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Dr. William D. Allen is proud to announce his appointment as the new Director of Bands for Dallas ISD’s South Oak Cliff High School, effective for the 2026–2027 school year. A Grammy Award-winning music educator, accomplished musician, and nationally recognized leader in arts education, Dr. Allen will return to the campus where he previously helped elevate the Nu Soul of the South marching band into national prominence. For Dr. Allen, the appointment represents more than a professional milestone, it is a homecoming. Returning to the "School of Champions" offers an opportunity to continue building a program rooted in excellence, discipline, leadership, and opportunity for every student.

During his previous tenure at South Oak Cliff High School, Dr. Allen led the Nu Soul of the South Band during a period of national recognition, culminating in the program receiving the 2021 GRAMMY Museum Signature Schools Award, one of the nation's highest honors recognizing outstanding achievement in school music education. The award celebrated the dedication of the students, staff, families, and community that have long supported the program's tradition of excellence.

Today, Dr. Allen returns with a vision to build upon that legacy by developing musicians who excel not only on the performance field and concert stage, but also in the classroom and in their communities.

"South Oak Cliff is more than a school, it's family," said Dr. William D. Allen. "Returning home to lead the Nu Soul of the South is both an honor and a responsibility. This isn't about picking up where we left off; it's about building the next generation of leaders, musicians, and champions. Together, we'll honor the legacy that has been established while creating new opportunities for every student who walks through our band hall doors."

Dr. Allen brings more than a decade of experience as a music educator, performer, arts administrator, and nonprofit leader. Beyond his work in public education, he founded the Texas Supremacy of Music & Arts Conservatory (TSMAC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to music and performing arts education for youth throughout North Texas. His leadership across education and nonprofit service reflects a lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for young people through music and the arts.

 

As Director of Bands, Dr. Allen's primary focus will be leading and growing the South Oak Cliff band program while inspiring students to pursue excellence in music, academics, leadership, and service. Under Dr. Allen's leadership, the Nu Soul of the South Band will focus on:

●      Developing exceptional musicians and student leaders

●      Expanding college scholarship opportunities

●      Strengthening academic achievement and character development

●      Increasing community engagement and alumni involvement

●      Building one of the premier high school marching band programs in Texas

 

Known throughout Texas as the "School of Champions," South Oak Cliff High School has earned statewide recognition for excellence in academics, athletics, and the performing arts. The campus has celebrated multiple UIL Football State Championships and continues to build upon a tradition defined by resilience, discipline, and community pride. The vision for the Nu Soul of the South extends beyond performances. It is centered on preparing students for college, careers, and lifelong success while strengthening the program's legacy as one of the most respected high school band programs in Texas. Student registration for the 2026–2027 Nu Soul of the South Band is now open for incoming students in grades 9–12. Families interested in joining the program are encouraged to contact South Oak Cliff High School or follow the Nu Soul of the South social media platforms for additional information and upcoming events.

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Courtesy of WellMed, by Jyothi Rereddy, MD

Many people wonder if their memory ”problems” are a normal part of aging, or if it may indicate a more serious condition. The good news is that most memory changes are nothing to be concerned about. Not every slip or mistake means there is something serious going on.

Many older adults notice changes in their memory. They might forget a name, misplace their keys, or lose track of why they walked into a room. These moments can feel scary, and it’s common to think about dementia or even Alzheimer’s disease, but gradual shifts in memory over time are normal. As people age, their bodies undergo a range of natural changes, including in the brain.

How does aging affect memory?

The brain, like the rest of the body, slows down with age. Blood flow in the brain may decrease and communication between brain cells may become less efficient (Memory Problems, Forgetfulness, and Aging | National Institute on Aging). Brain volume can also shrink with age.

Because of this, some older adults may occasionally take longer to recall information, have trouble multitasking or forget appointments. They may also experience a decline in the ability to remember events (episodic memory). While occasional forgetfulness is normal, serious memory problems are not.

