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Dr. Amal Noureldin, clinical professor in public health sciences at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, will assume the vice presidency of the cariology research section of the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research later this month. She also was elected to serve on the American Academy of Cariology’s board of directors.

Cariology is the study of tooth decay and how to prevent it.

In her vice president role, Noureldin, who also is director of cariology and prevention at the dental college, will promote research into better ways to prevent and treat tooth decay. Her three-year term starts at the end of the organization’s 2025 IADR Pan European Regional Congress general session and exhibition in Barcelona, Spain.

“It’s one of the largest and most influential dental associations in the world, and I’ve been a proud member for nearly 20 years,” Noureldin said. “My research is deeply rooted in this field, and I believe it’s essential to actively engage on a global level. Promoting the College of Dentistry through international collaboration and visibility is a key part of that mission.”

She is expected to assume the section’s presidency the next term. The IADR, formed in 1920, has more than 8,500 members worldwide focused on dental, oral and craniofacial research.

Noureldin recently began her two-year term on the board of the AAC. A member of the organization since 2017, she now helps guide its mission to advance oral health through the prevention, education, and research of tooth decay.

“Preventing dental decay is one of the most significant public health challenges,” she said.

 

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Soulman’s Bar-B-Que is thrilled to announce the return of its legendary SoulBowl as the featured monthly special across all 20 North and East Texas locations as June’s Monthly special for just $12.49 . This hearty, flavor-packed dish has been a fan favorite since its debut in 2015 and continues to embody the rich traditions of Texas barbecue.

A Culinary Classic Reimagined

The SoulBowl starts with a base of FRITOS® corn chips, layered with homemade pinto beans, cheddar cheese, hickory-smoked pulled pork, and savory smoked sausage, all drizzled with Soulman’s signature barbecue sauce. Guests can customize their bowl with additions like jalapeños, banana peppers, or Soulman’s unique pico de gallo, making each serving a personalized barbecue experience.

Accolades and Recognition

Since its introduction, the SoulBowl has garnered significant attention and praise. In 2016, Zagat named it one of the Best BBQ Dishes in Dallas-Fort Worth, highlighting its innovative take on the classic Frito pie by incorporating smoked meats and layers of bold flavors . This recognition underscores the Soulman’s Bar-B-Que commitment to quality and culinary creativity.

A Legacy of Barbecue Excellence

Founded in 1974 in Pleasant Grove, Texas, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has spent over 50 years perfecting the art of "low and slow" hickory-smoked meats and homemade sides. The family-owned establishment has been honored as one of the Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America and was recently celebrated during its 50th anniversary year for its outstanding contributions to the barbecue community.

Award-Winning Concept and North Texas Leader

Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has consistently been recognized for its excellence in the barbecue industry. In 2024, the restaurant was honored as one of AOL’s Best Roadside Restaurants in America, reflecting its exceptional quality and dedication to delivering top-notch barbecue to travelers across North Texas. Additionally, Soulman’s has been named among the Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America and was awarded the Rockwall Chamber of Commerce Medium Size Business of the Year, highlighting its commitment to quality, community involvement, and business excellence

Join the Celebration

The SoulBowl will be available as a monthly special throughout June 2025. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time guest, this is the perfect opportunity to experience a dish that has become a staple in Texas barbecue culture.

For more information, to find a location near you, or to place an order, visit www.soulmans.com.

About Soulman’s Bar-B-Que

For 50 years, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que has satisfied the hardest to please bar-b-que lovers….Texans!  Founded in Pleasant Grove, Texas, in 1974, Soulman’s had only a few simple goals—serve great Texas-style BBQ and offer friendly, sincere service.  With a focus on Faith, Food, and Family, Soulman’s passed-down recipes are still the foundation for the company’s success from their 8 different types of meat that are smoked “low & slow” over only hickory wood to their famous homemade sides, including Ranch house beans and Texas style cream corn! Throughout the years, this family-owned and operated company has remained true to its original strive for success and customer satisfaction and is honored to be considered one of the Best Regional Barbecue Chains to Try at Least Once (2025), Best Roadside Restaurants in America (2024), Top Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2024), the Best Bar-B-Que in Dallas for Takeout  & Delivery (2020), and one of the Best Bar-B-Que Chains in America (2018).

Soulman’s currently owns and operates 20 North and East Texas locations in Allen, Cedar Hill, Fort Worth, Forney, Garland, Greenville, Hurst Grapevine Highway, Lancaster, Lewisville, Mabank, Mansfield, Mesquite, Quinlan, Red Oak, Rockwall I-30, Rockwall Goliad, Royse City, Sulphur Springs, Terrell, and Van. To learn more about Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, visit them online at https://www.soulmans.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/soulmansbbq.

