Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Breathing Easier: A Conversation With Dr. Nijim on Lung Health at CRMC

At Carrollton Regional Medical Center, our pulmonology team is committed to helping patients breathe better and live better. We spoke with Dr. Ala Nijim, Head of Pulmonology, to learn more about her role, the conditions she treats, and how people can protect their lung health.

What Does the Pulmonology Team at CRMC Do?

Dr. Nijim leads a specialized team that diagnoses and treats a wide range of respiratory conditions. “Every day, we see patients who struggle with shortness of breath, chronic cough, or fatigue,” she explains. “Our goal is to help them find relief and improve their quality of life.”

Some of the most common conditions treated in the department include:

  • Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Pneumonia and bronchitis
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders
  • Post-COVID or post-viral lung complications

From the hospital to the clinic, the care provided is comprehensive and coordinated, ensuring patients receive support wherever they are in their treatment journey.

When Should You See a Pulmonologist?

Dr. Nijim notes that many people don’t realize they need to see a lung specialist until their symptoms begin to interfere with daily life. She advises patients to consider scheduling an appointment if they experience:

  • A persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks
  • Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness
  • Frequent respiratory infections
  • Sleep disturbances or snoring that interrupts rest
  • Swelling in the legs or ankles associated with breathing difficulty

“The earlier we can identify what’s causing breathing issues,” she says, “the better we can treat it and in many cases, prevent it from worsening.”

How Can People Protect Their Lung Health?

Prevention is at the heart of Dr. Nijim’s approach. She recommends a few simple, but powerful, steps to keep lungs strong and healthy:

  • Avoid smoking and limit exposure to secondhand smoke or pollutants
  • Stay physically active to improve lung capacity
  • Eat a balanced diet to support overall immune health
  • Get vaccinated, especially for flu and pneumonia
  • See your doctor regularly — particularly if you have asthma, COPD, or another chronic lung condition

“Most of us take breathing for granted until it becomes difficult,” she reflects. “Taking care of your lungs now helps protect your overall health for years to come.”

How CRMC Supports Patients Through Recovery

At Carrollton Regional, the pulmonology team takes a collaborative, patient-focused approach. Dr. Nijim shares that they work closely with primary care physicians, cardiologists, and respiratory therapists to deliver well-rounded care. Whether someone needs advanced diagnostics, ongoing therapy, or inpatient support, CRMC’s team is ready to support them every step of the way.

“Our mission is simple,” Dr. Nijim says. “We want to help patients breathe easier, recover faster, and return to the activities they love.”

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 2 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.a

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center Welcomes New General Manager, Jypsy Bailey
 
GAITHERSBURG, Md. (Nov. 17, 2025) – The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, a Kisco Signature Community redefining luxury retirement living in the heart of Gaithersburg, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jypsy Bailey as its new General Manager.
Bailey, a seasoned hospitality professional with extensive experience leading high-performing teams and elevating guest experiences, brings a proven record of operational excellence, strategic leadership, and a passion for service rooted in connection and care.
In his new role, Bailey will oversee all aspects of community operations, from hospitality and member engagement to associate development and strategic initiatives, ensuring The Carnegie continues to deliver an unparalleled living experience that embodies the Kisco promise: “Making a Difference Every Day.”
“I am thrilled to join The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center and continue my journey with Kisco Senior Living,” said Bailey. “This community represents the pinnacle of luxury senior living, where hospitality, heart, and connection come together. I look forward to leading our exceptional team and continuing to create an environment defined by excellence and belonging.”
Before joining The Carnegie, Bailey held key leadership roles across the hospitality and service industries, where he successfully drove revenue growth, built dynamic teams, and fostered organizational cultures that prioritized empowerment and excellence. His leadership philosophy centers on inspiring teams to exceed expectations through trust, accountability, and purpose.
-more-
Located between Malcolm King Park and the vibrant shopping and dining of Rio Washingtonian, The Carnegie offers members an all-inclusive lifestyle that harmonizes serene outdoor beauty with the convenience of urban sophistication. The community’s four residence options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and club-level living, are designed to meet each member’s unique needs with a focus on wellness, culture, and connection.
A hallmark of The Carnegie experience is its world-class hospitality, underscored by Forbes Travel Guide five-star service training and exclusive partnerships with cultural institutions such as The Kennedy Center, Library of Congress, and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Johns Hopkins University. From chef-prepared dining to intellectual programming and curated wellness, The Carnegie continues to set a new standard in elevated retirement living.
About The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center 
The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center offers a blend of luxury and tranquility in the heart of Gaithersburg. This 8.5-acre community features 302 beautifully appointed residences and a wide array of premium amenities and five-star services, including a heated saltwater pool, a lecture hall, a curated art gallery, and lush landscaped outdoor spaces with a trail connecting directly to Malcolm King Park. Located in the vibrant Washingtonian Center, The Carnegie provides easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, enhancing the active, fulfilling lifestyle that members can enjoy. For more information, visit lifeatthecarnegie.com.
# # #
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
North Texans can help support local families enduring unimaginable stress this holiday season by providing a gift of $33 or more to WOKC before the end of the year at wokc.org/hope.

