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In observance of Memorial Day, Touchmark at Emerald Lake is hosting a patriotic program to honor resident veterans. Musician Norris Perry, who has performed nearly 9,000 shows for seniors, will acknowledge each branch of the military with their hymns and patriotic music.

Touchmark veteran Charlie Hooker is 90 years old and began his service in the Air Force in 1956, when the draft was in effect and military duty was an expectation. Starting with ROTC and pilot training, he went on to fly combat aircraft in Strategic Air Command and also served a number of years as an instructor in aircrew training and aircraft testing.

In 1964, Charlie became a member of the M-2 Club for flying faster than Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound) in a B-58. He is also a member of the Mach Busters club for breaking the sound barrier in a USAF F-86 Sabre.

Charlie encourages the future generations to honor the heroes who came before us and be grateful for our freedom. “It’s important for today’s generation to understand that the freedom we enjoy when we’re watching football and having BBQs with family was paid for by the sacrifices of others,” he says. “We can’t take that for granted.”

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The 2025 Gala Leadership Team: Honorary Co-Chairs David and Natalie Taylor, Auction Chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand, and Gala Co-Chairs Kristin and James Hallam

The 44th Annual Equest Blue Ribbon Gala was a night where cowboy boots and big-hearted bidding came together in a spirited celebration that still has Dallas buzzing. On April 25, Gilley’s Dallas was transformed into a shimmering celebration of all things Equest, thanks to the visionary leadership of Gala Chairs Kristin and James Hallam and Honorary Chairs The Sam and Helga Feldman Foundation and Natalie and David Taylor. The event drew a sold-out crowd of 570 and raised $700,000, the largest fundraising amount in Equest’s 44-year history.

From the first “yee haw” delivered by emcee Calvert Collins-Bratton, guests knew this was no ordinary gala. The program unfolded as a masterclass in inspiration, with each speaker reminding the room that every dollar raised would help Equest deliver hope and healing through its transformative equine-assisted programs.

Equest Founder Susan Schwartz presented the Founders Award to Carol Chamberlin, whose three decades of service as volunteer, donor, and barn manager have made her a legend in the Equest family. The Citation Award went to Donna and Tim Weber and their daughter Katherine, an Equest client, in recognition of their tireless volunteerism and generous philanthropy.

New CEO Eric Lindh took the stage to share Equest’s bold vision for the future, focusing on the number “22,” a call to action inspired by the 22 percent of Dallas County residents living with a disability, the 22 veterans lost to suicide daily in the U.S., and the 22 percent of Americans living with mental illness, while less than half of those receive treatment. His pledge to expand services to first responders struck a chord, as did the moving testimonials from Equest clients.

The silent and live auctions were runaway successes. Auction Chair Norma Jean Schaltenbrand urged the crowd to “Bid boldly. Bid big. Bid with heart,” and Dallas delivered. Auctioneer Louis Murad encouraged bidders to raise paddles effortlessly, starting from initial $10,000 bids onward. He energized the room with live auction packages featuring fabulous trips around the world, including destinations such as France, Antigua, Montana, and more. But the most memorable moment came when a guest insisted Louis auction off his own sparkling jacket. Ever the showman, he obliged, and the jacket fetched $2,000, a purchase by Tim Weber who clearly knows a statement piece when he sees one.

Of course, no gala would be complete without a little razzle-dazzle from event designer Steve Kemble, who outdid himself with a blue ombré color scheme, elegant white rose tablescapes, and a “disco saddle” centerpiece that had everyone talking. As the evening drew to a close, guests tried their luck at casino games and danced the night away to Jordan Kahn’s Manhattan Orchestra. The sensational fundraising evening proved once again that when Dallas comes together for Equest, it’s always a blue-ribbon affair.

Additional notable attendees included Amy Green, Chair of the Equest Board of Directors; Lili Kellogg, former CEO of Equest; and an ensemble of distinguished charity leaders including Nancy Greenbach, Sara and Robert Hallam, Lynn McBee, Tanya and Danny Rice, Therese Rourk, Kristy and Patrick Sands, Anne Seanor, and Donna Weitzman, among many others.