 

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UDI Safety HQ Dallas City Councilmember Paul Ridley; Noelle LeVeaux, Uptown Dallas, Inc. interim executive director; Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux; Ramsey March, UDI board chairman

With new Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux and other dignitaries in attendance on June 3rd, Uptown Dallas, Inc. (UDI) leaders introduced the community to a new space focused on ensuring Uptown remains the most vibrant and safe live/work/play community in the city. Opening in July at McKinney and Pearl Street, Uptown Dallas Inc. Safety Headquarters will be a dedicated operations hub designed to elevate how the nonprofit manages safety and security across the district. The headquarters will be built out to connect, respond and work alongside its partners, businesses, the Dallas Police and the Uptown Dallas Safety team to keep Uptown thriving. 

Noelle LeVeaux, interim UDI executive director, said, “The Uptown Dallas, Inc. Safety HQ is a proactive investment in visibility, coordination and public safety, not just for those who live here, but for everyone who interacts with Uptown every day. From our security team to the city teams and officers we collaborate with, this space strengthens how we operate and how we partner.”

Strategically located on the opposite end of Uptown from UDI’s main office, this space extends the organization’s reach and gives more presence and extra eyes and ears on the ground. 

Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux remarked, “The Dallas Police Department is proud to stand alongside Uptown Dallas Inc. in this important step forward. The Safety HQ will help strengthen how we work together, whether it’s through on-site collaboration, better communication, or a stronger presence in the field. It’s an investment in safety, and more importantly, in the people and places that make Uptown what it is.” 

Councilmember Paul Ridley added, “Uptown continues to raise the bar, not only in how it grows, but in how it plans for the future. The Safety HQ is a smart, strategic move that demonstrates leadership, partnership, and a real commitment to creating a safer, more connected community. I’m proud to support this project and the people behind it.”

Ramsey March, Chairman of Uptown Dallas Inc. and Executive Managing Director at Stream Realty, said, Since Uptown Dallas Inc. was formed in 1993, we’ve seen over $5 billion in investment flow into this district sparked by developers, business owners, and property stakeholders who believe in Uptown’s potential. The Safety HQ is a smart, strategic enhancement to that investment. It gives stakeholders peace of mind that this district continues to be cared for, not just aesthetically and economically, but operationally.” 

The new UDI Safety HQ space will undergo renovations and updates to be outfitted with the following: 

  • UDI security team, based there full-time, giving them a dedicated, central workspace.
  • An onsite, live dispatcher to handle calls and help coordinate fast, effective responses.
  • At full capacity, the space will feature monitors displaying live video feeds from throughout the district.
  • Space to encourage teams like the Dallas Police Department and Homeless Outreach to hold meetings, collaborate, and spend more time working in the area. 

Uptown Dallas, Inc.

Founded in 1993, Uptown Dallas, Inc. (UDI) is a public improvement district spanning one square mile. 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/

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Photos: Courtesy of Monika Normand Photography

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Families in North Texas have a new way to beat the summer heat — with some help from the Smurfs. Just in time for rising temperatures, The Smurf Experience USA, located at Esports Stadium Arlington, is rolling out a special All You Can Play Summer Pass. Beginning June 13, visitors can purchase the pass for $54.99, which allows unlimited entry all summer long.

For less than the price of two regular tickets, all you can play summer pass holders can return as often as they like to enjoy the experience’s immersive mix of games, challenges and Smurf-themed fun — rain or shine it’s guaranteed to be a good time. 

“We’re thrilled to introduce the All You Can Play Summer Pass as a way for families to enjoy The Smurf Experience all season long,” says Danny Fritz, CEO of SBX Group. “The response so far has been overwhelmingly positive — we’ve earned a 4.5-star rating on Google — and this pass makes it even easier for guests to come back and experience something new each time.”

The 13,000-square-foot interactive attraction made its U.S. debut in May after drawing more than 2 million visitors across Europe. Designed for both kids and parents, The Smurf Experience takes guests on a 75-minute journey through Smurf Village, the Enchanted Forest and through the lair of the evil wizard Gargamel.

The experience is divided into nine themed zones, each with mission-based challenges. Visitors can explore obstacle courses, interactive scavenger hunts, virtual reality and hands-on activities. Character meet-and-greets with favorites like Papa Smurf and Smurfette are included, along with photo ops perfect for sharing.

