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Memorial Day weekend is all about celebrating and relaxing with friends and family, and North Texas’ most beloved Cajun outpost, The Cajun Market at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill, is making it even easier to relax for the holiday weekend.

 

Whether you’re headed to the lake or hosting a pool party or barbecue, The Cajun Market at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill can prepare and provide the perfect crawfish boil for a crowd.

 

 

 

Live crawfish are sold by the 30-pound bag, and prices for those start at $3.25 per pound and vary daily by market rate. Or, the team at Cajun Market can season, soak and boil the mudbugs with potatoes and corn so that all you and your guests have to do is pop a beer and enjoy!

 

For Memorial Day weekend, catering orders should be placed by Tuesday, May 21, and can be made at catering@thecajunmarket.com. In addition to crawfish boils, the restaurant can cater Cajun favorites, po boys and seafood boils.

 

 

The Cajun Market at Bourbon Street Bar & Grill

1833 Airport Freeway

Bedford, TX

817-527-5640

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North Texas’ leading Independence Day fireworks show will be bigger and better this year. Fireworks on the Fairway, the unique fireworks and drone show at the acclaimed Monument Realty PGA District on the Omni PGA Frisco Resort Campus in Frisco on Thursday, July 4.

 

The festive evening runs from 6-10 p.m. The entire Monument Realty PGA District will be decked out in patriotic finery. Guests can enjoy a wide array of festive food and beverages for sale and from the campus’s 13 food and beverage outlets, plus food trucks and pop-up concessions stands.

The evening begins with a concert by popular party band Downtown Fever (one of the bands under the Emerald City umbrella), pictured below, starting at 6:30 6:00 p.m. Then, at 9:20 p.m., the team behind the Guinness World Record-holding Sky Elements will host an eye-popping drone show featuring 300 independently programmed drones in the sky over Fields Ranch. At 9:30 p.m., the world-class fireworks show by PyroShows of Texas will begin.

And, as if one night of magic were not enough, the resort will continue to celebrate on Friday, July 5 with a concert by retro fave 80s Mix Tape.

While attendance at Fireworks on the Fairway is free, advance tickets are required. Additionally, parking passes must be purchased in advance. The initial supply of tickets will be released at 10 a.m. Friday, May 31.

 

Guests seeking to celebrate in style should plan to book the Omni PGA Frisco Resort’s Fireworks on the Fairway package to guarantee their access to the event. Due to outstanding demand, free admission tickets for the public are expected to be claimed early.  Once the free tickets have all been claimed, the resort package is the only way to guarantee access to the remarkable fireworks celebration. This deluxe offering is available July 4-8 and includes

  • Deluxe room accommodations
  • Access per registered guest to the PGA Frisco’s Fireworks on the Fairway Independence Day event on July 4
  • ·       Welcome gift per registered child
  • VIP seating area for the drone and firework show
  • Complimentary self-parking

Reserve your stay now at omnihotels.com/hotels/pga-frisco/specials.

 

No lawn chairs, private carts, outside food and beverages, coolers, sparklers or animals will be permitted at the event.

Fireworks on the Fairway is the perfect complement to the Omni PGA Frisco Resort’s Summer of Glow, which features drone shows every weekend of the summer, specialized spa treatments and luxurious resort packages with custom amenities just for resort guests.

Omni PGA Frisco Resort is a great place to spend summer vacation – whether on a couple’s getaway or with the entire family. With 13 destinations to dine and drink, a curated collection of unique retail outlets and an array of golf experiences for players of all ages and abilities, the 660-acre campus truly offers something for everyone.

ABOUT FIREWORKS ON THE FAIRWAY:

Date/Time:        Thursday, July 4, 6 – 10 p.m.

6:00 p.m.            Doors open

6:00 p.m.            Downtown Fever concert, carnival games, family entertainment, food trucks

9:20 p.m.            Drone Show

9:30 p.m.            Fireworks

 

Location:            Omni PGA Frisco Resort

                             4341 PGA Parkway, Frisco, TX 75033

 

The event location is PGA Frisco, 3255 PGA Parkway, Frisco, TX 75033

 

Tickets:               Free admission tickets available beginning Friday, May 31 at https://fireworksonthefairway.eventbrite.com

 

Parking must be purchased in advance.

