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Children thrive when they have regular interactions with responsive, caring adults, yet neglect is the most reported form of child maltreatment that can have long-term effects on children’s health and development. Child abuse is an ugly reality of society, and awareness and prevention are crucial in making a difference and making the world a better place for children of all ages.

Child abuse is not limited to young children. Older children and adolescents can also experience abuse, whether it comes from their parents or within a romantic relationship. It also occurs across all socioeconomic levels, ethnic and culture lines and religion and education levels.

An important advocate for children in the Metroplex East region is Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). CASA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit social service agency focused on protecting children, restoring childhood and helping child victims of abuse and neglect achieve their full potential. CASA volunteers are voices for abused and neglected children in court and their ultimate goal is to help ensure that all of the children in protective care find safe, permanent homes where they can thrive. 

To find local volunteer opportunities in Dallas, please visit https://www.dallascasa.org/about-dallas-casa/. For volunteer opportunities outside of Dallas, please visit https://texascasa.org/how-to-help/. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, please call 1-800-252-5400. 

 

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Dr. Alicia Spence leads the recruitment and admissions office that shaped her academic life and career. She’s expanding the College of Dentistry’s recruitment reach to more colleges and geographic areas in Texas. 

Dr. Alicia Spence was named director of recruitment and admissions at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry March 17, after more than a decade in various teaching and administrative roles at her alma materSpence was tapped as interim director in 2024 and served on the admissions committee for several years. 

Dr. Ernestine Lacy, associate dean of student affairs, praised Spence’s work ethic, energy and positive attitude.  

“She brings to this position needed experience, innovative ideas and professionalism,” Lacy said. “Dr. Spence has both a sincere love of the College of Dentistry and a genuine care for its students and everyone at the college.” 

In Spence’s role, she travels the state to recruit students from major universities, including Texas A&M, the University of Texas at Austin, the University of Texas at Dallas and the University of North TexasShe will increase recruiting efforts to include Texas Tech University, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and smaller colleges and universities in person and via video conferences. 

Ninety percent of our students are from Texas; it’s required,” she said. “They come from all over. We get students from Texas A&M, of course, and from UT-Austinthe University of Houston and from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

Spence’s devotion to Texas A&M’s dental college in Dallas runs deep. 

A kinesiology major at Rice University in Houston, Spence was about to enter her senior year when she shadowed at her family’s longtime dentist in San Antonio. A six-week summer predental enrichment program at the dental college later gave her hands-on experience and the confidence to pursue dentistry. 

Spence wasn’t accepted the first time, so she entered a post-baccalaureate program at the dental college while taking science classes at UTD. She married and had a baby while in dental college, so she relates to nontraditional students. 

My faculty were so supportive,” she said. “I had to be organized, and I had to be careful with my time, but they were on my side. They wanted me to have all the resources that I needed. They wanted me to be successful, and I could feel that. 

Spence graduated in 2012 and, after working for a mobile practice treating geriatric patients, returned to the college as a full-time faculty member in 2014 because she wanted to help students. She continues to teach as a clinical assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry, co-founded the dental college’s Mental Health and Wellness Committee and mentors student researchers. 

Our students come from all over, and I like that because they will treat patients from all over,” Spence said. “They will go back to all these areas of Texas that need them.” 

 

 

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For one night only on May 17, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra presents Beethoven X Beyoncé, an electrifying mashup of classical genius and pop royalty! Maestro of the mashup Steve Hackman fuses the pulse of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony with 15 of Queen Bey’s biggest bangers – from “Single Ladies” to “Texas Hold ‘Em.”

Three powerhouse vocalists, a live band, and the full force of the DSO turning the concert hall into a dance floor. It’s bold. It’s genre-defying. It’s the Renaissance of classical, pop and R&B colliding in spectacular fashion.

Classical music has never slayed this hard. Don’t miss it!

Tickets start at $59 and are available at dallassymphony.org.

 

Meyerson Symphony Center is located in Downtown Dallas at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

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On May 9-11, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra invites you to surrender to the rhythm at ¡Bailamos! A Night of Latin Music, a fiery celebration of Latin music, movement, and irresistible passion. Under the baton of Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik, the Meyerson will pulse with the heat of tango classics, romantic ballads, and the intoxicating sound of the bandoneón.