Standard admission starts at $27.44, with VIP upgrades also available, but the new summer pass offers the best value for families looking for repeat visits. Tickets and additional information are available at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com.

The attraction will only be in Texas through the end of the summer, making it a limited-time opportunity for local families looking for a unique and interactive indoor adventure.

Event Details:

  • Location: Esports Stadium Arlington, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington, TX 76011
  • Dates: Now through August 11, 2025
  • Tickets: Available at www.SmurfExperienceUSA.com
  • Don’t miss this unique opportunity to step into the magical world of the Smurfs and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
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Drs. Amp W. Miller III, Ernestine S. Lacy, and John S. Findley

DALLAS - Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas recently honored three new Hall of Fame inductees. Drs. Amp W. Miller III, Ernestine S. Lacy, and John S. Findley each continue to serve and build the dental profession.

“We are the crown jewel for A&M in Dallas,” said Dr. Lily T. García, dean. “I extend my deep appreciation to those who advance our college as a highly regarded academic dental institution, known for clinical excellence, high-impact research and outstanding service through which our students learn through direct patient care.”

A fixture at the dental college, Miller began teaching part-time in 1973 in the fixed prosthodontics department at what was then Baylor College of Dentistry, his alma mater. He’s taught a range of courses, from preclinical to graduate prosthodontics. Currently, Miller teaches fixed prosthodontics, operative dentistry and removable prosthodontics in the predoctoral program and is part of the advanced education general dentistry program and graduate prosthodontics program. He serves as interim assistant department head of comprehensive dentistry.

Miller earned his dental degree in 1973 and a prosthodontic certificate in 1980. He also served as interim chair of restorative services, director of curriculum and briefly as interim associate dean for clinical affairs.

Students recognized his outstanding teaching with Teacher of the Year awards in 1992, 2005, 2011, 2018 and this year.

A born educator, Lacy began her professional career with a bachelor’s in mathematics and minors in French and physics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She taught high school math and science for 17 years before entering what was then Baylor College of Dentistry, where she earned a dental degree and an AEGD certificate.

Lacy became an assistant professor in the restorative sciences department. She’s also served as director of academic programs, director of student services and executive director of student development. Lacy is associate dean for student affairs and a tenured professor in the comprehensive dentistry department.

She’s served as principal investigator and project director since 1999, overseeing nearly $16 million in grant funding that supports the dental college’s Bridge to Dentistry pipeline programs. Under her leadership, the dental college was recently awarded its third consecutive 5-year Center of Excellence grant from the Health and Human Services Administration.

On a national level, Lacy facilitated the American Dental Education Association’s Admissions Workshops and served as a reviewer for the Journal of Dental Education and HRSA grant applications.

Findley, a practicing dentist in Plano and a 1970 graduate of what was then Baylor University College of Dentistry, also studied at what was then North Texas State University, Southern Methodist University and the United States Air Force Academy. He served eight years in the Air Force and the Air Force Reserve.

Among his many leadership roles, Findley was the 2008 president and subsequent interim executive director of the American Dental Association. Prior to that, he was a trustee from the 15th district (Texas) and chaired numerous committees, including the Commission on Dental Education and Licensure, Dental Practice, Scientific Affairs, and Government Affairs. He also served as president of Texas Dental Association and the Dallas County Dental Society. Findley served as legislative chairman of TDA.

The mayor of Cross Roads from 1992 to 1994, Findley also served on the town council. Additionally, he served as president of the Plano Rotary Club and was a board member of the Plano Chamber of Commerce and the Plano YMCA.

He continues to serve as the community dental health officer for Dallas County Dental Society and recently completed his term as chair of Baylor Oral Health Foundation Nominating Committee (2020-23).

Findley was honored with Distinguished Alumnus recognition from Baylor College of Dentistry in 1996 and the Texas Dental Association’s Gold Medal for Distinguished Service in 2015.

 

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Johnson Development believes that vibrant communities do more than provide homes - they inspire connection, celebrate life, and foster a spirit of giving back. This past Saturday was a shining example of that belief in action. Trinity Falls by Johnson Development proudly hosted the 3rd Annual Trinity Falls Trail Day 5K in celebration of National Trails Day.

 

Under beautiful skies, more than 600 runners, walkers, plus their families and friends joined together for a joyful morning filled with movement, nature, and purpose. The event raised over $18,000 which was awarded to local North Texas nonprofits. This year’s beneficiaries were Alliance of Elite Youth Leadership (AEYL), Warriors’ Keep, and YMCA of McKinney.