Lot A (PGA District)

Early bird pricing through June 20 - $40

Regular pricing - $50

Lot B (Panther Creek High School)

Early bird pricing through June 20 - $20

Regular pricing - $25

 

Additional information: PGAFrisco.com/events

 

 

About PGA Frisco

PGA Frisco is a public/private partnership between the PGA of America, Omni Hotels & Resorts, the City of Frisco, and the Frisco Independent School District. The 660-acre campus is a unique destination that includes: two world-class 18-hole championship golf courses, collectively known as Fields Ranch, and a state-of-the-art clubhouse; the Omni PGA Frisco Resort, featuring 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom Ranch Houses, four pools, destination spa and 127,000 square feet of meeting and event space; the Monument Realty PGA District which features The Swing, a lighted 10-hole short course, The Dance Floor, a lighted 2-acre putting course and an expansive retail, dining and entertainment district, including an outdoor area for concerts and events, the high-tech, data-driven PGA Coaching Center; the Home of the PGA of America and the Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Golf House.

 

About Omni PGA Frisco Resort

Opening May 2, 2023, Omni PGA Frisco Resort offers a reimagined destination resort experience for the ultimate getaway. With a wide selection of unique experiences and remarkable year-round programming and activities, the resort provides a diverse and fun-filled destination for guests of all ages. The oasis of the 660-acre PGA Frisco campus, this luxury resort will be both one of the world's leading meeting and conference destinations as well as a bucket list leisure destination featuring two championship golf courses at Fields Ranch designed by Gil Hanse and Beau Welling. With comprehensive resort amenities featuring a signature spa, 13 restaurants and bars, and retail shops - there's something designed for all. Featuring subtle nods to Texas culture, each of the resort's 500 guest rooms and suites and 10 exclusive four-bedroom modern-Texas ranch houses, offer sweeping views of lush surrounds. The resort features more than 127,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor space for meetings and events, including 2 ballrooms; 19 meeting rooms; 9 outdoor event venues; and Panther Creek Pavilion, the ideal venue for weddings. Visit omnipgafriscoresort.com or call 469-305-4500 for more information and room reservations. Follow Omni PGA Frisco Resort on Facebook and Instagram.

 

About Monument Realty

About Monument Realty: Founded in 2017, Monument Realty is a next-generation, full-service real estate brokerage based in Frisco, Texas, headquartered at The Star. Named the Number One Best Large Company to Work For by the Dallas Morning News, Monument is the Official Real Estate Company of The Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Dak Prescott, and PGA of America. For more information, visit monumentrealtytx.com and follow Monument Realty on InstagramFacebook and LinkedIn.

About the PGA of America

The PGA of America is one of the world’s largest sports organizations, composed of nearly 28,000 PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and inclusion in the game of golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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Taste Addison is teaming up with Addison Outdoors to bring you a Saturday of fun fitness experiences. With AO Pop-Up Yoga, Goat Yoga, wellness vendors, and the ten-acre park to explore, get a taste of summer fitness in Addison!

 Camp Gladiator Pop-Up Workout
8am
Free

Push yourself in this full-body, calisthenics-based workout! This FREE Camp Gladiator class kicks off at 8am! Whether you're a pro, or just starting out this is the perfect way to get your sweat on.

 STRIDE Addison Pop-Up Workout
9am
Free

Join STRIDE Addison in a fun HITT-style workout. 
 

AO Pop-Up Yoga
10am
Free

Namaste and play with games and FREE yoga in Addison Circle Park. Bring your mat and find your center for a yoga session hosted by Addison Circle Yoga. Yoga starts at 10am and games are available from 10 - 11am.

 

Goat Yoga
10am
Get Tickets Here

Have you HERD, Addison Outdoors is bringing you the cutest yoga companions. Stretch, hold, pet, and laugh your way through this unique workout class. Bring your own mat for this unique fitness class starting at 10am!

 

Check out these awesome vendors, doing giveaways all morning long:

  • STRIDE Addison
  • StretchZone
  • Toastique
  • Model Wellness
  • GLOW Sauna
  • Camp Gladiator
  • Carrollton Family Chiropractor
  • Prime IV Addison
  • Star Rejuvenation Wellness Center
  • Bolos & Associates

 

Taste Addison is May 31 - June 2. Get tickets at TasteAddisonTexas.com.

Location

Addison Circle Park

4970 Addison Circle

Addison, TX 75001

See map: Google Maps

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Extreme weather can damage your roof. Here is what to expect and how to combat it.

