If you resolve to eat better in 2025, then Fish City Grill and Half Shells locations are offering delicious Chalkboard Specials available throughout the month of January. Executive Chef Molly Winkler has put her spin on some seafood classics for a tasty treat! Molly is a great resource for healthy seafood, and is a great interview. She can also create and provide recipes.

Seared Yellowfin Tuna Tacos are served with Charred Pico de Gallo, Avocado Smash, Avocado ranch , and Jalapeno Cheesy Rice for $15.99

Grilled Barramundi NOLA, served with blackened crawfish tails, cornbread, crispy okra, pickled okra pico and a crawfish cream for $24.99

These monthlong specials are only part of the fresh seafood options featured on the Chalkboard at Fish City Grill. Other Chalkboard Specials are unique to each restaurant and change twice each day. You can see them via live Chalkboard cameras at fishcitygrill.com/locations. Choose your location and click on Daily Specials to see what is available now. 

If you have any questions, please let me know.

We’d love to have Molly Winkler available for interview, etc. as well!

With thanks,

Kelly Hunter

LOCATIONS:

Dallas/Fort Worth Area

Allen – Watters Creek

Burleson

Dallas – Lake Highlands

Dallas – Preston & Royal

Flower Mound

Prosper

Richardson – CityLine

Mansfield

Waxahachie

Half Shells – Plano

Half Shells – Snider Plaza

Austin Area

Georgetown

Waco

Houston Area

Half Shells – Katy

Pearland

Sugar Land

San Antonio Area

Northwoods

Culebra

South Rim

Alamo Heights

Oklahoma

Edmond

Arkansas

Rogers

Florida

Lakeland

Guests visiting John Wayne: An American Experience in the Fort Worth Stockyards know that the destination is more than just an acclaimed museum. It is also the home to the flagship John Wayne Stock & Supply, the curated collection of Western apparel, art and giftware celebrating the spirit and legacy of the acclaimed actor.

The beautifully appointed boutique is a treasure trove of limited-edition décor and apparel, and now will be the host of a pop-up celebrating the work of one of the West’s most acclaimed creative couples, master milliner Teressa Foglia and multimedia artist Ty Hays. The Hats + Art exhibit will be at John Wayne Stock & Supply Jan. 10 through Feb. 3.

The artists will be onsite for hat customizations in person Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10-11, in advance of the kickoff of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo. Guests will enjoy special tastings of Wayne Family Estate wines during the event. This exciting collaboration brings together custom hats, captivating artwork and immersive experiences for guests to Cowtown. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation.

Guests will be able to enjoy dozens of Hays’ original artworks, including a complete gallery wall dedicated to the artist as well as smaller pieces integrated throughout the boutique. Foglia’s curated collection of approximately 20 hat designs will have a dedicated area that blends the Teressa Foglia and John Wayne aesthetic, showcasing both classic and modern hat designs inspired by John Wayne’s iconic styles. The lounge area will serve as the centerpiece, combining the hat display, bar and seating to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Ethan Wayne is proud to introduce these two renowned artists to shoppers in North Texas.

“Teressa and Ty are truly among the top creators in their respective genres and they have been friends of the John Wayne family for some time,” Wayne said. “We are honored to host them for this pop-up experience, and proud that we will be able to further benefit the John Wayne Cancer Foundation through the event sales.”

Often called the “It Girl” milliner, Foglia has created custom hats for clients ranging from Keri Russell and John Mayer to Cindy Crawford and Gerard Butler. She believes that each hat should be as unique as its wearer, and she sources materials, trim and adornments in markets in Paris, Sardinia, Ibiza, Tokyo and Bali. She also offers clients a bespoke, ready-to-wear collection in which the interior of each hat is lined with a one-of-a-kind vintage silk, making every design truly a work of art.

Hays creates memorable pieces that celebrate the beauty and the intensity of the American west. His unique techniques highlight the role that light and motion play in art. His work is made more special by the range of techniques and media in which he works, including charcoal, pastel, limestone wash, graphite and acrylic.

While visiting the Hats + Art exhibit, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets to the museum. John Wayne: An American Experience is structured to give guests an intimate tour of the life of John Wayne. Starting with his early childhood and career, each room highlights an aspect of Duke’s legacy. Museum patrons have exclusive access to never-before-seen family photos and correspondences that have been thoughtfully curated by the Wayne family to give guests a holistic view of the icon, whose values translate both on and off the silver screen.

Tickets to the exhibit are $22.95 for adults, $20.95 for seniors 65+, students with college ID and military with ID, and $17.95 for kids 6-12 at johnwayneae.com. Kids 5 and younger are admitted for free.

Donations to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation can be made at John Wayne Stock & Supply and at johnwayne.org.

