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Turtle Creek Chorale presents its 45th season, 45 LIVE: The Best Moments Live Here, including new mainstage concerts and ensemble concerts, special guest appearances from widely recognized performers, and the fifth annual Rhapsody Gala. 

For 45 years, Turtle Creek Chorale has brought music to life, transforming moments into memories through the power of live performance. From its humble beginnings in 1980 to becoming a world renowned chorus, the Chorale has faced triumphs, endured challenges, and reached profound milestones, all guided by music. 

“Live performance is not only something you hear, but something you feel,” Turtle Creek Chorale Artistic Director Sean Baugh said. “The Chorale’s 45th season is a tribute to the transformative power of live music and shared experiences. By showing up, you are not just supporting the arts community, you are championing the values that bring us all together and welcoming all identities and backgrounds, especially our LGBTQ+ family.” 

Season 45 performances include: 

  • Disney PRIDE in Concert: This summer, Turtle Creek Chorale will perform iconic Disney songs alongside a 30 piece orchestra, celebrating themes of love, LGBTQ+ pride, and family ties. Disney PRIDE in Concert will honor Disney’s globally acclaimed musical legacy and provide Chorale members the opportunity to share their personal journeys and reflect on how this music has shaped their lives. Prepare to be enchanted by songs from The Lion King, Aladdin, Peter Pan, Cinderella, and more in two spectacular performances on June 26 and 27 at the Meyerson Symphony Center. 

  • Guys & Dolls: A tribute to the classic show in partnership with Lyric Stage, Guys & Dolls will be performed at Moody Performance Hall on August 15, 16, and 17. Considered by many to be the perfect musical comedy, Guys & Dolls ran for 1,200 performances when it opened on Broadway in 1950. It received nearly unanimous positive reviews from critics and won a bevy of awards, including Tony Awards, Drama Desks, and Oliviers. This production is licensed by Music Theatre International (MTI).

  • Groundless Ground: Alongside the Women’s Chorus of Dallas and a 30 piece orchestra, the Turtle Creek Chorale will perform a powerful concert that explores how to find strength, hope, and resilience when the world feels uncertain. Groundless Ground will honor women, the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, and immigrants, amplifying voices that deserve to be celebrated. To honor the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking work Sing for the Cure, the Chorale will showcase selections from this beloved piece alongside the powerful Unbreakable song cycle. Groundless Ground will be performed on Wednesday, September 17 at the Meyerson Symphony Center. 

  • Rhapsody: The fifth annual gala benefiting the Chorale’s mission to entertain, educate, unite and inspire will be held on Saturday, September 20, at The Statler Dallas and will feature a special guest performer to be announced this spring.

  • All is Calm: It was Christmas Eve in 1914 when British and German troops laid down their arms and gathered in song, drink, and warmth to celebrate the holiday. This event, now known as the “Christmas Truce,” continues to be a heartwarming and powerful story of shared humanity. This December, the Turtle Creek Chorale will not only  tell this story through the power of music but will also present songs that remind us that the holiday season is, above all, a time for peace, understanding, love, family, and friendship. All is Calm will be performed in a series of concerts on the Chorale’s second “Holiday Tour,” spreading peace and joy across the DFW Metroplex this holiday season. 

“It’s hard to believe that the 45th season of the Turtle Creek Chorale is here,” Turtle Creek Chorale Executive Director Dr. Dawson B. Taylor said. “I remember originally joining the Chorale as a singer just after celebrating its 25th anniversary. This season will be accustomed to all the laughter, tears, and chill bumps you have felt all these years at TCC shows, but we will be focused on the part that makes that possible — being together to enjoy the music, artistry and beauty of the Turtle Creek Chorale. Stay tuned for dates for our small ensemble feature show as well as the resurrected cabaret show.” 

Tickets for each concert will be available for purchase on TurtleCreekChorale.com during the months leading up to the performance. For the latest news on ticket sales, additional guest performer announcements, Rhapsody updates, and information about Turtle Creek Chorale’s community involvement, follow along on Instagram and Facebook @TurtleCreekChorale.

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Texas Family Initiative is hosting its fourth annual Swing into Action! Golf Tournament, which will benefit EMPOWER, and the North Texas children in foster care that EMPOWER serves, on Monday, May 5, at The Nelson Golf & Sports Club. 

