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In December, the spirit of the season filled the Toy Drive Warehouse at Community Partners of Dallas as EMPOWER caseworkers gathered for the organization’s annual toy distribution event. Throughout the morning, caseworkers moved through rows of carefully sorted gifts, thoughtfully selecting presents based on wish lists submitted by children in foster care across Dallas County.

 

For many of these children, the gifts represent more than a holiday surprise. They are a reminder that they are seen, valued, and cared for during what can be an especially difficult time of year. By allowing caseworkers to “shop” for the children on their caseloads, the event ensured that each gift felt personal and meaningful, reflecting individual interests, personalities, and hopes.

 

EMPOWER serves as the Community-Based Care contractor for Metroplex East, supporting children and families across Dallas, Grayson, Fannin, Collin, Hunt, Rockwall, Kaufman, Ellis, and Navarro counties. Through partnerships with Community Partners of Dallas and other local organizations, EMPOWER works to strengthen permanency outcomes and provide stability for children navigating the child welfare system.

Events like this toy drive are made possible through the generosity of the North Texas community. Donations, volunteer support, and year-round engagement help ensure that children experiencing abuse or neglect have access to essentials, comfort, and moments of joy when they need them most.

 

Those interested in supporting future efforts can learn more about Community Partners of Dallas and how to get involved through upcoming drives and volunteer opportunities. Together, these collective acts of kindness help brighten the holidays and reinforce a powerful message to children across Dallas County: they are not alone.In December, the spirit of the season filled the Toy Drive Warehouse at Community Partners of Dallas as EMPOWER caseworkers gathered for the organization’s annual toy distribution event. Throughout the morning, caseworkers moved through rows of carefully sorted gifts, thoughtfully selecting presents based on wish lists submitted by children in foster care across Dallas County.

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Tristin Savage #22 Player of the Game hits during Dallas PULSE vs. San Diego Mojo game.

 

The Dallas PULSE secured a 3-1 victory against San Diego Mojo on Thursday, Jan.15, at Comerica Center in Frisco, earning the team’s first-ever franchise win in their inaugural Major League Volleyball season.

Dallas PULSE fell short in the opening set, scoring 15-25, but responded with determination and power, winning the next three sets by scores of 25-16, 25-16, and 25-18.

Sofia Maldonado Diaz, Dallas PULSE outside hitter, recorded a double-double, leading the PULSE with 12 kills and 10 digs, posting a .276 hitting average. Outside hitter Mimi Colyer also contributed 12 kills, while middle blockers Layne Van Buskirk and Trisitin Savage anchored the net on both ends for the PULSE. Van Buskirk finished with nine kills and four blocks, while Savage added 10 kills and three blocks, earning Dallas PULSE Player of the Game.

“Tonight was amazing. It’s our very first win for this franchise, for Dallas, and it’s the best we’ve played as a team,” said Dallas PULSE Head Coach Shannon Winzer. “When you watch us play and see the players having fun and enjoying the game, that team aspect comes a lot easier. When we’re not getting the blocks, we’re getting the digs, and having that many players running speed off a dig is huge.”

For San Diego, outside hitter Grace Loberg led the Mojo with 12 kills on 39 attempts. Former SMU standout Maya Tabron tallied nine kills and 11 digs for San Diego. Middle blockers Kayla Caffey and Marin Crote chipped in eight kills on 15 swings, and seven kills on 18 attempts, for the Mojo.

San Diego jumped out to an early advantage, opening the match with a 4-0 run, and claiming the first set, 25-15, behind Loberg’s four kills.

“I think we came out a bit flat,” said Dallas PULSE middle blocker Layne Van Buskirk. “We reminded ourselves that we’re at our best when we’re having fun, and that really showed in the second set.”

Dallas responded in the second set, finding its rhythm and pulling away for a 25-16 win. The PULSE totaled six blocks in the frame compared to San Diego’s two.

The PULSE carried that momentum into the third set, holding the Mojo to a .143 hitting percentage en route to another 25-16 victory. Dallas entered the fourth set feeling “confident” and “in control,” according to Van Buskirk, as the PULSE added four more blocks to close out the match, 25-18.

