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THE FORMER PLANO HOUSE OF COMEDY, NOW MIC DROP COMEDY PLANO, UNDERGOING A FULL REMODEL & REBRAND IN PLANO, TX

Mic Drop Comedy has purchased Plano House of Comedy and is slated to complete a full remodel & rebrand of the 5,500-square-foot space in December 2024 with a grand reopening in mid-January 2025

 DALLAS (December 3, 2024) – Mic Drop Comedy, a boutique comedy club founded in San Diego, California, in 2022, purchased Plano House of Comedy, located at 7301 Lone Star Dr. in Plano, TX, and will undergo a month-long remodel and rebrand this December. Doors will close to the public on Dec. 9 and are expected to reopen following the completion of the renovation project in mid-January of 2025. 

Mic Drop Comedy is known for over-the-top, elaborate, and art-centric designs, and its newest Plano location will be no exception. Attendees can expect floor-to-ceiling hand-painted murals to the theme of Disney’s classic animated movie, Robin Hood. As an homage to the film, California-based muralists, Carly Ealey and Christopher Konecki, will be using spray paint to graffiti every inch of the venue, including a hyper-realistic animal mural behind the bar, complete with stained glass windows, wood carvings, and a massive storybook door that will take visitors into the fictional town of Nottingham and Sherwood Forest in Central England. 

The unique stage design will follow the movie's theme of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. 3-D bows and arrows and decorative English flags will ornate the space. The bathrooms will transport users to a forest oasis deep in the world of Robin Hood. Headliners and performers can also expect a private and secluded green room with a deep green, rustic tree-house feel. 

In addition to providing a vivid atmosphere unlike any other comedy club in the country, Mic Drop Comedy Plano aims to serve delicious scratch-made American cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails, without a food or drink minimum. Its goal is to bring some of the biggest names in comedy to the heart of Plano, while still providing a boutique experience for comedy enthusiasts. 

Focused on diversity and inclusion, Mic Drop Comedy Plano is set to book a wide range of comedians, including performances that emphasize inclusion, making it a place where everyone is welcome. Upcoming national-touring headliners include Ms. Pat, Kevin Nealon, Preacher Lawson, Alfred Robles, and more. Mic Drop Comedy Plano will hold  90-minute shows every Wednesday through Sunday. In addition to regularly scheduled programs, the community can also expect an array of different themed events, social media giveaways, and comedy classes for all ages, including a six-week children’s comedy course instructed by industry professionals that will end with a live audience performance. 

 “We’re beyond excited to bring the Mic Drop Comedy experience to Plano and the surrounding areas,” said Hillary Hutson, Mic Drop Comedy co-owner. “This isn’t just a remodel—it’s a reinvention of what a comedy club can be. From the stunning Robin Hood-themed graffiti-styled designs to our commitment to diversity and inclusion, we’re creating a space that feels immersive, welcoming, and completely unique. We can’t wait to bring some of the biggest names in comedy, along with unforgettable experiences, to this vibrant community.”

Mic Drop Comedy Plano will be closed for construction during the month of December and is slated to reopen to the public in mid-January 2025. It will hold a grand reopening event on January 15, 2025. 

For more information, visit https://www.micdropcomedyplano.com/. 

ABOUT MIC DROP COMEDY

Mic Drop Comedy is a comedy club founded in San Diego in 2022, now with locations in Chandler, AZ, and Plano, TX. Established by lifelong friends and industry veterans, Hillary Hutson and Casey Currier, Mic Drop emphasizes diversity and supporting locals. 90-minute stand-up shows are held every Wednesday through Sunday with unique programming such as comedy classes, themed events, fun brunches, and more sprinkled throughout the calendar. Mic Drop Comedy offers a full dinner menu and extensive cocktail menu, all scratch-made, with specialty items not found elsewhere and no drink or food minimum. For more information, visit Mic Drop Comedy Plano:

·             Online:www.micdropcomedyplano.com

·             On Instagram:www.instagram.com/micdropcomedyplano 

 

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Allen Home Historic farmhouse built in the 1930's and called Moss Haven

Organized by the Lake Highlands Women’s League, this annual event raises funds to support local schools and scholarships.

The Lake Highlands Women’s League will throw open the doors and welcome everyone to the 46th Annual Holiday Home Tour: Holiday in the Highlands, presented by Walne Family Holdings, on Friday, December 6, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. This beloved annual tradition is more than just the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit: Since its inception in 1970, Holiday in the Highlands has raised approximately $3.5 million to benefit Lake Highlands’ schools, community groups and college scholarships.  