It may be time to speak with a doctor about the possibility of dementia if you or a loved one start asking the same questions repeatedly, get lost in familiar places or have trouble making decisions. Other symptoms may include:

  • Trouble following directions or recipes
  • Neglecting personal hygiene or safety
  • Changes in mood and personality 

Here are other differences between normal age-related forgetfulness and dementia: 

Normal aging

Dementia

Forgetting things sometimes

Forgetting things often and not remembering later

Making occasional bad decisions

Consistently poor judgment

Forgetting to pay one bill

Unable to manage finances

Forgetting the date but recalling it later

Losing track of time completely

Trouble thinking of a word sometimes

Trouble having conversations

 

 

Other symptoms of dementia include language problems, personality changes and problem-solving difficulties. Some people may have mood or behavior changes such as confusion or withdrawal from social activities.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

Some older adults develop a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). People with MCI may have ongoing memory problems that cause them to miss appointments, lose track of conversations or have trouble remembering recent events. People with MCI can still manage daily tasks and drive. Because they don’t usually need help with everyday activities, they can remain independent and live on their own. 

Types of mild cognitive impairment

There are two main types of MCI, amnestic, which is memory-related, and non-amnestic, which affects thinking, including attention, reasoning and judgement. Aging is the biggest risk factor for developing MCI, but brain changes, medical conditions such as depression and diabetes, and lifestyle factors such as lack of physical activity and poor diet also may contribute to it. Other causes, which are sometimes reversible, are side effects from medications, alcohol use and sleep problems.

MCI is fairly common, especially among older adults. About 12-18% of people ages 60-64 have it and about 10-20% of people 65 and older have it, but don’t realize it because the symptoms seem like normal aging.

MCI can raise the risk of getting dementia, but not always. Annually, about 10-15% of people with MCI develop dementia, and about 33% may develop it within five years. However, some people with MCI stay the same over time, and some may improve.

How MCI is diagnosed

There is no single test for detecting MCI. Visit a doctor to be evaluated if you or a loved one have symptoms. An evaluation may include a complete medical history, blood work, a description of symptoms, cognitive tests, descriptions of symptoms from family members and possibly brain imaging tests.

Promoting brain health

There are some actions that may help brain health, among them regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, engaging in mental activities such as doing puzzles or learning a new language, and social interaction.

It’s also important to get enough quality sleep hours and manage stress [helpdementia.com]. 

What other conditions can affect memory?

Not all memory problems are caused by aging or dementia. Medical causes include head injuries such as concussions, blood clots or tumors; thyroid, kidney or liver problems, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety and stress may also affect memory. 

When to talk to a doctor

WellMed clinicians perform a cognitive assessment as part of the annual wellness screening to detect early mild cognitive impairment as part of the Medicare annual wellness visit. If you or a loved one has not had such a screening in the past year, talk to your doctor, especially if you or a loved one’s memory problems are getting worse, start interfering with daily activities, or family and friends notice problems. 

The most important thing is to keep track of changes. If memory problems begin to affect daily life, it’s time to speak with a doctor. 

With the right care, support and healthy habits, many people continue to live full and meaningful lives as they age.

WellMed Medical Management is a leading health care delivery organization that works to positively impact the health of nearly two million patients throughout Texas and Florida through primary care clinics, multi-specialty clinics, contracted medical management services and ancillary support services and companies. Founded in 1990, the company’s vision is “to change the face of health care delivery for the nation.” As part of Optum, one of the nation’s largest health and wellness companies, WellMed focuses on providing quality patient care with an emphasis on prevention.

Courtesy of WellMed, by Jyothi Rereddy, MD

Sources

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Dr. Reginald Taylor (Photo: Steven Crow/Texas A&M University College of Dentistry)

Dr. Reginald Taylor, associate professor and director of predoctoral orthodontics at Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas, was recently accepted into the American Dental Education Association Council of Deans Fellowship Program for 2026-27. The program helps future leaders succeed as deans or other high-level university administrators. 

Taylor is A&M Dentistry’s first Fellow of the council. 

“I am preparing to be a dean …,” he said. “Where, I haven’t narrowed that down yet, but it will be a place where I think I can do the most good and I can use my skill sets the best to help the institution.” 

ADEA developed the program in response to a recognized need to help the next generation of leaders gain exposure to the unique complexities, activities and people that deans and other top academic leadership face in their roles. Fellows receive intense mentoring from their deans, visit other institutions to receive additional mentoring and engage in formal leadership-development activities with mentors and peers both onsite and online. 