Throughout the match, the Dallas PULSE bench buzzed with energy and unity, showcasing the team’s growing chemistry as players celebrated one another with every impressive dig, powerful kill, and ace.

Dallas will hit the road for their first away game of the season, traveling to Georgia to face the Atlanta Vibe on Jan. 22, at 6 p.m. CT. The match will be streamed on Victory+.

Dallas PULSE will return home on Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. CT to host the Omaha Supernovas at Comerica Center. Season and single-game tickets are available at dallaspulsevb.com.

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit dallaspulsevb.com or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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Tristin Savage #22 Player of the Game hits during Dallas PULSE vs. San Diego Mojo game.

 

The Dallas PULSE secured a 3-1 victory against San Diego Mojo on Thursday, Jan.15, at Comerica Center in Frisco, earning the team’s first-ever franchise win in their inaugural Major League Volleyball season.

Dallas PULSE fell short in the opening set, scoring 15-25, but responded with determination and power, winning the next three sets by scores of 25-16, 25-16, and 25-18.

Sofia Maldonado Diaz, Dallas PULSE outside hitter, recorded a double-double, leading the PULSE with 12 kills and 10 digs, posting a .276 hitting average. Outside hitter Mimi Colyer also contributed 12 kills, while middle blockers Layne Van Buskirk and Trisitin Savage anchored the net on both ends for the PULSE. Van Buskirk finished with nine kills and four blocks, while Savage added 10 kills and three blocks, earning Dallas PULSE Player of the Game.

“Tonight was amazing. It’s our very first win for this franchise, for Dallas, and it’s the best we’ve played as a team,” said Dallas PULSE Head Coach Shannon Winzer. “When you watch us play and see the players having fun and enjoying the game, that team aspect comes a lot easier. When we’re not getting the blocks, we’re getting the digs, and having that many players running speed off a dig is huge.”

For San Diego, outside hitter Grace Loberg led the Mojo with 12 kills on 39 attempts. Former SMU standout Maya Tabron tallied nine kills and 11 digs for San Diego. Middle blockers Kayla Caffey and Marin Crote chipped in eight kills on 15 swings, and seven kills on 18 attempts, for the Mojo.

San Diego jumped out to an early advantage, opening the match with a 4-0 run, and claiming the first set, 25-15, behind Loberg’s four kills.

“I think we came out a bit flat,” said Dallas PULSE middle blocker Layne Van Buskirk. “We reminded ourselves that we’re at our best when we’re having fun, and that really showed in the second set.”

Dallas responded in the second set, finding its rhythm and pulling away for a 25-16 win. The PULSE totaled six blocks in the frame compared to San Diego’s two.

The PULSE carried that momentum into the third set, holding the Mojo to a .143 hitting percentage en route to another 25-16 victory. Dallas entered the fourth set feeling “confident” and “in control,” according to Van Buskirk, as the PULSE added four more blocks to close out the match, 25-18.

Throughout the match, the Dallas PULSE bench buzzed with energy and unity, showcasing the team’s growing chemistry as players celebrated one another with every impressive dig, powerful kill, and ace.

Dallas will hit the road for their first away game of the season, traveling to Georgia to face the Atlanta Vibe on Jan. 22, at 6 p.m. CT. The match will be streamed on Victory+.

Dallas PULSE will return home on Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. CT to host the Omaha Supernovas at Comerica Center. Season and single-game tickets are available at dallaspulsevb.com.

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit dallaspulsevb.com or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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Tristin Savage #22 Player of the Game hits during Dallas PULSE vs. San Diego Mojo game.

 

The Dallas PULSE secured a 3-1 victory against San Diego Mojo on Thursday, Jan.15, at Comerica Center in Frisco, earning the team’s first-ever franchise win in their inaugural Major League Volleyball season.

Dallas PULSE fell short in the opening set, scoring 15-25, but responded with determination and power, winning the next three sets by scores of 25-16, 25-16, and 25-18.

Sofia Maldonado Diaz, Dallas PULSE outside hitter, recorded a double-double, leading the PULSE with 12 kills and 10 digs, posting a .276 hitting average. Outside hitter Mimi Colyer also contributed 12 kills, while middle blockers Layne Van Buskirk and Trisitin Savage anchored the net on both ends for the PULSE. Van Buskirk finished with nine kills and four blocks, while Savage added 10 kills and three blocks, earning Dallas PULSE Player of the Game.