Four beautifully decorated homes in Lake Highlands will welcome guests to experience their unique spin on holiday magic. The charming, creative, eclectic architecture and home design in the northeastern Dallas neighborhood of Lake Highlands makes it the perfect locale to host a home tour. Visitors are delighted with ideas, inspiration and a healthy dose of the holiday spirit! 

Attendees will enjoy beautiful holiday displays at four Lake Highlands homes: 

  • 9311 Moss Circle Drive, the home of the Allen family: This historic farmhouse built in the 1930s by Harry S. Moss to give a bull he purchased at the Texas State Fair room to roam. Known by their family as Moss Haven, the home was a reprieve from “city life” and was featured in Architectural Digest in January of 1958.
  • 7737 Eagle Trail, the home of the Austin family: The horse stables across the street and the resident ostentation of peacocks drew the Austins to their unique lot on Eagle Trail in 2020.  As you tour the home, be on the lookout for many peacock “nods” seamlessly incorporated into art, lamps, wallpaper and even hand towels. With a great appreciation for both family history and the great outdoors, this family has created a beautiful home to cherish for decades.
  • 8728 Fenchurch, the home of the Blessing family: This family of six has created the perfect family home that pairs classic sophistication with boyish-rugged charm. Gathering areas for family and friends encourage interaction with an inviting feel while the home’s flow works perfectly for a busy family with four growing boys. On display in the home is a charming and special collection of sketches by Lake Highlands resident and Allison’s best friend, Becky Haas.  Each sketch represents a home the Blessings have lived in along the way. 
  • 9617 Shadydale, the home of the Gray family: Mark and Maurie Gray own an architecture firm, M-Gray Architecture, and their talent and eye for detail is evident in every corner of their home. Oak carpentry and several pieces of art celebrate the oak tree, which has been a symbol of strength and stability in the Grays’ marriage: Mark proposed under an oak tree and they married under an oak tree at Maurie’s parent’s farm in Fredericksburg.  A memorable Christmas spent in Sweden inspired a warm, rustic feeling they bring into their home when they decorate for the holidays.

Keep the holiday fun going with a stop at the Sip & Shop, presented by Volvo Dallas, at the Lake Highlands Women’s League Marketplace at the KayCee Club, an event that complements the home tour by offering another way to support the Lake Highlands community. Visitors can shop for holiday treasures from 20 local vendors offering art, jewelry, clothing, food and other gifts while catching up with friends and enjoying a holiday cocktail. Admission is free for the Sip & Shop, which will take place at 10110 Shoreview Road in Dallas on Thursday, December 5, from 4 to 8 p.m.; and on Friday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

 You can also support the cause for the chance to win a great prize by entering the Lake Highlands Women’s League Holiday in the Highlands Raffle. Enter for a chance to win complimentary valet parking at NorthPark Center for a year (just in time for holiday shopping!) for just $25 per raffle ticket (drawing to be held December 6, winner need not be present to win).  

New this year: The giving will continue even after the Sip & Shop concludes! This year, the giving will continue December 7-14 through the Love LH virtual shopping event. Participating local businesses will give shoppers a 10% discount – and will also donate 10% of proceeds to the Lake Highlands Women’s League to help raise money for important local initiatives. More details will be available at www.LHWL.org.

The Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour is chaired by Jenny Littlefield and Stephani Walne, Lake Highlands residents and volunteers from the Lake Highlands Women’s League. They lead an effort assisted by the Home Tour Committee and Finance Committee of volunteers from the Lake Highlands Women’s League, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the Lake Highlands community for more than 50 years.

“The holidays are a season of giving, and we’re grateful that this joy and spirit allows us to fund educational opportunities for our Lake Highlands High School seniors,” Littlefield said. “Seeing them receive their scholarships in the spring feels like the holidays all over again.”

“We invite everyone to kick off their holiday season with us here in Lake Highlands, viewing beautifully decorated homes and making a life-changing difference for a graduating senior by helping us raising funds for scholarships,” Walne added.

Holidays in the Highlands showcases four beautifully decorated homes in Lake Highlands on Friday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets for the home tour are $25 and are available here, along with links to purchase raffle tickets. Admission to the Sip & Shop at the KayCee Club on December 5 and 6 is free. (Hot tip: Bring your Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour ticket to show at the Sip & Shop to get a complimentary glass of bubbly!)

Lake Highlands Women’s League also is encouraging visitor to the home tour to participate in Lunch Around Lake Highlands on December 1 to help support the local restaurant community by dining out at a Lake Highlands area restaurant of their choice.

In 2023, the tour raised $215,000, which directly funded specific projects and services for 12 nonprofit organizations and 13 schools, and provided college scholarships to 33 exceptional Lake Highlands High School students. From supplies and technology upgrades at area schools to car seats for new mothers and summer reading initiatives at area libraries, the Lake Highlands Women’s League heard and proudly responded to a wide range of impactful opportunities.