Special thanks go to the sponsors whose generosity made the night possible, including: Ben E. Keith Co., Benchmark Bank, Beasom Stable, Goldman Sachs Gives, Bank of Texas, Pender’s, Cavender’s Boot City, Kiewit, Steve Kemble Event Design, Hopkins, Etro, Dallas Capital Bank, Holland & Knight, Pave the Way Jewelry by Joan Hornig, Quest Events, Susan Friedman Public Relations, Spirit Tours, Modern Luxury Dallas, NexPoint, Marsh McLennan Agency, Lela Rose, My Sweet Charity, Brilliant Fulfillment, and Commerce Street Capital.

About Equest

Founded in 1981, Equest provides equine facilitated activities, therapies and counseling to children and adults with physical, cognitive, sensory, coping and learning disabilities and veterans with adjustment challenges. The services provided include physical and occupational therapy, equine facilitated counseling and learning, therapeutic carriage driving, therapeutic horsemanship and competition. With 34 therapy horses, a dedicated team of professionals, and 869 volunteers contributing 20,611 hours annually, Equest transforms lives annually for more than 2,770 individuals. Equest was the first PATH International Premier Accredited Center in Texas and remains one of the largest in the country. www.equest.org

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Celebrate the music of local favorite country rock band GOODnGONE at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 23.  The group will perform a mix of classic, red dirt and Texas country tunes at the Allen Christian Church, located in Allen Heritage Village, 450 E. St. Mary Dr.

GOODnGONE offers ballroom ballads, twanging shuffles, and a hint of rock. The group also offers its fair share of love songs, including first and eternal loves. Hailing from Collin County, Texas, they penned a song about the first legal hanging in Collin County, “The Ballad of Stephen Ballew.” 

With Jimmie Davidson on lead vocals, Tom Brandish on lead guitar, Richie Davis on drums, and Chris Bangma on bass guitar, they bring a fresh and modern edge to country music. Since forming in 2009, they have played at venues across North Texas and Oklahoma, including The House of Blues, River Ranch at the FW Stockyards, Allen Event Center and numerous city festivals.

Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, the concert is free.

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David P. Engel; Dr. Clive Field; Sam E. Susser; Sam L. Susser; Herbert D. Weitzman; and Scott R. Plantowsky

More than 128 golfers gathered on Monday, May 5, at PGA Frisco’s Fields Ranch Golf Course for the 2025 Susser Bank Golf Classic, raising $225,800 to date in support of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. All expenses for the event were fully underwritten by Susser Bank and the Susser family, ensuring that every dollar raised goes directly to advance the institution’s mission to end cancer.

The annual tournament brings together clients, business leaders, and community members for a day of camaraderie and purpose. The evening before the golf tournament, Sam L. Susser, Chairman and CEO of Susser Bank, and his wife Catherine welcomed guests into their home for a special dinner honoring the sponsors and supporters who make the Golf Classic possible.

“Each year, I’m deeply moved by the generosity and shared commitment of those who join us to support MD Anderson,” said Susser. “We all know someone who has faced the harsh reality of cancer. This event is about more than golf—it’s about investing in hope, research, and the future. MD Anderson continues to lead the world in groundbreaking discoveries and compassionate care, and we are honored to stand beside them in the fight to end cancer.”

The 2025 event marked the tournament’s strongest participation to date with 60 sponsors, reflecting the community’s growing support and belief in the importance of cancer research and patient care. The funds raised help support MD Anderson’s innovative treatments, clinical trials, and efforts to advance progress toward a cancer-free world.

Founded 63 years ago, Susser Bank has operated under the ownership and direction of Susser Banc Holdings Corporation since 2018. 

