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Chris LaTurno, Allie Beth Allman, Curtis Farmer, D
Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) will honor three distinguished leaders at the annual Dallas Business Hall of Fame, to be held February 22, 2025, at the Omni Dallas Hotel. The fundraising gala will celebrate the significant contributions of Allie Beth Allman, Curtis C. Farmer and Dale Petroskey to the Dallas business community.
 
The Dallas Business Hall of Fame benefiting Junior Achievement of Dallas celebrates the best and brightest in the Dallas business community who have made a meaningful impact in our region. Now in its 27th year, the gala also raises funds to support Junior Achievement’s mission to inspire and prepare young people for success in a global economy.
 
“Each of these Laureates has made a tremendous impact on our region,” said Chris LaTurno, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Dallas. “They are business icons who exemplify the spirit of giving back through their companies and in the community. By recognizing their accomplishments, we ensure their legacy will inspire and shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
 
Allie Beth Allman, Executive Director of the Board and Founder of Allie Beth Allman & Associates, has been a powerhouse in luxury residential real estate for over 30 years, and her name is synonymous with customer service. She has been on the Top Ten list of Dallas agents since her arrival on the residential real estate scene and Dallas County's Top Producer, competing with over 7,000 agents for three consecutive years. Allman’s team of agents is consistently top-ranked in Park Cities sales and has been recognized as the most productive single office in Dallas. 
 
Curtis C. Farmer, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Comerica Incorporated and Comerica Bank, is a leader in the banking industry. With more than three decades of experience, including key roles at Wachovia Corporation, Farmer has guided Comerica to new heights since assuming the role of CEO in 2019. He serves on numerous boards, including the SMU Cox School of Business Executive Board and the Wake Forest University Board, and is an active member of the Bank Policy Institute and Dallas Citizens Council.
 
Dale Petroskey is the President and CEO of the Dallas Regional Chamber, which plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s economy. Under his leadership, the Chamber was named National Chamber of the Year in 2022. Petroskey’s extensive career spans from his time as Assistant White House Press Secretary to President Ronald Reagan, to serving as President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. He serves on several boards, including SMU’s Lyle School of Engineering, EducateDallas, the Dallas Mavericks Advisory Council and the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation.
 
Since its inception, the Dallas Business Hall of Fame has raised more than $5 million. Those funds have helped JA of Dallas bring 700,000 local students learning experiences in financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship, plus three million hours with corporate and community volunteers. These experiences are designed to empower today’s students to become the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to thrive. 
 
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information on the event, visit jadallasbusinesshalloffame.org.
 
About Junior Achievement of Dallas
Junior Achievement of Dallas (JA Dallas) inspires and prepares young people to succeed in a global economy. Over the last 70 years, the nonprofit organization has reached nearly 1 million students across the region with learning experiences in financial literacy, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship. Last year, JA Dallas brought more than 119,664 students hands-on, immersive experiences to help them build the skillsets and mindsets needed to achieve and lead. Corporate and community volunteers shared over 513,007 hours of their time to mentor and inspire these young people during experiences delivered in 78 school partners and with six nonprofit partners. Research shows that JA Alumni are more likely to have a college degree, feel confident managing money, have career success and have started a business as an adult. For more information, visit www.jadallas.org.
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October 10, 2024 – (RICHARDSON, TX) – The AdvoCare Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to helping children and families in need to live healthy, happy, and safe lives, announced their grantees for the 2024-2025 year. This year, the AdvoCare Foundation has provided $330,000 in grants to enhance the quality of life for children and families in vulnerable communities. These funds will support programs aimed at promoting access to nutritious food, encouraging physical activity and providing education on healthy eating habits.

 

Founded in 2015, the AdvoCare Foundation has generously contributed over $1 million to improving the safety and health of families and children throughout the United States. AdvoCare, a health and wellness consumer packaged goods company, and its customers have played a vital role in establishing and strengthening the Foundation, ensuring that opportunities for health and wellness reach the most vulnerable communities across the country.