For more information on Holidays in the Highlands or to learn more about the Lake Highlands Women’s League, please visit www.lhwl.org.

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For You I’d Break

Peace Falls, #1

by

Hannah Jordan

 

This exceptional second-chance romance kicks off a new series!

 

For You I’d Break is the exceptional first novel in author Hannah Jordan’s wonderful new Peace Falls romance series, and I’ve never encountered a better treatment of the second-chance romance plot. Great characters, a charming small-town setting, and complex, realistic emotions and problems all combine for a fantastic series debut. 

The female main character, Rowan Stevens Norris, has returned home after discovering her husband cheating and to recover from injuries sustained during a freak accident with a person riding a Segway. Cal Cordoba is the leading man whose past has caused him to reject emotional commitment in relationships. He’s returned to his hometown of Peace Falls to join an established medical practice as a physical therapist. Although the two went to the same high school, they did not run in the same social circles; Cal was the football star, and Rowan was the invisible introvert. They reconnect when Rowan’s mother schedules her for PT with the now-Dr. Cordoba and the sparks fly. 

Both Rowan and Cal are surrounded by good friends or family, most of whom also have their own emotional burdens. Cal and his friends, Adrian and Theo, share a past tragedy that they are all still paying for physically and emotionally, and their daily struggles are realistic. Lauren, Cammie, and even Avery have their own heartbreaks to overcome. 

There is conflict between Rowan and Cal from the start but there is a ton of chemistry as well. While I enjoyed the push-pull of their relationship, I couldn’t put the book down until I got to the HEA. The dialogue throughout the story absolutely sparkles and is a major highlight of the book. I laughed out loud quite a few times because the banter was so witty. The author does a wonderful job creating the town of Peace Falls and populating it with memorable people without killing the plot with details and exposition. I am already looking forward to catching up with these characters as the series continues. 

I recommend FOR YOU I’D BREAK to romance readers, especially those with an affinity for tales of second-chance romance.

 

Check out this and my other book reviews HERE and register for the giveaway before it ends. The author will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner.

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2024_Table 13 Christmas Eve SM POST 1080x1080 JRv1

Addison’s casually elegant, Table 13, invites you to enjoy a relaxing and memorable Christmas Eve dinner with our chef’s specially curated menu. Whether celebrating as a couple, family, or larger group, our fine dining experience is a treat for all complementing the gifts under the tree.

Served with three seating times of 4:00p.m., 6:00p.m. and 8:00p.m., and offered for $99/person our Christmas Eve menu includes your choice of appetizer Deviled Eggs, Bacon Wrapped Dates, or Shrimp Cocktail.

The next course presents options of Caesar Salad, House Salad, or Lobster Bisque followed by delicious entrée choices Tenderloin Lobster Oscar, Filet & Grilled Shrimp, Prime Ribeye, Potato and Herb Crusted Sea Bass, Lemon Caper Chicken, or Pecan Crusted Salmon. All entrees are served with family style sides of Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables.

Dessert is part of the holiday experience and our famous Chocolate Cake, Candy Cane Ice Cream, or Milk and Cookies are not to be missed.

For those who prefer additional options, we offer several a la carte appetizers and sides with the holiday menu.

The Christmas Eve experience also includes the classic Vegas-style music of Henry Munoz. Henry’s performance will delight your table, adding an unforgettable ambiance to your dinner celebration from 3:30-7:30p.m.

Reservations are required for Christmas Eve and seating is limited. Please call 972-789-9558 to make your reservations soon.

Table 13, known for exquisite entrees and classic cocktails, has been awarded Best Fine Dining in DFW by the readers of Dallas Morning News amongst numerous other awards. Dining at Table 13 is a premier experience where one can make memories lasting a lifetime. Table 13 is located at 4812 Belt Line Road in Addison.

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The Oak Cliff Society of Fine Arts presents Crafting the Parlor Room on Thursday, December 5, 2024. Join choreographer Bridget L. Moore of B. Moore Dance, the OCSFA resident dance company, and vocalist and pianist Damon K. Clark in a unique opportunity to shape a performance that transforms the elegance of a traditional parlor into a space of creativity and connection.

Details:

Crafting the Parlor Room

Thursday, December 5, 2024

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m.

Turner House, 401 N. Rosemont Avenue Dallas, Texas 75208

Tickets at www.turnerhouse.org

 

 

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Dallas Interim Chief of Police Michael Igo. Photo by Ben Torres for the Friends of the Dallas Police

The 43rd annual Friends of the Dallas Police Awards Banquet paid tribute to 357 extraordinary officers and professional staff members of the Dallas Police Department on Nov. 22 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. With nearly 1,000 guests in attendance, the event was presented by Nexpoint Philanthropies and organized by the Friends of the Dallas Police. 