Weather conditions can have a significant impact on the health and longevity of your roof. From scorching heat to heavy rain and snow, your roof is constantly exposed to the elements. Understanding how weather affects your roof and taking proactive measures can help you protect your investment and ensure its durability.

The Effects of Heat

Extreme heat can cause your roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks and deterioration over time. Additionally, prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause the shingles to fade, blister, and become brittle. This makes them more susceptible to damage from wind and other weather conditions.

To combat the effects of heat, consider installing a cool roof or applying a reflective coating. These measures can help reduce the temperature of your roof and minimize the risk of damage.

The Impact of Rain and Moisture

Rainwater is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to roof damage. If your roof has any leaks or weak spots, water can seep through and cause structural issues, mold growth, and rot. It's crucial to regularly inspect your roof for any signs of damage and address them promptly.

To prevent water damage, ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and functioning properly. Regularly clean them to avoid clogs that can lead to water pooling on your roof.

The Dangers of Snow and Ice

In regions with cold winters, snow and ice can wreak havoc on your roof. The weight of accumulated snow can put excessive strain on the structure, leading to sagging or even collapse. Ice dams, formed when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof, can also cause water to seep into your home.

To prevent snow-related damage, make sure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated. This helps maintain a consistent temperature on your roof, preventing the formation of ice dams. Additionally, consider using a roof rake to safely remove snow from your roof after heavy snowfall.

Protecting Your Roof in Extreme Weather

While you can't control the weather, there are steps you can take to protect your roof during extreme conditions. Regular roof inspections, both before and after severe weather events, can help you identify and address any issues promptly. It's also important to have a professional roofing contractor perform regular maintenance to ensure your roof is in optimal condition.

Investing in high-quality roofing materials and proper installation can also make a significant difference in your roof's durability. Consider consulting with a professional to determine the best roofing options for your climate and budget.

Weather conditions can have a profound impact on the health and longevity of your roof. By understanding the effects of heat, rain, snow, and ice, and taking proactive measures to protect your roof, you can ensure its durability and avoid costly repairs. Remember, regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your roof in top shape for years to come.

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

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Are you moving with pets? As a responsible pet owner, it's important to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friends during the moving process.

Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful experience for both humans and pets. As a responsible pet owner, it's important to take extra precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friends during the moving process. In this article, we will provide you with valuable advice on how to make the transition as smooth as possible for your pets.

1. Plan Ahead

Before the moving day arrives, it's crucial to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements for your pets. Research pet-friendly accommodations if you're moving long-distance, and ensure that your new home is suitable for your pets. This includes checking for any potential hazards or restrictions that may affect their well-being.

2. Update Identification and Microchips

One of the most important steps in moving with pets is updating their identification. Make sure your pets are wearing collars with updated tags that include your new address and contact information. Additionally, consider microchipping your pets if they aren't already. This will greatly increase the chances of being reunited with them if they happen to get lost during the move.

3. Stick to Routine

Pets thrive on routine, so try to maintain their regular schedule as much as possible during the moving process. Stick to their usual feeding, exercise, and playtime routines to provide them with a sense of familiarity and comfort. This will help reduce their stress levels and make the transition easier for them.

4. Create a Safe Space

On the day of the move, it's important to create a safe space for your pets away from all the chaos. Set up a quiet room with their favorite toys, bedding, and water bowls. This will give them a place to retreat to and feel secure while the movers are busy packing and loading.

5. Keep Them Secure

During the actual move, it's crucial to keep your pets secure and away from any potential dangers. Consider confining them to a crate or carrier to prevent them from escaping or getting injured. If you're traveling by car, make sure to secure their carriers properly and provide them with proper ventilation.

6. Gradual Introductions

Once you've arrived at your new home, it's important to introduce your pets to their new surroundings gradually. Start by confining them to one room and gradually allow them access to the rest of the house. This will help them adjust to the new environment at their own pace and reduce any anxiety they may be experiencing.

7. Familiarize with the Area

Take the time to familiarize yourself and your pets with the new neighborhood. Locate the nearest veterinary clinic, pet stores, and parks where you can take your pets for walks and exercise. This will help them feel more at home and ensure that their needs are met in the new location.

8. Patience and Reassurance

Moving can be a stressful time for pets, so it's important to be patient and provide them with plenty of reassurance. Offer them extra love, attention, and treats to help them feel secure in their new environment. With time and patience, your furry friends will adjust to their new home and settle in comfortably.