Vocal powerhouse Edna Vázquez takes the stage with her fearless fusion of Mexican folk, pop, rock, and soul, spreading a message of light, love, and cultural connection. Her voice is pure fire, and her presence? Magnetic.

Feel the heartbeat of Buenos Aires as GRAMMY® Award-winning bandoneón artist Héctor Del Curto performs the timeless works of tango icons Astor Piazzolla and Carlos Gardel, including the showstopper “Por Una Cabeza.” Argentine tango masters Celina Rotundo and Hugo Patyn ignite the stage with every passionate kick, glide, and embrace.

It’s bold. It’s romantic. It’s unforgettable. Join the DSO for a night where music moves you in every way!

Tickets start at $35 and are available at dallassymphony.org.

 

Meyerson Symphony Center is located in Downtown Dallas at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo Credit Steve Thrasher

North Texas, get ready to turn up the heat! The 4th Annual Tacos & Tequila Festival is rolling into Panther Island Pavilion on Saturday, May 17, 2025

Presented by Tapatío™ Frozen Meals, Tapatío® Hot Sauce, and Social House Entertainment, this 21+ party is all about epic throwback beats, bold street eats, handcrafted cocktails, and nonstop fun. It’s a one-day-only, flavor-packed explosion of music, food, and culture—and you do not want to miss it.

???? ICONIC HIP-HOP + R&B ARTISTS LIVE ON STAGE

Bring your crew to the largest lineup that Tacos & Tequila Festival has ever had and relive the golden era of hip-hop and R&B with performances from:

  • Busta Rhymes – Hip-hop heavyweight behind “Woo Hah!!” and “Break Ya Neck.”
  • Timbaland – Game-changing producer and chart-topper.
  • Pretty Ricky – The ultimate 2000s slow jam squad.
  • Soulja Boy – “Crank That” pioneer and viral legend.
  • Trina – The baddest to ever do it.
  • Trick Daddy – Dirty South icon bringing serious Miami heat.
  • Mike Jones – WHO?  Mike Jones!
  • Frankie J – Smooth Latin vibes and Grammy nods.
  • Mims – This is why he’s hot.
  • Petey Pablo – Still raising up NC energy.
  • DJ Ashton Martin – Spinning non-stop vibes and dance bangers.

???? NORTH TEXAS FLAVORS ON FULL BLAST

Feast on a taco-lover's paradise with top local vendors like: Flores Home Cooking, Salmark BBQ, BRT Smoked Tex Mex, Los Brothers, MexiBoujee Tacos, Doss Tastebudz, Frezko Taco Spot, Alley Trap Fin & Wings, Nana Dot’s Southern Sweets and more. Expect creative takes on tacos, elote, Tex-Mex fusion, and over-the-top street eats to fuel your fiesta.

???? HANDCRAFTED MARGS + TEQUILA VIBES

Cool off between bites at one of the many margarita bars with signature sips like:

  • Salted Watermelon
  • Pineapple
  • Mango Habanero
  • Skinny Watermelon
  • And the classic Social House “House” Margarita

Head to the Tequila Shot Bars for sips of smooth and smoky tequila, or check out the Cayman Jack River Shack, where you can chill, take pics, try new Cayman JACKED drinks, and live your best cocktail life in true island-inspired style. 

????‍♂️ LUCHA LIBRE + COMPETITIONS + PET GLAM

Cheer on your favorite masked warrior at the Lucha Libre ring as high-flying luchadores bring the drama, the flips, and the showdowns that blend wrestling, pop culture, and international fandom.

???? QUESO + SALSA SMACKDOWN

Vote for your favorite queso or salsa at participating food trucks and you could help crown the King or Queen of Dip! The winner gets $250 and eternal bragging rights.