The top two honors were presented to Senior Corporal David Massey of the Wellness Unit, who was named John T. McCarthy Police Officer of the Year, as well as Administrative Specialist II Paola Romero Vazquez of Employee Relations who received the James C. Taylor Professional Staff Employee of the Year Award.

"The ceremony is a testament to the bravery, dedication and selflessness displayed daily by the men and women of the Dallas Police Department,” said Interim Chief Igo. “These awards not only honor individual excellence but also highlight the collective commitment of our organization to serve and protect our communities with integrity and compassion. It is a privilege to stand alongside these remarkable officers and professional staff members as we celebrate their notable achievements."

The family of Officer Darron Burks, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on Aug. 29, 2024, was presented the Police Cross. In addition, Senior Corporal Karissa David and Senior Corporal Jamie Farmer received the Medal of Honor for their extraordinary heroism shown when responding to the horrific incident.

Joining Interim Dallas Police Chief Michael Igo, who personally congratulated each award recipient, was Interim Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, Dallas Chief of Public Safety Dominique Artis, several Dallas City councilmembers, Dallas Fire Chief Justin Ball and other community leaders.

The Dallas Police Honor Guard and Dallas Metro Police Pipes & Drums presented the colors, the Dallas Police Choir performed the National Anthem, and Reverend Jacob Dankasa of the Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church delivered the invocation. Dia Wall, WFAA-TV anchor, served as the master of ceremonies.

Major awards plus Chief’s Awards presented this year

While many awardees knew they were award recipients prior to the ceremony, the top awards were revealed during the ceremony. Recipients were chosen from nominations submitted by DPD supervisors to the Meritorious Conduct Board based on overall yearly performance.

The Marvin R. Bullard Supervisor of the Year Award went to two individuals – the Sworn Supervisor Award was given to Sergeant Kelvin Pope of the Traffic Unit, Tactical & Special Operations Bureau, and the Professional Staff Supervisor Award went to Tanisha Harris of Personnel Services, Administrative Bureau.

The James R. Leavelle Detective of the Year was presented to Senior Corporal Olivia Zambrano of the Domestic Violence Unit Investigations Bureau, and the Field Training Officer of the Year went to Senior Corporal Joseph Dillard of Southeast Patrol. The Telecommunicator of the Year Award went to 911 Call Analyst II Carlos Sierra, and the Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year Award was presented to Police Officer Ryan Nunns of South Central Patrol. The Joe C. Jones Reserve Officer of the Year Award was given to Reserve Officer Michael Freeman of the Reserve Unit, Patrol Bureau.

Six officers received Police Shield Awards including Senior Corporal Raul Diaz, Senior Corporal Joshua Gonzalez, Senior Corporal Kevin James, Senior Corporal Edgar Morales, Police Officer Tyler Morris and Retired Sergeant John Barton.

Meritorious Conduct Unit Awards were presented to the Fugitive Unit, Northwest Prostitution Task Force, Special Investigations Division Tactical Training Group, Special Investigations Overdose Unit and the Special Response Group.  The Friends of the Dallas Police also bestowed Meritorious Conduct Awards to 11 officers, Police Commendation Awards to 52 officers and Life Saving Awards to 75 officers.

The Chief of Police Citizen Award was presented to Pete Schenkel, and the Chief of Police Volunteer Awards were presented to DPD Reserve Deputy Chief Dr. Alex L. Eastman and the Dallas Metro Police Pipes & Drums. Additionally, Interim Chief Igo presented the Chief’s Award to two units – the Honor Guard and the Wellness Unit – as well as Senior Corporal Karissa David and Police Dispatch Analyst Owen Larsen.

Nominees (and bureau winners) for the John T. McCarthy Dallas Police Officer of the Year, which was presented to Senior Corporal David Massey (Office of Chief of Police Bureau Officer of the Year), were Police Officer Corey Parker (Administrative Bureau Officer of the Year); Officer Julio Flores (Community Engagement and Operations Officer of the Year); Officer Daniel Waller, Jr. (Northeast Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Officer Alban Karanfili (Northwest Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Senior Corporal Jacob Deloof (Southeast Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Officer Jennifer Atherton (South Central Patrol Division Officer of the Year); and Officer Edward Resendez, Jr. (Southwest Patrol Division Officer of the Year).