 

The 2024-2025 Grantees Are:

-          Alliance for a Healthier Generation, Inc. (nationwide)

-          Boys & Girls Club of Dallas (Dallas, TX)

-          CHOICES (Atlanta, GA)

-          Iowa Healthiest State Initiative (Des Moines, IA)

-          LA’s BEST Afterschool Enrichment Program (Los Angeles, CA)

-          Mission2Move (Cincinnati, OH)

-          The North Texas Food Bank (Dallas, TX)

-          Optimist Youth Services (Los Angeles, CA)

-          The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi (Flowood, MS)

-          Servicios De La Raza (Denver, CO)

-          The Concilio (Dallas, TX)

-          United Way of Metropolitan Dallas (Dallas, TX)

-          Urban Youth Impact (West Palm Beach, FL)

-          Vetri Community Partnership (Philadelphia, PA)

-          YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas (Dallas, TX)

 

"The AdvoCare Foundation continues its commitment to the overarching goal of enhancing the well-being of children and their families," said Whitney Strauss, Executive Director of the AdvoCare Foundation. "Through targeted philanthropy and strategic giving, we witness significant improvements among the families we support through our partnerships with grantees. We are proud to foster enduring relationships with our non-profit partners, creating a lasting impact for exceptional families."

“The North Texas Food Bank is proud to partner with the AdvoCare Foundation,” said Colbi White, Major Gift Officer at the North Texas Food Bank. “Their recent donation will enable 30,000 nutritious meals through the Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids weekend backpack that supports children who typically rely on school meals during the week. We are grateful for their ongoing support since 2013.”

The AdvoCare Foundation will visit the grantees throughout the next year to advance its mission and educate children and families about developing healthy lifestyles. To learn more about the AdvoCare Foundation, visit the AdvoCare Foundation website.

 

The grantee cycle typically starts in April and grants are announced in June.

 

About AdvoCare International, LLC

AdvoCare International, LLC is making pursuing wellness easy and accessible. As an established health and wellness consumer packaged goods company, AdvoCare serves health-aware consumers through products that offer whole body support focusing on energy, hydration, immunity and gut health. Since 1993, AdvoCare has offered trusted health and wellness products like Spark® to millions of customers and athletes across the world. For more about AdvoCare and its products, go to AdvoCare.com. 

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Media Contact:

Ginger Greenberg

ggreenberg@sunwestpr.com

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Tickets are on Sale NOW for the Pop Culture Event at Irving Convention Center October 19 & 20, 2024

 

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024, one of the region's premier pop culture events, returns with an action-packed weekend of unforgettable experiences for fans of all genres! From October 19–20, the Irving Convention Center will transform into a vibrant hub for fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and gaming. With an exciting lineup of celebrity guests, interactive panels, and immersive experiences, this year’s festival promises to be the ultimate celebration of fandom.

 

Celebrity Guests and Autograph Sessions

Fans will have the opportunity to meet stars from their favorite TV shows and movies, with scheduled appearances from popular actors in blockbuster franchises and beloved cult classics. Expect autograph signings and photo opportunities with fan-favorite stars, making for unforgettable memories. Look out for special announcements regarding celebrity panels and exclusive meet-and-greet sessions!

 

Panels and Q&A Sessions

The festival will host a variety of panels featuring top creators, artists, and actors discussing everything from the latest trends in pop culture to behind-the-scenes insights from the biggest hits in entertainment. Highlights include Q&A sessions with comic book creators, discussions on the rise of superhero films, and exclusive previews of upcoming films, series, and projects.

 

Cosplay Exhibitions and Workshops

Cosplay enthusiasts are in for a treat with Dallas FAN FESTIVAL’s cosplay exhibitions, showcasing impressive costumes from all corners of fandom. Participants can compete for prizes and bragging rights, while newcomers can attend cosplay workshops led by experts to perfect their own costumes. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, this is the place to showcase your creativity!

 

Artist Alley and Vendor Marketplace

Explore Artist Alley, where fans can meet independent artists, illustrators, and writers, and purchase one-of-a-kind artwork, sketches, and signed comics. The expansive vendor marketplace will feature booths from top retailers, offering exclusive merchandise, collectibles, rare comics, and memorabilia for every kind of fan.