Susser Bank is a Texas-based company offering a full suite of personal and commercial banking solutions with offices across Texas – Dallas, Arlington, Austin, Bedford, Corpus Christi, Fort Worth, Garland, Houston, Plano, Round Rock and San Antonio. The company is a diversified bank with robust capital, liquidity, and leading-edge technology led by the Susser family and a legacy of six generations of Texas entrepreneurs. Susser Bank is dedicated to building long-term client relationships and providing outstanding financial solutions that make Texas stronger. More information is available at susserbank.com.

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Dallas Agency Recognized at 2025 Telly and Viddy Awards for Standout Campaigns in Automotive, Nonprofit, B2B, and More

The Barber Shop Marketing, a full-service advertising and marketing agency based in Dallas, has garnered top national recognition for its creative work in video, brand storytelling, and campaign strategy—earning a combined ten awards from the 2025 Telly Awards and 2025 Viddy Awards. The agency’s wins showcase its ability to develop high-impact, emotionally resonant, and results-driven content across industries and platforms.

At the 46th Annual Telly Awards, which received over 13,000 global entries, The Barber Shop Marketing stood alongside world-renowned winners such as Pixar, ESPN, NASA, MTV, and LinkedIn. The agency’s recognized work includes:

  • Gold Telly – Automotive: Bill Dickason Chevrolet’s Hero Ad
  • Silver Telly – B2B: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Internal Customer Service Video
  • Bronze Telly – Promotional: Baker Brothers’ Campaign with the Texas Rangers
  • Bronze Telly – Branding: Lawn South Promotional Video Featuring Their 2024 Award-Winning Work

“The Telly Awards is uniquely positioned to spotlight how brands are blending classic storytelling with emerging technologies to reach audiences across screens,” said Amanda Needham, Managing Director of the Telly Awards.

“Hopefully, our work exemplifies that creativity, purpose, and performance can—and should—go hand in hand,” said Amy Hall, President of The Barber Shop Marketing.

In addition, The Barber Shop Marketing was honored with six Viddy Awards, further cementing its reputation for excellence in video production:

  • Platinum – Nonprofit: The Warren Center’s 31st Annual Fantasy Football Draft Night Honored Family Video
  • Platinum – Automotive: Bill Dickason Chevrolet’s Hero Ad
  • Gold – Culture / Lifestyle: Gateway to the Globe 2024 Promotional Video
  • Gold – Ad Campaign: Baker Brothers’ Partnership with the Texas Rangers
  • Honorable Mention – Corporate Image: Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Internal Video
  • Honorable Mention – Products & Services: Lawn South 2024 Promotional Video

The Viddy Awards, established in 1994 as the Videographer Awards, have evolved into one of the most respected competitions honoring excellence in video for digital and broadcast platforms. Entries are judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP), which also oversees the MarCom and Hermes Creative Awards.

“Viddy Award recipients represent the best of the best in modern visual storytelling,” said Ed Dalheim, Executive Director of AMCP.

“Our portfolio stood out for its clarity of message, high production values, and genuine audience engagement. These awards reflect the power of storytelling, strategic execution, and the strong partnerships we’ve built with our clients,” said Hall. “Each campaign is a collaborative effort, and it’s deeply gratifying to see that work resonate with industry leaders and audiences alike.”

 For more information about The Barber Shop Marketing and their award-winning work, visit www.thebarbershopmarketing.com.

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Memorial Day is the Start of Outdoor Summer Cooking & Eating

But Keep in Mind Food Safety for Barbecues and Picnics

By Dr. Tamika Perry, family medicine, WellMed at Redbird Square

 Memorial Day weekend is a time to remember and honor the men and women who have served our country. It’s also the traditional start of the summer vacation and travel season – a time for family getaways, flavorful barbecues, and picnics. 

During this time, taking precautions regarding safe food handling, preparation, and cooking is essential to avoid foodborne illnesses like Salmonella and E. coli, which can be severe and sometimes life-threatening. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year, 48 million Americans get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases. 