The Fellows complete career development plans, and each participant develops a capstone project. Taylor is researching a potential satellite clinic for the 120-year-old dental college.

“There have been some thoughts in that direction, but no one, to my knowledge, has gotten all the players together so we can hash out what’s needed and, most important, how and by whom the endeavor will be financed,” he said. 

Dr. Lily T. García, A&M Dentistry’s dean, approved Taylor’s research endeavor. She encouraged Taylor to seek input from Dr. Jacqueline Plemons, clinical professor in periodontics and director of external affairs; Dr. Jennifer Barrington, associate dean for clinical affairs; Dr. Liang Hong, head of public health sciences; and Dr. Erica Teixeira, head of comprehensive dentistry. 

“Dr. Taylor’s selection for the ADEA Council of Deans Fellowship program is a testament to his leadership and vision for the future of dental education,” García said. “His exploration of a potential satellite clinic aligns with our commitment to expanding access to care and preparing our college to meet the evolving oral health needs of the communities we serve for the last 120 years and beyond.” 

The Fellows will submit their research findings in late February. The other four Fellows are from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. 

Taylor will celebrate 26 years of working at A&M Dentistry in August. He served as associate dean of graduate and professional programs for three years and learned how effective deans are in helping students in all departments.  

“Communication is the key and not just talking to people but listening to people and communicating at all levels,” he said. “At least making sure that effective communication is taking place at all levels; if you can’t physically get to a group of people, you want to have someone who can and will take the message, the coordinated message, to them. You have to let people know that you are listening.” 

Taylor received his dental degree from Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1987 and his orthodontics certificate and Doctor of Medical Science in oral biology in 1992 from Harvard and the Forsyth Dental Center. His first full-time faculty position was at the University of Alabama, where he taught pre- and post-doctoral orthodontics.

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Lavender Margarita at Bulla Gastrobar - Sauza Silver tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and lavender syrup.

Tequila is calling, and Legacy West is answering! In celebration of National Tequila Day on Friday, July 24, Legacy West is raising a glass with an irresistible lineup of handcrafted tequila cocktails from some of its most popular restaurants, plus a weekend of tequila-fueled fun at Legacy Hall.

Whether you’re looking for a classic or spicy margarita, a sophisticated zero-proof sip, or a weekend of tequila-infused experiences, Legacy West is the ultimate North Texas destination to celebrate National Tequila Day. With premier shopping, dining, entertainment and, of course, tequila, there’s no better place to sip, savor and enjoy the holiday weekend.

Legacy Hall Happenings

From Friday, July 24 through Sunday, July 26, guests can sip, snack and soak up the festive atmosphere at Legacy Hall. The weekend features a special Casamigos Margarita Flight, and on Friday from 1-4 p.m., guests can put their spelling skills to a test during “The Tequila & The Bee,” a tequila-themed spelling bee complete with prizes and bragging rights.

Signature Tequila Cocktails

Hunting for your next favorite tequila-based cocktail? We found your next favorite at Legacy West’s outstanding restaurants. Visit the slide presentation above for a vibrant preview. 

For the latest events and happenings, visit LegacyWest.com and follow @LegacyWestPlano on Instagram.

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, Texas 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. Legacy West is the destination of choice for work, live, shop, play and dine in North Texas.

 About Kite Realty Group

Kite Realty Group (NYSE: KRG) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns and operates a high-quality portfolio of open-air shopping centers and mixed-use destinations. The Company’s portfolio is concentrated in high-growth Sun Belt and select strategic gateway markets. Publicly listed since 2004, KRG brings more than six decades of experience in developing, operating, and investing in real estate, using a disciplined, hands-on approach to enhance portfolio quality and maximize long-term value for all stakeholders. As of March 31, 2026, the Company owned interests in 169 U.S. open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets, comprising approximately 27.3 million square feet of gross leasable space. For more information, please visit kiterealty.com.

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Legacy West is going back to school in style this season by introducing "Legacy West University,” a playful and immersive way to celebrate this special time of year. Launching on July 27 with events for adults and children throughout August, school spirit will be taking over North Texas’ favorite lifestyle destination. Think interactive, collegiate-inspired experiences, a themed installation and a robust schedule of classes that will have everyone wanting to take a full load! Added bonus: No homework!

