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Arlington, TX – On June 23–24, the Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) hosted its 2025 Annual Conference at the University of Texas at Arlington, bringing together students, educators, and community leaders under the theme “Rooted in Heritage, Growing Knowledge, Shaping the Future.”

The two-day event featured expert speakers in fields like AI, public health, and biomedical engineering, along with powerful youth-led sessions on leadership and advocacy. Mayor Jim Ross delivered the keynote address, and the Cultural Night Showcase highlighted student talent and cultural pride.

ACAESUSA President Jan Xie emphasized the coalition’s mission to unite youth and adult chapters for lasting impact. The conference closed with renewed inspiration and a shared commitment to empowering AAPI youth across the nation.

We will share a full event report soon—thank you for your patience as we just wrapped up the conference.

A joyful moment with Mayor Jim Ross and ACAESUSA President Jan Xie at the 2025 Annual Conference. Full event highlights coming soon!

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On June 11, the EMPOWER Adoptions team, in partnership with Embrace Texas, hosted a heartfelt Child to Family Connections event featuring 32 children currently waiting to be adopted. Thanks to generous table sponsors, each child was celebrated with a personalized table filled with their favorite things, creating a joyful and welcoming environment.

The Permanency and CASA teams shared the children’s stories with prospective adoptive families, resulting in 78% of the children receiving at least one inquiry. This means 25 children are now closer to finding their forever homes.

The event highlighted the impact of community collaboration and compassion in helping children connect with loving families.

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original-72E129B5.jpeg Celebration of the Teacher of The Year Ceremony

Park Place Lexus Grapevine honored Argyle Independent School District’s 2025 top educators, recognizing Neal Karpienski as Primary District Winner at Argyle South Elementary, and Steven Orlowski as Secondary District Winner at Argyle High School.

The honorees were given the opportunity to drive a weekend in a Lexus, auto detail and tank of gas. The teachers also received four passes to the Dallas Arboretum, a $100 gift card to Southlake Town Square, two tickets to a Texas Rangers game, including parking pass and access to the Lexus Lounge; that includes an all you can event buffet and cocktails; and a variety of Park Place-branded items.

“We believe excellence should be celebrated—and there’s no better example than the incredible educators shaping the future in Argyle ISD,” said Charles Owen, General Manager at Park Place Lexus Grapevine. “We’re honored to recognize Mr. Karpienski and Mr. Orlowski not only for their commitment in the classroom, but for the meaningful impact they make in students’ lives every day. This is our small way of saying thank you for the big things they do.”

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Park Place employs more than 1,400 members and operates nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth, Dallas, and Plano and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. For more information, visit parkplace.com. 

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Major League Cricket returns to North Texas as the undefeated Texas Super Kings take on the San Francisco Unicorns in their first home match of the 2025 season. Taking place Friday, June 20 at 7:00 PM at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium—located at 1600 Lone Star Parkway in Grand Prairie, TX—this high-stakes matchup brings major energy to one of the fastest-growing sports scenes in the U.S.

As the third season of Major League Cricket gets underway, excitement is building locally and nationally. Cricket is the second most popular sport in the world, and this match offers fans and media a unique opportunity to witness the sport's rise firsthand in a dedicated, world-class stadium built specifically for professional T20 league play.

For more information about the match, teams, and the 2025 season, visit the official Major League Cricket website at www.majorleaguecricket.com.

 

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Annual event anchors at Dallas Market Hall July 17th  through 20th  at Dallas Market Hall

 

The Dallas Summer Boat Show is making waves once again as it returns to Dallas Market Hall, July 17–20, 2025. As the largest boating and recreational showcase in North Texas, this year’s show is packed with more boats, more brands, and more reasons than ever to get out on the water in 2025.

Whether you’re in the market for your first watercraft or looking to upgrade, the Dallas Summer Boat Show offers an unmatched selection of brand-new 2025 models, cutting-edge marine accessories, and expert advice—all in one air-conditioned indoor location. More than 80 dealers and manufacturers will be in attendance, featuring leading names like Bennington, Regal, Yamaha, Cobalt, Supra, Barletta, Moomba, and many more.

Explore. Compare. Save.

Attendees can explore everything from pontoons and wakeboard boats to luxury cruisers and personal watercraft, with plenty of opportunities for hands-on walkthroughs, one-on-one consultations, and show-only pricing and financing incentives. Experts will be on-site to answer questions, provide demonstrations, and help match you with the perfect vessel to fit your lifestyle and budget.