“Tonight was amazing. It’s our very first win for this franchise, for Dallas, and it’s the best we’ve played as a team,” said Dallas PULSE Head Coach Shannon Winzer. “When you watch us play and see the players having fun and enjoying the game, that team aspect comes a lot easier. When we’re not getting the blocks, we’re getting the digs, and having that many players running speed off a dig is huge.”

For San Diego, outside hitter Grace Loberg led the Mojo with 12 kills on 39 attempts. Former SMU standout Maya Tabron tallied nine kills and 11 digs for San Diego. Middle blockers Kayla Caffey and Marin Crote chipped in eight kills on 15 swings, and seven kills on 18 attempts, for the Mojo.

San Diego jumped out to an early advantage, opening the match with a 4-0 run, and claiming the first set, 25-15, behind Loberg’s four kills.

“I think we came out a bit flat,” said Dallas PULSE middle blocker Layne Van Buskirk. “We reminded ourselves that we’re at our best when we’re having fun, and that really showed in the second set.”

Dallas responded in the second set, finding its rhythm and pulling away for a 25-16 win. The PULSE totaled six blocks in the frame compared to San Diego’s two.

The PULSE carried that momentum into the third set, holding the Mojo to a .143 hitting percentage en route to another 25-16 victory. Dallas entered the fourth set feeling “confident” and “in control,” according to Van Buskirk, as the PULSE added four more blocks to close out the match, 25-18.

Throughout the match, the Dallas PULSE bench buzzed with energy and unity, showcasing the team’s growing chemistry as players celebrated one another with every impressive dig, powerful kill, and ace.

Dallas will hit the road for their first away game of the season, traveling to Georgia to face the Atlanta Vibe on Jan. 22, at 6 p.m. CT. The match will be streamed on Victory+.

Dallas PULSE will return home on Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. CT to host the Omaha Supernovas at Comerica Center. Season and single-game tickets are available at dallaspulsevb.com.

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit dallaspulsevb.com or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MLV

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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The St. Jude Career Alliance, a faith-based ministry that offers hope, guidance, and practical tools for job seekers, will offer its next quarterly job search workshop on Saturday, January 24, 2026, 8:45 AM to 3:00 PM, at St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 North Greenville Avenue in Allen, TX  75002. Titled Empowering Your Career Journey, One Step at a Time, this workshop reflects the post-Pandemic changes in the job search market while incorporating emerging technologies such as AI to refine parameters and identify new opportunities.   

The Empowering Your Career Journey, One Step at a Time workshop will integrate interactive exercises such as S.T.A.R (Situation. Task. Action. Result.) stories, targeting specific companies, and crafting a Unique Selling Proposition (USP) to enable attendees to differentiate themselves from competitors. Attendees are encouraged to network during breaks and practice skills learned during the sessions.

This workshop is ideal for:

  • People who are unemployed and want an effective job search process.
  • People who want to get back into the job market after an extended career break.
  • People who are looking to do a career shift but are not sure just where to begin.

Parties interested in participating in this job search workshop will need to register online and pay a $25 fee. The fee will cover the cost of a full-color, spiral-bound copy of the program presentation, as well as lunch, drinks, and snacks. Registered attendees also need to bring a printed copy of their resume to the workshop. The link for Online Registration appears below:

https://www.osvhub.com/stjudeparish/forms/career-alliance-quarterly-workshop-01-24-26

This link connects to a registration form that includes a payment button. Registration forms cannot be submitted until payment is made.

The January 24 comprehensive job search workshop will take place in the Lecture Hall on the St. Jude parish campus. Participants should park in the northeast parking lot on Greenville Avenue, enter through the church office doors, and follow the signs inside to the Lecture Hall location.

This event is open to all job seekers, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or age.