For many families, the holidays mean warm meals, laughter and time together. But for hundreds of North Texas parents whose children are fighting cancer, the season can bring unimaginable stress – hospital stays, mounting bills, and the heartbreaking question of how to keep the lights on while their child fights for life. 

According to Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC), one in three local families with a child battling cancer live at or below the poverty line – a reality that becomes even more painful during the holidays. 

North Texans can help support local families enduring unimaginable stress this holiday season by providing a gift of $33 or more to WOKC before the end of the year at wokc.org/hope.

“When your child is fighting for their life, the last thing a parent should worry about is how to keep food on the table or the electricity turned on,” said Kris Cumnock, CEO of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “Hope can’t take a holiday – it is essential to these families who are living a nightmare.”

Through its Family Assistance Program, WOKC provides direct, practical relief to families in crisis. The local non-profit has stepped in to meet urgent, real-world needs this year – paying for housing costs, groceries, gas and parking, utilities, hotel stays and even helping a family afford a cap and gown while their high school senior underwent treatment. 

But as the cost-of-living rises, the need keeps growing. This season, WOKC is asking the community to come together to support every DFW family battling pediatric cancer. Each donation provides meaningful relief that allows parents to focus on what matters most, their child’s recovery.  

“We’ve seen families sleeping in their cars in hospital parking lots,” Cumnock said. “Our message is simple: hope can’t take a holiday. Families shouldn’t face cancer or hunger, eviction or isolation, alone during the holidays.” 

In addition to supporting families in crisis, WOKC provides Buddy Bags to every pediatric cancer patient admitted to a North Texas hospital. Each bag is carefully curated to meet the needs of newly diagnosed kids with cancer and their parent(s). The contents of the bag include toiletries, a cozy blanket pillow, dining gift cards for parents, as well as age-appropriate entertainment items for kids, such as an iPad and wireless headphones so patients can FaceTime friends and family or download schoolwork. Each of the bag’s 40 items has a specific role in easing the transition from home to hospital.  

For over 45 years, WOKC has significantly impacted the pediatric cancer space by funding more than $13 million for innovative and novel childhood cancer research projects. The non-profit invests in cutting-edge pediatric cancer research projects. 

Since 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer has offered comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs serving the entire family and funds innovative research leading to new discoveries and treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. WOKC approach features three primary initiatives:   

WOKC funds national novel pediatric cancer research projects that lead to advancements in treatment outcomes. WOKC has significantly impacted the pediatric cancer space by funding over $13 million in pioneering research. This seed money has yielded more than $32 million in grant money from large cancer organizations like the National Cancer Institute. While WOKC is relentlessly searching for a cure, the significance of increased survival rates, less invasive treatments, and prevention of harmful side effects are also reasons why research is critical.  

WOKC refers to pediatric cancer patients as “Warriors” to recognize their strength, resilience, and courage. We know, however, cancer impacts the entire family emotionally, socially, and financially. That’s why our Warrior Family Program is thoughtfully designed to support not just the patient, but every member of the family. The Warrior Parent Socials Program provides “date night” experiences (i.e., cooking classes, Karaoke, game show competitions, etc.) for groups of parents who are navigating a pediatric cancer journey. This program not only helps couples reconnect (combating the elevated divorce rate for parents of critically ill children), but also helps organically foster peer support systems. The WOKC Financial Assistance Program targets families at or below the poverty line (33% of DFW families who have a child with cancer fit into this category). 