Moving with pets requires careful planning and consideration. By following these tips, you can ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friends during the moving process. Remember, their well-being is just as important as yours, so take the necessary steps to make the transition as smooth as possible for them. Happy moving!

Premier Designs & Moving specializes in moving services, art installation, and packing and organization. For the past 5 years, Premier Designs & Moving have been securing your valuables and moving them with ease, handling your objects with care, and packing and unpacking your assets so you can focus on the more important aspects of moving. All our packing services are designed to make your move efficient and streamlined. We’re not just any residential moving service, we pride ourselves on providing you with the service you expect from our name. For the best home movers in Dallas, TX, call Premier Designs & Moving at (469) 859-5454.

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FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION TO FEATURE ELI YOUNG BAND ON MAY 18

Celebrate Rockwall’s 170th birthday as the city commemorates Founders Day in Harry Myers Park on Saturday, May 18. Grounds open at 1 p.m. with fun for the whole family, a food court featuring local food trucks, and live music from some of Texas Country’s hottest acts happening in the evening.  

Daytime activities happen between 1 and 5 and are perfect for families. Options include bounce houses, yard games, rides, a “Creature Teacher” class; goat yoga, an art workshop, face painting and a DJ spinning tunes to keep the party vibe going all day. 

  

During the main event, which takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., guests will see why Rockwall is widely recognized as one of the greatest live music cities in Texas. The city has been named the “Free Live Music Capital of North Texas” by the Texas House of Representatives. Opening act Mike Ryan – a Texas Country chart-topper who currently sits at No. 1 with his song, “Way It Goes” – will perform fan favorites beginning at 6:30.

At 8 p.m., the Eli Young Band takes over the stage. The Denton, Texas-formed band known for the nation’s top country song of 2011, “Crazy Girl,” will perform hits including “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” “Drunk Last Night” and “Love Ain't.”

“Rockwall is one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas, but we love to celebrate our origins that stretch back all the way to the 1850s,” Mayor Trace Johannesen said. “The array of family activities and great music from the Eli Young Band at our Founders Day event will allow everyone in Rockwall and its surrounding areas to have a great day in the park.”

Trolleys will be available to transport guests between Downtown Rockwall and the park between 1 and 9:30 p.m.  For more information on Founders Day, including tips on where to park, visit rockwall.com/parks_FoundersDay.asp.

 

EVENT DETAILS

What: Founders Day

When: 1 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18

Where: Harry Myers Park, 945 E. Washington, Rockwall

Cost: Free

Information: rockwall.com/parks_FoundersDay.asp

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DENTON GUYER HIGH SCHOOL - BEST SHOW Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812

Lyric Stage presented the 15th Annual Schmidt & Jones Awards on May 7 at the Moody Performance Hall. The theatre company also gave the Ashley Newman-Schneider Scholarship to the best stage manager.

Scott Guenther, Lyric Stage’s general manager, “Established in 2010 and named after renowned composer Harvey Schmidt and lyricist Tom Jones, these awards honor excellence in high school musical theatre across Dallas-Fort Worth. The evening featured performances by nominated schools, productions and performers, and they were amazingly talented.”

The winners:

BEST SHOW

Denton Guyer High School – Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812                                                                        

BEST ENSEMBLE

Liberty Christian School – Singing in the Rain                                                              

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY 

Liberty Christian School - Presley Anderson & Gigi Plisga – Singing in the Rain                                                    

BEST LIGHTING DESIGN

Denton Guyer High School – Brayden Dorman, Roseanna Medlock, Anna Quigley – Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812                    

BEST SCENIC DESIGN

Denton Guyer High School – Brayden Dorman – Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812                                                                   

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

Rowlett High School - Francine Parcero & Anthony Bedolla - SIX                                  

BEST ORCHESTRA

Wylie High School – Beauty and the Beast                                                         

BEST STAGE MANAGER

Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts – William “Mars” Bartell – Sister Act                            

Winner of the Ashley Newman-Schneider Scholarship

Newman-Schneider was an influential presence in the DFW theatre community.

BEST ACTOR

Sean Forman as Man in Chair in The Drowsy Chaperone at North Texas Performing Arts Conservatory; Forman also received a $500 scholarship.  