Registration begins at 8 AM with a shotgun start at 9 AM. Following the golf tournament, there will be a Cookout on the Course at 1 PM and a Post Golf Awards Reception at 2 PM with contests and raffle prizes. The Nelson Golf & Sports Club is located at 4200 North MacArthur Blvd. 

Last year’s golf tournament raised more than $75,000 in donations to impact local children in foster care. 

EMPOWER is a nonprofit child welfare collaborative and the Community-Based Care contractor in the North Texas region of Metroplex East, led by Texas Family Initiative LLC and supported by local providers in North Texas including CK Family Services, Jonathan’s Place, Bair Foundation, Pathways Youth and Family Services that works together to serve some of our most vulnerable children and families.

 

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North Texas’ Favorite Family-Owned Bar-B-Que Brings Homemade Goodness in the Most Delicious Way

Soulman’s Bar-B-Que’s signature Friday Night Fish Fry is a beloved tradition year-round, but it’s especially popular during Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter. On Lenten Fridays, many Christians abstain from meat and turn to seafood, and Soulman’s will fry up a meal worth savoring.

“Every Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy our fish fry meals for dine-in or carry-out at all Soulman’s locations,” says Brett Randle, CEO of Soulman’s Bar-B-Que. “North Texans love our deep-fried fish fillets, crispy hush puppies, and famous sides—including our award-winning house-cut fries, Texas-style creamed corn, Southern-fried cabbage, or classic coleslaw. We fry our fish in small batches, ensuring every bite is fresh, crispy, and full of flavor.”

“As we celebrate 50 years of serving North Texans, we continue to listen to our guests—and they can’t get enough of our Friday Night Fish Fry!” Randle adds.

And with Easter around the corner, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que is making holiday meals stress-free for North Texans. Preorder a full family feast online and pick it up at any Soulman’s Bar-B-Que location before Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.

“We take care of the cooking so families can enjoy a homestyle Easter meal without the hassle,” says Randle. “We pair our savory, hickory-smoked ham with our homemade mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, and King’s Hawaiian rolls for a classic Easter meal that families will love.”

Soulman’s offers two Easter meal options available for preorder at https://soulmans.com/easter-meal/:

  • Big Easter Dinner – Feeds 20-24 for $189.99
  • Easter Dinner – Feeds 10-12 for $98.99

Add Soulman’s hickory-smoked meats, famous sides, and delicious desserts for an Easter meal that can be tailor-made for any gathering. Half hams ($49.99) and whole hams ($99.99) are also available. Preordered meals can be picked up on Friday, April 18, and Saturday, April 19, 2025.

All Soulman’s locations will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas, in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  With a focus on Faith, Food, and Family, Soulman’s passed-down recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025), Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020), and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

 

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 20 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst Grapevine Highway, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City, Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at https://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

 

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Theresa Zavala, Interior Hospitality Lead at Merriman Anderson Architects.

Merriman Anderson Architects (MAA) is proud to introduce Theresa Zavala as the firm’s Interiors Hospitality Lead. With 25 years of experience in global hospitality and high-end residential design, Zavala brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to MAA’s growing interiors division. 

In this role, Zavala will lead MAA’s hospitality interior design team, overseeing the design and execution of world-class interior spaces in the hospitality sector. She will be responsible for ensuring projects meet the highest design standards, align with client goals, and stay within budget. 

“Theresa’s experience and creative vision make her an invaluable leader to our interiors team,” says Milton Anderson, President, MAA. “Her guidance will further enhance our ability to deliver exceptional and thoughtfully-designed spaces for our clients.” 

Over her career, Zavala has worked on high-end hospitality projects, blending luxury and functionality to create immersive guest experiences. Her extensive international travel and significant on-site experience bring a strategic and inspired approach to design.

“I am thrilled to join the talented team at MAA and contribute to the firm’s exceptional portfolio of projects,” says Theresa Zavala, Interiors Hospitality Lead, MAA. “I look forward to collaborating with and leading the hospitality interior design team to create memorable experiences in unique spaces.” 

MAA is an architecture and interior design firm based in Downtown Dallas with offices also in Fort Worth, Austin, and Charlotte. MAA has a significant hospitality interior design portfolio of projects, including AC Hotel Fort Worth Downtown, Cambria Hotel Houston, Dallas Petroleum Club, Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa, Marriott Hotel Redmond, The National, The Statler Hilton, and The Woodlands Resort. 

