases of the community, which opened in December 2021 and October 2023, introduced 690 apartments, two resort-style pools, two clubhouses, fitness center, a grab-and-go market, golf simulator, complimentary yoga and golf lessons from local professionals, and a two-acre city park. 

“The groundbreaking on the final two phases of The Links on PGA Parkway represents the final chapter in delivering a luxury residential community in one of the fast-growing areas in North Texas,” says Ed Garahan, CEO of Carbon Companies. 

Ideally situated near the Omni PGA Frisco Resort & Spa, PGA of America Headquarters, and The Star, the development offers unmatched access to Frisco’s premier destinations. The neighborhood is also home to major future attractions, including Universal Kids Resort opening in 2026, Fields West, and Firefly Park, all adding to the area’s dynamic appeal. 

With the expansion of the Dallas North Tollway and major developments underway nearby, The Links on PGA Parkway is positioned to be a premier luxury living destination for nearly 2,000 residents upon final completion in 2027. 

 

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Gospel Lighthouse Church - Dream Center Dallas

Merriman Anderson Architects (MAA) is pleased to announce the completion of the Historic Gospel Lighthouse Church renovation for the nonprofit organization, Dream Center Dallas. Dream Center Dallas provides resources and services in the areas of education, homelessness, hunger, poverty, addiction, abuse, and human trafficking within Dallas. Built in 1948, the Historic Gospel Lighthouse Church was originally constructed to serve a congregation of about 250 members. 

MAA was engaged to provide architectural and interior design services and to lead the historic renovation process to preserve the building’s most iconic features. In accordance with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, the project included restoring the church’s original façade and prominent roof beacon. Key spaces and features such as the sanctuary, entrance vestibule, lighting, seating, and prayer rooms were also restored to honor the building’s original design and historic significance. 

Functional upgrades, including classrooms, offices, and meeting areas, were designed to meet ADA standards, with the addition of a new elevator to improve accessibility. As a State of Texas Historic Tax Credit project, MAA worked closely with the Texas Historical Commission to ensure all standards for historic preservation were met.  

The restored building marks the first of two historic structures being transformed to support Dream Center Dallas’ ministry and outreach operations. 

"The design of the Historic Gospel Lighthouse Church honors the rich legacy of this beloved local landmark," says Milton Anderson, President of MAA. "Our team is grateful to be part of a project that holds deep meaning for the community and aligns with Dream Center Dallas’ mission to share generosity and unconditional love with all." 

Merriman Anderson Architects is based in Downtown Dallas with offices also in Fort Worth, Austin, Charlotte, and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky. MAA is an architecture, interior design, and planning firm offering services including master planning, historic and adaptive reuse, project management, space planning, sustainable design, 3D visualization, and virtual reality. 

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New Partnership to Raise Administrative Support Standards for Wound Care Professionals

Healthcare providers now have access to additional support services, thanks to an alliance between wound-care management company Total Ancillary and WoundGenex, a wound care-focused administrative services company. Dallas-based Total Ancillary says the partnership will enhance its ability to deliver an end-to-end ecosystem of support that encompasses everything from patient scheduling to reimbursement.

“We aim to significantly and continuously improve wound care for providers and their patients, and our alliance with WoundGenex will enable us to do that on an even deeper level,” said Joe Smithco, chief sales officer at Total Ancillary. “This partnership represents our shared commitment to provider success. Together, we’re delivering smarter, more integrated support across the wound care continuum. By optimizing the back-office details, we enable clinicians to focus more on patient care.”

WoundGenex offers tailored administrative services designed to help providers improve workflow efficiency, reduce claim denials and support clinical accuracy. By joining forces, Total Ancillary and WoundGenex say they aim to “bridge the gap” between clinical outcomes and operational performance, giving healthcare providers seamless access to additional tools that support documentation accuracy, streamline revenue cycle processes, and maintain alignment with evolving payer expectations.

“We’re proud to align with Total Ancillary to deliver a comprehensive suite of solutions that enhance financial performance and operational efficiency at every level,” said Tom Smith, CEO of WoundGenex. “Together, we’re raising the bar for revenue cycle management and clinical documentation improvement in wound care — empowering providers nationwide to deliver better care with greater confidence. The integration of services is already underway and available to Total Ancillary’s national client base.”