???? CHIHUAHUA BEAUTY PAGEANT

Does your pup have that extra sparkle? Enter them into the Chihuahua Beauty Pageant for a chance at a $200 gift card + trophy and the admiration of a taco-loving crowd. (Register your chihuahua HERE.)????✨

???? TAPATÍO™ TAKES CENTER STAGE

Meet the crew from Tapatío™ Frozen Meals and step into their lounge-style booth experience. Spin the wheel for a chance to win spicy swag, snap a pic in their 360 photo booth, and get cozy while learning about the bold, spicy essence of their new frozen meal line—made for flavor fanatics and heat seekers alike.

???? PLUS:

  • Art installations & photo ops
  • Exotic car showcase (Want in? Register your ride HERE)
  • Live DJs all day

????️ TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

This 21+ only party is your permission slip to relive your favorite throwback jams, taste every taco in sight, and sip margaritas under the Texas sun with your favorite people.

???? Grab tickets and get all the details at www.tacosandtequilaDFW.com.

  • $69 General Admission - limited time offer
  • $119 General Admission for 2 - limited time offer
  • $169 VIP - limited time offer
  • VIP Party Deck Pass available - pricing varies

TACOS. TEQUILA. THROWBACKS.
This is not your average food fest. This is DFW’s boldest, baddest bash of the year. Come hungry, come ready, and come get spicy.

DATE

May 17, 2025

1:30-11pm

LOCATION

Panther Island Pavilion

395 Purcey St

Fort Worth, TX 76102

FOLLOW THE FIESTA

SPONSORS

Tapatío™ Frozen Meals, Tapatío® Hot Sauce, Social House Entertainment, Tixr, Cayman Jack, White Claw Hard Seltzer, Majic 94.5, 97.9 The Beat, Rodeo TX, Cerveza Modelo, Corona, and Cerveza Pacifico Clara.

ABOUT TACOS AND TEQUILA FESTIVAL

The Tacos and Tequila Festival is a multi-city celebration of hip-hop, incredible food, and craft tequila. Having captivated audiences in San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Kansas City, Milwaukee, Sioux Falls, and Winnipeg, this high-energy event continues to bring fans back to the golden era of hip-hop with legendary performances and an unbeatable festival atmosphere.

ABOUT SOCIAL HOUSE ENTERTAINMENT

Social House Entertainment is a full-scale event production company born out of Kansas City. We specialize in producing large scale music festivals in unique outdoor venues, specialized community events, food, and beer festivals and many other types of events of all sizes. We are passionate about elevating live event experiences all around North America.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with a delightful brunch buffet at Open Palette inside the Sheraton Dallas on Sunday, May 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Enjoy a beautifully curated Mother’s Day Brunch menu featuring artisanal starters like a local cheese and charcuterie table, vibrant spring penne pasta, and a fresh salad station. The raw bar offers chilled crab claws and shrimp cocktail, while the traditional station serves comforting favorites including scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, lobster corn chowder, and made-to-order omelets.

The butcher station is a highlight with pepper-crusted smoked ribeye, smoked piglet sliders, and Gulf snapper tacos. End on a sweet note with an indulgent dessert spread featuring vanilla bean crème brûlée, passion fruit torte, pistachio-rosewater cake, and more. Enhance the experience with live music and $1 mimosas.

New this year: A Flower Bar Experience. Add a personal touch with our interactive flower station, where guests of all ages can handcraft a custom floral arrangement just for Mom – because she deserves something as beautiful as she is!

Whether you’re honoring Mom or gathering with loved ones, Open Palette’s Mother’s Day Brunch offers something special for everyone! Priced at $70/adult and $27/kid under 12 years old.

Reservations are available now on OpenTable.

 

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH MENU

Starters

  • Local Cheese Table. Paired with Local Jam and Artisan Crackers.

  • Charcuterie Table. Paired with Whole Grain Mustard and Artisan Bread.

  • Penne Pasta. Spring peas, sunchoke, heirloom tomato, and lemon vinaigrette.

Raw Bar

  • Crab Claws

  • Shrimp Cocktail

Salad Station, with fresh greens, toppings, and dressings.