 

Tabletop Adventures and Interactive Experiences
This year's festival will also feature exciting tabletop experiences for fans of all levels, including live Dungeons & Dragons sessions with the DFW Critter Crew, new indie RPGs, and storytelling tips in the Dungeon Master panel. Plus, fans can take part in D&D trivia, improv games, and a unique live-play podcast adventure. Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone.

 

Family-Friendly Fun

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024 is committed to providing entertainment for fans of all ages. Families can look forward to a Sunday full of Trick-or-Treating, creative crafting activities like the Friendship Bracelet Exchange and Harry Potter wand-making, and Padawan Training for young Jedi. Parents and children alike can enjoy special programming designed with younger fans in mind.

 

Ticket Information

Tickets for Dallas FAN FESTIVAL 2024 are now available for purchase online. Fans can choose from a variety of ticket options, including single-day and weekend passes. Gold Packages, which include early access, reserved seating for panels, and exclusive merchandise, are also available in limited quantities.

 

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL is this Fall’s premier pop culture celebration, offering the ultimate playground for comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming fans. Highlights include celebrity photo ops and meet-and-greets, opportunities to interact with legendary comic book creators, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, family-friendly fandom, and cosplay fun! Dallas FAN FESTIVAL features programming that celebrates the vibrant pop culture community thriving in North Texas and beyond.

 

 

Saturday Programming Highlights:

  • FANDOM QUEST: LONE STAR SCAVENGER HUNT FANDOM QUEST: LONE STAR SCAVENGER HUNT Begins 10:00 am VENUE WIDE

Join our Lone Star Fandom Quest at Dallas FAN FESTIVAL. Explore the show floor together, tracking down life-sized cutouts of favorite characters with a Texas twist. Complete the hunt for a chance to win unique prizes, including fandom-themed artificial pumpkins.

 

  • D&D COSPLAY MEETUP

Saturday 11:30 am in COMMUNITY ZONE 4 - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 4

Join us for a D&D Cosplay Meetup where all fandoms are welcome. Whether you're a fan of Critical Role, Dimension 20, Baldur's Gate, or have your own original character, come in costume and connect with fellow enthusiasts. All levels of cosplay are encouraged—let's celebrate our shared love for storytelling and fantasy!

 

  • STAR CITY SAVIORS: THE ARROW CAST REUNITED

1:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join Willa Holland and David Ramsey as they reflect on their time in Arrow, the show that helped launch the Arrowverse. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, how they brought their characters to life, and what made Arrow a game-changer in the superhero genre.

 

  • TRUTH, JUSTICE, AND FAMILY: THE STARS OF SUPERMAN & LOIS

3:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join Superman & Lois stars Tyler Hoechlin, Elizabeth ""Bitsie"" Tulloch, and Michael Cudlitz for an exciting conversation about bringing iconic DC characters to life. From family dynamics to action-packed scenes, hear their thoughts on portraying Clark Kent, Lois Lane, and Lex Luthor in this modern take on Superman’s legacy. Fans of the show won’t want to miss this special panel!

 

  • SKETCH DUEL: JESUS MERINO VS PASQUAL FERRY

5:15 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

Check out your favorite comic artists as they go pen to pen and be entered to win the original art they produce once they're done! A fantastic experience to witness, these friendly rival competitions show who has the edge in comic book illustration.

 

  • THE FLASH FAMILY: A SUPERCHARGED REUNION

6:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Celebrate The Flash legacy with the cast that brought Central City to life! Featuring celebrity guests John Wesley Shipp, Carlos Valdes, Danielle Panabaker, Candice Patton, Tom Cavanagh and Grant Gustin.

 

Sunday Programming Highlights:

  • MICHAEL CUDLITZ: A CAREER IN ACTION

11:00 am in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Join us as Michael Cudlitz takes the stage to discuss his incredible journey in acting, from his breakthrough role in Band of Brothers to his fan-favorite performance in The Walking Dead. With an impressive range of characters and experiences under his belt, this panel is a must-see for fans of his work across both TV and film.

 

  • LOCAL INDIE GAME DEMOS

11:00 am in COMMUNITY ZONE 4 - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 4

Discover new and exciting tabletop RPGs beyond the usual titles. Join us for indie gaming demos where you can try out unique systems, mechanics, and settings. Perfect for gamers looking to expand their horizons and find their next favorite game!

