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Council for Life
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DALLAS, TX - Council for Life announces their 25th anniversary Celebrating Life Luncheon: A Legacy of Love and Life is on October 29, 2026, at the Hilton Anatole Hotel.Heisman Trophy winner, ESPN and SEC football college commentator, author, and life advocate, Tim Tebow, is the featured Luncheon speaker.

In celebration of Council for Life’s 25th anniversary, the nonprofit has set a historic goal of raising more than $2 million to create a lasting, generational impact in our community. Money raised will help fund grants to 33 carefully vetted and selected beneficiaries who serve those experiencing unplanned pregnancies. (See the list of CFL’s Beneficiaries here.) These beneficiaries provide women and families with a spectrum of free, compassionate support, including medical care, maternity housing, pregnancy resources, parenting and life skills education, fatherhood initiatives, and student sexual risk avoidance education. In 2026, CFL estimates that their funding will help support over 78,000 pregnancy center visits, saving countless babies in the Dallas–Fort Worth area alone.

Co-Chaired by philanthropic leaders Stephanie Baker and Lynne Schott, the Luncheon promises to be an inspiring afternoon. “We invite everyone to join us to celebrate,” said Stephanie. "I can't think of anyone better to join us as we celebrate our 25th anniversary than Tim Tebow. His strong faith and his commitment to the sanctity of life make him the perfect fit for this milestone year," added Lynne.

Council for Life is thrilled to recognize CFL Founder Emeritus Ann Carruth and her husband, David Carruth, as this year’s Luncheon Honorary Chairs. CFL is deeply grateful for Ann’s visionary leadership and the Carruth’s unwavering devotion to shape a culture of life in Dallas.

"We are immensely thankful to our Honorary and Luncheon Chairs for their steadfast service to Council for Life and their bold, courageous commitment to protect babies and help vulnerable mothers, fathers, and families," said Lee Anne Morris, CFL Executive Director.

For information on table and ticket opportunities, visit: councilforlifeluncheon.com

About Council for Life

Council for Life (CFL) exists to empower women, men and youth to make life-affirming choices. Motivated by Christ-like love and responsive compassion, CFL is committed to raising awareness of the humanity of preborn babies and the complex issues that surround unplanned pregnancies. Through the generosity of donors, CFL provides financial support to agencies that share their mission.

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Learn about Texas school vaccine requirements, why immunizations matter, and how Carrollton Regional Medical Center can help your child start the school year healthy. 

As families prepare for another school year, it’s easy to focus on shopping for backpacks, notebooks, and new clothes. But one of the most important back-to-school tasks isn’t found on a school supply list – making sure your child is up to date on their vaccinations.

Schools bring children together in close contact every day, making it easier for contagious illnesses to spread. Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect children from serious diseases while also helping prevent outbreaks that can affect classmates, teachers, grandparents, and others in the community.

In Texas, students must meet state immunization requirements before attending school. Required vaccines include protection against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chickenpox). Students entering seventh grade are also required to receive a Tdap booster and one dose of the meningococcal vaccine. Parents should review their child’s immunization record well before school starts to ensure all required vaccines have been received.

Keeping vaccinations current does more than satisfy school requirements – it helps protect children from diseases that can lead to serious complications, hospitalization, and missed days of school.

A back-to-school visit is also the perfect time to schedule your child’s annual wellness exam. These appointments allow healthcare providers to monitor growth and development, perform sports or school physicals, answer questions about nutrition and mental wellness, and ensure children are ready for a successful academic year.

If your child has fallen behind on vaccinations, don’t panic. Your healthcare provider can recommend a catch-up schedule that helps your child become protected as quickly and safely as possible. Texas also allows provisional enrollment in certain situations while students complete required vaccine series under an approved schedule.

At Carrollton Regional Medical Center, we’re committed to helping families start the school year healthy and prepared. Whether your child needs routine immunizations, a wellness check, or a school or sports physical, our healthcare team is here to help.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Schedule your child’s back-to-school appointment today and give them the protection they need for a healthy, confident start to the new school year. Healthy students learn better, miss fewer school days, and help create a safer environment for everyone.

Head back to class with confidence and give your child a healthy start to the school year by scheduling an appointment with the Castle Hills Medical Group today. Call 469-459-8899 or visit castlehillsmedicalgroup.com.

 

Carrollton Regional Medical Center is a 216 - bed Acute Care Hospital managed by Sana Healthcare. CRMC serves Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Lewisville, The Colony, and other surrounding communities. CRMC offers an array of services including 24/7 Emergency Care, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, Imaging Services, Rehabilitation and Therapy Services, Cancer Care, a 16- bed Intensive Care Unit, Surgical Services, and an Inpatient Orthopedic Center of Excellence. Our Women’s Imaging Center is just two blocks north of the hospital and provides 3D digital mammography and other specialized breast procedures. CRMC is here to serve its community with high quality, patient-focused care, close to home. Visit www.crmc.health.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Bianca Beck

In celebration of its 125th anniversary, Texas Woman’s University has selected Portland-based artist Bianca Beck to create a site-specific, permanent outdoor installation marking the university’s 125th anniversary and the culmination of its Dream Big fundraising campaign, which concludes this year and is expected to exceed its $125 million goal. The artwork will be on view from October 24, 2026 on the university’s Denton campus.