Traditional Station

  • Scrambled Eggs

  • Biscuit & Country Gravy

  • Vanilla Pancake

  • Lobster Corn Chowder

  • Mac N Cheese

  • Chicken Tenders

  • Made-to-Order Omelet

Butcher Station

  • Pepper-Crusted Smoked Ribeye, with rosemary potato, baby roasted vegetable, and chimichurri.

  • Smoked Piglet, with coleslaw, bourbon BBQ sauce, and brioche.

  • Gulf Snapper Taco, with pico de gallo, guacamole, and salsa roja.

Sweet Treats & Pastries

  • Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée

  • Passion Fruit Bavarian Torte

  • Pistachio-Rosewater Cake / Mango Chantilly

  • Traditional Apricot Sacher Torte

  • Seasonal Fruit Tart

 

Open Palette is located in Sheraton Dallas Hotel at 400 North Olive Street.

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Texas Crystal Margarita - Sheraton Dallas Hotel.pn

Cinco de Mayo is the perfect day to raise a glass and have a blast. This year, margarita lovers rejoice as Open Palette and The Parlor at Sheraton Dallas Hotel are serving up a bold new twist on a classic favorite: the Texas Crystal Margarita.

The Texas Crystal Margarita is a smooth and vibrant cocktail that features Patrón Cristalino Añejo, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, and fresh Texas blood orange, elevated with a touch of passionfruit. Finished with a sea salt rim and dehydrated blood orange garnish, it’s a perfectly balanced sip of Texas sophistication.

Available for a limited time in partnership with Visit Dallas’ Margarita Mile, a free, self-guided tour of the best margaritas in Dallas!

Open Palette and The Parlor are located in the Sheraton Dallas Hotel at 400 North Olive Street. Complimentary parking is available for up to 4 hours. Please bring your parking ticket (from the garage across the street) and present it to your server for validation.

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Get ready to fiesta like there’s no mañana! On Monday, May 5, the Pyramid Bar at Fairmont Dallas is turning up the heat this Cinco de Mayo with an unforgettable tequila-fueled celebration in partnership with Hornitos Tequila. Whether lounging with friends, hosting a festive gathering, or barhopping through local spots, these refreshing concoctions make the perfect pairing!

 

$14 Hornitos Marg-a-tini

Classic margarita meets martini. It’s smooth, it’s sassy, it’s your new favorite cocktail.

 

Lobby Sips & Samples | 3:30–5:30pm

Free margs anyone? Stop by the lobby for a flavor explosion with complimentary mini sips of:

  • Chipotle Pineapple Margarita – Smoky, sweet, and totally irresistible

  • Jalapeño Watermelon Margarita – Juicy watermelon with a spicy kick

  • Dallas Margarita – Our hometown twist on the classic

… all crafted with Hornitos Tequila to bring the vibes!

 

Happy Hour. Weekdays from 4 to 6 PM

The Pyramid Bar at the Fairmont Dallas offers a vibrant weekday Happy Hour, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Sip on specially priced staple cocktails, like espresso martinis, mojitos and margaritas, draft beers, house wines, and select spirits. Choose from a variety of delicious bites, including Fairmont’s signature wings, short rib tostada, truffle fries, and poutine – a tribute to Fairmont's Canadian roots!

The Pyramid Bar's sleek design, lively vibe, and big-screen TVs create a welcoming environment. Don't miss the great deals and refreshing drinks! Visit the Pyramid Bar for Cinco de Mayo and Happy Hour in the heart of Downtown Dallas.

 

The Pyramid Bar is located in Fairmont Dallas at 1717 N Akard St.

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On Friday, May 2, 2025, Dallas Theater Center’s annual fundraising event will take place at Fashion Industry Gallery (F.I.G.) in the Dallas Arts District. Themed TAKE A BOW, the highly anticipated fête marks the 41st year for the annual Centerstage gala. Hamilton A Sneed is returning as this year's Event Chair and will oversee the cabaret-jazz-inspired evening of multimedia and fine dining which includes a champagne cocktail reception highlighting the Public Works education and community engagement programs, followed by a seated dinner and program honoring Joel Ferrell, the 2025 Linda and Bill Custard Award honoree, along with a vibrant live auction & paddle raise. The night will end with musical performances by the Diane & Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company and celebrated members of the theater community. 