 

  • K-POP RANDOM DANCE

12:00 pm in COSPLAY RED CARPET - LEVEL 1 - LOBBY

Do you enjoy listening to K-pop, whether that be old or new songs? With a curated selection of K-pop hits and engaging choreography, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their dance skills while immersing themselves into the world of Korean pop! Join us to have fun, dance and make new memories with friends!

 

  • ODDBALL COMICS WITH SCOTT SHAW

12:00 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

ODDBALL COMICS is the wildest, wackiest exposé of some of the craziest comic books that cartoonist Scott Shaw has ever seen!

 

  • TAKE YOUR PASSION TO REALITY...BUILDING YOUR OWN R2-D2

1:00 pm in PROGRAMMING THEATER - LEVEL 3 - MEETING ROOM 1

Are you a Star Wars fan dreaming of building your own R2-D2 droid? Join us to learn about the best materials, step-by-step assembly, and the electronics needed to bring your droid to life, with plenty of reference materials to guide you. Get ready to ignite your creativity and embark on the ultimate DIY adventure. May the Force be with you!

 

  • MANNY JACINTO: FROM GOOD TO GALACTIC

2:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

From his iconic role as Jason Mendoza in The Good Place to his exciting new role in The Acolyte, Manny Jacinto has showcased incredible range. Join him as he reflects on his journey in the entertainment industry, his latest projects, and the challenges of transitioning between comedy and drama.

 

  • MEN OF STEEL: A SUPERMAN LEGACY

3:00 pm in MAIN THEATER - LEVEL 4 - GRAND BALLROOM

Four iconic actors who have portrayed the Man of Steel—Brandon Routh, Tim Daly, George Newbern, and Dean Cain—come together to discuss their experiences as Superman across film, TV, and animation. Hear how each actor approached the role, their favorite memories, and how playing the Last Son of Krypton impacted their careers.

 

  • FRIENDSHIP BRACELET EXCHANGE

3:00 pm in ACTIVITY BOOTH - LEVEL 1 - LOBBY

Get crafty and connect with fellow fans at the Friendship Bracelet Exchange! Bring your handmade bracelets to trade onsite with new friends. It's the perfect way to share a little piece of fandom love and walk away with a keepsake from someone else in the community!

 

Tickets ON SALE NOW:

Weekend Passes: $60

Adult Single Day Passes (13+): Saturday $45 and Sunday $35

Child Passes (6-12): $10

Family Passes: Saturday $100 and Sunday $80

Gold Package: $129

 

 

DETAILS:  Dallas FAN FESTIVAL runs Saturday, October 19, and Sunday, October 20, 2024

Saturday, October 19, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Sunday, October 20, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

The Irving Convention Center is located at 500 W Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039

 

ABOUT FAN EXPO HQ:

With over a million fans and counting, FAN EXPO HQ attracts pop culture enthusiasts, locally and internationally, to come together to celebrate all things fandom. Collectively, it hosts nearly one million fans annually at FAN EXPO Dallas™, FAN EXPO Canada™, MEGACON Orlando, FAN EXPO Boston™, FAN EXPO Denver, FAN EXPO San Francisco, CALGARY EXPO, FAN EXPO Chicago, FAN EXPO Philadelphia, FAN EXPO Portland, FAN EXPO New Orleans, FAN EXPO Cleveland, FAN EXPO Vancouver™, Toronto Comicon, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL and EDMONTON EXPO. The latest schedule of events is available on the Website, along with up-to-date ticket information. Discover. Celebrate. Belong. 

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ADDISON, TX – Oct. 10, 2024 – Mary Kay Inc. proudly hosted the 20th Annual MK5K® on Saturday, October 5, in Addison, Texas, raising critical funds to support the Mary Kay Ash Foundation’s mission of advancing cancer research for women and ending domestic violence. The event once again demonstrated the community’s dedication to these causes, raising $257,946.

The 2024 MK5K featured an array of activities including vendor booths, live music, a Kids and Dog Zone and an in-person kiss analysis with two professional lipologists. Participants also enjoyed a newly designed race route, which added excitement for both seasoned runners and newcomers. 