 

“Meet you at my locker….”

Whether you want to pass notes, see your crush, or take the world’s cutest selfies with your besties, visiting the back-to-school-themed installation in Legacy West is the perfect way to start your semester.  Capture the most Instagrammable back-to-school photos in North Texas at the colorful locker installation.

Find it in the parklet near Nike and Free People, just off Windrose Avenue starting Monday, July 27.

 

Legacy West University Class Schedule

At Legacy West University, learning to live well is the ultimate goal, and students can study a number of subjects toward their degree in Lifestyle Management. This curated curriculum of activities is designed to inspire creativity, learning and entertainment. The best part? No pre-reqs!

The Legacy West University course catalog includes:

Professional First Day Photos

July 31-August 2 | 9-11 a.m.

August 7-9 | 9-11 a.m.

Come and pose in front of the colorful lockers for an iconic ‘First Day of School’ professional photoshoot at Legacy West University in the vibrant back-to-school locker installation.

*Photos are just $10 per session. Spots are limited. Only one registration is needed per family + group.

Tickets available (starting July 20) here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1993345887208?aff=oddtdtcreator

Art Class with Amber Lee

Saturday, August 1 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Geared for children, these interactive craft sessions are led by local art teacher Amber Lee.

Register for your complimentary tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/853762415367?aff=oddtdtcreator

Pop Quiz with Urban Trivia Live

Sunday, August 2 | 6-10 p.m.

Urban Trivia is a card game that tests your knowledge of the latest and greatest in Black culture. The questions cover various topics, genres, and knowledge from your favorite TV shows, movies, athletes, musicians, historical figures and much more – all for the chance to win cash prizes and have a lot of fun! (18+ only)

Tickets start at $29.97 and are available here: https://legacyfoodhall.com/event/urban-trivia-game-night-16/

Fields Trips with Witty Kids

Saturday, August 8 | 10-11:30 a.m.

Time to get creative! Come explore the outdoors of Legacy West with children's author Rebecca Clark in this free, outdoor community event designed to ignite curiosity, celebrate literacy, and give kids a bold, joyful start to the new school year for kids ages 4 to 10.

Register for your complimentary tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/529825681877?aff=oddtdtcreator

Cocktail Class at Renaissance Hotel at Legacy West

Thursday, August 13 | 7-9 p.m.

In The Art of the Pour: Mixology Masterclass, step behind the bar at Whiskey Moon and discover the art of cocktail making in this hands-on, high-energy class designed for curious sippers and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Guided by expert mixologists, attendees will craft three distinct cocktails—one shaken, one stirred, and one built—while learning the techniques, tools, and flavor profiles that bring each drink to life. (21+ only)

Tickets are $60.54/person, and are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-art-of-the-pour-mixology-masterclass-tickets-1977850310521?aff=hoteleventcalendar&keep_tld=true

Charles Ray's Coffee Roasting Class at Renaissance Hotel at Legacy West

Saturday, August 22 | 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. noon

This interactive and engaging experience allows students to learn about the origins of coffee and how to brew a perfect cup. Students will learn how coffee spread throughout the world, and the differences between light, medium and dark roasts. They will have a hands-on experience that develops their coffee skills while providing a space for learning and exploration.

Tickets are $55/person and are available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/charles-rays-coffee-roasters-tickets-1991940762442?aff=HotelCalendar

Band Practice with Legacy Hall: Wednesday Night Karaoke

Wednesday, August 26 | 7-10 p.m.

Step into the spotlight the last Wednesday night of every month in the Lexus Box Garden to sing your heart out, share the stage with friends and make memories that will last a lifetime.

With 20+ eateries and 6 bars, satisfy your cravings and quench your thirst with a craft beer from the on-site brewery, Unlawful Assembly Brewing Co! (All ages welcome.)

More information is available here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1713982152903517/1713982226236843/

PE Class with Legacy West Run Club

Sundays | 7:30-8:15 a.m.

Get that physical fitness on point with the Legacy West Run Club, which meets Sunday mornings at 7:30 in front of Nike. (All ages welcome.)