Typical food-poisoning symptoms include vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever, all of which may range from mild to severe and can last from a few hours to several days. Health care professionals caution that certain people, including pregnant women, older adults aged 65 or older, young children under five years of age, and people with weakened immune systems, have an increased risk of becoming very sick from foodborne illness.

To help you keep your families healthy and protect them from food poisoning, here are some general food and kitchen hygiene tips to help you safely prepare and serve your Memorial Day meal. Foodborne illnesses tend to increase during the summer months because bacteria multiply faster when it’s warm, so following food safety guidelines is especially critical for raw meats, summer salads, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, among the most perishable foods at cookouts. 

  • Clean everything: It is important for those preparing and handling food to frequently wash their hands before, during, and after they start cooking, and to use fresh, clean plates and utensils for serving cooked food. 
  • Do not cross-contaminate: Raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs can spread germs to ready-to-eat food unless they are kept separate. 
  • Cook to the right temperature: The only way to tell if food is safely cooked is to use a food thermometer to ensure meat, poultry, and fish are cooked to a safe internal temperature. You can learn more information and view a detailed food list and the correct cooking temperatures at Cook to a Safe Minimum Internal Temperature | FoodSafety.gov.
  • Refrigerate perishable food within two hours. When food is left unrefrigerated for more than two hours, bacteria grow rapidly. For temperatures over 90°F, food should be refrigerated within an hour.

 Have fun this Memorial Day but be mindful of food safety to help keep your family healthy.

 Dr. Tamika Perry practices family medicine with WellMed at Redbird Square. She received her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine DO program and is board-certified in family medicine and osteopathic manipulative treatment. Additionally, she earned a Master of Public Health from UNT Health Science Center. She was inspired to enter a career in medicine to help provide quality health care to disenfranchised communities. She believes that her ears, eyes, and heart must remain wide open to treat her patients most effectively, and she enjoys working with families within the community.

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Entering the 2023-24 academic year, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas faced a challenge: adapting its classrooms and clinics to the needs of a service dog on campus every day while also considering the needs and comfort of everyone else. Cora Owens of Valley Mills, Fozzie’s owner, graduates May 25 with a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene.

 

Graduation Day at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas is May 25, and participating in all the pomp and circumstance with the 27 graduates of the dental hygiene program is one who has been with the class since the beginning.

Fozzie, a 5-year-old goldendoodle and full-time service dog, will accompany owner Cora Owens as she receives her bachelor’s degree. Yet it’s Fozzie who provided professors with a valuable education on maintaining a learning environment for students while also creating a safe situation for the dog.

Infection control is crucial, said Leigh Ann Nurick, clinical associate professor and interim program director, and Brandy Cowen, clinical assistant professor and clinic coordinator.

Although Standard Precautions and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention dental infection control guidelines are followed to reduce particles and germs in the air, some still exist and could be harmful to Fozzie, who, unlike the students, doesn’t wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

“We had to gain a layout of the clinic and workspaces to understand where the best place was for Fozzie to sit during clinical procedures to be close enough to detect a medical concern but also far enough to reduce his exposure to aerosols,” Cowen said.

The solution: Fozzie lies on a disposable pad thrown away after each clinic session. When aerosols are present, faculty determine whether he should be covered in a disposable sheet to protect him from particles landing on his fur, which could carry germs home and re-expose Owens when she’s not wearing PPE and potentially expose others.

In addition, Owens’ workspace is situated in a low-traffic area to provide the large dog with more room.

“Sitting in the small simulation lab in the basement is tight because he is so big,” she said. “But that’s been the only trouble.”

 Owens, diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 14, partnered with Fozzie after a series of health scares when her blood sugar dropped in her sleep and her glucose monitor’s alert didn’t wake her. Fozzie accompanied her to high school and later McLennan Community College, where she earned an associate degree.

 Texas A&M College of Dentistry was the only dental hygiene program Owens applied to, and she was welcomed immediately. Owens didn’t bring Fozzie to the first interview in 2023, but Nurick met him a few days later and began planning.