About John Wayne Enterprises

John Wayne Enterprises’ mission is to preserve and protect the name, image and likeness of John Wayne by associating the John Wayne brand with quality and timeless products and experiences that embody the spirit of John Wayne and give back to the community. To further its mission, John Wayne Enterprises enters into selective licensing or partnership agreements in merchandising, cancer research, treatment and education as well as public facilities, institutions and agencies. For more information, please visit www.johnwayne.com.

Gather at McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails to ring in 2025 with friends and family in casual, yet sophisticated style. Our eclectic and intriguing dining room, and attentive service creates the perfect backdrop for couples or friends to close out 2024 in an extraordinary manner.

New Year’s Eve

Chef Alejandro serves a special menu from 4:00pm – 9:00pm on New Year’s Eve. Our three course, prix fixe menu begins with White Albacore Tuna Deviled Eggs or Texas Twinkies followed by Lobster Bisque or Asian Pear & Blue Cheese Salad. The entrée course offers delicious Caprese Burrata Chicken ($49), ever-popular Surf & Turf ($69), or delectable Lobster Mac & Cheese ($69).

To close out your celebration, choose one of our delightful a la carte desserts of Lemon Panna Cotta or Flourless Chocolate Espresso Cake ($10/each).

McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails is located on Garland Road near White Rock Lake - perfectly situated near all the fireworks and evening festivities!

We highly recommend making reservations, as seating is limited in our cozy dining room. Please call 214-792-9944 or visit us online to book your table.

New Year’s Day

Kick off 2025 in ease with our Hangover New Year’s Day Brunch featuring our favorite appetizers, a variety of entrees from breakfast-style eggs, Chicken & Waffles, burgers, salmon, and more. Be sure to ask about our award-winning Buffalo Shrimp & Grits New Year’s Special. And don’t miss our Good Luck Brunch Bowl with black-eyed peas stewed with bacon and brisket, served with braised collards and topped with white rice.

Opening at 11:00am and serving until 3:00pm, neither New Year’s Day nor McRae’s brunch would be complete without our Bloody Mary Bar ($7). McRae’s will be closed for dinner service on New Year’s Day.

Dining at the award-winning McRae’s American Bistro & Cocktails is a memorable experience. Recently named DFW’s Best Brunch, Cocktail Bar, Date Night Spot amongst other awards, McRae’s features an expertly created menu set in a comfortable, friendly dining room with whimsical details and unique décor. Located at 9913 Garland Road in East Dallas, we are excited to welcome you to our neighborhood. Learn more about McRae’s at McRaesAmericanBistro.com

The Countdown to Christmas Continues at the Most Exciting Light Show South of the North Pole

 The Light Park in Texas is dazzling holiday-goers this season with record-breaking attendance numbers.

“The response to The Light Park this year has been incredible,” says Matt Johnson, Co-Creator of the immersive, mile-long, drive-thru holiday spectacular. With six locations across Texas, The Light Park offers nightly displays featuring millions of synchronized lights dancing to an electric mix of music curated by DJ Polar Ice from the North Pole’s #1 Hit Radio station, K-GLO.                           

Johnson attributes part of the surge in attendance to their per-vehicle pricing model. “Our pricing makes it possible for everyone—pets included—to experience the fun together,” he says. “Guests can enjoy the world’s longest light tunnel, groove to high-energy tunes, and capture the moment no matter the weather. We also have options like food and beverage bundles, light-up wands, and magic glasses to make it an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

To make the most of their visit, guests are encouraged to plan ahead by checking The Light Park’s website at www.thelightpark.com. A user-friendly calendar highlights busier dates, and all tickets must be purchased in advance online. Prices start at $39 per vehicle* and vary by showtime (weekdays vs. weekends).

The Light Park will remain open until January 1^st or 5^th, depending on which location. Visitors must stay in their vehicles throughout their visit and are welcome to bring snacks to enjoy during the drive. For added fun, pre-purchased snacks and souvenirs are available to enhance the experience.

*Vehicles over 30 feet, including limousines, trailers, and buses, are not permitted.

For more information or to view a flyover video, visit www.thelightpark.com.

Mondays - Thursdays: 5:30 - 10:00pm

Fridays - Sundays: 5:30 - 11:00pm

CHRISTMAS WEEK HOURS

Dec 20-29: 5:30-11pm

Where:

Frisco (runs through 1/5/25)

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

Arlington (runs through 1/5/25)

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

Katy (runs through 1/5/25)

Typhoon Texas Waterpark Parking Lot

555 Katy Fort Bend Rd

Katy, TX 77494

Round Rock (runs through 1/5/25)

Dell Diamond

Parking Lot

3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665

San Antonio (runs through 1/1/25)

Retama Park Parking Lot

1 Retama Pkwy

Selma, TX 78154

Spring (runs through 1/1/25)

Hurricane Harbor Parking Lot

21300 Interstate 45 N

Spring, TX 77373

Prices: $39-$125

To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers six parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Selma, Arlington and Frisco. Each Park features more than one million LED animated lights and boasts the world’s largest synchronized LED light tunnel. Opens November 1^st, 2024. Shows start at 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), and 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (weekends and Christmas week); visitors can enjoy a safe and unique experience as they drive through the one-mile holiday light show curated to seasonal music.