Tickets not required. More info available at: https://www.instagram.com/legacywestrunclub/

Music Class with Legacy West

Saturdays | 7-9 p.m.

Enjoy live music from various artists on Saturday evenings in front of Nike & Free People at Legacy West!

Registration not required – just come and enjoy.

 

For all of your favorite back-to-school experiences at Legacy West University, visit legacywest.com/legacy-west-university to learn more and sign up to participate.

                                                                                                                

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, Texas 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. Legacy West is the destination of choice for work, live, shop, play and dine in North Texas.

 

About Kite Realty Group

Kite Realty Group (NYSE: KRG) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns and operates a high-quality portfolio of open-air shopping centers and mixed-use destinations. The Company’s portfolio is concentrated in high-growth Sun Belt and select strategic gateway markets. Publicly listed since 2004, KRG brings more than six decades of experience in developing, operating, and investing in real estate, using a disciplined, hands-on approach to enhance portfolio quality and maximize long-term value for all stakeholders. As of March 31, 2026, the Company owned interests in 169 U.S. open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets, comprising approximately 27.3 million square feet of gross leasable space. For more information, please visit kiterealty.com.

 

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Public relations icon and esteemed member of the late Lady Bird Johnson’s brain trust, Martha Tiller will share stories of her fascinating life at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 27, at the Allen Public Library.  A longtime witness and participant to history, Tiller was a staff assistant on an Emmy Award winning program for CBS Television in New York City and later Asst. to the Producer of  the popular TV show PASSWORD with Goodson-Todman Productions. Returning to Texas, she worked for Texas governor John Connally and served as Communication Director for the Texas Fine Arts Commission in Austin from 1967 to 1969.   Later, she was the press and social secretary to Lady Bird Johnson, assisting in her efforts beautify Austin’s Town Lake (now Lady Bird Lake) and protect wildflowers along Texas Highways.    Prior to this she was Executive Assistant to President Lyndon B. Johnson. 

In 1976, Martha moved to Dallas where she started her own firm, Martha Tiller Public Relations. Tiller not only appeared in two episodes of the popular television series Dallas, she also convinced the show’s producers to feature Dallas elites as extras.  In 1993, she escorted Anthony Kennedy Shriver to the Sixth-Floor Museum in Dallas, where he was the first member of the Kennedy family to visit this iconic institution.            

Can’t be there in person? The program will be streamed live on ACTV  . Find viewing options at Watch ACTV or view online at  ACTV.org or YouTube.com/AllenCityTV

Call 214-509-4911.

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The biggest match of the summer is almost here, and if you're looking for a fun place to watch it with fellow soccer fans, Fairmont Dallas has you covered.

The Venetian Champions Club will be open for Sunday's championship match, transforming the hotel's historic Venetian Room into an indoor watch party complete with a massive 16-by-20-foot viewing screen, multiple TVs, three bars, interactive games, local craft beers, specialty cocktails, and game-day food specials.

Whether you've been following every match or simply want to be part of the excitement for the season's grand finale, it's a great place to gather with friends, cheer alongside fans from around the world, and experience the electric atmosphere that has filled Dallas all summer.

Doors open before kickoff, so come early, grab a drink, and settle in for what promises to be an unforgettable afternoon of world-class soccer.

 

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North Texas boating enthusiasts have one final opportunity this weekend to discover the latest boats, accessories and on-the-water lifestyle as the Dallas Summer Boat Show returns to Dallas Market Hall for four days only, Thursday, July 16 through Sunday, July 19.

Whether visitors are ready to purchase their first boat, upgrade to something new or simply dream about weekends on the water, the show brings together one of the region's largest selections of boats under one roof. Attendees can compare brands side-by-side, talk directly with dealers and manufacturers, and take advantage of special boat show pricing available only during the event.

"There's simply no better place to shop for a boat than the Dallas Summer Boat Show," said Bron Beal, Executive Director of Dallas Boat Show. "You can compare hundreds of boats in one location, ask questions directly to the experts and often find incentives that aren't available after the show ends. Whether you're a lifelong boater or just beginning to explore the lifestyle, this weekend is the perfect time to experience everything boating has to offer."