Nominees (and bureau winners) for the James C. Taylor Professional Staff Employee of the Year Award, which was presented to Administrative Specialist II Paola Romero Vazquez (Administrative Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year), were Administrative Specialist I Tiffany Young Jones (Office of the Chief of Police Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Community Outreach Representative Dr. Chen Yuan (Community Engagement and Operations Patrol Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Crime Scene Analyst Jamie Mueller (Investigations Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Fleet Coordinator Juan Cruz (Southeast Patrol Division Professional Staff Employee of the Year); and Fleet Coordinator Jennifer Greer (South Central Patrol Division Professional Staff Employee of the Year).

The 2024 Anita Ruiz Family Foundation Educational Scholarship Awards, given to the child of a DPD employee for college tuition, provided $5,000 scholarships to three deserving students. The first recipient was Rachel Fox, daughter of Sergeant Timothy Fox, a 34-year DPD veteran assigned to the South Central Investigative Unit. The second recipient was Ontanayia Hatter, daughter of Sergeant Tawanna Manuel, a 17-year DPD veteran assigned to the Jubilee Park Storefront. The third recipient was Colton Weltman, son of Reserve Officer Dean Weltman, a 22-year DPD veteran assigned to the Reserve Unit.

In addition to Presenting Sponsor Nexpoint Philanthropies, Major Sponsors are Lisa and Kenny Troutt; Hunt Consolidated, Inc. and The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated Inc.; Copart; Sam Pack’s Five Star Family of Dealerships; and QuikTrip. Lieutenant Sponsors are Anita Ruiz Family Foundation; Central Market; Access Healthcare; Freeman Auto Group; Hillwood; Baylor Scott & White Health; Ellen McStay – In Honor of Cynthia Villarreal; 7-Eleven; Sewell Automotive Companies; and The Alinda Hill Wikert Foundation.  

About Friends of the Dallas Police
Founded in 1982 by a group of Dallas business leaders, the Friends of the Dallas Police Awards event recognizes the DPD employees for outstanding performance in the line of duty and raises money to celebrate those employees who risk their lives every day to make Dallas a safer city. The Friends organization believes that no matter their position within the department, each of DPD’s employees has made a commitment to better the city and the quality of life of its citizens. For more information about the Friends of the Dallas Police, go to friendsofthedallaspolice.org.

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Dallas Interim Chief of Police Michael Igo. Photo by Ben Torres for the Friends of the Dallas Police

The 43rd annual Friends of the Dallas Police Awards Banquet paid tribute to 357 extraordinary officers and professional staff members of the Dallas Police Department on Nov. 22 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. With nearly 1,000 guests in attendance, the event was presented by Nexpoint Philanthropies and organized by the Friends of the Dallas Police. 

The top two honors were presented to Senior Corporal David Massey of the Wellness Unit, who was named John T. McCarthy Police Officer of the Year, as well as Administrative Specialist II Paola Romero Vazquez of Employee Relations who received the James C. Taylor Professional Staff Employee of the Year Award.

"The ceremony is a testament to the bravery, dedication and selflessness displayed daily by the men and women of the Dallas Police Department,” said Interim Chief Igo. “These awards not only honor individual excellence but also highlight the collective commitment of our organization to serve and protect our communities with integrity and compassion. It is a privilege to stand alongside these remarkable officers and professional staff members as we celebrate their notable achievements."

The family of Officer Darron Burks, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on Aug. 29, 2024, was presented the Police Cross. In addition, Senior Corporal Karissa David and Senior Corporal Jamie Farmer received the Medal of Honor for their extraordinary heroism shown when responding to the horrific incident.

Joining Interim Dallas Police Chief Michael Igo, who personally congratulated each award recipient, was Interim Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, Dallas Chief of Public Safety Dominique Artis, several Dallas City councilmembers, Dallas Fire Chief Justin Ball and other community leaders.

The Dallas Police Honor Guard and Dallas Metro Police Pipes & Drums presented the colors, the Dallas Police Choir performed the National Anthem, and Reverend Jacob Dankasa of the Holy Family of Nazareth Catholic Church delivered the invocation. Dia Wall, WFAA-TV anchor, served as the master of ceremonies.

Major awards plus Chief’s Awards presented this year

While many awardees knew they were award recipients prior to the ceremony, the top awards were revealed during the ceremony. Recipients were chosen from nominations submitted by DPD supervisors to the Meritorious Conduct Board based on overall yearly performance.

The Marvin R. Bullard Supervisor of the Year Award went to two individuals – the Sworn Supervisor Award was given to Sergeant Kelvin Pope of the Traffic Unit, Tactical & Special Operations Bureau, and the Professional Staff Supervisor Award went to Tanisha Harris of Personnel Services, Administrative Bureau.