For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Plaids photo by Kris Ikejiri

Lyric Stage, a theatre company dedicated to the development and preservation of the musical, presents Forever Plaid - Plaid Tidings, a holiday classic by Stewart Ross. The show runs from December 5-21 at the Lyric Stage Studio located at 1170 Quaker St., Dallas, TX 75207. General admission tickets and reserved café tables, ranging from $42.50 to $62.50, are now on sale at https://www.lyricstage.org/season32.

Scott Guenther, Lyric Stage managing and co-artistic director, said, “This family friendly show was so popular last year that we are having an encore! There are well-loved pop songs from the mid-20th century, comedy and an interactive portion with the audience that makes it engaging.”

Director is Mary Gilbreath Grim; Kelly McCain is the choreographer, and Hans Grim is the music director.

Key roles are as follows: Anthony Ortega as Francis; Daniel Hernandez as Sparky;

Shane Duckett as Jinx; and Ben Meaders as Smudge.

Storyline: At first, Francis, Jinx, Smudge and Sparky aren't sure why they've returned to Earth for another posthumous performance, but a phone call from the heavenly Rosemary Clooney lets them know that they're needed to put a little harmony into a discordant world. Sprinkled among the Christmas offerings are audience favorites, like their riotous three-minute-and-eleven-second version of The Ed Sullivan Show – this time, featuring the Rockettes, the Chipmunks and The Vienna Boys Choir, as well as a Plaid Caribbean Christmas that puts the "Day-O" in Excelsis!

The production is rated G.

For more information: https://www.lyricstage.org/season32

Tickets: https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/tix/7561

About Lyric Stage:

Lyric Stage, a Dallas-based 501c3 not-for-profit professional musical theatre company, was established in 1993 with the mission of the development and preservation of the musical, a unique art form. In its thirty-year history, Lyric Stage has produced more than 125 productions, which include 21 world-premiere musicals and two Off-Broadway shows. For more information, visit www.lyricstage.org

Connect with Lyric Stage:  

Facebook 

Instagram

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Dr. Partha Mukherji

Admit it. You spent much of the last few days secretly rummaging through your children’s remaining Halloween candy, searching for your favorite chocolate bars, caramels and lollipops. Some of you even stocked up on discounted candy after Halloween and ate an entire bag of mixed candy while watching TV. 

Here’s something to ponder, American Heart Association recommends women eat no more than six teaspoons of sugar each day (25 grams) and men eat no more than nine teaspoons (36 grams). 

Put down the peanut butter cups. Dr. Partha Mukherji, clinical assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University of Dentistry in Dallas, has a smile-saving game plan for cutting out – or at least cutting down – sugar from your diet after a binge. Your teeth and gums will thank you. 

Start small 

Sugar is in many things we eat every day, even food that doesn’t taste sweet. We are so used to eating sugar, that cutting it out entirely can cause withdrawal; those sugar-cravings are real.  

“I like to eat unprocessed foods, such as nuts and whole grains, to help curb cravings,” Mukherji said. “My favorite teeth-friendly, go-to snacks are carrots and apples.” 

Eat a healthy breakfast 

Some breakfast cereals contain large amounts of sugar. If there’s a cartoon character on the front, assume it’s delicious for a sugar-filled reason and the flavor of fruit is not the same as fruit. 

Try high-protein foods, such as eggs with vegetables and plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt with berries, he said. There are added sugars but not as many other options. 

Grab some water 

No more sodas, as drinking them encourages bad bacteria that produce acids that will erode tooth enamel and could cause tooth decay and cavities. One 12-ounce can of soda contains 10 teaspoons of sugar, according to AHA. 

“Water rinses away sugar and bacteria and encourages saliva production,” Mukherji said. “It’s not as effective as brushing and flossing, but it will help.” 

Juices and alcohol are loaded with sugar, too. Skip orange juice and red wine. 

Seek salmon 

Salmon may not be an obvious substitute for sugar, but the fatty fish has no carbohydrates, so it doesn’t raise blood sugar levels. It’s high in both protein and omega-3 fatty acids.  

AHA recommends you should eat two servings of fish a week, particularly fatty fish. 

Read labels 

Sugar by any other name is still sugar. Some aliases are glucose, fructose and agave nectar, but it’s all sugar ruining your teeth and gums. Hypoglycemia Support Foundation's Added Sugar Repository lists many names for sugar and provides product examples. 

Keep to a schedule 

If either your eating or sleep schedule gets out of whack, sugar cravings will hit.  

“Consult your physician if you feel like having a continuous glucose monitor could help you stick to a schedule and quantitatively measure your daily blood glucose variations,” Mukherji said. 