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This Easter, Fairmont Dallas invites Dallasites and their loved ones to a delightful celebration in the heart of Downtown Dallas on Sunday, April 20 with seatings from 10:30 AM to 2 PM. This special Easter Day Brunch combines the best of gourmet cuisine, festive ambiance, and family-friendly activities. Bring the kids for a fun photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny. Plus, vibe out to a live acoustic guitar performance and jazz music.

Reservations are recommended. Visit OpenTable to book your spots.

 

EASTER DAY BRUNCH MENU

$69/person. Add Pommery Champagne for $20/person.

Small Plates

  • Little Gem Salad, with house croutons, green goddess dressing, and gran padano.

  • Roasted Beets, with whipped ricotta, spiced pecans, local honeycomb, and fresh mint.

  • Crab Cake, with smoked pepper remoulade and frisée garden salad.

  • Tomato Gazpacho.

Entrees

  • Chilaquiles. Roasted free bird chicken with salsa verde, scrambled eggs, crisp tostadas, and cotija.

  • Avocado Toast. Avocado mousse, poached eggs, pico de gallo, and queso fresco on grilled sourdough.

  • Chicken & Waffles. Fluffy red velvet waffles with Nashville hot chicken and maple butter.

  • Shakshuka, with San Marzano tomatoes, feta, roasted cauliflower, and ras el hanout.

  • Prime Rib. Allen Brothers Black Angus prime rib with two eggs and bearnaise. +$10

Dessert

  • Assorted cakes and pies in buffet arrangement

  • Live Crêpe station, with made-to-order options.

Drinks

  • Bloody Mary Bar

  • Mimosa Bar

 

The Pyramid Restaurant is located in Fairmont Dallas at 1717 N Akard St.

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From left: Carolyn Strickfaden, 2025 Stampede Auction co-chair and Shelton Alumni Relations Coordinator; Shelly Lloyd, Shelton Volunteer Relations & Events; and Lindsey Sherry, 2025 Stampede Auction co-chair.

The Shelton School Parents' Association (SPA) raised money at the 2025 Stampede benefit auction on April 4 at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Attendees enjoyed the evening with "Saved by the Stampede" as the theme, inspired by TV sitcoms. The event featured a cocktail reception, seated dinner, live and big board auctions and musical entertainment by Emerald City.

Funds raised from the auction support improvements in academics, curriculum programs, arts, athletics, technology, professional development for teachers, the wellness program, security enhancements and tuition assistance. Proceeds also support the Shelton Endowment Fund and the Shelton Scholarship Fund.

Among the auction highlights were the Ultimate Cowboys experience — including travel for two on the Cowboys' team-chartered plane and tickets to an away game — a poker party with former Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith, a U.S. Open trip, luxury getaways to Telluride, Nevis and 30A, naming rights to a Shelton mural and more.

2025 Stampede Auction co-chairs were Lindsey Sherry and Carolyn Strickfaden. Kimberly Kahn and Leigh Erin Lundy are co-presidents of the 2024-2025 Shelton Parents' Association, which sponsored the event. Shelly Lloyd is Shelton's Director of Volunteer Relations and Events. 

Executive Director Suzanne Stell thanked the parents, including Mandy Evans, volunteers, sponsors and staff who helped make the Stampede a success. "Tonight, all money goes back to our school and to our students because of the sponsorships and underwriters. Not every school event or party can say that — but we can, because of their support. So thank you again for all of your support, and thank you to our sponsorships and underwriters."

The Corrigan-Goddard Foundation was the presenting sponsor, the Paulos Foundation sponsored the dinner and Goody Goody, owned by Shelton parents Renee and Scott Jansen, donated alcohol and beverages for the event for the last four years. Garnett and Michael Holmes were the entertainment sponsors.  Lara and Stephen Shankle sponsored Stampede Week, and Marybeth and Kevin Conlon sponsored the decor. Shelton parent Kate White was the photographer.

Shelton parent and board member Stephanie Dean introduced Suzanne Stell, and Shelton parent and Board member Chase Evans spoke, saying, "With the funds we raise, we're looking forward to enhancing our fine arts program, continuing to pay our teachers competitive wages, strengthening campus security and investing in technology where it makes sense. All of these efforts ensure that Shelton students can learn in an environment created specifically for them — and that is huge."