The James R. Leavelle Detective of the Year was presented to Senior Corporal Olivia Zambrano of the Domestic Violence Unit Investigations Bureau, and the Field Training Officer of the Year went to Senior Corporal Joseph Dillard of Southeast Patrol. The Telecommunicator of the Year Award went to 911 Call Analyst II Carlos Sierra, and the Johnny Sides Rookie of the Year Award was presented to Police Officer Ryan Nunns of South Central Patrol. The Joe C. Jones Reserve Officer of the Year Award was given to Reserve Officer Michael Freeman of the Reserve Unit, Patrol Bureau.

Six officers received Police Shield Awards including Senior Corporal Raul Diaz, Senior Corporal Joshua Gonzalez, Senior Corporal Kevin James, Senior Corporal Edgar Morales, Police Officer Tyler Morris and Retired Sergeant John Barton.

Meritorious Conduct Unit Awards were presented to the Fugitive Unit, Northwest Prostitution Task Force, Special Investigations Division Tactical Training Group, Special Investigations Overdose Unit and the Special Response Group.  The Friends of the Dallas Police also bestowed Meritorious Conduct Awards to 11 officers, Police Commendation Awards to 52 officers and Life Saving Awards to 75 officers.

The Chief of Police Citizen Award was presented to Pete Schenkel, and the Chief of Police Volunteer Awards were presented to DPD Reserve Deputy Chief Dr. Alex L. Eastman and the Dallas Metro Police Pipes & Drums. Additionally, Interim Chief Igo presented the Chief’s Award to two units – the Honor Guard and the Wellness Unit – as well as Senior Corporal Karissa David and Police Dispatch Analyst Owen Larsen.

Nominees (and bureau winners) for the John T. McCarthy Dallas Police Officer of the Year, which was presented to Senior Corporal David Massey (Office of Chief of Police Bureau Officer of the Year), were Police Officer Corey Parker (Administrative Bureau Officer of the Year); Officer Julio Flores (Community Engagement and Operations Officer of the Year); Officer Daniel Waller, Jr. (Northeast Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Officer Alban Karanfili (Northwest Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Senior Corporal Jacob Deloof (Southeast Patrol Division Officer of the Year); Officer Jennifer Atherton (South Central Patrol Division Officer of the Year); and Officer Edward Resendez, Jr. (Southwest Patrol Division Officer of the Year).

Nominees (and bureau winners) for the James C. Taylor Professional Staff Employee of the Year Award, which was presented to Administrative Specialist II Paola Romero Vazquez (Administrative Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year), were Administrative Specialist I Tiffany Young Jones (Office of the Chief of Police Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Community Outreach Representative Dr. Chen Yuan (Community Engagement and Operations Patrol Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Crime Scene Analyst Jamie Mueller (Investigations Bureau Professional Staff Employee of the Year); Fleet Coordinator Juan Cruz (Southeast Patrol Division Professional Staff Employee of the Year); and Fleet Coordinator Jennifer Greer (South Central Patrol Division Professional Staff Employee of the Year).

The 2024 Anita Ruiz Family Foundation Educational Scholarship Awards, given to the child of a DPD employee for college tuition, provided $5,000 scholarships to three deserving students. The first recipient was Rachel Fox, daughter of Sergeant Timothy Fox, a 34-year DPD veteran assigned to the South Central Investigative Unit. The second recipient was Ontanayia Hatter, daughter of Sergeant Tawanna Manuel, a 17-year DPD veteran assigned to the Jubilee Park Storefront. The third recipient was Colton Weltman, son of Reserve Officer Dean Weltman, a 22-year DPD veteran assigned to the Reserve Unit.

In addition to Presenting Sponsor Nexpoint Philanthropies, Major Sponsors are Lisa and Kenny Troutt; Hunt Consolidated, Inc. and The Men and Women of Hunt Consolidated Inc.; Copart; Sam Pack’s Five Star Family of Dealerships; and QuikTrip. Lieutenant Sponsors are Anita Ruiz Family Foundation; Central Market; Access Healthcare; Freeman Auto Group; Hillwood; Baylor Scott & White Health; Ellen McStay – In Honor of Cynthia Villarreal; 7-Eleven; Sewell Automotive Companies; and The Alinda Hill Wikert Foundation.  

About Friends of the Dallas Police
Founded in 1982 by a group of Dallas business leaders, the Friends of the Dallas Police Awards event recognizes the DPD employees for outstanding performance in the line of duty and raises money to celebrate those employees who risk their lives every day to make Dallas a safer city. The Friends organization believes that no matter their position within the department, each of DPD’s employees has made a commitment to better the city and the quality of life of its citizens. For more information about the Friends of the Dallas Police, go to friendsofthedallaspolice.org.

