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Wicked: For Good is almost here, and the Dallas Public Library is celebrating with the Wicked Ball on Saturday, November 15, from 6 PM to 9 PM at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, filled with Emerald City glamour, magical moments, and dancing, of course! Attendees should don their best costumes and apparel while enjoying a high-spirited, whimsical evening featuring:

  • Whiskers of Oz, an adoption event full of cat cuddles

  • Tarot readings at “The Emerald City Oracle”

  • Swing dance instruction by The Rhythm Room

  • Exciting “Defying Gravity Riff-Off” contests

  • Vendor booths + food & beverage from local partners, and more!

The event has free entry and is for 18+ only. Library garage parking is complimentary and available on a first-come basis, with paid lots and street parking as alternative options.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library is located at 1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201.

Registration is required to attend the grand Wicked Ball. To secure your spots, please visit https://dallaslibrary.librarymarket.com/event/wicked-ball 

Proudly supported by the Friends of the Dallas Public Library, the Wicked Ball exemplifies the Dallas Public Library’s position as a vibrant hub for culture and connection, combining literary, theatrical, and social elements in a way that reaches beyond traditional programming.

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Wicked: For Good is almost here, and the Dallas Public Library is celebrating with the Wicked Ball on Saturday, November 15, from 6 PM to 9 PM at the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library, filled with Emerald City glamour, magical moments, and dancing, of course! Attendees should don their best costumes and apparel while enjoying a high-spirited, whimsical evening featuring:

  • Whiskers of Oz, an adoption event full of cat cuddles

  • Tarot readings at “The Emerald City Oracle”

  • Swing dance instruction by The Rhythm Room

  • Exciting “Defying Gravity Riff-Off” contests

  • Vendor booths + food & beverage from local partners, and more!

The event has free entry and is for 18+ only. Library garage parking is complimentary and available on a first-come basis, with paid lots and street parking as alternative options.

J. Erik Jonsson Central Library is located at 1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201.

Registration is required to attend the grand Wicked Ball. To secure your spots, please visit https://dallaslibrary.librarymarket.com/event/wicked-ball 

Proudly supported by the Friends of the Dallas Public Library, the Wicked Ball exemplifies the Dallas Public Library’s position as a vibrant hub for culture and connection, combining literary, theatrical, and social elements in a way that reaches beyond traditional programming.

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H100 Latina Giving Circle Diana Aguirre, H100 Latina Giving Circle Grants Chair; Kim Cummings, H100 Latina Giving Circle Co-Chair; Yareli Esteban, H100 Latina Giving Circle Co-Chair

The Hispanic 100 (H100) Latina Giving Circle at Texas Women’s Foundation awarded $100,000 in grants to 18 North Texas area nonprofits serving the needs of Latina women and girls in low- and moderate-income communities. The grants were given as part of the Latina Living Legend (LLL) fundraising event at the Vouv on October 2nd honoring Alice Rodriguez as the 2025 Latina Living Legend and Aracely P. Muñoz as the 2025 Emerging Latina Award recipient. (See HERE for honorees).

The H100 Latina Giving Circle at Texas Women’s Foundation was established in 2019 by the Hispanic 100 Network to further engage Latinas in philanthropy, and to expand resources for local organizations whose mission is to empower, educate and support Latinas across North Texas.

Kim Cummings, Co-Chair of the Latina Giving Circle said, “Every member of the Hispanic 100 contributes to the Latina Giving Circle, and in partnership with the Texas Women’s Foundation we multiply our impact. Each year, we see far more requests than we can fund—a clear reminder that the need is great and our commitment is essential.”

Yareli Esteban, Co-Chair of the Latina Giving Circle, added “The Latina Giving Circle reflects the strength of collective philanthropy. We are building a sustainable path for Latina leadership and investing in solutions that uplift families for generations to come. To date, we are proud to have awarded $886,000 in grants through 195 organizations—investments that create dignity, opportunity, and a brighter future for Latina women and girls.”