The Dallas Summer Boat Show features fishing boats, pontoons, wake boats, ski boats, cruisers, personal watercraft and more from many of the industry's leading manufacturers. Visitors will also find marine accessories, electronics, docks, lifts, apparel and boating services to help prepare for the season ahead.

More than a shopping event, the show offers a chance for families to explore the boating lifestyle together. Experienced boaters can compare the newest innovations, while first-time buyers can learn about ownership, financing and selecting the right boat for their needs.

With summer in full swing, organizers encourage attendees not to wait.

"This show only happens once each summer," Beal said. "If you've been thinking about getting on the water or upgrading your current boat, this is your chance before the season slips away."

DALLAS BOAT SHOW DETAILS:

 

When: July 16-19, 2026

Where: Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, Texas 75207

 

Show Schedule:

Thursday, July 16, 2026 from 3-8 pm

Friday, July 17, 2026 from 12-8 pm

Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 10 am- 8 pm

Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 10 am -5 pm

 

Cost & Ticket Information:

Adults:                        $15

Children (ages 5-13):   $8

Children under 5:        Free

Parking is free of charge

 

Boating Dealers include:

Action Watersports, Big Water Marine, Boaters World Marine Center, Buxton Marine, Carey & Sons Marine, Eisenhower Yacht Club, Fun N Sun Sports Center, Boardco Boats, Marine Max Dallas, Lakeview Boating Center, NXTLVL Marine, Phil Dill Boats, Lake Kings Boats, H2GO Paddle Co, Ridenow Powersports, Slalom Shop, Texas Malibu, Texoma Boathouse, Nichols Marine

 

Social Media Handles:

•          Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dallasboatshow

•          Twitter: https://twitter.com/dallas_boatshow

•          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dallasboatshow/

 

Media Contact:

Dana Cobb

Mobile: 972-955-9747

dana@thebarbershopmarketing.com

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Tracee Ellis Ross

Award-winning actress, producer, and founder/CEO to bring her message of joy, authenticity, and empowerment to Dallas

New Friends New Life (NFNL) is proud to announce that acclaimed actress, producer, and founder/CEO Tracee Ellis Ross will headline the 2026 Stand for Her Luncheon on Thursday, September 24 at 11:30 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Ross is a leader whose cultural fluency and skilled storytelling allow her to forge meaningful connections with audiences and customers alike. 

"We are honored to welcome Tracee Ellis Ross to Dallas to headline our Stand for Her Luncheon," said Bianca Davis, CEO of New Friends New Life. "Tracee's journey reflects the power of resilience, self-discovery, and living authentically. Through her work as an actress and entrepreneur, she has encouraged countless women to embrace their worth and pursue lives filled with purpose and possibility. We are excited for our community to hear her inspiring message and celebrate the strength and potential of the women and girls we serve at New Friends New Life."

Two inspiring mother-daughter teams will co-chair the 2026 Stand for Her Luncheon: Beth Thoele and Brooke Russo, and Kathy Helm and Marci Kramer. Honorary chairs are Lottye and Bobby Lyle. Their longstanding commitment to community service and nonprofit leadership reflects the transformative impact New Friends New Life creates for women and girls throughout North Texas.

For eight seasons, Tracee Ellis Ross starred in ABC’s critically acclaimed comedy series BLACK-ISH, earning a Golden Globe Award, six NAACP Image Awards, and nominations for Emmy Awards,Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Critics Choice Awards for her portrayal of Dr. Rainbow Johnson. The series also won an Emmy Award, a Peabody Award, and was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Awards, and Critics Choice Awards. Ross also starred in the Emmy and GLAAD Award-nominated series GIRLFRIENDS for eight seasons, earning two NAACP Image Awards and a BET Comedy Award for her portrayal of Joan Clayton.

In July 2026, Ross will make her highly anticipated Broadway debut in the Tony-nominated play EVERY BRILLIANT THING. In this one-of-a-kind solo show, a person looks back at their life and the glimmers of hope that sustained them through a list of every wonderful, beautiful, and delightful thing that makes life worth living.

Ross will also be seen in Season 2 of the Roku original series SOLO TRAVELING WITH TRACEE ELLIS ROSS. The first season set a record as Roku’s most-watched unscripted original series. The docuseries follows Ross as she embarks on transformative solo adventures, showcasing her unique blend of humor, heart, and honesty. At each destination, she explores the intersection of beauty, fashion, design, food, and culture. Ross serves as the Executive Producer of the series, which is produced by Joy Mill Entertainment and Artists First. Season 2 premieres July 20, 2026.