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This year, the Turtle Creek Chorale is taking their beloved holiday concerts ‘on the road’ across the DFW Metroplex! Find more details below for your list of recommendations for Dallasites getting into the spirit of the holiday season.

Turtle Creek Chorale invites you to take a journey back in time and rediscover the WONDER of childhood Christmases with the TCC Holiday Tour. The “WONDER: TCC Holiday Tour” concert series consists of four spirited performances to celebrate the season, including:

  • 7:30 pm on Thursday, December 5 at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church located at 9200 Inwood Rd.

  • 7:30 pm on Tuesday, December 10 at the Meyerson Symphony Center located at 2301 Flora St.

  • 7:30 pm on Friday, December 13 at Broadway Baptist Church located at 305 W. Broadway Ave.

  • 7:30 pm on Tuesday, December 17 at First United Methodist Church Richardson located at 503 N. Central Expressway

Step back into the magic of waking up to a blanket of snow and the excitement of a day off school, or curling up by the fire to watch the Peanuts gang and their little tree. This concert is more than just music, it is a celebration of those cherished childhood memories and the joy of the holiday season as seen through the eyes of children. 

Tickets for the performances are available for purchase on the Turtle Creek Chorale website here and range from $0 - $100. A portion of each concert’s tickets are available on a ‘Pay As You Wish’ basis. Turtle Creek Chorale offers a “Pay What You Wish” option for all performances because they want their concerts to be accessible to everyone.

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Courtesy of the Lone Star Wind Orchestra

Just in time for the holidays, the Lone Star Wind Orchestra (LSWO) will present Unwrap the Joy, a Christmas celebration featuring festive music for the entire family – from carols and classical pieces, to contemporary tunes that have a special way of bringing people together and enhancing the holiday spirit. Under the direction of LSWO guest conductor Andrew Trachsel, the concert will be performed Sunday, Dec. 15, at 3 p.m. at Moody Performance Hall in the Dallas Arts District (2520 Flora St., 75201).

A highlight this year includes the return of a favorite titled “Is There a Santa Claus?”, a musical work written by Joseph T. Spaniola based on the text taken from the 1897 editorial titled “Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus.” Francis P. Church’s editorial, which was published in the New York Sun in response to a letter by 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon, has become an important part of popular Christmas lore in the United States.

Narrating the work will be WRR 101.1’s Amy Bishop who returns to Moody Performance Hall to collaborate once again with the Lone Star Wind Orchestra. She garnered rave reviews last spring for her narration of the Orchestra’s performance of Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony.

“It’s been almost a decade since we performed a Christmas concert. We’re excited to present one this December and ring in the season with some holiday cheer,” said Christopher Tucker, director of marketing for Lone Star Wind Orchestra. “It’s a family favorite, and we think our audiences are going to especially love the return of ‘Is There a Santa Claus?'”

The Lone Star Wind Orchestra program also includes Jingle Them Bells by Julie Giroux; A Christmas Festival by Leroy Anderson; Adoration by Florence Price/Williams; Christmas Day: Fantasy on Old Carols by Gustav Holst/Daehn; March of the Toys by Victor Herbert/Clarke; Nutcracker Fantasia by Julie Giroux; Minor Alterations (Christmas Through the Looking Glass) by David Lovrien; and Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson.

The afternoon is particularly meaningful for the Lone Star Youth Winds, a group of gifted young musicians from North Texas who are part of the Lone Star Wind Orchestra’s educational outreach efforts. Fresh off their performance at Carnegie Hall this summer, the Lone Star Youth Winds have been given an invaluable opportunity to participate in the holiday concert, playing alongside the LSWO’s professional musicians.

Tickets to Unwrap the Joy, which start at $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors, may be purchased at lswo.com or at the door the day of the event.

The Lone Star Wind Orchestra is supported by the City of Richardson, Moody Fund for the Arts, City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture, Texas Commission on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts and TACA.

For more information, go to lswo.com.

ABOUT THE LONE STAR WIND ORCHESTRA
The Lone Star Wind Orchestra is a non-profit arts organization founded in 2006 as a creative collaboration to further the wind orchestra as an artistic medium. The group’s mission is “music changing lives in North Texas and beyond through inspired collaborations, exceptional mentoring of musicians, unforgettable performances, and inclusive community engagement.” The nonprofit also operates the Lone Star Youth Winds, made up of 60 of the most outstanding woodwind, brass and percussion players in grades 9-12, selected from across North Texas. The Lone Star Wind Orchestra’s education and outreach programs include the Lone Star Kids, which bring students face to face and behind the scenes with top musicians, composers and conductors. Learn more at lswo.com.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Enchant Christmas LLC

North Texas pro sports fans are invited to celebrate the season at Classic Christmas by Enchant, presented by Coca-Cola, on four sports-themed nights, set for Nov. 29 (Dallas Mavericks Night), Dec. 7 (FC Dallas Night), Dec. 18 (Texas Rangers Night), and Dec. 19 (Dallas Stars Night).