For those unable to join in person, the MK5K offered a virtual participation option, allowing supporters to run, walk, swim or bike remotely. This ensured that individuals from across the country could contribute to the cause, extending the event’s reach and impact.

Since its establishment in 1996, the Mary Kay Ash Foundation has been committed to funding cancer research affecting women and supporting initiatives to end domestic violence. With over $96 million awarded in grants, programs, and services, the Foundation has transformed countless lives. In 2024, the Foundation allocated 54 domestic violence shelter grants and 13 cancer research grants, totaling $2.4 million.

The event also welcomed several notable figures. Bruce Arfsten, Mayor of Addison, and Jessica Bair, great-granddaughter of Mary Kay Ash. Mary Kay executives were also in attendance, showing their ongoing commitment to the Foundation’s mission.

For more information about the Mary Kay Ash Foundation and its ongoing initiatives, please visit www.marykayfoundation.org.

About Mary Kay

Then. Now. Always. One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 35 countries. For 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter).

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Park Place Dealerships is thrilled to announce the BOO Yard Sign Challenge

Make this Halloween Spook-tacular While Supporting a Great Cause!

 

Park Place Dealerships is thrilled to announce the BOO Yard Sign Challenge, a fun and festive way for North Texas families to celebrate Halloween while supporting pediatric patients at Children’s Health. This community-driven initiative, hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary to Children’s Medical Center, encourages the community to "BOO" their friends and neighbors by secretly leaving BOO signs in their yards and Halloween treats at their doorsteps while raising funds for Children’s Health patients.

The challenge runs through Oct. 31, 2024. Participants can purchase a BOO yard sign for $25 at childrens.com/boo, and 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Children’s Health to support their mission to make life better for children. Participation is easy and fun, and includes the following activities:

  • Purchasing a BOO Yard Sign – Signs are available for purchase online at childrens.com/boo for $25 each.
  • Pick Up Your Sign – Choose your closest neighborhood pickup location in Dallas or Plano at Park Place Porsche, Park Place Motorcars Dallas or Park Place Lexus Plano, during checkout by searching your home, work, or school zip code. Signs are available now for pickup.
  • BOO Your Neighbors – Place the BOO yard sign in your neighbor’s yard and leave Halloween goodies at their doorsteps without them seeing you! Each sign comes with instructions on how recipients can join the challenge and keep the spooky spirit alive throughout the neighborhood.

“Our goal is to spread joy throughout the community by placing a BOO sign on every lawn in North Texas while supporting patients at Children’s Health this Halloween,” said Kara Connor, Experiential Marketing Manager of Park Place Dealerships. “This initiative is an exciting way to engage with neighbors and rally around Children’s Health in their mission to provide quality medical care to children in our community who need it most.”

Make this Halloween a memorable one for your community and help bring smiles to the faces of young patients at Children’s Health. For more information or to purchase your BOO yard sign, visit childrens.com/boo. 

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. For more information, visit parkplace.com.



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Expo Home Improvement is well-known throughout Texas for providing top-tier home remodeling services, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. Through October 20, Expo Home Improvement can be found at The Grand Place.

Expo Home Improvement has a presence at the State Fair of Texas, offering attendees the chance to explore innovative home improvement solutions. Through October 20, Expo Home Improvement can be found at The Grand Place, conveniently located behind Big Tex, near Leonhardt Lagoon. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the beauty and craftsmanship of Expo Home Improvement’s kitchen cabinet refacing and their comprehensive bath and shower remodeling services.

“We’re thrilled to be part of the State Fair of Texas, where we can connect directly with homeowners who are passionate about enhancing their living spaces,” said Sarah McDaniel, Director of Brand at Expo Home Improvement. “Our presence at the State Fair of Texas gives us a unique opportunity to showcase the quality and detail that goes into every kitchen and bath project we do for homeowners.”

Expo Home Improvement is well-known throughout Texas for providing top-tier home remodeling services, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. Whether homeowners are looking to refresh their kitchen with new cabinet facings or create a relaxing bathroom retreat, Expo Home delivers customized solutions that exceed expectations. With a longstanding reputation built on trust and superior service, the company remains a go-to choice for home improvement projects.