Cars for Kids
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All Makes, Models & Years Welcome to Join This Community-Powered Event

Get ready to rev your engines for a cause! Cars for Kids is proud to announce its Inaugural Charity Car Show, taking place on Saturday June 28, 2025 at Cars for Kids HQ located at 7100 Marvin D. Love Fwy. Dallas, TX 75237. This high-energy, family-friendly event is open to the public and welcomes vehicle owners of all makes, models, and years to show off their rides while supporting a meaningful mission.

FREE ENTRY

SHOW OFF YOUR CAR & REGISTER: https://hubs.la/Q03p2R5y0

The car show is more than just chrome and horsepower—it’s about giving back. All proceeds from the event benefit Cars for Kids programs that provide educational support, mentorship, and life-changing resources for at-risk youth.

Event Highlights Include:

  • Vehicle Showcase: Open to classics, customs, exotics, motorcycles, trucks, and more

  • Awards and Trophies for fan favorites and judged categories

  • Live Music, Food Trucks, Raffles, and Family Activities

  • Vendor and Sponsorship Opportunities for Local Businesses

“We’re inviting the entire community to come out, celebrate their passion for cars, and make a difference in the lives of students who need it most,” said Cars for Kids CEO, Cheryl Sutterfield-Jones, at Cars for Kids. “This is more than a car show—it’s a movement powered by horse power, compassion and community.”

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As the weather warms up and spring blooms in full force, it's the perfect time to give your roof a little attention

As the weather warms up and spring blooms in full force, it's the perfect time to give your roof a little attention. May is an ideal month for roof maintenance because the mild temperatures make it easier to spot issues that could become bigger problems later in the year. By taking a few simple steps to care for your roof now, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it’s ready to handle the summer months ahead. At Tucker Roofing Systems, we’ve compiled some actionable roof maintenance tips you can tackle this May to keep your roof in tip-top shape!

1. Clean Your Roof and Gutters

Over the winter months, your roof may accumulate debris like leaves, twigs, and branches, while your gutters can get clogged with dirt, leaves, and other refuse. Cleaning these out now can prevent water backup that could lead to leaks or water damage in the future.

Tip: Use a sturdy ladder and safety gear to carefully remove debris from the roof and gutters. If you're not comfortable on a ladder or have a steep roof, it’s a good idea to call in a professional. Also, make sure your downspouts are free of blockages to ensure proper water flow.

2. Check for Moss and Algae Buildup

In many areas, moss and algae can grow on roofs, especially in the spring months when there’s a lot of rain and humidity. Moss can trap moisture on your shingles, which can lead to rot, decay, and even shorten the life of your roof. Algae can also cause dark streaks on the roof and lead to staining, which can detract from your home’s curb appeal.

Tip: Inspect your roof for signs of moss or algae growth. If you find any, use a gentle solution of water and bleach (or a store-bought roof cleaner) to scrub away the growth. For heavy moss buildup, it may be best to contact a roofing professional to avoid damaging your shingles.

3. Inspect Roof Flashings

The flashings around chimneys, vents, and skylights are essential in protecting your roof from leaks. These metal pieces seal the joints and prevent water from seeping in, so it’s crucial to make sure they’re in good condition.

Tip: Check the flashings for any signs of damage, such as rust, cracking, or lifting. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have a professional roofer inspect and replace the flashings as needed to prevent water from seeping into your home.

4. Examine Shingles for Damage

Winter and spring storms can be tough on your roof. Strong winds, hail, and rain can cause shingles to loosen, crack, or even tear off. In May, take the time to walk around your roof and check for any visible damage.

Tip: Look for missing, cracked, or curled shingles, which could leave your roof vulnerable to leaks. If you spot any issues, it’s a good idea to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

5. Trim Overhanging Branches

If you have trees near your roof, their branches could be causing damage over time, especially during storms. Branches can scrape against shingles, causing abrasions, or even fall and damage the roof outright.

Tip: Trim any branches that are too close to your roof to prevent them from causing damage. Be sure to check for any that may be hanging over your gutters, which could also cause debris buildup.