Make a dental appointment 

Let a dental hygienist and a dentist help get your teeth and gums in healthy shape before all that candy causes tooth decay.  

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood Residents enjoy innovative, AI-powered Lucynt engagement tools – interactive, dementia-informed games that enhance cognitive stimulation and social interaction. The Lucynt system uses an interactive projector to cast games and activities onto a surface, such as a table, responding to a person’s touch for a fully immersive experience.

New Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood provides a specialized home for those in the earlier stages of dementia, reflecting a rare multi-neighborhood model and person-centered I’m Still Here® philosophy

Juliette Fowler Communities (JFC), a faith-based, intergenerational living community in East Dallas, has expanded its continuum of care with the opening of the Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood, a new residential area designed specifically for individuals in the earlier stages of dementia.

With the addition of the Carroll neighborhood, JFC now offers two distinct memory support neighborhoods, enabling residents to receive care tailored to their stage of cognitive change. Rare among senior living communities in North Texas, this multi-neighborhood model provides early- and late-stage support in environments that promote engagement, dignity, and well-being.

“This new neighborhood is designed for individuals in the earlier stages of dementia, where active engagement—both mental and physical—can help slow progression and promote well-being,” said Nicole Gann, president and CEO of Juliette Fowler Communities. “Our original memory support neighborhood has maintained a consistent waitlist, and we’ve seen a growing demand due to the size of the Boomer generation and earlier dementia diagnoses. We also recognize the strain caregiving places on families.”

The Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood offers a home-like, open floor plan designed to foster comfort, connection, and independence. Bright, airy spaces include a welcoming kitchen, therapeutic dementia-friendly artwork, a peaceful serenity room, and lovely courtyard views. Residents also enjoy innovative, AI-powered Lucynt engagement tools – interactive, dementia-informed games that enhance cognitive stimulation and social interaction. The Lucynt system uses an interactive projector to cast games and activities onto a surface, such as a table, responding to a person’s touch for a fully immersive experience.

The new neighborhood consists of 19 private apartments with four floor plan options, from studio to one-bedroom with living room, reflecting JFC’s commitment to individualized, therapeutic care grounded in the I’m Still Here® philosophy.

“At Juliette Fowler Communities, the I’m Still Here® philosophy is at the heart of how we approach memory support,” added Gann. “Every person, regardless of their stage of dementia, still has purpose, identity, and the ability to experience joy and connection. This evidence-based model helps our team create daily moments of success, dignity, and engagement, ensuring that each resident is seen, heard, and known. The addition of the Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood reflects our continued commitment to offering environments where individuals can continue to flourish—because they are, indeed, still here.”

Residents in the Carroll neighborhood enjoy structured yet flexible days filled with therapeutic activities, social opportunities, and programs that foster connection and purpose. Volunteer opportunities are available for community members interested in leading activities, providing companionship, or assisting with events.

Families and staff also benefit from JFC’s I’m Still Here® and Dementia Friendly Dallas training programs, which build understanding and equip caregivers to create meaningful engagement and communication.

Tours of the Carroll Memory Support Neighborhood are available Monday through Saturday by appointment. Families interested in learning more about individualized care plans and pricing are encouraged to call the JFC admissions office at 214-827-0813 to schedule a visit.

# # #

ABOUT JULIETTE FOWLER COMMUNITIES

Founded in 1892, Juliette Fowler Communities is a faith-based, intergenerational community located in East Dallas, offering independent and assisted living, memory support, affordable senior housing, foster-to-adopt programs, and youth services. Guided by its mission to serve as a place of hope, healing, and transformation, JFC empowers individuals of all ages to thrive through connection, compassion, and care. In addition to providing a home to nearly 500 older adults, Fowler is proud to host the Dementia Friendly Dallas initiative and recently attained I’m Still Here® certification as a program of distinction in cognitive health. Visit fowlercommunities.org or call 214-827-0813.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The NEW Peppermint Bark Blizzard Treat dazzles the season with holiday cheer.

’Tis the season for the ultimate holiday blizzard treat lineup, featuring the NEW Peppermint Bark Blizzard® Treat and the returning Frosted Sugar Cookie Blizzard Treat, available through the end of the year. 

The NEW Peppermint Bark Blizzard Treat dazzles the season with holiday cheer. This seasonal treat combines white and milk chocolatey layers sprinkled with peppermint candy cane pieces, blended to perfection with DQ world-famous soft serve. Each red spoonful delivers a burst of cool peppermint bliss – a delightful balance of crunchy and creamy that captures the magic of the holidays in every bite.