Ross recently announced a multiyear first-look scripted and overall unscripted deal with Fox Entertainment Studios via her production company Joy Mill Entertainment. Under the partnership, Ross will executive produce and develop scripted content spanning comedy, drama, and animation, as well as unscripted and reality programming. Joy Mill Entertainment is dedicated to creating entertaining, culture-bending stories centered around identity and joy. 

Ross was last seen in THE FAMILY MCMULLEN on HBO Max, the long-awaited follow-up to the classic THE BROTHERS MCMULLEN, alongside Ed Burns, Connie Britton, and Michael McGlone. Additionally, Ross starred in season 7 of the critically acclaimed Netflix series BLACK MIRROR along with Paul Giamatti, Jesse Plemons, Rashida Jones, Chris O’Dowd, and Emma Corrin, among other returning cast favorites. Ross also appeared opposite Jeffrey Wright in the Oscar-winning drama AMERICAN FICTION, directed by Cord Jefferson in 2023.

Ross is the owner, founder, and co-CEO of PATTERN Beauty, the global multimillion-dollar hair & body care brand she created for the curly, coily & tight-textured community and everyBODY. With PATTERN, Ross is changing the paradigm of how the textured hair community is marketed to and supported.

Ross is a powerful voice for joy, self-acceptance, inclusivity, and equity. She has spoken at numerous prestigious venues including the TED Conference, where she made history as the first Black woman to open the event. Through her speaking engagements, Ross continues to inspire conversations about identity, belonging, and the expansiveness of joy.

Ross has been recognized with multiple prestigious honors throughout her career, including the People’s Choice Awards Fashion Icon Award and induction as a Disney Legend by The Walt Disney Company. Ross has also been recognized as a CNBC Changemaker and received the Achievement Award for Excellence in the Arts from the National Museum of Women in the Arts for her leadership in the entertainment industry and advocacy for gender equity. Ross received honorary Doctorate degrees from both Spelman College and her alma mater, Brown University.

Underwriting sponsorship opportunities begin at $3,000. A limited number of individual tickets will be released in August and will begin at $300. To reserve sponsorships or seats, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org/luncheon, email events@newfriendsnewlife.org, or contact Chief Development Officer Priya Murphy at 214-217-8652.

# # # 

About New Friends New Life (NFNL)

Founded in Dallas in 1998, New Friends New Life (NFNL) is an award-winning organization that restores and empowers trafficked and sexually exploited teen girls, women, and their children while leading efforts to end sex trafficking and exploitation through awareness, advocacy, and systemic change. In 2025, NFNL served 320 teen girls, women, and their children, providing holistic programs that support stability, emotional healing, education, economic mobility, and long-term independence. NFNL advances its mission through advocacy, legislative reform, community education, and strategic partnerships. Its drop-in Youth Resource Center (YRC), launched in partnership with the Texas Governor's Office, has provided comprehensive preventative and restorative services to more than 700 trafficked and high-risk teen girls since opening in 2018. NFNL’s Men's Advocacy Group has engaged men in the fight against sex trafficking and exploitation since 2015. In 2024, NFNL was named the D CEO Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Organization of the Year (Midsize). For more information, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org.

 

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As part of its longstanding commitment to both educate dentistry’s professionals of the future and provide top-quality oral healthcare in North Texas, Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas launched its redesigned website today. Texas A&M University College of Dentistry includes easy-to-find patient information, additional oral health resources, updated biographies, and more user-friendly contact information. 

“The redesign is three years in the making and was developed by the web team at Texas A&M Marketing and Communications,” said Mark Jones, senior communications specialist in marketing and communications at A&M Dentistry. “The website supports the university-wide theme ‘A Force for Good’ and complies with state and federal accessibility laws.” 

The redesign comes just months after A&M Dentistry dropped its dental deposit fee for adults, a $194 savings. The 120-year-old dental college also validates patient parking passes at the main clinic on Gaston Avenue near downtown. 

The website: https://dentistry.tamu.edu