6. Check the Attic for Leaks and Insulation Issues

The attic is an often-overlooked area of the home when it comes to roof maintenance, but it’s a crucial space to inspect for potential roof problems. Check for signs of moisture, water stains, or mold in the attic, which could indicate a leak.

Tip: Look for areas where insulation is damp or has been displaced. If you spot any signs of a problem, it’s time to get a professional roofer to investigate and take corrective measures.

7. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Even if you’ve performed some basic maintenance, scheduling a professional roof inspection every year is an essential part of proactive roof care. A professional roofer can spot issues that you may not notice, and they have the experience to handle repairs that are out of reach for most homeowners.

Tip: Reach out to Tucker Roofing Systems for a professional roof inspection to catch any hidden issues before they become expensive problems.

Conclusion
May is the perfect month to perform a bit of roof TLC. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, inspecting for damage, and addressing moss or algae buildup, can go a long way in prolonging the life of your roof and avoiding costly repairs down the line. By following these simple steps, you'll help ensure your roof is ready to handle the summer weather with ease.

If you find any issues that need professional attention, don't hesitate to contact Tucker Roofing Systems. Our team of experts is ready to help with everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Keep your roof in great shape, and it will keep your home safe for years to come!

Tucker Roofing Systems is a leading provider of high-quality roofing solutions dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in installations, repairs, and replacements, serving both residential and commercial clients. Contact us at (972) 833-2271 to schedule a consultation.



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Credit Texas A&M University College of Dentistry Professor Maureen Brown, interim executive director of Texas A&M University College of Dentistry's dental hygiene program, and new graduate Cristina Flores-Villarreal of Lewisville.

Gueriel and Eduardo Mendes-Flores thrived as undergraduates and members of the Aggie Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University before attending law school. Now it’s their mother’s time in the Aggie spotlight. Cristina Flores-Villarreal graduated May 25 from Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas with a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene.

Cristina Flores-Villarreal sent her sons, Gueriel and Eduardo Mendes-Flores, to Texas A&M University in College Station, like many proud Aggie parents, full of hopes and dreams for their futures. And she celebrated when each received a bachelor’s degree and went to law school.

“From a young age, I made sure they understood that college wasn’t optional; it was the next step,” she said. “I couldn’t give them everything financially, but I could give them vision, discipline and belief in themselves.”

It was her turn May 25.

When Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas hosted graduation, Flores-Villarreal of Lewisville was among 27 dental hygiene students to receive bachelor’s degrees. The oldest graduate in her class and possibly the oldest new graduate in the program’s history, at 58, she matches her diploma with decades of life experience.

“I always wanted to finish my bachelor’s degree, but I was raising my kids, taking care of my parents, and running my printing business,” Flores-Villarreal said.

After the passing of her father in 2013 and the loss of her mother during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Flores-Villarreal found herself at home alone in Mexico, especially with all of her children grown. She made the decision to return to school.

Flores-Villarreal had considered a career in dental hygiene about 20 years ago. After all, she comes from a dental family in Mexico; her father was a general dentist, her oldest brother is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, another brother is an orthodontist and one sister is a pediatric dentist. However, newly divorced, she dismissed the idea because family obligations in the Nuevo Laredo, Mexico-Laredo area prevented her from moving away for school.

With both family encouragement and financial support, this time, she finished her associate degree and additional science courses at Laredo College and was accepted to the College of Dentistry.

“When you are out of the loop for such a long time, it’s hard to believe that people would be interested in what you have to say,” said Flores-Villarreal, whose college records date back to 1987.

Eduardo Mendes-Flores said his mother was nervous about entering dental college in August 2023.

“My mom is a testament to the fact that it’s never too late to follow your dreams and keep your priorities straight,” he said.

Eduardo Mendes-Flores, like his brother, was a member of the Aggie Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M. He graduated with a degree in political science in 2020 and earned a law degree from Elon University School of Law in North Carolina. He recently passed the bar exam and celebrated with his mother at the dental college, where she cleaned his teeth.

He also completed a master’s degree in business administration this month and will soon move to Charlotte, North Carolina, to begin a career in immigration law.