 

The scenic race route guided participants around the paved trails of Trinity Falls beautiful master-planned community traversing the 350-acre natural park with miles of winding, wooded river frontage where families explore and become one with nature. Trinity Falls chose June 7 to align with National Trails Day, a nationwide event held to encourage people to discover their local trails and celebrate spending time outdoors.

 

Every participant in the 5K received a medal, while trophies and cash prizes were awarded in multiple categories. After the race, families were encouraged to stay and enjoy a variety of local outdoors, recreation and fitness vendors, a disc golf demonstration, music, photo-ops, and food trucks. Children enjoyed story time with Ms. Bug and participated in a ladybug release. Visit https://www.trinityfalls.com/ to learn more about Trinity Falls.

 

 

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Expo Home Improvement names Amy Gutierrez as Vice President of Marketing. In this role, Gutierrez will lead all aspects of the company’s marketing operations, including field marketing, inside sales, call center, and lead demand generation.

Expo Home Improvement names Amy Gutierrez as Vice President of Marketing. In this role, Gutierrez will lead all aspects of the company’s marketing operations, including field marketing, inside sales, call center, and lead demand generation. 

Bringing more than 15 years of executive-level leadership experience, Gutierrez offers a well-rounded mix of strategic insight, operational excellence, and team leadership. She’s spent her career navigating the space between sales and marketing, consistently meeting business goals and improving bottom-line results. 

Gutierrez has delivered impressive results throughout her career. Her achievements include managing more than 4,000 corporate events annually, cutting production costs by 20% through operational improvements, and leading a smooth transition from an agency-based marketing model to a fully in-house team. Along the way, she has overseen teams of more than 100 and consistently delivered high-quality leads that have boosted revenue.

“Amy is a proven leader with the expertise and drive to take our team to the next level,” said CEO of Expo Home Improvement Paul Dietzler. “Her energy and strong focus on results make her a valuable asset, helping us serve even more homeowners with utmost excellence.”

Expo Home Improvement is a privately held company headquartered in Farmers Branch, Texas. With a focus on bath and shower remodels, door and window replacements, and kitchen cabinet refacing, Expo Home Improvement is committed to helping Texans create beautiful, safe, and energy-efficient homes. 

Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, Central Texas, San Antonio, and Houston, Expo Home goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service that will help a homeowner enhance their home. The company offers Veterans, senior citizens, public servants, and first responders discounts on all products they offer as an opportunity to serve those who serve others. For more information about Expo Home Improvement, visit expohomeimprovement.com.

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Embrace's Child to Family Connection event will be held this Wednesday, June 11 at 6 p.m. at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

With more than 2,000 children currently in the foster care system across North Texas, and over 3,000 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area still waiting for placement, the need for foster and adoptive families is urgent. Texas continues to face a severe shortage of foster homes, leaving many children without stable, nearby placements.

This powerful event shines a light on the growing need for adoptive families in our community and offers a unique, respectful way to share the stories of more than 30 children currently waiting to be adopted from foster care. Rather than traditional match events, children are represented through portraits, videos, and display tables that reflect their interests and personalities. 

For more details, visit: Embrace’s Child to Family Connection

Laurie Deckert
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Make a splash this summer at 1765 Mustang Trail—your dream home on a rare quarter-acre lot in The Trails of West Frisco!

This updated 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath stunner offers luxury living with a private office, soundproof media room, spa-worthy bathrooms, and a chef’s kitchen built for entertaining. Soaring ceilings and a wall of windows bring in natural light, while the resort-style backyard—with pool, outdoor grill, and covered patio—lets you unwind in total privacy. Located in one of Frisco’s most desirable golf course communities and feeding into top-rated Wakeland High School, this home has it all. Schedule your tour today and discover why 1765 Mustang Trail is the ultimate summer move! 

 

 

Laurie Deckert
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Make a splash this summer at 1765 Mustang Trail—your dream home on a rare quarter-acre lot in The Trails of West Frisco!

This updated 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath stunner offers luxury living with a private office, soundproof media room, spa-worthy bathrooms, and a chef’s kitchen built for entertaining. Soaring ceilings and a wall of windows bring in natural light, while the resort-style backyard—with pool, outdoor grill, and covered patio—lets you unwind in total privacy. Located in one of Frisco’s most desirable golf course communities and feeding into top-rated Wakeland High School, this home has it all. Schedule your tour today and discover why 1765 Mustang Trail is the ultimate summer move!