 “Everyone, faculty and students, loved him from the get-go,” Owens said. “They were accepting. They asked a lot of questions because they wanted to understand.”

 Faculty, students, staff and patients are advised not to pet Fozzie while he’s working to avoid distracting him. Giving him treats is discouraged because those are rewards for good work.

Patients who are uncomfortable with dogs are assigned to other student dental hygienists, but only a few chose that option; even some who were fearful at first grew to like Fozzie, Owens said.

Owens and Fozzie return to Valley Mills soon. She’s seeking a full-time job in the Waco area and anticipates interest after she receives her board scores and is licensed on June 30 in Austin.

For now, Fozzie hears every lecture and attends all the exams, labs and clinic sessions, while maintaining a professional demeanor – except for a snore-filled nap or two following lunches. That’s why Nurick gave Fozzie her College of Dentistry alumni pin at last month’s pinning and awards ceremony.

 “He deserved it,” she said. “I can’t think of anyone I would rather share my alumni pin.”

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Grand Prairie’s iconic Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark has once again earned a spot among the top three indoor waterparks in the nation in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. This marks the third consecutive year Epic Waters has been honored among the country’s best indoor waterparks, affirming its reputation as a premier destination for family fun, locally and nationally. 

The USA TODAY 10Best program highlights the nation’s top attractions, destinations, and experiences. Coming in at number three this year, Epic Waters continues to achieve national acclaim for its innovative design, outstanding guest experience, and year-round indoor waterpark adventure.

“Recognition by USA TODAY for three consecutive years reaffirms Epic Waters' reputation as a standout attraction nationally—and reflects the dedication our team pours into every guest experience,” said Richard Coleman, CEO of American Resort Management, the waterpark’s operator. “From our thrilling attractions and outstanding amenities to the resort-style atmosphere that sets Epic Waters apart, every detail is designed to create lasting memories for our guests.  It's an honor to see that commitment continue to be recognized on a national stage.”

Coleman also emphasized that while USA TODAY nominations are determined by editors and travel experts, the final rankings depend entirely on public voting

“This campaign isn’t just about Epic Waters,” Coleman added. “It’s a celebration of Grand Prairie’s vibrant tourism scene and everything EpicCentral has to offer—waterparks, adventure parks, dining, entertainment, and more. We're proud to help shine a light on Grand Prairie’s incredible energy, not only for visitors but for the residents who call our city home.”

Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen also praised Epic Waters for its role in elevating the city’s regional and national profile.

“Epic Waters has been a game-changer for Grand Prairie,” Jensen said. “It’s a big reason Grand Prairie has become one of North Texas’ best cities to visit and call home. Epic Waters helped shape the distinctive character of EpicCentral, and we’re thrilled to see it continue to drive growth and energize one of our region’s most exciting destinations.”

About Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark

Epic Waters is a year-round destination in Grand Prairie, Texas, offering over 80,000 square feet of indoor aquatic attractions. Known as a "cruise ship on land," the park provides a climate-controlled environment for guests of all ages. 

Epic Waters is a signature destination of EpicCentral, a 172-acre recreation and entertainment development owned by the City of Grand Prairie that is growing in prominence as a top destination for North Texas, particularly in the southern Dallas-Fort Worth sector. Centrally located off Highway 161 north of I-20, EpicCentral boasts adventure parks, waterfront dining for all budgets, special events, live music, scenic paths, play spaces and green spaces, hotels, an event and convention center, and Illuvia, a nightly Vegas-style water and light show. In addition to Epic Waters, notable EpicCentral destinations include Bolder Adventure Park, PlayGrand Adventures, Chicken N Pickle, as well as dining options that include Vidorra, Serious Eats, and The Finch restaurants. Learn more. 