Thank you to everyone who helped make the event a success — whether by attending, bidding, contributing funds or donating homes, experiences, gift cards and so many other generous items that support Shelton!

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Selena Quintanilla Perez was easily one of the most influential voices in Tejano music and her fame has continued long since her tragic death in 1995. April 16, the birthday of the beloved singer, was named Selena Day by then-Gov. George W. Bush. Black Agave, the beloved Tex-Mex restaurant located at Mercer Boardwalk in Farmers Branch, will celebrate the life and legacy of Selena with La Flor Fest on Wednesday, April 16 from 5 to 10 p.m. as a part of its grand opening.

La Flor Fest takes its name from “Como la Flor,” Selena’s breakthrough 1992 single. Guests can practice their cumbia moves as a DJ spins music by Selena and her contemporaries.

Throughout the evening, the restaurant will offer a wide array of food and drink specials, all discounted to $2 each for the party. Included among the $2 specials are:

  • House Margaritas
  • House Wines
  • Draft Beers
  • High Noons
  • Queso Blanco
  • Street Elotes
  • Nachos

 

 

Guests can also order from Black Agave’s ample entrée menu, which includes a perfect balance of Tex-Mex standards such as tacos, nachos, quesadillas and enchiladas blended with new favorites such as the Molcajete Mixto, featuring shrimp, beef tenderloin, chicken and chorizo. Tacos include smoked pork belly, chipotle shrimp, filet mignon carne asada and more. Enchilada lovers can enjoy tasty tortillas filled with chicken verde, smoked brisket, and even enmoladas with roasted chicken and a Oaxacan-style mole with plantains.

 

While La Flor Fest is free to attend, reservations are recommended and can be made here: https://www.blackagavetexas.com/la-flor-fest.

Further information on Black Agave can be found at blackagavetexas.com.

 

Location

1980 Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway

Farmers Branch, Texas 75234

469-850-6501

blackagavetexas.com

 

 

About Black Agave

Black Agave Cocina y Cantina celebrates a taste of Mexican tradition. Guests will indulge in the vibrant flavors and festive ambience at Black Agave, where every moment becomes a reason to celebrate. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere that captures the essence of Mexican culture, while our authentic and delicious meals take your taste buds on a journey of pure delight. Whether you’re savoring a good day, reconnecting with friends, or bidding farewell to the work week, your perfect celebration starts at our table.

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The Shelton School announces the completion of an extraordinary life-sized art installation —a striking, illuminated “S” — that captures the essence of Shelton’s mission and values. Displayed prominently in the dining hall, the piece serves as a daily reminder of Shelton’s dedication to educating students with learning differences and its commitment to Academics, Athletics, Fine Arts and STEM.

The Shelton School announces the completion of an extraordinary life-sized art installation —a striking, illuminated “S” — that captures the essence of Shelton’s mission and values. Displayed prominently in the dining hall, the piece serves as a daily reminder of Shelton’s dedication to educating students with learning differences and its commitment to Academics, Athletics, Fine Arts and STEM.  

A Collaborative Artistic Vision

The project was a true collaborative effort. Kellie Sirna, Shelton parent and founder of Studio 11 Design, led the design execution, helping bring the vision to life as a thoughtful reflection of Shelton’s vibrant and supportive community. Middle School art teacher Kathleen Goree and Shelton parent Aphrodite Paulos designed the initial layout, while Christy O’Neal, an in-house artist at Lou Verne by Studio 11 Design, brought the vision to life with her artistic expertise. The Aphrodite and Sam Paulos Foundation played a key role in making the project possible with a generous contribution.

“This installation is deeply personal to me. Shelton isn’t just where our children learn; it’s a community we pour our hearts into,” said Sirna. “We are not just supporters. We are mothers who are grateful for the opportunity to play a part in its ongoing legacy. Looking ahead to Shelton’s 50th anniversary in 2026, this piece serves as a foundation for future traditions, and I’m especially proud that our sons will be part of that celebration, continuing the legacy we’ve helped shape.” 

The Meaning Behind the Artwork

In 2022, a dedicated group of teachers, administrators, and parents set out to create something truly special — an art installation that reflects Shelton’s vibrant community. Inspired by a University of Oregon sports installation, the project evolved into a collaborative assemblage art piece featuring a large, illuminated “S” in Shelton Charger blue and white.