Attendees at the State Fair of Texas can stop by Expo Home Improvement’s booth to learn more about their offerings, meet with the expert team, and explore new ways to enhance their homes.

Expo Home Improvement is a privately held company headquartered in Carrollton, Texas. With a focus on bath and shower remodels, as well as door and window replacements, Expo Home Improvement is committed to helping Texans create beautiful, safe, and energy-efficient homes. Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, Central Texas, San Antonio, and Houston, Expo Home goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service that will help a homeowner enhance their home. The company offers Veterans, senior citizens, public servants, and first responders discounts on all products they offer as an opportunity to serve those who serve others. For more information about Expo Home Improvement, visit expohomeimprovement.com.

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KIB Partners with Vizient for 21st Annual Community Day

 

 

(IRVING, TEXAS)— On Oct. 8, Keep Irving Beautiful (KIB) welcomed 34 Vizient, Inc. employee volunteers to Northwest Park, 2800 Cheyenne Street, for the company’s 21st annual “Community Day” event. Employees brought a fresh look to the park bridge and safety fencing by brightening the structures with a new coat of blue paint.  The group’s combined efforts contributed a total of 102 volunteer service hours to KIB.

 

Irving-based Vizient, Inc., is the largest member-owned health care company in the nation.  Community Day is a coordinated company-wide initiative which encourages employees to participate in service projects with nonprofits in the areas where they work.  Last year’s Community Day had 2,310 Vizient employees participate at 297 nonprofit organizations across 193 cities throughout the country, accounting for 12,334 volunteer hours.

 

KIB has been a community partner since 2009, and Vizient employee volunteers have completed several beautification projects throughout the City of Irving. Their efforts have made a lasting and positive impact on the visual appearance of many Irving parks.

 

“Keep Irving Beautiful looks forward to Vizient Community Day every year,” said KIB board member Scott Wilson. “It’s an honor to be chosen as a community partner, and we really appreciate that so many of the Vizient employees choose to volunteer with KIB year after year.  They always do an outstanding job, and we thank them for taking the time to give back to Irving.”

 

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Keep Irving Beautiful is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the community about litter abatement, recycling, and beautification to help preserve the health and promote the social and economic prosperity of the city. As an award-winning affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and Keep Texas Beautiful, Keep Irving Beautiful reaches out to all sectors of the community, including government, businesses, churches, as well as cultural, educational, neighborhood and civic organizations. For more information on volunteering with KIB or making an activity a “green event,” visit CityofIrving.org/KIB or call (972) 721-2175.

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Get ready for an intense and chilling experience as Theatre Three presents Carrie: The Musical, based on Stephen King's iconic 1974 novel. Audiences will be drawn into the harrowing world of Carrie White, a teenager bullied relentlessly and gifted with extraordinary powers. This gripping co-production with Southern Methodist University runs through November 3rd, 2024, and features a talented cast of young Dallas actors, including students from the University of Texas at Arlington.

In addition to the performance, T3’s gallery will host a special exhibition showcasing visual art by students from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, adding a unique creative element to the production.

Directed by the visionary Christie Vela, Carrie: The Musical delves into the dark realities of high school bullying, religious fanaticism, and the tragic consequences of pushing someone too far. As Carrie uncovers her supernatural powers, a night meant for joy spirals into chaos. This powerful adaptation explores themes of isolation, identity, and empowerment, accompanied by a high-energy score and delivered through captivating, immersive performances. “As artists, we are continuously unpacking experiences, events and images that were formative for  us as kids,” says Vela. “Carrie the novel as well as the film, are two pieces of art that made a huge  impact on me as a young person. Like so many people of my generation, the imagery and language  of CARRIE have become ‘tropes’ in my life that I have taken for granted. I never in a million years  thought that I would be directing CARRIE as a musical no less, at my age and still be gaining very  new and personal understanding about myself. I think that speaks very highly

Musical Director, Vonda K. Bowling shares, “I’m ready for DFW audiences to see our bloody take on this. It’s a privilege to be in the room with these outstanding SMU students and 3 of the best professional actors in town. I have assembled a rocking band (YAY BAND) and we have all determined that every rock musical should include a cello. The music is beautiful, and although there are so many gorgeous melodies in the score, we are consciously working against the beauty and towards the haunting. It’s bound to be a bloody good time.”