Grants were awarded to the following: 

Ascend – Latinos in Finance Bilingual Initiative

Avance – Parent-Child Education Program for academic success

Cannenta Foundation – Project Ayuda for mental health services to Hispanic women and girls

Cara Mia Theatre – Second Annual Latinidades Arts Symposium

ChildCareGroup – Born Learning Home-Visiting Program to strengthen families and prepare children for academic success

Children First – General counseling program for mental health care and education

Design Connect Create – Expand recruitment and services for STEM Camps

Friends of Solar Prep – Support for three initiatives 1) Spanish Language Acquisition Program for PreK-8 Dual Language Track 2) Folklorico Dance Lessons 3) Hispanic Fierce Female Trailblazer Wall

Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support – Funds to enhance Advocacy Program for job readiness

Hope Cottage – Parent Support Program

ImmSchools – Community workshops for economic empowerment and leadership

LBU Community Clinic – Funding for the OB program and expansion of maternal health services

Literacy Achieves – The Family Literacy Program, a dual-generation initiative

Mi Escuelita Preschool, Inc. – Education Evolution Teacher Development Program

Primos Dallas – Grant to launch a dedicated parent workshop series in Pleasant Grove to sustain student success

The Women's Center of Tarrant County – The Women’s Center’s Rape Crisis & Victim Services Program & Play it Safe!® abuse prevention curriculum

Trauma Support Services of North Texas – Culturally responsive therapy for survivors of violent crime or abuse

Young Women’s Preparatory Network – Balch Springs – EmpowerHER Mentoring Program at the Young Women's STEAM Academy at Balch Springs

Donating to the H100 Latina Giving Circle is open to anyone who has a desire to join a legacy of philanthropy that creates positive change by investing in the lives of Latinas. To learn more about joining the H100 Latina Giving Circle, visit https://txwf.org/impact-investing/giving-circle/

or email H100latinagc@txwf.org.

About Hispanic 100:

Founded in 1996, the Hispanic 100 Network is an organization of trailblazing Latina leaders in North Texas whose contributions have shaped, influenced and transformed how Latinas are viewed in business, education, arts, health, public service and community leadership. The Hispanic 100 is a highly diverse network of Latinas with a 27-year history whose value proposition as a collective group is the strength of their experiences, their reach and their capacity to influence change.  For more information, visit www.dfwhispanic100.org. Visit on LinkedIn at DFW Hispanic 100, on Facebook at DFW Hispanic 100 or follow us on Twitter@DFWH100.

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 nearly $5 million in total impact each year to advance the economic security, stability and success of Texas women and girls through research, advocacy, grantmaking and leadership programs. Since its inception in 1985, TXWF has granted nearly $90 million in support of Texas women and girls. As the organization prepares to celebrate its 40th year, the need to build #StrongWomenBetterTexas has never been more critical. 

The Foundation’s statewide research on 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 educational initiatives support solutions that help Texas women and girls survive and thrive. In addition, Texas Women’s Foundation is an acknowledged leader and advocate in a mission-aligned portfolio that yields strong financial returns and social benefits to women and girls. For more information, visit www.txwf.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram or donate now

 

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The Light Park, North Texas’s most spectacular holiday drive-through experience, is back to light up the season across Arlington, Frisco, and its newest addition — Little Elm.

A one-of-a-kind celebration of lights, music, and motion, The Light Park transforms each venue into a mile-long wonderland of millions of synchronized LEDs. Guests can tune in on their car radios and drive through an unforgettable symphony of color and sound — complete with towering displays, glowing tunnels, and twinkling trees that dance to the beat.

Bringing the beat to life is DJ Polar Ice, The Light Park’s signature soundmaster and holiday hype man. His exclusive mix of holiday classics and party vibes creates a soundtrack that keeps cars rocking, kids singing, and parents smiling all the way through. The DJ Polar Ice broadcast, available on-site and online, connects every Light Park guest to the rhythm of the season — making each visit a one-of-a-kind light and sound experience.

This year, The Light Park also continues its commitment to being one of the most affordable holiday outings in the Metroplex. Tickets are sold per vehicle, making it a value-packed night for families, couples, and friend groups alike. Guests can also purchase Season Passes for unlimited visits to all Texas locations, giving superfans the chance to see the lights as many times as they’d like throughout the holidays.

“This year’s expansion to Little Elm means even more families can experience the magic close to home,” said Matt Johnson, Co-creator of The Light Park. “It’s become a North Texas tradition where families laugh, sing, and create memories from the comfort of their own cars.”

The Light Park will be open nightly from November 7, 2025 through January 4, 2026 in:

 

Frisco

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

 

 

Arlington

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

 

Little Elm

Little Elm Park

701 W Eldorado Pkwy

Little Elm, TX 75068

 

Guests are encouraged to buy early, as weekend dates traditionally sell out.