BEST ACTRESS

Francine Parcero as Anne Boleyn in SIX at Rowlett High School; Parcero also received a $500 scholarship.                 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Bradford Arnold as Wolf in Into the Woods at Grapevine High School                                                                                                  

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Anya Guidry as Alice Beineke in The Addams Family at Cedar Hill High School                                                 

ACTOR IN A MINOR ROLE

Hudson Donnell as LeFou in Beauty and the Beast at Wylie High School                                           

ACTRESS IN A MINOR ROLE

Grace Betts as Race in Newsies Jr at Harvest Christian Academy                                                     

MALE ENSEMBLE PERFORMER

Darren Sanders as Featured Dancer in Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 at Denton Guyer High School      

FEMALE ENSEMBLE PERFORMER

Maria Luiza Viana as Flapper Ancestor in The Addams Family at Cedar Hill High School

A panel of judges, consisting of theatre educators and professional theatre artists, viewed 21 productions of the accepted applicants from schools in Dallas, Tarrant and Collin counties. The panel made nominations and then voted to determine winners. The directors of participating schools also received written production evaluations.

The judging panel, adjudicating and awards are organized and led by the director of the Schmidt and Jones Awards,Amy Stevenson, who is well-known in Dallas-Fort Worth as both an artist and educator.

About Lyric Stage:

Lyric Stage, a Dallas-based 501c3 not-for-profit professional musical theatre company, was established in 1993 with the mission of the development and preservation of the musical, a unique art form. In its thirty-year history, Lyric Stage has produced over 125 productions, which include 21 world-premiere musicals and 2 Off-Broadway shows. For more information, visit www.lyricstage.org

 

Connect with Lyric Stage

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Harvey Schmidt & Tom Jones:

Native Texans Harvey Schmidt (composer) and Tom Jones (lyricist) are, perhaps, most known as the creators of  the longest running show in the history of the American theatre, The Fantasticks, which ran Off-Broadway for 42 years and 17,162 performances.

In addition to an Obie Award and a special Tony Award for The Fantasticks, Schmidt and Jones were inducted into the Broadway Hall of Fame at the Gershwin Theatre, and their “stars” were added to the Off-Broadway Walk Of Fame outside the Lucille Lortel Theatre. In 2012, they were inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and in December of 2017 they received the Oscar Hammerstein Award.

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Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day at one of North Texas’ most iconic steakhouses, III Forks. The restaurant is offering a great special for dads on June 16, a $49.95 boneless ribeye, normally priced at $74. The steak is served with whipped potatoes, sugar snap peas, off-the-cob cream corn, ripe tomatoes and spring onions. The special is good for dine-in only at the restaurant.

 

 

 

What:                 $49.95 Boneless Ribeye for Dads

 

When:                Father’s Day, June 16, 2024

 

Where:               1303 Legacy Drive, Frisco, TX 75034; (972) 267-1776

 

Info:                   Visit www.3forks.com Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the restaurant at (972) 267-1776.

 

 

 

 

III FORKS CELEBRATES FATHER’S DAY WITH RIBEYE SPECIAL FOR DAD

 

Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day at one of North Texas’ most iconic steakhouses, III Forks. The restaurant is offering a great special for dads on June 16, a $49.95 boneless ribeye, normally priced at $74. The steak is served with whipped potatoes, sugar snap peas, off-the-cob cream corn, ripe tomatoes and spring onions. The special is good for dine-in only at the restaurant.

 

 

 

What:                 $49.95 Boneless Ribeye for Dads

 

When:                Father’s Day, June 16, 2024

 

Where:               1303 Legacy Drive, Frisco, TX 75034; (972) 267-1776

 

Info:                   Visit www.3forks.com Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling the restaurant at (972) 267-1776.

 

 

 

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Fonzie Quinonez, Installation Manager at Expo Home, Jose Velasquez and Tony Velasquez

What would you do if you saw a man collapse in front of you? We never really know how we would react in a crisis, but hope we would have the peace of mind and training to call 9-1-1 and offer assistance to the person in need until medical help arrived. 

Expo Home Improvement team members Jose Velasquez and his son Tony Velasquez recently were faced with that terrifying situation. They had just finished the installation of a walk-in bathtub and were doing paperwork in their truck when they saw the client fall and strike his head as he bent over to pick up a package at the curb.

“He had a big knot on his head where he’d hit it,” said Jose. “But he didn’t want help.”

They insisted on helping the man to his feet. Tony offered him support and carried the package to the garage for him. Suddenly, the man fell face down again. Tony called 

9-1-1 while Jose attended to the injured man.

“I checked his wrist and neck for a pulse but couldn’t find one,” said Jose. “He was already looking pale, so I started CPR like I’d learned in school. After about a minute he came to.”