The cast includes Jordan Lage as Carrie White, Cara Serber as her fanatical mother Margaret, and some of Dallas’ most talented performers. With stunning choreography, powerful vocals, and eerie stage design, this production of Carrie: The Musical promises to be unforgettable.

Don’t miss out! Get your tickets now at www.Theatre3Dallas.com or contact the box office at 214-871-3300. Theatre Three is located at 2688 Laclede St., Dallas, TX 75201, with complimentary parking available in the nearby AMLI garage.

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Muffins for Puffins

A Seaside Adventure of Friendship and Creativity

by

Rory Haltmaier

 

Fun story and delightfully illustrated!

 

MUFFINS FOR PUFFINS by Rory Haltmaier is a fun, delightfully illustrated picture book for children and features a young puffin and his seaside friends who work together to create a special treat for Puffling’s mother. Puffling is ADORABLE and young children will relate to his desire to make his mother a gift. The ingredients will make you laugh! I loved that when the friends accomplished their task, they kept going, continuing to surprise other mothers with something special for them as well. 

I recommend MUFFINS FOR PUFFINS for readers with young children who enjoy sharing picture books about young animals.

 

See this and other reviews at BOYS' MOM READS!

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Winter Coats Urgently Needed at The Storehouse Children's coats are one of the greatest needs!

Local organizations and businesses are invited to host a coat drive and share the warmth with those in need this winter

Joseph’s Coat, a program of The Storehouse Community Center that provides clothing at no cost, is asking the community for donations of new and gently used winter coats and jackets for all ages. Last year Joseph’s Coat distributed 1,829 coats to men, women, and children.

“As hot as it has been this past summer, it’s hard to believe we will all need winter coats soon, but that time is just around the corner,” said Christi Ferrell, co-director, Joseph’s Coat. “For many families, paying bills, putting food on the table, and supplying other critical needs take priority over purchasing coats, which are essential clothing needed for warmth and wellness. Additionally, warm coats provide confidence and self-worth, especially for children, enabling them to attend school, wait at the bus stop and engage in outdoor activities. The impact of a coat is much greater than many of us may realize.”

The Storehouse invites local businesses and organizations, groups, or clubs to consider hosting a coat drive.

“Volunteers and community members often ask if there are some specific ways they can help, and conducting a coat drive is a wonderful way to make an impact this season,” said Susan Gradick, co-director, Joseph’s Coat. “Many of us likely have a coat or two at home that is no longer worn that could be enjoyed by someone in need! Joseph’s Coat also welcomes monetary donations for purchasing coats needed to accommodate varying sizes and ages. Since our founding in 2009, Joseph’s Coat depends on the generous donations of our community, which enable us to serve our neighbors each week at no cost.”

Donations may be dropped off at the Joseph’s Coat shed, which is open 24 hours, seven days a week, at The Storehouse, located at 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., in the north parking lot. For large donations or anyone needing unloading assistance, clothing closet staff are onsite sorting items and can assist you on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

For anyone interested in volunteering at Joseph’s Coat, please sign up at https://www.thestorehousecc.org/volunteer. For anyone needing clothing, Joseph’s Coat is open on Mondays and Wednesdays by appointment only.

"Time and time again, neighbors express how Joseph’s Coat clothing closet impacts their lives,” added Gradick. “Recently we helped an older gentleman find a jacket, and he exclaimed, ‘It’s like this jacket was made just for me.’ He shared that money was tight and Joseph’s Coat helped him to stretch his budget. Children outgrow clothing and wear things that no longer fit, or they do without. Your gifts of clothing are such a blessing, helping others feel good about themselves and go forward with confidence. So please take a look in your closet or think about conducting a coat drive with your business. Your generosity means everything to those we serve.”

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The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County) is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development as well as job partnership opportunities, connecting neighbors to stable, high-quality employment. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 182,000 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333