*Please note no vehicles over 30ft will be allowed in the park; this includes limousines, trailers, and buses. 

 

Runs Daily November 7, 2025 through January 4, 2026

Most Sundays – Thursdays (11/9/25- 12/18/25) 5:30pm- 10:00pm

Most Fridays – Saturdays (11/7/25-1/3/2026 : 5:30pm - 11:00pm

 

HOLIDAY HOURS

Nov 27, 28, 29, Dec. 19, 2025- Jan 3, 2026 5:30pm-11:00pm

Prices available at www.thelightpark.com

 

To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers nine parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Houston Ballpark, San Antonio, Selma, 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.

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The Light Park, North Texas’s most spectacular holiday drive-through experience, is back to light up the season across Arlington, Frisco, and its newest addition — Little Elm.

A one-of-a-kind celebration of lights, music, and motion, The Light Park transforms each venue into a mile-long wonderland of millions of synchronized LEDs. Guests can tune in on their car radios and drive through an unforgettable symphony of color and sound — complete with towering displays, glowing tunnels, and twinkling trees that dance to the beat.

Bringing the beat to life is DJ Polar Ice, The Light Park’s signature soundmaster and holiday hype man. His exclusive mix of holiday classics and party vibes creates a soundtrack that keeps cars rocking, kids singing, and parents smiling all the way through. The DJ Polar Ice broadcast, available on-site and online, connects every Light Park guest to the rhythm of the season — making each visit a one-of-a-kind light and sound experience.

This year, The Light Park also continues its commitment to being one of the most affordable holiday outings in the Metroplex. Tickets are sold per vehicle, making it a value-packed night for families, couples, and friend groups alike. Guests can also purchase Season Passes for unlimited visits to all Texas locations, giving superfans the chance to see the lights as many times as they’d like throughout the holidays.

“This year’s expansion to Little Elm means even more families can experience the magic close to home,” said Matt Johnson, Co-creator of The Light Park. “It’s become a North Texas tradition where families laugh, sing, and create memories from the comfort of their own cars.”

The Light Park will be open nightly from November 7, 2025 through January 4, 2026 in:

 

Frisco

Riders Field

7300 Rough Riders Trail

Frisco, TX 75034

 

 

Arlington

Hurricane Harbor Arlington

1800 E Lamar Blvd, Arlington, TX 76006

 

Little Elm

Little Elm Park

701 W Eldorado Pkwy

Little Elm, TX 75068

 

Guests are encouraged to buy early, as weekend dates traditionally sell out.

*Please note no vehicles over 30ft will be allowed in the park; this includes limousines, trailers, and buses. 

 

Runs Daily November 7, 2025 through January 4, 2026

Most Sundays – Thursdays (11/9/25- 12/18/25) 5:30pm- 10:00pm

Most Fridays – Saturdays (11/7/25-1/3/2026 : 5:30pm - 11:00pm

 

HOLIDAY HOURS

Nov 27, 28, 29, Dec. 19, 2025- Jan 3, 2026 5:30pm-11:00pm

Prices available at www.thelightpark.com

 

To Purchase Online: https://www.thelightpark.com/

 

About The Light Park

The Light Park offers nine parks in Texas: Round Rock, Spring, Katy, Houston Ballpark, San Antonio, Selma, 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.

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On Friday night, October 24th, foodies, fashionistas, cultural enthusiasts gathered at the Winspear Opera House at the AT&T Performing Arts Center for the 2025 edition of Dîner en Blanc in Dallas.

This year’s event once again provided city residents with the opportunity to showcase their impeccable fashion sense, demonstrate their refined taste for design and elegance, and indulge in gastronomic delights. Renowned worldwide for its photogenic moments, this year's Dîner en Blanc was no exception!

Kindly indicate the photo credit  of Power House Photography and Video

Since the inception of Dîner en Blanc International, Dîner en Blanc has evolved into a global phenomenon. This unforgettable experience has taken place in over 120 cities in 40 countries worldwide.

 Dîner en Blanc – Dallas gratefully acknowledges Chambord, as official national partner as well as name of sponsor(s) as an official local partner(s) for their support of the 2025 edition of Dîner en Blanc.