A Night of Grace and Giving: The 2025 DSOL Debutantes Shine Bright

In a show of elegance and holiday splendor, the 2025 Dallas Symphony Orchestra League debutantes took center stage at a cocktail reception and seated dinner on November 27, 2024, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

Guided by the gracious DSOL President Dixey Arterburn, the debutantes, their esteemed honor guards, and families were welcomed to this cherished tradition.

The evening unfolded under the expert direction of Presentation Ball Co-Chairs Ginger Sager and Barbara Averitt, who introduced Stan Gardner as emcee. With his hallmark charm, Stan presented each of the 44 debutantes who gracefully took the stage and was joined by an honor guard escort for the presentation. Each young woman received a thoughtful gift from Eiseman Jewels NorthPark. 

Honorary Chairs Shirley and Bill McIntyre were unable to attend. 

The presentation was followed by a seated dinner. Event chair Nikki Beneke ensured the menu was as elegant as the occasion called for. Entrees included butternut squash ravioli and the season’s traditional turkey. The plentiful desserts included pumpkin spice trifle, holiday pies and the Meyerson’s signature apple pie bread pudding.

Families with rich DSOL traditions added a layer of legacy to the event, including second debutantes from the Cy Barcus, Joel Ciarochi, Garner Newton, Julian Potter, and Taylor Stone families. Meanwhile, the Patrick Tribolet family celebrated their third daughter's debut, a testament to the timelessness of this grand occasion.

Esteemed guests included Linda Burk and John Gilmore, Katherine and Key Coker, Janie and David Condon, and Jennifer and Todd Olson, among others.   

Dixey Arterburn’s two daughters, both past Debutantes, flew in to attend this year’s festivities. Hailey Arterburn Kutter, a 2012 Debutante, traveled from Chicago with her husband, James. Libby Arterburn was presented in 2014 when Dixey served as Presentation Ball Chair.

“I am so excited to have both of my daughters in town for this wonderful family Thanksgiving Eve Presentation,” said Dixey.

Earlier in the day, Libby had a mishap that resulted in a serious injury to her thumb. After spending several hours at Baylor Emergency receiving medical treatment, she made it to the Meyerson just in time—arriving with a splint on her throbbing thumb.

The evening also brought together Hailey Arterburn Kutter and Jane Gilmore, who made their debuts together in 2012. The two first met at Northwestern University, where they joined the same sorority and became close friends. Their mothers, Dixey and Linda Burk, also forged a strong friendship during that time and remain close to this day.

The evening was the start of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend which included a mixer for the debs and honor guard, as well as a Bow Boot Camp for the debs.

During the Christmas Holidays, the debs will return for another busy schedule of parties and bow practice. All the many events will culminate with the 39th Presentation Ball which will be held on February 15, 2025.

The 2025 Debutantes are:

Brooke Barcus, Brooke Makenna Barnes Lauren Brown, Alexa Grabow, Abby Carlisle, Sara Cashion, Sara Cavey, Olivia Barber, Elle Chavis, Rebecca Ciarochi, Olivia Coker, Isabelle Eggart, Annabel Everitt, Finley Galvin, Eliana Lourdes Garcia, Sophie Goelzer, Elizabeth Goelzer, Camille Gravel, Katherine Hess, Grace Hoverman,  Sydney Hoyl, Madeleine Hubach, Kaylie Hudnall, Harper Knight,  Ella-Rose Levy, Lily Lynch, Ivy Mazzucchi, Julia Montgomery, Grace Cathryn Morrison, Natalie  Brooke Newton,  Anne Blanche Peacock,  Ava Perpall, Caroline Petrikas, Ellie Porray, Vivian Potter, Alexandra Sargis, Grace Schlafer, Hannah Jackson, Maddy Grace Sporl, Mary Stone, Ava Tribolet, Natalie Van Arsdale, Samantha Ward, and Annabeth Winn.

The Presentation Ball, which was first held in 1987, is the largest fundraiser for the DSOL. This annual celebration, dreamed of by visionary Tincy Miller, has become a cornerstone of the DSOL's mission.

Since its inception in 1946, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League has embraced the mission to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through service, education, and fundraising, contributing over $23 million to outreach and education programs.

In the grand symphony of philanthropy and tradition, the 2025 DSOL Presentation Ball will be a celebration of legacy, elegance, and the enduring spirit of giving.

The Presentation Ball is sponsored by Avondale Dealerships. PaperCity is the media sponsor. 

Photos by Gittings and Deborah Brown