“We’re inviting guests to immerse themselves in the thrill and lifestyle of life on the water by experiencing some of the most innovative watercraft and marine accessories available for 2025,” said Bron Beal, Executive Director of the Dallas Boat Show.

“This event transforms Dallas Market Hall into a massive indoor playground for boaters, from seasoned captains and first-time buyers to families and fun-seekers simply curious about the boating lifestyle,” Beal continued. “Boating may seem like a luxury, but thanks to exclusive show pricing and flexible financing options, the Dallas Summer Boat Show makes the boating lifestyle more affordable than ever.”

From affordable fishing boats to family pontoons and high-performance wake boats, the show is designed to help you navigate every step of the buying process. With competitive pricing on 2025 models, special promotions, and financing partners on hand, attendees can take advantage of limited-time offers and make informed decisions in a low-pressure environment.

Family-Friendly and Fun for All Ages

In addition to the incredible inventory, the show will offer a family-friendly environment with interactive exhibits and fun for all ages. It's not just a shopping trip—it's an experience that celebrates everything great about lake life, from gear and gadgets to lifestyle and leisure.

 

www.dallasboatexpo.com

 

 

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Attached image courtesy of Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council

CELEBRATE THE FIRST DAY OF SUMMER WITH A BUY ONE GET ONE FREE BLIZZARD TREAT OFFER AT DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS ON JUNE 20 – APP ONLY 

 

Nothing says summer in Texas like a Blizzard Treat! DQ® restaurants in Texas are celebrating the first day of summer – June 20 – with a BOGO offer. Buy One BLIZZARD® Treat at regular price, get one FREE (of equal or lesser value) available only with the DQ app. With the perfect Summer Blizzard Treat menu, there’s no better way to say, “Hello, Summer!”

The 2025 Summer Blizzard Treat menu includes:

●      S’mores Blizzard Treat

●      Cotton Candy Blizzard Treat

●      Confetti Cake Blizzard Treat

●      NEW! Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard Treat

●      NEW! Mixing Bowl Mashup Blizzard Treat

The fan-favorite, S’mores Blizzard Treat, is back with marshmallow-filled chocolate bars and graham cracker crunch. The Cotton Candy Blizzard treat is just like it sounds; cotton candy topping with sprinkles. The Confetti Cake Blizzard Treat features a blend of confetti cake pieces and confetti frosting, mixed perfectly with the world-famous DQ soft serve. 

The NEW Mixing Bowl Mashup Blizzard Treat combines two classic dessert flavors, brownie batter and chocolate chip cookie dough, into one dreamy concoction. The NEW Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake Blizzard Treat blends creamy cheesecake pieces, rich choco chunks and a vibrant strawberry topping perfectly blended in the world-famous DQ soft serve.  

This summer marks a legendary milestone for DQ® restaurants in Texas as they celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the iconic Blizzard® Treat – the spoonable sensation that redefined frozen desserts in 1985 and has been flipping frowns into smiles ever since. 

Created by DQ franchisee Samuel Temperato of St. Louis, Missouri, the Blizzard Treat made an instant splash with fans across America, selling more than 100 million in its first year alone. Known for its thick, creamy texture, this signature treat is served with the iconic red spoon. 

Since its debut, more than 170 unique Blizzard Treat flavors have delighted fans, from candy-stuffed classics to indulgent royal creations. In 2003, Dairy Queen launched its beloved Blizzard of the Month program, introducing limited-time flavors that keep fans coming back for more. 

For 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries. 

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The Texas Super Kings are kicking off their third professional cricket season in North Texas with a free, fun-filled carnival — and everyone is invited.

The Texas Super Kings Carnival takes place on Saturday, June 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at GOATs Arena Sports Bar & Grill in Fairview, TX. Whether you're a longtime fan or just curious about the sport, this all-ages celebration offers something for everyone.

Event Highlights:

  • Autograph signing session at 4:30 p.m. with Texas Super Kings players Faf du Plessis, Devon Conway, and Noor Ahmad

  • Live DJ providing music throughout the event

  • Cricket games and interactive carnival activities

  • Local food vendors offering a variety of treats

  • Official Texas Super Kings merchandise available for purchase

  • Games, prizes, and family-friendly entertainment

This is a great opportunity to meet international cricket stars, connect with the local cricket community, and enjoy an afternoon of music, food, and fun.

When: Saturday, June 21 | 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Where: GOATs Arena Sports Bar & Grill, 235 Town Pl, Fairview, TX 75069
Cost: Free and open to the public

For more details, visit the Texas Super Kings’ website and follow them on Instagram, X, YouTube, and Facebook.

Come celebrate cricket season with the Texas Super Kings and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon!