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Proper brushing twice a day and thorough flossing at least once daily are known to help keep the mouth clean and prevent bad breath. In recognition of National Dental Hygiene Month in October, Eric Fox, clinical assistant professor in the dental hygiene program at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, offered these additional tips to ward off bad breath: 

Drink water 

Water washes away food particles and prevents dry mouth, a common cause of bad breath.  

“Most people need four to six cups of water per day, but it differs depending on how much water they get from other beverages and food sources,” Fox said. “It also varies depending on their health status, medications, environment and activity levels.”  

Bottled water is fine, but research first. 

“Ideally, the water should be a neutral pH of about 7, but some brands are lower in pH,” Fox said. “This may contribute to demineralization of the tooth enamel.” 

Skip sugar 

Bacteria found in the mouth thrive on food particles, especially those with high sugar content. Skip cakes, chocolates and sodas. 

“Plain yogurt is a good option for maintaining healthy teeth and gums,” Fox said. “The bacteria and probiotics in yogurt help balance the oral pH, which lessens the likelihood of tooth decay and helps combat bad breath.” 

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption 

Smoking and drinking too much alcohol aren’t good for you anyway, and both cause bad breath. Nicotine and tar build up in the mouth, and alcohol decreases saliva production, both of which allow bacteria to grow and cause odors. 

Don’t forget the tongue 

The tongue is covered with bacteria, so it’s essential to clean it often to remove bacteria and debris from the tastebuds. 

Keep up with your dental and medical appointments 

Diabetes, cancer and kidney disease are just some medical problems that may cause bad breath. Visit your dentist and primary care physician regularly to maintain overall health.

Autumn Reo
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Fall is here and with celebrations like Halloween and fun festivities like trick-or-treating coming up, there are many temptations and goodies to be offered. Following a few dos and don’ts can help make the celebrations a little safer and healthier for children, parents and grandparents. 

Treats for Special Diets

Food allergies can put a damper on any kid’s fun, especially during Halloween. Parents are reminded to examine the label of all candies to ensure your child’s allergen isn’t present and are cautioned not to allow any home-baked goods or foods that are not commercially wrapped to be eaten. It is important to keep in mind that mini or bite-size versions of candy might have different ingredients than their full-size versions. To be certain last year’s treats aren’t this year’s trick, impose a “no eating while trick-or-treating” rule until you have time to review all food labels and check for tampering. 

Handing out candy to little ghosts and goblins on Halloween is part of the celebrated experience and there’s a fun and easy way to make it even more inclusive for the one in 13 children who have life-threatening food allergies or intolerances. The “Teal Pumpkin Project” created by the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) organization suggests placing a teal colored pumpkin out front signaling it contains allergy-friendly candy or foods as well as non-edible treats like small toys, glow sticks, or stickers. 

WellMed Disclaimer: Some items and foods are choking risks for children and should be avoided, particularly with children under age four or who have certain disabilities. The list includes certain foods (including hard candy, nuts, string cheese and chewing gum), small toys and any item small enough to place inside the mouth.

Keeping a watchful eye on your kids while they enjoy their loot is important as food allergies can develop at any stage of life. Every 10 seconds, a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room in the U.S. and no parents need that type of scare on Halloween. child having an allergic reaction may manifest symptoms of putting their hands in their mouth, pulling or scratching at their tongues, slur their words, or their voice may become hoarse or squeaky. 

Other symptoms you may see are hives, abdominal pain, and in very severe cases, low blood pressure and loss of consciousness.  If you think your child is having an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical care.  Calling 911 may be needed in some cases particularly when a severe reaction occurs, symptoms begin soon after ingestion or if symptoms are progressing rapidly.

Tricks on Keeping Them Healthy

The spookiest time of the year is a good marker for the start of flu season as well. Getting a flu vaccine before mischief night can help keep your child happy and healthy past Halloween and into the family holiday season.

It is also a great time to remind your child of other important ways to stay healthy and safe as they travel door to door speaking to neighbors as they receive treats. Children trick-or-treating on Halloween night should remember to always watch out for cars, use reflective gear, if possible, walk with a large group, walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe and carry a flashlight.