The 2026 St. Jude Career job search workshops will be held:

  • 2Q2026 Saturday, April 18, 2026
  • 3Q2026 Saturday, August 1, 2026
  • 4Q2026 Saturday, October 17, 2026

 For more information:

 

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Berkeys Plumbing, A/C & Electrical is proud to announce that it has been awarded “Best Electrical” in Society Life Magazine’s highly competitive TOPS IN TARRANT awards—an annual recognition celebrating the “Best of the Best” businesses across Tarrant County.

Selected entirely by reader votes, this award reflects the outstanding service, community trust, and customer care that Berkeys delivers every day throughout Northeast Tarrant County and beyond. The company also earned a position among the TOP 100 Best in Industry—a distinction reserved for businesses that exemplify excellence, reliability, and leadership in their field.

“We are honored to be recognized by the community we serve,” said Jeff Cox, President of Berkeys. “Earning the title of ‘Best Electrical’ in Tarrant County is a testament to our technicians’ expertise, our commitment to customer satisfaction, and the trust our neighbors place in us. We are truly grateful to everyone who voted.”

The award and full list of winners will be featured in the January 2026 “TOPS IN TARRANT” issue of Society Life Magazine, which reaches more than 125,000 local readers through direct mail and business distribution. As the most widely circulated lifestyle publication in Northeast Tarrant County—with over 40,000+ mailed homes monthly—Society Life’s recognition highlights the businesses that residents trust most.

For more than 50 years, Berkeys Plumbing, A/C & Electrical has built its reputation on exceptional workmanship, transparent service, and a commitment to keeping North Texas homes safe, comfortable, and efficient. This latest recognition further solidifies Berkeys’ position as one of the region’s most trusted home services providers.

Berkeys’ half-century legacy and success is built on the company’s founding principles:

  • Exceptional Customer Service – Providing prompt, professional, and courteous service that exceeds expectations
  • Quality Craftsmanship – Offering reliable, efficient, and long-lasting solutions
  • Community Involvement – Actively supporting local organizations and giving back to the communities it serves

In addition to its latest honors, Berkeys has earned a long list of awards and accolades over the years, including Southlake Journal Best of the Best Angie’s List Super Service Award and an A+ Rating and Accreditation from the Better Business Bureau since 1997.

About Berkeys Plumbing, A/C, & Electrical

Texas-based Berkeys has been providing quality plumbing, electrical, air conditioning, and heating services to homeowners in the Dallas / Fort Worth metroplex since 1975. The company sells America’s top-rated brands of plumbing, AC repair, electrical, and heating equipment known for high efficiency, reliability, and serviceability; and it services all brands and makes of plumbing and air conditioning equipment. All Berkeys plumbers have passed rigorous state plumbing examinations and are licensed by the State of Texas; they understand the complexity of state plumbing codes all the way down to local requirements. Berkeys signature MVP Maintenance Program delivers priority service, seasonal tune-ups, and member-only savings to keep home systems running smoothly year-round.

Berkeys maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has led the field in area newspapers’ readers’ favorite polls.. Berkeys is part of the Wrench Group, a national leader operating in 25 markets across 14 states to provide home repair, replacement and maintenance services specializing in heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

Headquartered in South Lake, TX, Berkeys also services greater DFW with satellite locations at:   4645 Avon Ln Suite 260, Frisco, TX 75033 (214) 216-1727

4311 Belmont Ave Suite 125, Dallas, TX 75204 (214) 612-0133

3001 W 5th St Suite 700, Fort Worth, TX 76107 (817) 799-6090

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Dallas PULSE signs with Victory+ for exclusive streaming partnership in its inaugural season, making the free-to-consumer platform home for all Dallas PULSE matches during the 2026 Major League Volleyball season.

As part of the agreement, Victory+ will stream seven local home matches and 11 away matches – with all games live and on demand.  Fans can access all content through a designated Dallas PULSE hub within the Victory+ platform. 

“This season is about establishing who we are and building a strong fan base across North Texas,” said Dallas PULSE President and CEO Grady Raskin. “Partnering with Victory+ puts our matches directly into the hands of the fans, whether they’re watching from their living room or streaming on the go, they can stay energized and connected all season long.”

By providing a centralized home for all Dallas PULSE games, the partnership gives fans greater control over their game-day experience, allowing them to catch every electrifying point and rally – no matter where the team is playing.