About American Resort Management

American Resort Management, LLC (ARM) is a full-service national hospitality management and hotel development company. ARM’s concentration is on the development and the long term management of select and full service hotels, indoor waterpark resorts, outdoor waterparks, family entertainment centers and franchised & independent restaurant concepts. ARM achieves positive results from a “hands-on” management style that focuses on the guest experience. Driven by success, ARM’s focus is providing excellence at every level resulting in measurably higher returns. Projects are operated to the highest standards in the hospitality industry. The aim is clear: to establish strong, profitable operations by providing well-maintained facilities staffed by friendly, highly trained individuals who embrace a commitment to exceeding guests' expectations each visit.

 

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JFC YSC Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting – Nicole Gann, president and CEO, JFC; Lisa Mumford, director of programming, JFC; Juan Ramos, founder and executive director, R3 Student Outreach; Angela Williams, R3 Student Outreach co-founder and board chair
 
Community leaders gathered for a ribbon-cutting and grand opening, celebrating this new partnership with R3, which will oversee the center in a new 4,371-square-foot space on the campus of East Dallas Christian Church
 
Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC) held a ribbon cutting on May 16 for its new Youth Support Center (YSC), which will now be managed by R3 Student Outreach in a new partnership and location to serve North Texas youth and young adults. The YSC, which was established in 2020, moved two miles from JFC to 4210 Junius St. into a 4,371-square-foot space on the campus of East Dallas Christian Church, a longtime partner of JFC. It will provide wraparound services under one roof to North Texas youth and young adults, ages 10 to 24, at no charge. The program will focus on helping participants excel in both personal and academic pursuits, and organizers anticipate serving 400+ during the first year of this new affiliation. Operations begin immediately, and program registration and more information are available at r3student.org/dallas.
 
R3, whose name conveys its mission to “revive, renew, and restore” the minds and hearts of young people, is a San-Antonio based program which will continue Fowler’s mission to provide opportunities and resources for youth while adding new programs, including a new educational component.  R3 Student Outreach, which was founded in 2019, served 2,212 youths in 2024.  
 
Existing and new programming includes:
·        Counseling
·        Mentorship
·        Tutoring
·        STEM-focused after-school programming
·        Fully accredited private school with focus on professional development
·        High school diploma program
·        Google certifications: IT Support Certificate; Digital Marketing and E-Commerce Certificate; and Cybersecurity Certificate
·        Job development opportunities
·        Resources
·        Food, new clothing, bus passes, toiletries, and other tangible goods as needed
·        Dedicated office space for community partners (CPS, Lifeology Counseling, Job Placement Partners, etc.)
·        Referrals if additional resources are needed
 
Following the ribbon cutting ceremony by JFC President and CEO Nicole Gann, JFC Director of Programming Lisa Mumford, and R3 Student Outreach Founder and Executive Director Juan Ramos, the nearly 100 guests gathered inside the new YSC for remarks and refreshments.
 
“This new space is going to touch and change lives,” said Nicole Gann. “When we met Juan Ramos, we knew immediately that this was going to work and that we had found someone with the same heart and mission to serve North Texas youth and young adults. “We so are so grateful to East Dallas Christian Church for providing this beautiful partner space where we and other organizations can come together and serve others.”
 
“Few programs provide this broad spectrum of wraparound services under one roof,” said Lisa Mumford, director of programming, Juliette Fowler Communities. “As young adults turn 18 and age out of the foster care system, there is a tremendous need for services and support. YSC will play a crucial role in the development of youth and young adults by empowering them to thrive.”
 
“This type of impact doesn’t happen without partnership, and our focus is to be a good partner and to help youth and young adults start again and be loved,” stated Juan Ramos. “Our goal is for young people from any background to be able to walk into this new center and find a place that feels like home – a safe and supportive space that can help them improve their well-being and future opportunities. We are honored to work with Juliette Fowler Communities, who has established relationships and community partners. The possibilities are very exciting.”
 