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Texas Women's Foundation

Texas Women’s Foundation, a leading organization that advances leadership and economic opportunities for Texas women and girls, announces the launch of its Executive Leadership Accelerator (ELA)—a bespoke leadership experience designed exclusively for senior-level executive women preparing for partner or C-suite roles. Karen Hughes White, Texas Women’s Foundation president and CEO, shared this news at the D CEO Women’s Leadership Symposium on June 17.

Grounded in research and purposefully built for deep personal and professional growth, the Executive Leadership Accelerator blends immersive leadership development, 1:1 executive coaching, and a mission-aligned capstone project—creating a powerful, cohort-based experience for women preparing for higher levels of leadership and impact in their careers and communities. Most importantly, it supports Texas Women’s Foundation’s commitment to investing in women’s lifecycle leadership development.

Texas Women’s Foundation’s Executive Leadership Accelerator will be delivered in a hybrid format combining immersive in-person and virtual sessions, personalized leadership assessments, and powerful networking opportunities with support from an executive sponsor. Participants will also collaborate on a capstone project that puts leadership into action, while championing the mission of Texas Women’s Foundation.

Those interested in applying should meet these criteria:

  • Senior-level leaders with 15+ years of experience in for-profit Texas organizations who are preparing for partner or C-suite roles.
  • Executives currently leading business units or strategic initiatives with significant P&L responsibilities; and
  • Experienced leaders identified as “ready now” or “ready next” for key leadership roles.

Hughes White added, “The Executive Leadership Accelerator is designed with a bold vision: to drive meaningful, systemic change for leaders and the organizations they serve, while advancing Texas Women’s Foundation’s mission through every participant’s journey. Women occupy only 28% of the top executive positions in Texas, so that showed us this program is needed to help that number increase.”

Applications will be accepted now through August 25. The program will kick off in October and run through May 2026. For more information and to apply, visit www.txwf.org/executiveleadershipaccelerator or email leadership@txwf.org.  

The program is designed and delivered by Challenger, Gray & Christmas in partnership with Texas Women’s Foundation. This strong collaboration highlights the Foundation’s continued commitment to accelerating women’s leadership and advancing equity across Texas.

About Texas Women’s Foundation: 

Texas Women’s Foundation (TXWF) raises funds from a broad base of donors, including individuals, foundations and corporations. These resources support more than $6 million in investments each year that advance economic security and leadership for Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has invested nearly $85 million in Texas women and girls. As the organization prepares to celebrate its 40th year, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterWorld has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on the issues impacting Texas women and girls provides corporate, state and local decision-makers and lawmakers with critical data to inform policies, practices and programs across the state. Its advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in the impact investing movement, deploying 100 percent of its invested assets – endowments, operating investments and donor-advised funds – in a portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, X, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate.

 

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©Gittings

 

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League Unveils 2026 Debutantes at 40th Annual Presentation Ball Announcement Weekend

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) set the stage for an unforgettable season as they proudly introduced the 2026 debutantes during a week-long series of events, starting with the announcement of this year’s Debutantes at a party on May 15. Events continued with a Deb and Honor Guard Family dinner at the historic downtown El Fenix, a couture gown showcase hosted by Stanley Korshak at their luxurious Bridal Salon, and a gown presentation at Neiman Marcus Downtown. The series of events officially kicked off the season that will culminate in the much anticipated 40th Annual Presentation Ball, scheduled for February 21, 2026, at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

Presentation Ball Co-Chairs Maggie Kipp and Kristin Hallam, along with DSOL President Claire Catrino, orchestrated the week’s events. Claire is a former debutante who made her debut in 2011 and has been a part of the ball’s planning and organization since that time.

“It is an honor to serve as President for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League,” said Claire. “Our debutantes and their families will enjoy many wonderful events, make new friends and have one-of-a-kind experiences all while supporting the outstanding education and outreach programs of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. 

Kristin Hallam proudly announced that her in-laws, Fanchon and Howard Hallam, will serve as the Honorary Chairs. The Hallams have a longstanding and meaningful connection to the Dallas Symphony. Howard served for many years on the Board of Governors of the Dallas Symphony Association, including a term as Chairman.  Their leadership gift was pivotal in launching the Kim Noltemy Young Musicians program – one of the initiatives supported by the Ball – and they have generously endowed the DSO Co-Concertmaster Chair.

“We are so grateful to the Hallams for their leadership and support,” said Kristin. “Their son (my husband!) was an Honor Guard, and two granddaughters were presented in 2020 and 2024. Fanchon and Howard could not be with us tonight because it is their concert night at the Symphony! I look forward to introducing you to them very soon.”