Fans can access the content by downloading the Victory+ app from their smartphone or smart TV, or by visiting victoryplus.com

Dallas PULSE has 27 matches remaining this season, including 13 home matches at Comerica Center in Frisco. Season tickets and single-game tickets for all home matches are available at dallaspulsevb.com.

Victory+ is also the broadcast home for the Dallas Stars, Texas Rangers, and Texas High School Football, further solidifying its status as the premier destination for Texas sports fans.

ABOUT DALLAS PULSE

The Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. For more information about the team, visit dallaspulsevb.com or follow the team on social media channels at @DallasPULSEVB for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE VOLLEYBALL

Major League Volleyball, competing in its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. For more information, visit ProVolleyball.com.

 

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About the Show

A New Partnership

A Life-changing Prize

How to Watch:

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As North Texans head into 2026 focused on wellness, balance, and fresh starts, Legacy West in Plano is setting the tone as the ultimate New Year, New Goals destination. Blending community-driven fitness, results-oriented beauty services, and crave-worthy conscious dining, Legacy West makes it easier and more enjoyable than ever to turn resolutions into routines.

From sunrise workouts and glow-up treatments to nutrient-forward meals and social wellness experiences, Legacy West delivers a holistic reset without sacrificing style or fun.

Get Fit: Where Wellness Meets Community

Fitness feels better when it’s social (and many say those resolutions are more likely to stick!) —and Legacy West is making movement a shared experience.

  • Legacy West Run Club at Nike. Stepping off on Sunday mornings to start your week on the right foot, runners of all levels gather 7:30–8:30 a.m. for this complimentary weekly run or walk on a casual 3-mile (5K) route. No registration required. Perks include water, Celsius, and occasional celebratory doughnuts. Instagram: @legacywestrunclub
  • lululemon Legacy West Monthly Fitness Series. Starting January 31, lululemon introduces a rotating lineup of morning workouts designed to energize, challenge, and connect the community. Each class delivers high vibes, serious sweat, and an uplifting start to the day. More details coming soon.
  • Vuori Legacy West x Training Mate: ACTV Studio IRL. On January 10, 8:30–10:30 AM, Vuori hosts a HIIT-style workout led by TJ Borcky of Training Mate. Guests can expect a high-energy class followed by refreshments and exclusive shopping. Note: Yoga mat required.

Get Gorgeous: Glow Into the New Year

Legacy West offers a full spectrum of beauty and self-care services designed to help guests look and feel their best in the new year and beyond. It’s self-care at its most gorgeous!

  • BAM Beauty Bar delivers instant confidence with professional blowouts and makeup services perfect for a quick refresh.
  • Johnny Rodriguez, The Salon elevates beauty with expert cuts, dimensional color, advanced skincare treatments, and massage services for a true head-to-toe reset.
  • OVME specializes in outcomes-driven aesthetics, including their Signature Facial, plus advanced treatments like Halo, BBL, and Moxi—ideal for post-holiday skin recovery. OVME is also offering New Year specials to kick off 2026.
  • Venetian Nail Spa completes the glow-up with meticulous nail services, including their highly sought-after Russian Manicure, which pays extra attention to the cuticles.

Get Delicious Food & Drink: Clean, Conscious, and Crave-Worthy

Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean boring—and Legacy West proves it with a diverse dining lineup that balances indulgence and intention.

  • CAVA offers Mediterranean-inspired bowls and pitas made with wholesome ingredients and transparent calorie listings.
  • Mendocino Farms focuses on thoughtfully sourced salads and sandwiches, free from artificial flavors and unnecessary additives.
  • True Food Kitchen showcases nutrient-dense, seasonal dishes like the fan-favorite Ancient Grain Bowl.
  • Earls brings global flair with lighter options such as the Emerald Chicken Salad, packed with fresh greens, fruit, and vibrant flavors.
  • Darna Mediterranean Eatery channels café-style Mediterranean cuisine with standout dishes like the Tunisian Beet Salad.
  • Uchiko and KAI elevate the experience with refined Asian cuisine—from omakase and sushi to smoke-kissed specialties like Uchiko’s Whole Branzino.
  • Inside Legacy Hall, Bondi Bowls fuels busy days with vibrant açaí bowls made from organic, intentional ingredients, plus ethically sourced coffee—perfect for breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a midday recharge.