Attending the ribbon cutting were representatives from community partners Agape Clinic - Dallas, Dallas County Juvenile Department, Dallas Public Library, Family Gateway, The Family Place, New Friends New Life, North Texas Food Bank, Our Friends Place, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, the Wesley-Rankin Community Center, and Youth 180 as well as board member leadership and members from JFC, R3 Student Outreach, and East Dallas Christian Church.
 
“JFC began as an orphanage 133 years ago, and since our inception, we have helped children and youth heal from trauma, abuse, and neglect,” said Nicole Gann, president and CEO, Juliette Fowler Communities. “Through this invaluable partnership with R3, we can do even more to equip students with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in their personal and professional lives.”
 
To contribute to the Youth Support Center, visit this Amazon Wishlist: https://a.co/9U8yzid.
 
To register for a program and for more information about the Youth Support Center, visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481. A formal registration process is required. Age restrictions are the only requirement, and all programs are available at no cost.
 
# # #
 
With a 133-year history of caring for all ages, Fowler's intergenerational mission creates a unique purpose-driven retirement culture in the heart of Dallas. In addition to providing a home to almost 500 older adults, Fowler is proud to host the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative and recently attained "I'm Still Here" certification as a program of distinction in cognitive health. Young women in danger of homelessness live at Fowler in the Ebby House residential program, and over 700 children, youth and families receive resources through Fowler's Children, Youth, and Family Services. Fowler is increasing its memory care, and it is adding an adult day program centered on dementia as well as a Bezos Academy affordable Montessori program for young children in 2026. Visit fowlercommunities.org or call 214.827.0813.
 
Founded in 2019 in San Antonio, Texas, R3 exists to bring renewal, revival and restoration to the minds and hearts of youth and young adults. In middle school, Juan Ramos, R3 founder and executive director, was severely bullied by classmates and teachers. Carrying the burdens of these past experiences, he never forgot the need for youth support. In 2019 after learning of youth suicides due to bullying, Ramos took action, and with the help of friend and partner, Angela Brown Williams, he opened R3 Student Outreach, which has served more than 6,000 youth and young adults since opening. This faith-based agency – now expanding services into North Texas in partnership with Juliette Fowler Communities – provides tutoring, workforce development, certifications, mentorship, food, clothing and resources, helping those aged 10 to 24 excel in personal development and academic pursuits at no cost. Visit r3student.org/dallas or call 469-921-0481.
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With a snip of the ceremonial ribbon and a wave from some familiar little blue friends, The Smurf Experience officially opened its doors on May 7 at Arlington’s Esports Stadium, marking its highly anticipated U.S. debut. 

After delighting over 2 million visitors across Europe, this 13,000-square-foot immersive attraction has landed in the heart of Texas for a limited summer engagement. Families and fans of all ages gathered for the grand opening celebration, eager to step inside the whimsical world of Smurf Village and embark on a mission to save it from the villainous Gargamel.

Designed for kids and parents alike, the 75-minute journey through The Smurf Experience features nine interactive zones filled with obstacle courses, scavenger hunts, VR adventures, and character meet-and-greets. It’s a high-energy, hands-on experience filled with “Smurftastic” fun and imaginative play.

“The Smurfs may be small, but their journey has been anything but,” said SBX Group CEO Danny Fritz at the ribbon-cutting. “We’re thrilled to bring this beloved brand to life in such an immersive way for families in DFW.”

Véronique Culliford, daughter of Smurfs creator Peyo and President of Peyo Company, added, “When my father first sketched these characters decades ago, I don’t think he ever imagined they’d one day become a full-scale interactive world. It’s truly special to see the joy they continue to bring.”

Perfectly timed with the upcoming July release of The Smurfs movie from Paramount Pictures—starring Rihanna as the voice of Smurfette—the attraction offers fans a chance to dive into Smurf Village just ahead of the film’s debut.

Situated near AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and Six Flags Over Texas, The Smurf Experience is a summer must-see for visitors and locals alike.

Tickets are now on sale at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com, with a variety of options available for families and groups. The attraction will remain in Arlington through the end of summer 2025.