Players (to be announced), mascots and dance team members will join meet-and-greet and autograph sessions on each sports night at the new Classic Christmas holiday destination, which premiered Fri., Nov. 22 and runs through Dec. 29 at Choctaw Stadium. Fans are encouraged to show their team spirit by wearing their best Mavs, FC Dallas, Rangers or Stars gear.

On Mavericks Night (Nov. 29), guests can meet Mavs Man & Champ, the ManiAACs, Mavs Breakers, and D-Town Crew, while FC Dallas Night (Dec. 7) will feature an appearance by mascot Tex Hooper. Stars Night (Dec. 19) brings the Ice Girls to join the festivities, and Rangers Night (Dec. 18) will celebrate the team’s fans in a festive holiday setting.

Classic Christmas is a new, immersive holiday experience offering 55,000 square feet of larger-than-life, dazzling light sculptures centered around interactive Coca-Cola-inspired displays.  Holiday revelers can choose to stroll the exhibit or glide through the spectacular lights at the Classic Christmas Ice Rink, as well as speed down the snow-covered Slip ‘N’ Slide, chat with Santa, enjoy storytime with Mrs. Claus, strike a pose with the one and only Coca-Cola Polar Bear, or snap a selfie in front of a beautiful towering Christmas tree.

Other magical attractions include the Classic Christmas Eatery offering seasonal sips and bites, a Market Square filled with local shopping vendors and holiday treasures, an interactive dance floor featuring festive grooves, and a cozy Cinemark Theatre playing 2024 holiday movie previews and classic Coca-Cola holiday shorts.

Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas is crafted by the creators of the award-winning “World's Largest Christmas Light Maze,” Enchant Christmas. Tickets and general information, as well as information about additional theme nights (see below) are available at classicchristmas.com

“DFW Sports Night is a fun opportunity to celebrate North Texas team spirit while immersing in the magic of the holidays,” said Michelle Leyva, vice president of marketing and digital for Enchant Christmas, the parent company of Classic Christmas. “We’re excited to partner with the Mavericks, FC Dallas, the Rangers, and the Stars to bring this unique experience to the community. Fans can have their favorite team gear autographed, snap festive pictures with players and mascots, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration.”

ABOUT CLASSIC CHRISTMAS BY ENCHANT, PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA - ARLINGTON/DALLAS

  • Nov. 22-Dec. 29
  • Choctaw Stadium (1000 Ballpark Way | 76011)
  • Timed arrival tickets available at classicchristmas.com [Select “Dallas”]
  • Theme Nights and Special Events: Grand Opening (Nov. 22); Kids Light Up the Night (Nov. 24); Friendsgiving (Nov. 27); Dallas Mavericks Night (Nov. 29); Paws n’ Claus (Dec. 1); Country Christmas (Dec. 6); FC Dallas Night (Dec. 7); Military Night (Dec. 8); Ugly Christmas Sweater Night (Dec. 15); Texas Rangers Night (Dec. 18); Dallas Stars Night (Dec. 19).

ABOUT COCA-COLA SOUTHWEST BEVERAGES

Dallas-based Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (CCSWB), a company of Arca Continental, is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the United States. CCSWB produces, markets, and distributes Coca-Cola brands throughout Texas and parts of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The company employs more than 8,500 associates who operate 7 production plants and 37 distribution facilities, serving more than 31 million consumers. Headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, Arca Continental is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the world, with an outstanding history spanning more than 91 years. Within its Coca-Cola franchise, Arca Continental serves more than 118 million consumers in Mexico, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and the Southwestern U.S. Arca Continental also produces and markets snacks under the brand names Wise in the U.S., Bokados in Mexico and Inalecsa in Ecuador. For more information, visit www.cocacolaswb.com and www.arcacontal.com.

ABOUT ENCHANT CHRISTMAS, CREATORS OF CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Enchant is the visionary behind the award-winning World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, a story-driven holiday experience that has captivated millions across the U.S. and Canada. Since its founding in 2016 by Canadian entrepreneur Kevin Johnston, Enchant has become renowned for producing immersive holiday events that feature expansive light displays, ice skating experiences, live entertainment, and more. Classic Christmas, one of Enchant’s latest creations, offers a nostalgic, community-focused celebration that brings the magic of the season to life all in partnership with Coca-Cola. Enchant’s events are designed to create magical memories for guests of all ages. Learn more at EnchantChristmas.com and ClassicChristmas.com.