The returning favorite, the Frosted Sugar Cookie Blizzard Treat, is the December Blizzard of the Month. Rolling out alongside the DQ lineup of iconic seasonal offerings, this festive favorite proves no holiday season is complete without cookies. The Frosted Sugar Cookie Blizzard Treat blends soft sugar cookie pieces, icing with festive sprinkles, and DQ world-famous soft serve. This classic treat is the perfect remedy for those undeniable holiday cravings. 

“Our fans love a Texas-sized reason to celebrate at DQ restaurants in Texas,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “Kicking off the holiday season with two delicious Blizzard treats is the best way to spread cheer and give fans another reason to visit their local DQ all winter long.” 

This holiday season, DQ restaurants in Texas are offering holiday-themed gift cards, perfect for treating friends and family. DQ fans can share the joy this season by giving the gift of Treats and Eats from their favorite DQ restaurant in Texas. 

For more than 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 or 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. 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Uptown Dallas, Inc. New Mural Photo courtesy: Matthew Nelson

Driving into Uptown Dallas feels a little different now. Where once there was a gray, overlooked bridge entrance, visitors are now greeted by a joyful explosion of color—a sweeping mural that celebrates the neighborhood’s spirit and story. The new work, created by McKinney-based artist Andrea Holmes, is the latest effort by Uptown Dallas Inc. (UDI) to reimagine public spaces and foster community pride. It is located at the underpass where the Katy Trail meets Cedar Springs.

Holmes, who has earned the nickname “the bird lady” for her ongoing Wings Across the World 100 Bird Mural Project, is known for turning walls into vibrant ecosystems. For Uptown, she chose the Monk parakeet—a bright green bird that, while not native to Texas, has become an unmistakable presence in Dallas. Flocks can often be seen nesting around White Rock Lake and the Katy Trail, making the parrot both a surprising and fitting emblem for the district.

“I’ve painted birds in Hawaii and Austria, but Uptown gave me a chance to capture something close to home,” Holmes said. “This mural isn’t just about the parrots—it’s about the life of Uptown. People biking, walking dogs, hopping on the trolley. I wanted to celebrate the energy of the neighborhood while weaving in my passion for birds.”

The mural also includes a hummingbird darting through fields of Texas wildflowers, along with Uptown icons like Betty the Trolley and everyday moments—residents carrying groceries, a cyclist on the trail, a dog walker. It’s as much a portrait of community as it is a piece of art.

For Uptown Dallas Inc., the nonprofit that manages and promotes the district, the mural was a chance to create a “welcome mat” unlike any other. “We wanted something that told people they were entering a special place,” said Bailey Criado, events and marketing manager with UDI. “Andrea’s work brought that vision to life. She captured the soul of Uptown—its character, its vibrancy and the pride people feel living here.”

Painting the massive underpass was no small task. Holmes spent four weeks on-site, spray-painting from a boom lift and navigating the challenges of a high-traffic gateway. But the effort was worth it. Passersby stopped to cheer her on, neighbors offered words of encouragement, and trail users shared how much the mural brightened their daily routine.

The project is part of a larger push to elevate Uptown’s public spaces. UDI is working with the City of Dallas and the Turtle Creek Association to repaint surrounding bridge structures, restore medians, and add finishing touches that frame Holmes’s work. A protective anti-graffiti coating ensures the mural will remain vivid for years to come.

For Holmes, it’s one more milestone in her journey to paint 100 bird murals around the world—but this one carries extra meaning. “It’s number six,” she said, smiling. “And it feels like home.”

About Uptown Dallas, Inc.

Established in 1993, Uptown Dallas, Inc. (UDI) is a nonprofit organization and public improvement district encompassing one square mile. As one of Dallas’ first true live-work-play communities, Uptown offers vibrant urban living with some of the city’s best views of the notable skyline. UDI aims to increase the quality of life for the 19,000 residents Uptown, hundreds of businesses and property owners, and more than 50,000 workers. On any given weekday, as many as 100,000 people pass through the district. The organization also has a safety team working to keep people safe along with its maintenance team responsible for enhancements such as street lighting and landscaping. UDI hosts Pilates in the Park and Movies in the Park (at Griggs Park) and sponsors other community-wide events. For more information on Uptown Dallas, Inc., visit https://uptowndallas.net/

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

The Light Park, the largest immersive drive-through holiday light experience in Texas, is inviting families to celebrate the season while giving back in a meaningful way. Beginning this November, all Dallas–Fort Worth and Houston locations will host Drive & Donate Nights, supporting nonprofit partners that serve local children, families, and pets in need.