They waited on first responders and tried to make the client as comfortable as possible until help arrived. 

“We used a piece of cardboard to shade him from the sun,” said Tony. “We put a roll of tissue under his head and rolled him to his side. He was a little disoriented. He kept asking who we were and what we were doing. We reassured him we were the guys who were just working at his house. We tried to keep him calm.”

“I’m really proud of these guys,” said Fonzie Quinonez, Installation Manager at Expo Home, who was on the phone with his team when the client collapsed. “They could’ve finished a little earlier and they would have been already gone. I thank God they were still there.”

Jose has worked for Expo Home the past 11 years and Tony joined the team four years ago. 

“I just did what anybody would do,” said Jose. “I’m not a hero.” 

Which is exactly the response you’d expect from humble heroes like Jose and Tony.

Expo Home Improvement is a privately held company headquartered in Carrollton, Texas. With a focus on bath and shower remodels, door and window replacements, and home insulation services, Expo Home Improvement is committed to helping Texans create beautiful, safe, and energy-efficient homes. Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, Central Texas, and San Antonio, 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.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Franz Szony

Dallas Pride is proud to announce that acclaimed actor, singer and LGBTQ+ advocate Billy Porter has been named its first-ever Honorary Grand Marshal of the Dallas Pride Parade, set to step off in Fair Park on June 2. 

Porter, a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has captivated audiences worldwide with his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and equality. With a career spanning decades, Porter has earned critical acclaim and been awarded  for his roles on stage and screen including an EMMY®, GRAMMY® and two Tony Awards, winning his first Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Lola in "Kinky Boots.” 

In addition to his contributions to the arts, Porter has used his platform to advocate for marginalized communities, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice and gender equality. His unapologetic celebration of individuality has made him a beloved icon and an inspiration to millions around the globe. Porter will receive the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award this year, his third, recognizing his dedication as an activist and spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ communities including his work for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund, among others.

“We are thrilled to welcome Billy Porter to Dallas Pride,” said Sherrell Cross, executive director of Dallas Pride. “He symbolized the spirit of unity, pride and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, and will undoubtedly electrify audiences with his spirit and sparkle.”

The Dallas Pride Parade, one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in Texas, attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year, uniting people from all walks of life in a vibrant celebration of diversity and acceptance. 

Weekend of Activities

Dallas Pride kicks off on Saturday, June 1, with the Dallas Pride Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the Dallas Pride Festival & Parade on Sunday, June 2, at 10 a.m. with a pre-parade festival and activities before the parade begins at 2 p.m. Vendors will have refreshments, DJs will spin, and attendees can engage in Teen Pride and the Family Pride Zone, in addition to enjoying shopping and other fun. The parade is a rainbow feast for the eyes, with outrageous costumes, inventive floats, bands, groups and more marching in support of the LGBTQ+ community in a mile-long event featuring more than 150 parade entries. Admission for the Dallas Pride Parade is free.

Tickets are on sale now for the Dallas Pride Music Festival on Saturday, June 1, which will feature musical headliners CeCe Peniston and Ha Sizzle. A variety of musical and dance performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages will include singer Lardi B, DJ Sedrick, and other talented entertainers that keep the festivities going. Morphine Love Dion, a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Aquaria, season 10 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will be featured performers who will also wow the crowds at the Dallas Pride Music Festival. Tickets are $10 (+ services fees); admission for children 12 and under is complimentary. To get your tickets, visit dallaspride.org.

The Dallas Pride Music Festival features more than 200 vendors, who will have booths to see and shop at the festival. Family Pride Zone, an area designed for families, will feature several bounce houses, face painting, entertainment for the kids and the Pride Train ride in the Automobile Building at Fair Park. The festival also includes Teen Pride, which fosters a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 19 and their friends to enjoy live entertainment from artists and DJs, and other age-appropriate activities. Local animal rescue groups will also be on-site for guests to meet a possible new furry family member. 

About Dallas Pride

The mission of Dallas Pride is to strengthen, support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. By prioritizing inclusiveness, Dallas Pride fosters a feeling of belonging for everyone from youth to seniors by creating events, initiatives and programs that foster connections between members of the community, its allies and its supporters.

Follow @DallasPride on Facebook, @DallasPrideOfficial on Instagram, @DallasPrideOrg on Twitter, or via the organization’s website, www.DallasPride.org, for all the tea.