Tickets to the Gala are currently on sale. Can't make the event or need a more affordable option to support DTC's cause? The CENTERSTAGE 41 Luxury Raffle is now open! Enter for a chance to win:

  • A $5,000 gift card sponsored by Susser Bank.
  • A trip for two to New York including tickets to see The Great Gatsby – A New Musical on Broadway, an experience at the Museum of Broadway, a taping of "Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen!," plus hotel accommodations provided by The Muse New York and M Social Hotel.
  • $1,000 to spend at NorthPark Center plus complimentary valet parking throughout the year with your NorthPark VIP valet card, and a House of Creed fragrance experience including four fragrances and a 10-person private masterclass. 
  • Access and experiences to 12 top Dallas arts and culture destinations, including Dallas Theater Center, AT&T Performing Arts Center, The Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Meadows Museum at SMU, and more.

Tickets are $50, with savings on multi-ticket packages. Enter now to support the arts and you could win big.

Proceeds benefit Dallas Theater Center’s Public Works Department, which engages people of all ages through year-round classes, performances, community events, and ambitious works of participatory theater. Public Works partners with schools, community organizations, and local government to make the arts accessible and inclusive across Dallas.

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Everyone knows that Mom is a classic, and the best place to celebrate her big day is at The Statler, the iconic mid-century hotel in downtown Dallas. The Statler is hosting a lavish Mother’s Day experience on Sunday, May 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. The elegant brunch buffet will be held in the hotel’s first floor dining space.

 

The menu showcases brunch items including peach cobbler French toast and buttermilk-brined chicken & waffles, as well as entrees such as a carving station featuring rosemary and garlic roasted strip loin of beef, chipotle honey glazed salmon and more. A full array of salads, sides and a chef’s selection of sweets for dessert round out the menu. Non-alcoholic beverages are included.

 

The brunch will be available for $75 including tax and gratuity for guests 13 and older, and $30 for kids ages 6-12. Reservations are recommended at Eventbrite.com.

 

Families are encouraged to extend their celebration of mom with a weekend stay at The Statler. Reservations can be made by visiting TheStatlerDallas.com.

 

 

MOTHER’S DAY MENU

Breakfast Pastries

  • Assorted Muffins, Danish, Buttery Croissants
  • Sweet Butter, Lemon Curd, Seasonal Preserves

 

Parfait Station

  • Coconut Chia Pudding, Vanilla Greek Yogurt, Fresh Berries, Roasted Pistachios, Toasted Coconut, Granola, Dark Chocolate Shavings, Honey Drizzle
  • Seasonal Fresh Fruit, Ricotta Honey Dip

Brunch Items

  • Peach Cobbler French Toast with Vanilla Bean Mascarpone
  • Scrambled Eggs, Creme Fraiche, Chives
  • Chicken & Waffles – Buttermilk-Brined Fried Chicken, Spicy Honey Glaze, Maple Syrup, Whipped Butter

 

Salads

  • Romaine & Baby Spinach, Roasted Corn, Black Beans, Roasted Red Peppers, Grape Tomatoes, Queso Fresco, Chipotle Lime Vinaigrette, Avocado Ranch
  • Heirloom Tomato & Cucumber Salad – Pickled Red Onion, Fresh Basil, Balsamic and Olive Oil drizzle

Entrees

  • Carne Asada - Grilled Marinated Flank Steak, Peppers and Onions, Guajillo Salsa Roja
  • Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast – Bourbon Maple Reduction
  • Chipotle-Honey Glazed Salmon
  • Spinach and Mushroom Enchiladas, Salsa Verde

 

Sides

  • Smoked Gouda and Chive Mashed Potatoes
  • Green Beans with Shallots and Toasted Almonds

 

Carving Station

  • Rosemary and Garlic Roasted Strip Loin of Beef, Red Wine Reduction, Creamy Horseradish  

 

Chef’s Dessert Table

 

$75 per person; $30 for kids 6-12

Reservations can be made at Eventbrite.com.

 

Location:

 

The Statler

1914 Commerce St.

Dallas, TX 75201

TheStatlerDallas.com