On select weeknights throughout the holiday season, guests are encouraged to bring new toys, coats, blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food items, or pet supplies—depending on the charity spotlighted that evening. Donations will be collected at the entrance, and all items will be delivered directly to participating nonprofit organizations.

As a thank-you, every carload that donates will receive a complimentary HOLIDAY Bundle featuring surprise treats from The Light Park.

“The Light Park was created to bring joy to families during the holiday season—but there are many families in our communities who need more than just holiday cheer,” said Matt Johnson, Managing Partner of The Light Park. “Drive & Donate Nights are our way of giving back in the most festive way possible, and our guests love knowing that their visit brightens more than just the night sky.”

After dropping off their donation, guests continue into the mile-long, synchronized LED experience—complete with dancing light tunnels, mega-trees, holiday characters, and a soundtrack of favorite seasonal hits.

How Drive & Donate Nights Work

  1. Choose a participating Drive & Donate date
  2. Bring an item needed by that night’s charity partner
  3. Drop off during entry
  4. Receive a Holiday Bundle as a thank-you
  5. Enjoy The Light Park’s mile-long show from the comfort of your car

DALLAS–FORT WORTH DONATION NIGHTS

Thankful Thursday — November 13
Benefiting: North Texas Food Bank
Collecting non-perishable food items to support local families.

Warmth Wednesday — November 19
Benefiting: Austin Street Center
Collecting new blankets, socks, and warm clothing for adults in need.

Toy Tuesday — November 25
Benefiting: Community Partners of Dallas
Encouraging donations of new toys, games, and books for children in CPS care.

Santa PAWS — December 2
Benefiting: SPCA of Texas
Collecting pet food, toys, and supplies for animals awaiting adoption.

DALLAS–FORT WORTH LOCATIONS

  • Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trail, Frisco, TX 75034
  • Hurricane Harbor Arlington, 1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006
  • Little Elm Park, 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm, TX 75068

HOUSTON-AREA DONATION NIGHTS

Thankful Thursday — November 13
Benefiting: Houston Food Bank
Collecting non-perishable food for families across Greater Houston.

Warmth Wednesday — November 19
Benefiting: Star of Hope Mission
Donations of new blankets, coats, and winter accessories for Houston families experiencing homelessness.

Toy Tuesday — November 25
Benefiting: Hatching for Health
Encouraging toys, books, and games to support children with rare and complicated diseases.

HOUSTON LOCATIONS

  • Typhoon Texas Waterpark Parking Lot, 555 Katy Fort Bend Rd, Katy, TX 77494
  • Hurricane Harbor Parking Lot, 21300 Interstate 45 N, Spring, TX 77373
  • Sam Houston Race Park, 7575 N Sam Houston Pkwy W Gate 3, Houston, TX 77064

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers nine parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Sam Houston Race Park, Selma, San Antonio, Arlington, Little Elm and Frisco. Each Park features more than one million LED animated lights and boasts the world’s largest synchronized LED light tunnel. Open from November 7, 2025, through January 4, 2026, shows start at 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), and 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (weekends and Christmas week); visitors can enjoy a safe and unique experience as they drive through the one-mile holiday light show curated to seasonal music. To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Denton County Magazine

Seeing the increasing need for foster families across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, Flower Mound resident Lisa Bethea felt called to support children in care. She began fostering, a journey that ultimately led her to adoption.

According to Tommy Jordan, Director of Family and Community Engagement for Our Community Our Kids, the need for foster families remains urgent. “Around 47 children are currently in foster care in Denton County,” Jordan shared. “We need 25 to 50 more homes willing to open their doors and hearts.”

Our Community Our Kids is a child welfare collaborative that supports foster parents and helps children find safe, loving homes across Metroplex West — including Cooke, Denton, Erath, Hood, Johnson, Palo Pinto, Parker, Somervell, Tarrant, and Wise counties.

If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time. Learn how you can make a lasting difference by visiting https://ourcommunity-ourkids.org/ to explore foster care resources, training, and support services. To read more about Lisa’s story visit: Denton County Magazine.