Standing 27 feet wide and 10 feet tall, the installation highlights the four key pillars of Shelton’s educational approach:

  • Academics – Igniting intellectual curiosity through a multisensory approach to learning.
  • Athletics – Instilling resilience and teamwork in students.
  • Fine Arts – Nurturing creativity, empathy, and confidence.
  • STEM – Equipping students with critical thinking skills for the ever-evolving world.

The artwork is composed of custom-made and found objects carefully selected to symbolize these core aspects of Shelton's identity. Embedded within the piece are Montessori materials and STEM elements, representing Shelton’s unique educational approach. The overarching message is that Fine Arts, Athletics and Academics work together to create a well-rounded, dynamic learning environment that makes Shelton a special place.

Shelton Executive Director Suzanne Stell says that the artwork embodies Shelton's commitment to making a difference in the lives of students who learn differently. “Every day, it reminds students that their unique ways of learning are strengths to be celebrated and that confidence, perseverance and a love for learning open endless possibilities.”

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On March 25, researchers from Scottish Rite for Children partnered with Shelton student-athletes to evaluate a Return-to-Play (RTP) test battery focused on upper extremity development and rehabilitation.

On March 25, researchers from Scottish Rite for Children partnered with student-athletes from the Shelton School to evaluate a Return-to-Play (RTP) test battery focused on upper extremity development and rehabilitation. The study was led by Dr. Sophia Ulman, Division Director of the Movement Science Laboratory at Scottish Rite for Children.

The purpose of the study is to assess a RTP test battery for adolescent patients recovering from shoulder stabilization surgery, as well as healthy adolescent athletes. While the test battery has been validated at the collegiate level, Scottish Rite has now received funding from the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation to evaluate its effectiveness in a high school population.

This research addresses a critical gap in sports medicine: although many young athletes return to sport after shoulder surgery, a significant number experience recurrent instability or require revision procedures — especially in contact sports. Currently, most return-to-play decisions are made based on time since surgery, not functional readiness. This study aims to shift that approach by using objective testing to assess shoulder strength, power and stability.

Thanks to Dr. Ulman, Shelton's Director of Athletic Training Krystal Cunningham, Shelton Athletic Director Alan Burt and the Shelton student-athletes who participated in the study.

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By Debbie Knox, M.Ed.

Director of College and Career Advising, The Shelton School

For students with learning differences, college presents both new opportunities and challenges. A key to success is securing necessary accommodations. Unlike high school, where accommodations are provided under IEPs and 504 Plans, colleges operate under different laws, requiring students to take an active role in requesting accommodations.

Here’s what students and families need to know about accessing accommodations in college:

1. Understand the Difference: K-12 vs. College

  • In high school, accommodations are provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
  • In college, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 still apply, but students must self-advocate and submit documentation to request accommodations.

2. Obtain Proper Documentation

  • Colleges typically require recent documentation, often within the past three years. This can include:
    • A psychoeducational evaluation (The Shelton Evaluation Center provides evaluations: 972-774-1772, ext 2243.)
    • A letter of diagnosis outlining the learning difference and recommended accommodations
    • A high school 504 Plan or IEP (helpful, but not sufficient on its own)

3. Research the College’s Disability Services Office

  • Visit the Disability Services Office (DSO) when touring colleges.
  • Check the college website for DSO contact information, forms, guidelines and deadlines.
  • Apply to Disability Services and request accommodations before classes begin.

4. Be Aware of Common Accommodations

  • Extended time on tests
  • Note-taking assistance or permission to record lectures
  • Alternative testing environments (e.g., a quiet room)
  • Access to audiobooks or text-to-speech technology
  • Priority registration
  • Reduced course load

5. Encourage Self-Advocacy

  • Unlike high school, parents cannot advocate for students in college.
  • Students must take the lead in managing their accommodations:
    • Meet with professors to introduce themselves.
    • Explain their learning difference and needs in a confident manner.
    • Utilize campus resources such as tutoring centers or academic coaching.

Accessing accommodations in college requires preparation, organization and self-advocacy. Students who take these steps set themselves up for success. Start early, stay informed and embrace your learning differences as strengths.

Debbie Knox is the Director of College and Career Advising at the Shelton School, where she is dedicated to helping students navigate the college admissions process and plan for their future. With a background in education, counseling and student support, she provides personalized guidance to ensure each student finds the right academic fit. Debbie holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Education from Southwest Texas State University.