The artwork will consist of three large-scale, biomorphic sculptures fabricated in fiberglass with steel armatures, designed to withstand the elements while maintaining a dynamic sense of movement and transformation. Conceived as “body doubles,” these forms evoke the Platonic myth of an original, unified human body, reimagined here as fluid, intertwined figures that shift in appearance as viewers move around them. Beck’s sculptures occupy a space between painting and sculpture, their vividly expressive surfaces responding intuitively to form and environment, and activating the surrounding landscape through color, scale, and gesture.

“These figures are not fixed,” Beck notes. “They are in the act of becoming. They are shaped as much by the viewer’s movement and perception as by their own internal logic. What appears as a solitary stride may, from another vantage point, become an embrace. I’m interested in how we hold multiplicity, and how identity, community, and resilience emerge through connection.”

In recent years, Beck has expanded their practice into increasingly ambitious public and outdoor presentations, with works exhibited at institutions including the Ulrich Museum of Art, Wichita, KS; deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, Lincoln, MA; the Shelburne Museum of Art, Shelburne, VT; and the FLAG Art Foundation, New York, NY. Beck will open a solo exhibition of new large-scale indoor sculptures at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art this May.

Beck’s special presentation has been commissioned to celebrate Texas Woman’s 125th anniversary and the successful conclusion of Dream Big, the university’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign.

Texas Woman’s is the nation’s first and only woman-focused university system, with campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Established by the Texas Legislature in 1901 as a small industrial training college for women, the university has grown into a Carnegie-classified R2 research institution nationally recognized for student experience, social and economic mobility, and academic quality. Recent milestones include the opening of a $107 million Health Sciences Center and the launch of the Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences, a woman-focused aviation program. The university is widely known for its leadership in nursing, education, the health professions, nutrition, the arts and sciences, and business.


A defining element of Beck’s installation is its aesthetic alignment with the three pillars of the Dream Big campaign—Open Doors, Fuel Innovation, and Cultivate Grit—creating a visual expression of movement, transformation, and resilience.


“Beck’s work embodies the spirit of the Dream Big campaign,” said Jaime Porter, TWU’s vice president for university advancement and alumni engagement. “These sculptures speak to growth, creative movement and strength — qualities reflected in our students, alumni and donors.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by student performances and related anniversary programming, inviting students, faculty, and the broader community to engage with the work and its themes. Additional details will be announced later atdreambig.twu.edu

About the Artist

Bianca Beck (b. 1979, Columbus, OH) earned a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA and an MFA from Yale University, New Haven, CT. The artist has participated in exhibitions at the Shelburne Museum, Shelburne, VT; Beeler Gallery at Columbus College of Art and Design, Columbus, OH; the Contemporary Art at MECA, Porland, ME; Contemporary Art Matters, Columbus, OH; Opelvillen Rüsselsheim, Rüsselsheim, Germany; V1 Gallery, Copenhagen, Denmark; the FLAG Art Foundation, New York, NY; White Columns, New York, NY; and Cheim & Read, New York, NY; among others. In 2024, Beck had a solo presentation at Matéria, Detroit, MI. Beck currently has work on view at Summit Public Art, Summit, NJ and Art Omi Sculpture Park, Ghent, NY. They are a recipient of numerous awards and fellowships, including the Helen Winternitz Award for Excellence in Painting at Yale University, New Haven, CT; The Ox-Bow School of Art Fellowship Program, Saugatuck, MI; and Artist-in-Residence at Complimenta, Ithaca, NY. Beck’s work is in the permanent collection of the Dallas Art Museum, Dallas, TX, and the Rachofsky Collection, Dallas, TX. Beck lives and works in Portland, ME.

About Texas Woman’s University

Founded in 1901, Texas Woman’s University (TWU) is the nation’s largest university system focused on women. For 125 years, TWU has advanced a mission of expanding opportunity through education, innovation, and leadership. Today, TWU is a Carnegie-classified R2 institution with campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston, offering programs across the liberal arts and sciences, nursing, health sciences, business, and education.

Committed to access, affordability, and student success, TWU continues to prepare students for impact in a global society while driving research that addresses critical issues in health, education, and community wellbeing.

 

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Hawaiian Falls Roanoke gave North Texas families an icy escape from the summer heat Monday afternoon by dumping more than 2,000 pounds — one full ton — of ice into the park’s wave pool.

Hawaiian Falls Roanoke gave North Texas families an icy escape from the summer heat Monday afternoon by dumping more than 2,000 pounds — one full ton — of ice into the park’s wave pool.

Children and families gathered around the wave pool for a countdown before Hawaiian Falls team members released the ice, creating a refreshing splash and plenty of cool summer fun.

The annual Hawaiian Falls Ice Dump has become a popular tradition for families looking for a memorable way to beat the North Texas heat.

“Nothing says summer in North Texas quite like one ton of ice splashing into a wave pool,” said Ron Mckenzie, director of marketing for Hawaiian Falls. “Our annual ice dump gives families a fun and memorable way to cool off together while making the most of these hot summer days.”

Following the dump, children swam through the wave pool, collected pieces of ice and enjoyed a brief break from the summer temperatures.

Hawaiian Falls Roanoke is open throughout the summer and features attractions for guests of all ages, including a wave pool, water slides, a lazy river and interactive play areas. 

Hawaiian Falls 2026 special events include:

  • Dive in Movie – July 24 in Mansfield, Roanoke, and 
    in Waco.
  • Aloha Back to School Supply Drive – July 27 – August 9

Hawaiian Falls operates family-friendly water parks in Mansfield, Roanoke and Waco, Texas. Each park offers water attractions and experiences designed to help families spend time together and create lasting summer memories. For additional information, visit hfalls.com.

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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.