The year will be one with many milestones reached: the DSOL will celebrate its 80th anniversary, the Presentation Ball is entering its 40th year, and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra will turn 125 years old.

The formal announcement of Debutantes by Master of Ceremonies Stan Gardner went flawlessly. Marena Gault and members of the Assembly, a group of former Debutantes, played a pivotal role behind the scenes coaching the Debutantes and Honor Guard for a smooth presentation.

Parents in attendance who have had Debutante daughters in prior years included David and Lee Thompson, and Suzanne and Adam Stiles.

Notable attendees for the evening included Michelle Miller Burns, Ross Perot President and CEO of the DSO; Roger Gault, Chairman of the Board of Governors; Diane and Scott Sealy; The Honorable Clay and Ramsey Jenkins; and Denton Bricker.  

Also present was longtime League member Barbara Paschall Averitt who has been a dedicated and influential figure in the Presentation Ball since its inception in 1987. She has continuously contributed to the event, including serving as co-chair for the 2025 Presentation Ball. Barbara‘s enduring dedication exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and community support that the Ball celebrates.

Introducing the 2026 Debutantes: Claire Francis Andrews, Madeline Grace Behrens, Claire Louise Bradshaw, Ryan Ella Marie Brown, Eleanor Baxter Browne, Meredith Lilly Burkhart, Catherine Sophia Cox, Larkin McKay Devening, Marbella Mora Duarte, Sophie Elizabeth Dybala, Kathryne Grace Eastin, Gisele Mary Rose Enrico, Ashley Shannon Goldman, Stella Jane Grabham, MaKenna Loy Harvey, Elizabeth Ann Hautt, Jane Penny Hochman, Madeleine Christine Jenkins, Livia Grace Lange, Charlotte Bryant Lauten, Sue Sealy McGowin, Attales Grace Meyer, Elizabeth Catherine Nance, Madelyn Leigh Neuhoff, Carly Nicole Polka, Chloe Olivia Polka, Rachel Camille Rader, Sofia Marie Reyes, Marlo Elizabeth Rivas, Campbell Ann Schultz, Kathleen Brooks Searcy, Lindy Kate Smith, Sienna Alexis Stagen, Tessa Elizabeth Stephenson, Charlotte Spencer Stiles, Harper Catherine Tagg, Margaret Lee Thompson, Corinne Elizabeth Tinker, Georgia Bedell Williamson, Virginia Anne Wilson, Olivia Constance Zambrano, and Elena Catherine Zeballos.

The presentation of these remarkable young women highlights the values and support instilled by their families and mentors. Their achievements and character are a testament to the collective effort of their loved ones, shaping them into the exemplary individuals they are today.

Founded in 1946, the DSOL continues to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through dedicated service, education, and fundraising activities. Since 1998, the League has contributed over $26 million to the Dallas Symphony Association’s Community Outreach and Education programs, bringing the magic of the symphony to thousands of young people and adults across the Dallas Metroplex.

 

Photos by Gittings and Deborah Brown

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Mixology Mondays - The Parlor at Sheraton Dallas (

Sheraton Dallas is turning up the summer fun with Mixology Mondays at The Parlor, a hands-on cocktail experience that brings a refreshing twist to weekday plans. Taking place every Monday from 5 to 6 PM, the interactive class invites hotel guests and locals to beat the heat and kick off the week with creativity, conversation, and expertly crafted cocktails.

Set in The Parlor – Sheraton Dallas’ stylish, lounge-style bar with vintage speakeasy vibes and plush seating – Mixology Mondays offer a guided cocktail-making session led by the hotel’s in-house mixologist. Participants learn to shake, stir, and garnish signature drinks, from timeless classics to vibrant summer-inspired sips, all while picking up professional tips along the way.

Whether it’s a unique date night, a fun after-work gathering, or a group activity with friends, Mixology Mondays deliver the perfect mix of entertainment and education. Guests are encouraged to stay and enjoy the lounge’s full menu of craft cocktails and small bites once the class wraps up.

Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, Sheraton Dallas continues to offer dynamic programming designed to enhance the guest experience and connect with the local community. With summer in full swing, Mixology Mondays provide a cool and creative way to savor the season.

Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or just looking to try something new this summer, Mixology Mondays at The Parlor are the perfect way to toast to the season.

The event is 21+ and $30 per person excluding tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. Secure your spots here.

The Parlor is located at Sheraton Dallas (400 N. Olive Street). Complimentary parking is available for up to 4 hours. Please bring your parking ticket and present it to your server for validation.