Gueriel Mendes-Flores graduated in 2018 with a degree in environmental studies and then from St. Louis University School of Law. He’s an entertainment attorney in Austin.

“She’s encouraged us to embrace opportunities and run with them; to be bold, even if it isn’t in our zone of comfort,” said Gueriel Mendes-Flores, who reminded his mother of her advice. 

Going back to school later in life isn’t easy.

Flores-Villarreal’s resilience and perseverance continue to impress Professor Maureen Brown, the interim executive director of the dental hygiene program.

“She made no excuses for her age, but she did comment many times how it took her longer to study and retain information than her younger counterparts,” Brown said. “Even with this knowledge, Cristina still volunteered her time to serve as one of the class technology chairs.”

One of Flores-Villarreal’s proudest moments was traveling to College Station in April with classmates to receive her Aggie class ring. All her children, including her daughter, Maria Cristina Mendes-Flores of Lewisville, a cybersecurity student at Western Governors University, attended; they, along with about 40 members of her extended family, watched Flores-Villarreal graduate.

She plans to work as a temporary dental hygienist until she finds a permanent position in a private practice. Flores-Villarreal also contemplates a faculty position at some point, which requires a master’s degree to teach in the classroom.

“It’s never too late…,” she said. “Everything has fallen into place exactly as it should have.”

 

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North Texas families should prepare their palates for a full day of fun, food and festivities. The new Thermomix® Experience Center, located at 3232 McKinney Ave. in Dallas, is hosting Mix It Up, Texas, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 7.

Throughout the day, top chefs will be leading free cooking demonstrations and samplings. Participating chefs include:

  • Chef Uno Immanivong – Dallas-based Chef Uno was born in a refugee camp in Nong Khai, Thailand, run by the United Nations Organization (UNO), for which she was named. Following a nearly two-decade career in banking, Uno turned to her first love, nourishing people with food. She was discovered and mentored by Anthony Bourdain, who encouraged Uno to follow her dreams. She has opened several innovative restaurants and has become an active advocate for food education and accessibility. Chef Uno currently operates RedStix Asian Street Food, with locations in Dallas and Farmers Branch.
  • Chef Meiko Temple - Meiko is a food personality, digital creator and culinary marketing manager at Thermomix USA whose work lives at the intersection of innovation and tradition. She is the creator behind Meiko and the Dish, a food blog and lifestyle brand spotlighting soulful, comforting recipes with a modern twist. Her work has been featured on Food Network, Food52, Tasty, TheKitchn, and TheFeedFeed. She's also the founder of Eat the Culture, a collective that uplifts and empowers Black food creators through collaborative storytelling and community-building campaigns.
  • Chef Ashley T. Henderson – Ashley is a classically trained chef and culinary entrepreneur based in Dallas. With more than 15 years of experience across top kitchens in Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York—including Nobu, The Ritz-Carlton, Hilton, and Omni Hotels—Ashley blends fine dining expertise with modern culinary innovation. Once a purist in the kitchen, Thermomix changed her perspective, showing her how technology could expand creativity, efficiency and flavor. She is also the founder of She Shefs Inc., a nonprofit mentoring young BIPOC women in food, hospitality and agriculture.

Kids of all ages are invited to participate in cookie decorating throughout the day. Participants can also win fun prizes as they learn simple recipes from Thermomix® and compete in a speed challenge centered around Thermomix’s Cookidoo® platform, which features nearly 100,000 recipes and will create weekly meal plans, shopping lists and more, making it easier to eat well at home.

Ongoing programming at the Experience Center will be designed to address the biggest challenges facing busy families trying to get healthy meals to the table, including time limitations, challenges around clean up and the difficulty of preparation. Each of these concerns is addressed by the Thermomix TM6®, the world’s smallest and smartest kitchen.

The TM6 performs 28 distinct kitchen tasks with ease, including chopping, blending, steaming, kneading, sautéing, grinding and whisking and will also sous-vide, slow-cook and more. Paired with the powerful digital Cookidoo platform, this integrated ecosystem effortlessly guides home cooks through thousands of meal options with step-by-step instructions designed to save time and guarantee success.