Destination Designed for Real Resolutions

By bringing fitness, beauty, and mindful dining together in one stylish, walkable destination, Legacy West removes the friction from healthy living—making 2026 the year wellness finally sticks.

For more information on events, classes, and New Year offerings, visit legacywest.com or follow along on social media.

About Legacy West
Legacy West, known as the most successful development in North Texas history, includes 343,000 square feet of retail; 435,000 square feet of office space; and 1,300 multi-family units. The mixed-use project located in Plano, TX is home to national and international corporate office tenants, a 303-room Renaissance Hotel, luxury retail brands, a 55,000 square foot artisan Food Hall, plus more than 20 restaurants and eateries to choose from. The center is a beacon of North Texas as the destination of choice for work, live, shop, play and dine.

About Kite Realty Group

Kite Realty Group (NYSE: KRG), a real estate investment trust (REIT), is a premier owner and operator of open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets. The Company’s primarily grocery-anchored portfolio is located in high-growth Sun Belt and select strategic gateway markets. The combination of necessity-based grocery-anchored neighborhood and community centers, along with vibrant mixed-use assets, makes the KRG portfolio an ideal platform for both retailers and consumers. Publicly listed since 2004, KRG has over 60 years of experience in developing, constructing and operating real estate. Using operational, investment, development, and redevelopment expertise, KRG continuously optimizes its portfolio to maximize value and return to shareholders. As of September 30, 2025, the Company owned interests in 180 U.S. open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets, comprising approximately 29.7 million square feet of gross leasable space. For more information, please visit kiterealty.com.

 

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Modern Manners for Modern Kids Comes to Stanley Korshak

As families settle into the new year, Dallas parents are looking for meaningful ways to help their children build confidence, social awareness, and everyday life skills. One new local program is stepping in to meet that need.

Chuck Steelman, chief customer and experience officer at Stanley Korshak, has launched Modern Manners, an etiquette and social skills program designed for children in grades one through six. Hosted at the iconic Dallas retailer, the program blends traditional etiquette with practical, modern lessons that kids can actually use.

Steelman, who created the curriculum and serves as instructor, designed the program to feel engaging and approachable rather than formal or rigid. The goal is not perfection, but confidence, kindness, and self-awareness.

The program recently wrapped up a successful four-week session before the holidays, with each class focused on a different theme. Students explored everything from table settings and conversation skills to grooming, gratitude, and hosting with intention.

During the opening session, students learned how to properly set a table for both everyday meals and special occasions. They practiced polite conversation and worked together on a hands-on centerpiece project that encouraged creativity and teamwork. The lesson also included how to introduce themselves and others respectfully in a variety of settings.

The second week focused on personal care and presentation. Students created individualized grooming kits while learning why neatness, preparedness, and healthy routines matter. Discussions around hygiene and self-care emphasized how small habits can positively influence confidence and first impressions.

In week three, the class explored the evolution of manners and how etiquette applies to real-world situations today. Lessons included how to behave politely while traveling, answering the door with courtesy, and writing thoughtful thank-you notes. These conversations helped reinforce timeless values like respect, consideration, and gratitude.

The final session brought everything together with a focus on celebration etiquette. Students learned how to be gracious hosts and thoughtful guests, including greeting friends, making others feel welcome, and even serving cake and refreshments. The emphasis throughout was on kindness and creating positive experiences for others.

An additional element woven throughout the program was age-appropriate modeling instruction led by a professional model. These sessions helped students develop posture, poise, and confidence that support communication and public presence.

The program concluded with a graduation breakfast, where students proudly demonstrated the skills they gained and received certificates celebrating their accomplishments.

The next Modern Manners session opens January 24, with additional classes on January 31, February 7, and February 21. Each class runs one hour and fifteen minutes, with morning and afternoon session options available. Classes are held in a private room at Stanley Korshak, located at 500 Crescent Court.

For parents interested in learning more or registering, inquiries can be sent to chucksteelman@gmail.com or via Instagram at @ModMannersEtiquette.

After all, good manners never go out of style.