For parents with children who wear face paint or makeup it’s important to check out those ingredients as well. Harmful ingredients in face makeup can trigger allergies or cause problems like skin irritation. Some tips to help avoid a toxic ingredients and possible skin reactions: avoid makeup with heavy metals like cadmium, mercury, lead and even arsenic. To avoid infection from makeup, wash hands before applying and never share makeup with others. A good practice is to test a small amount of makeup a few days before to see if your child will have a reaction, and when in doubt, talk to your child’s pediatrician.

Stay safe, healthy, and happy this Halloween and be sure to remain healthy throughout the rest of the holiday season.

About the Author: By Dr. Tamika Perry, family medicine, WellMed at Redbird Square

Dr. Tamika Perry, practices family medicine with WellMed at Redbird Square. She received her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine DO program and is board-certified in both family medicine and osteopathic manipulative treatment. Additionally, she earned a Master of Public Health from UNT Health Science Center. She was inspired to enter a career in medicine to help provide quality health care to disenfranchised communities. She believes that her ears, eyes and heart must remain wide open to treat her patients most effectively and enjoys working with families within the community.

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Garlic is believed to ward off vampires – at least in folklore. But even Dracula would love garlic’s oral health benefits.

Allicin, the same sulfur compound that makes breath smell bad after someone eats garlic, helps kill harmful bacteria that cause plaque buildup and gum disease. Dr. Luz Mendoza, program manager of public health sciences at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, said allicin, released when garlic is chopped, crushed or chewed, inactivates essential metabolic enzymes in bacteria and interferes with its ability to form biofilm that leads to oral diseases.

“You probably won’t invite many kisses immediately after eating garlic because of the smell, but your smile will show off the lasting effects,” she said. “Brush your teeth 30 minutes or so after eating.”

The dental benefits don’t end there. Garlic and allicin have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce gum irritation and swelling. The antibacterial compounds are effective against oral pathogens linked to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

“While garlic shows promise in supporting oral health, nothing replaces regular dental care,” Mendoza said. “Twice-a-year dental checkups and professional cleanings remain essential. If you experience lingering tooth pain or gum problems, schedule an appointment with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.”

Adding fresh garlic to meals supports both overall health and oral health, Mendoza said. Remember to brush afterward.

Jennifer Halstead
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Fall Family Party

Grapevine, TX – October 24, 2025 – SERVPRO Team Shaw has been recognized as the #2 Best Place to Work in North Texas by the Dallas Business Journal. The honor highlights the company’s growing impact, people-centered culture, and faith-inspired approach to leadership.

The announcement comes as SERVPRO Team Shaw celebrates its five-year anniversary, the close of its Q4 Leadership Summit, and a season of milestones including its annual Fall Family Party. With more than 250 employees, 35 locations, and a presence that spans four active markets, Team Shaw continues to set the standard for growth, leadership, and community engagement.

“This recognition means so much because it reflects our people and our purpose,” said Derek Shaw, CEO of SERVPRO Team Shaw. “Our team’s strength comes from a shared vision—rooted in faith, guided by leadership, and focused on serving others. From the beginning, we’ve believed that if we take care of our people, they’ll take care of everything else. This award is proof of that.”

Headquartered in Grapevine, SERVPRO Team Shaw has become one of the largest SERVPRO operations in the country. The company’s growth over the past five years has been driven by clear vision, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitment to service. Each market operates with local involvement and community investment at its core, ensuring that every win strengthens both the team and the regions it serves.

Gabby Shaw, Chief Administrative Officer, added, “Team Shaw is an incredible group of diversely intelligent people and I just want to take a moment to say how truly grateful I am for each person that embodies our culture. Every day, this group brings creativity, dedication, and heart to everything we do and stand for. Whether we’re tackling challenges, celebrating wins, or pushing through the unexpected, they always show up with positivity and teamwork that makes all the difference in the morale at Team Shaw.”

The Dallas Business Journal’s Best Places to Work Awards honor employers who excel in creating exceptional workplace culture and engagement. SERVPRO Team Shaw’s #2 ranking recognizes its continued momentum, strong values, and leadership that empowers people to serve and succeed together.

 

About SERVPRO Team Shaw
Founded in Grapevine, Texas, SERVPRO Team Shaw has grown into one of the nation’s largest SERVPRO franchise groups with more than 30 locations and 250 employees. The company provides residential and commercial restoration services including water, fire, storm, and reconstruction. Built on faith, integrity, and vision, SERVPRO Team Shaw is dedicated to strengthening communities and developing leaders who serve with purpose.