Attendance at Mix It Up, Texas is free, and guests do not need to make a reservation. For more information on Thermomix and its products, visit Thermomix.com.

EVENT INFORMATION

What:   Mix It Up, Texas

This free family foodie fest will feature chef demonstrations and free sampling all day, along with Cookidoo challenges throughout the event. Kids of all ages will have fun decorating cookies.

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 7

Where: Thermomix Experience Center, 3232 McKinney Ave., Dallas (ground floor)

Cost: Free

Information: thermomix.com

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May is National Foster Care Month, a national initiative led by the Children’s Bureau to raise awareness about foster care and recognize the dedication of families, foster parents, child welfare professionals, mentors, and policymakers who help youth find permanent, loving homes.  

In the Metroplex East region of North Texas (a nine-county area including Dallas, Collin, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwall counties), EMPOWER - a child welfare collaborative focused on meeting the unique needs of Texas children and families - launched a campaign to highlight the urgent need for foster parents and the life-changing impact they have on children. 

The campaign, Empower Dreams, Foster Futures, is a user-friendly, intuitive platform that helps navigate the process of becoming a foster parent with ease and precision. It also connects those interested to personalized resources and agencies that best support their unique needs. 

All children deserve a safe and loving place to call home, and sometimes they need a place to land for a short time. Foster parents can provide that and advocate for and with biological families.

 

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From left: Shelton Staff SPARK Awards winners Monica Orr, Honey Harris, Lisa Winkler, Claudia Kuhnast, Susan Sutton, Bailey Glass, Andrea Baker and Sophia Van Den Handel

Three Shelton teachers and five Shelton counselors received the 2024-2025 Shelton Parents' Association Recognition Kudos (SPARK) Award at the May 23 Shelton End-of-the-Year Staff Appreciation Luncheon. This is the tenth year that SPA presented the recognition. Awards are based on comments received in the spring parent survey. Each winner received a SPARK crystal statue, thanks to the coordination of Shelton parent Emily Touchstone. They also received a check. Thanks to our generous Shelton Parents' Association, and congratulations to the winners. 

LOWER SCHOOL: HONEY HARRIS

Lower School Head Christine Davis describes Honey Harris as a kind and caring spirit who serves her students with compassion while instilling the skills and confidence they need to thrive. Parents echo that praise, with Molly Hayes sharing, “Ms. Harris knows exactly how to gently push, inspire and encourage each child to excel. Both of my children have overcome learning differences and now thrive with a love of learning. She is a true gift to her students and one of the reasons Shelton is such a special place.” A grandparent added, “Thank you, Ms. Harris, for your care and guidance in the education of our granddaughter, Tavie Zpevak. She has blossomed this year — growing in confidence, achievement and joy.”

MIDDLE SCHOOL: MONICA ORR

Monica Orr is making a real difference in the lives of her students through her expertise, consistency and unwavering commitment. One parent shared, "She has been nothing short of phenomenal, offering the perfect balance of being firm yet loving." Another praised her for providing "the academic challenge, emotional support and structured skill-building that has had a transformative impact on my child." 

UPPER SCHOOL: SOPHIA VAN DEN HANDEL

Upper School teacher Sophia Van Den Handel is celebrated by Shelton parents for her creativity, calm confidence and deep passion for writing. One parent shared, “Her passion for reading and writing and international experience gives her a depth of understanding of the world around her that transcends into her classroom teaching.” Ms. Van Den Handel has motivated countless students to work hard and dream big — especially through her leadership in publishing Shelton’s Upper School Literary Magazine two years in a row. Seeing their written work in print has inspired our students to continue to share and celebrate their work.

ALL AROUND: SHELTON COUNSELORS

This year’s All-Around SPARK Award went to Shelton’s remarkable counseling team: Andrea Baker, Bailey Glass, Claudia Kuhnast, Susan Sutton and Lisa Winkler. Here were the comments about the team: "This team is committed to supporting our students in their academic journey and their personal well-being. They provide teachers with specific social/emotional programming in each division to support mental health concerns, character building and challenges related to social media. This instruction is critical, and this team goes above and beyond to help build interpersonal skills in students so that Shelton can be a community where every individual feels safe, seen, supported and valued."